Acyl-CoA-utilizing enzymes

Acyl-CoA-utilizing enzymes represent a broad and diverse class of proteins that use acyl-coenzyme A thioesters as substrates for various metabolic and signaling processes. This group includes critical therapeutic targets such as Acyl-CoA carboxylases (ACC), which regulate fatty acid synthesis and oxidation, and Acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferases (ACAT), which manage cellular cholesterol storage. These enzymes are central to lipid metabolism, and their dysregulation is frequently linked to metabolic disorders, obesity, and certain types of cancer where lipid reprogramming supports rapid cell proliferation. Pharmacological modulation of these enzymes aims to redirect metabolic flux, for instance, by inhibiting ACC to treat non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) or targeting ACAT to address atherosclerosis and Alzheimer's disease. However, because this term describes a functional class rather than a single protein, therapeutic development focuses on specific isoforms to achieve selectivity and minimize systemic toxicity.

Other names

Acyl-CoA-dependent enzymesAcyl-coenzyme A-utilizing enzymesAcyl-CoA-binding proteins (functional group)

Inhibition of specific enzymatic activities (e.g., carboxylation, esterification, or ligation) to modulate lipid flux, reduce lipotoxicity, or disrupt cellular signaling pathways dependent on lipid modifications.