The process of synthesizing fatty acids is known as fatty acid synthesis or lipogenesis. It involves the conversion of carbohydrates and proteins into fatty acids, which are then used to create triglycerides and other lipid molecules.
Enzymes play a crucial role in fatty acid synthesis by catalyzing the various steps of the process. Some of the key enzymes involved are acetyl-CoA carboxylase, fatty acid synthase, and malonyl-CoA decarboxylase.
The primary sources of fatty acids for synthesis are carbohydrates and proteins. Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is then converted into acetyl-CoA, the building block for fatty acids. Proteins can also be converted into acetyl-CoA through the process of gluconeogenesis.
The end products of fatty acid synthesis are triglycerides and other lipid molecules. These molecules are essential for energy storage, cell membrane structure, and hormone production.
Fatty acid synthesis is regulated by a variety of factors, including hormonal signals, nutrient availability, and the activity of key enzymes. Insulin, for example, stimulates fatty acid synthesis, while glucagon and epinephrine inhibit it. Additionally, the levels of key substrates and cofactors, such as acetyl-CoA, ATP, and NADPH, can also influence the rate of fatty acid synthesis.