n-Heptadecanoyl coenzyme A lithium salt (CAS 3546-17-6)

n-Heptadecanoyl coenzyme A lithium salt is a significant fatty acyl-CoA derivative utilized in biochemical research to study lipid metabolism and enzymatic activity. This compound, which combines heptadecanoic acid with coenzyme A, serves as a substrate for various acyl-CoA dehydrogenases, thioesterases, and other enzymes involved in fatty acid oxidation and synthesis. Researchers use n-Heptadecanoyl CoA to investigate the specific catalytic mechanisms of these enzymes, providing insights into how they facilitate the breakdown and synthesis of long-chain fatty acids. In metabolic studies, n-Heptadecanoyl CoA is employed to trace the pathways of fatty acid metabolism, helping to explain the roles of different enzymes in the β-oxidation cycle. Its role in these pathways makes it a valuable tool for studying mitochondrial function and energy production. By incorporating isotopically labeled forms of n-Heptadecanoyl CoA, researchers can track the metabolic fate of fatty acids within cells, providing detailed information on metabolic fluxes and the regulation of lipid homeostasis. Additionally, n-Heptadecanoyl CoA is used in enzymatic assays to determine the kinetics and substrate specificity of acyl-CoA binding proteins and transporters. These studies are crucial for understanding the transport and utilization of fatty acids in cellular processes. Current research also focuses on the interactions of n-Heptadecanoyl CoA with lipid signaling pathways, exploring its potential role in modulating the activity of lipid-related enzymes and receptors. Overall, this compound is essential for advancing our knowledge of lipid metabolism and the complex biochemical pathways that sustain cellular energy balance.