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The Art of Building Fat: A Journey Through Fatty Acid Synthesis

The Art of Building Fat: A Journey Through Fatty Acid Synthesis

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In this episode, we delve into the intricate process of fatty acid synthesis—a molecular assembly line essential for energy storage, membrane formation, and cellular growth. We’ll guide you through the citrate shuttle that transports acetyl-CoA from mitochondria to the cytosol, the generation of NADPH required for synthesis, and the fascinating fatty acid synthase (FAS) complex, a multi-domain enzyme that orchestrates the creation of palmitate, a 16-carbon fatty acid.


Learn about the crucial role of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) in the committed step of fatty acid synthesis and how this process is tightly regulated through phosphorylation, allosteric effectors like citrate and palmitoyl-CoA, and hormonal signals such as insulin and glucagon. We’ll also discuss the clinical significance of dysregulated fatty acid synthesis in cancer metabolism and type 2 diabetes, along with emerging therapeutic strategies targeting FAS and ACC.


Finally, we’ll touch on exciting advances in biotechnology, including biofuel production and sustainable lipid engineering. Whether you’re a student preparing for an exam or fascinated by metabolic pathways, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the art and science of building fat.

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