Peroxisomal Beta-Oxidation Pathway

The peroxisomal beta-oxidation pathway is a catabolic process within peroxisomes, primarily responsible for the breakdown of very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs), branched-chain fatty acids, and certain lipid molecules. It shortens these fatty acid chains for further degradation in mitochondria or utilization in other metabolic pathways. Key enzymes include Acyl-CoA Oxidase (AOX), Peroxisomal Bifunctional Enzyme (PBE), and Thiolase. The pathway generates acetyl-CoA and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), which is decomposed by catalase. Defects lead to accumulation of VLCFAs or branched-chain lipids, contributing to disorders like X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy or Zellweger spectrum disorders. The pathway is inducible by PPARα ligands.

Activation of PPARα, modulation of fatty acid metabolism