Fatty Acid Degradation: The Epic Journey from Fat to Energy
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Fatty Acid Degradation: The Epic Journey from Fat to Energy
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About this listen
In this episode, we unravel the science behind one of biochemistry’s most elegant survival strategies—fatty acid degradation and ketone body metabolism—by revisiting the astonishing story of Priscilla, who survived days snowed in without food, thanks to these remarkable pathways.
We’ll explore how lipid droplets, once thought to be inert fat stores, are dynamic organelles central to energy homeostasis. Follow the intricate process of lipolysis as it mobilizes fatty acids for energy, aided by specialized proteins and molecular machines like the carnitine shuttle. Dive into the step-by-step breakdown of fatty acids in mitochondria and discover how a single palmitic acid molecule yields an extraordinary 106 ATP—three times the energy of glucose.
We’ll also discuss the critical role of ketone bodies as an emergency fuel for the brain during fasting, their evolutionary significance, and their modern applications in medicine and sports science. Whether you’re curious about metabolism, endurance physiology, or medical advances, this episode reveals how understanding fatty acid degradation transforms our approach to health and disease.