Acetyl CoA is generated primarily in mitochondria. However, fatty acid synthesis from acetyl CoA occurs extramitochondrial (in the cytosol). By which one of the following mechanisms does acetyl CoA leave the mitochondrion and enter the cytosol?
High-Yield Explanation
Carnitine transfers fatty acids from cytosolic fatty acyl CoA to form mitochondrial fatty acyl CoA. The conversion of acetyl CoA to malonyl CoA occurs in the cytosol. Coenzyme A cannot pass through the inner mitochondrial membrane. Acetoacetyl CoA has to be conveed to HMG CoA before it is conveed to acetoacetate. Ref: Botham K.M., Mayes P.A. (2011). Chapter 23. Biosynthesis of Fatty Acids & Eicosanoids. In D.A. Bender, K.M. Botham, P.A. Weil, P.J. Kennelly, R.K. Murray, V.W. Rodwell (Eds), Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry, 29e.