Medium-chain triglyceride (MCT)

Medium-chain triglyceride is a type of dietary fat comprised of three medium-chain fatty acids (chain lengths of 6–12 carbons) esterified to glycerol[5][8][1]. Unlike long-chain triglycerides, MCTs are rapidly hydrolyzed and absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, entering the portal circulation directly, and transported to the liver. There, they undergo β-oxidation to generate acetyl-CoA, which may be used for rapid energy or converted to ketone bodies, providing an alternative energy source for the brain and other tissues, especially during carbohydrate restriction[1][2][3][8]. MCTs are widely used as nutritional supplements in disorders of fat malabsorption, as fuel for ketogenic diets, and in emerging research for neurodegenerative and metabolic syndromes. They are not considered drug targets; rather, their effects result from metabolic and signaling processes following ingestion.

Other names

Medium-chain triglyceridesMCT oilMCTsTriglycerides of medium-chain fatty acids

For nutritional/pharmaceutical use, the mechanism involves: Rapid hydrolysis of MCTs to medium-chain fatty acids, which are absorbed directly into the portal vein and transported to the liver for β-oxidation to produce acetyl-CoA (energy substrate) and ketone bodies; Activation of signaling pathways (Akt and AMPK), increasing energy expenditure, glucose uptake, and mitochondrial metabolism; Promotion of satiety via GLP-1 activation, inhibition of fat synthesis, and indirect appetite suppression.