Acyl-coenzyme A oxidase (ACOX)

Acyl-coenzyme A oxidase is a peroxisomal oxidoreductase enzyme that catalyzes the first and rate-limiting step of the fatty acid beta-oxidation pathway, specifically oxidizing acyl-CoA to 2,3-trans-enoyl-CoA while producing hydrogen peroxide as a byproduct[2][3][5][6]. It is essential for lipid catabolism and energy homeostasis as it enables the breakdown of fatty acids for subsequent cellular utilization. The enzyme uses FAD as a cofactor and exhibits substrate specificity based on side chain length and structure, with different isoforms adapted for various types of fatty acids[1][5]. Acyl-coenzyme A oxidase is vital for normal human physiology; mutations or reduced activity are linked to severe peroxisomal diseases and have been implicated in cancer, neurodegeneration, and aging processes[4]. It is also important in plant biology for hormone biosynthesis and metabolism[2]. While not directly targeted by current therapeutics, its regulation through peroxisomal and metabolic pathways (including PPARs) is of pharmacological interest.

Other names

Acyl-CoA oxidaseAcyl coenzyme A oxidaseFatty acyl-CoA oxidaseFatty acyl-coenzyme A oxidaseAcyl-CoA:oxygen 2-oxidoreductase

Catalytic oxidation of acyl-CoA to 2,3-trans-enoyl-CoA, producing hydrogen peroxide and supporting peroxisomal fatty acid oxidation Regulated by nuclear receptors including PPARs, which could be modulated by synthetic ligands in disease modulation