acetyl-coenzyme A

[ uh-seet-l-koh-en-zahym, uh-set-, as-i-tl- ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. the acetylated form of coenzyme A, formed as an intermediate in the oxidation of carbohydrates, fats, and protein in animal metabolism.

acetyl coenzyme A

1. A compound that functions as a coenzyme in many biological reactions. It is formed as an intermediate step in the oxidation of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Also called acetyl CoA. Chemical formula: C 23 H 38 N 7 O 17 P 3 S.

Word History and Origins

Origin of acetyl-coenzyme A¹

First recorded in 1950–55