Medium-chain triglyceride metabolism (MCT metabolism) (MCT metabolism)

Medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) metabolism refers to the biochemical pathway responsible for the breakdown and utilization of fats containing 6 to 12 carbon atoms. Unlike long-chain triglycerides, MCTs are rapidly hydrolyzed by lipases and absorbed directly into the portal circulation, where they are transported to the liver for oxidation (StatPearls, NBK541057). Within the mitochondria, they undergo beta-oxidation, primarily mediated by the enzyme medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD), encoded by the ACADM gene (UniProt, P11310). This process is a critical source of energy, especially during fasting or increased energy demand, and produces ketone bodies that can serve as an alternative fuel for the brain. Dysregulation or genetic deficiencies in this pathway, such as MCAD deficiency, can lead to severe metabolic crises, hypoglycemia, and neurological impairment (PubMed, 20301597). Therapeutically, MCTs are administered as medical foods or supplements to manage malabsorption, epilepsy, and certain neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease by providing a readily available energy source (PubMed, 29078846).

Other names

MCT metabolismMedium-chain fatty acid oxidationMCFA metabolismMedium-chain fatty acid beta-oxidation

Provision of rapidly absorbable fatty acids for mitochondrial beta-oxidation and ketone body production, bypassing long-chain fatty acid transport mechanisms.