Why do most fatty acids contain an even number of carbon atoms?
A) The priming reaction involves condensation of the acetyl-CoA with ACP.
B) A C3-intermediate (malonyl-CoA) is decarboxylated during chain elongation.
C) Fatty acid biosynthesis incorporates succinyl-CoA.
D) Both A and B are correct.
E) None of the above.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Fatty acid biosynthesis typically involves the condensation of two-carbon units, primarily from acetyl-CoA. The priming reaction indeed involves acetyl-CoA, and during chain elongation, a C3-intermediate, malonyl-CoA, is decarboxylated, effectively adding two carbons to the growing fatty acid chain. This process repeats, leading to fatty acids with even numbers of carbon atoms.

Why Do Most Fatty Acids Contain an Even Number of Carbon