Molecular Classification
Enzyme, Transferase
Other Names
Carnitine acetyltransferase, CrAT, Carnitine octanoyltransferase, CrOT, Carnitine palmitoyltransferase I, CPT-I, Carnitine palmitoyltransferase II, CPT-II
Disease Roles
Metabolic disordersType 2 diabetesObesity

Carnitine Acyltransferase Overview

Carnitine acyltransferases enable critical steps in lipid metabolism by shuttling fatty acids into mitochondria via reversible transfer between CoA and carnitine. Their unique structural features facilitate substrate binding/catalysis through conserved histidine residues within an active-site tunnel. Tight regulation ensures proper energy homeostasis; dysfunction leads to significant disease risk making them important drug targets.

Mechanism of Action

Inhibition of carnitine palmitoyltransferase I (CPT-I)

Biological Functions

Fatty acid transport
Regulation of beta-oxidation
Cellular energy metabolism
Regulation of CoA/acyl-CoA ratios
Short-chain fatty acid metabolism

Disease Associations

Metabolic disorders
Type 2 diabetes
Obesity
Impaired lipid metabolism

Safety Considerations

  • Potential for severe metabolic disorders if inhibited inappropriately.