Regulation of Lipid Metabolism

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary terms related to the regulation of lipid metabolism, including processes such as lipolysis, β-oxidation, ketogenesis, and cholesterol biosynthesis, along with associated conditions like hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis.

Lipolysis

The breakdown of triacylglycerols (TAGs) into free fatty acids (FFAs) and glycerol in adipocytes.

cAMP

Cyclic adenosine monophosphate, a molecule that mediates the activation of protein kinase A (PKA) during fasting or stress.

PKA

Protein kinase A, an enzyme activated by elevated cAMP that phosphorylates and activates lipolytic enzymes.

Malonyl-CoA

A critical regulator that inhibits CPT I, thus blocking the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria for β-oxidation.

β-oxidation

The metabolic process by which free fatty acids are broken down to produce energy.

HMG-CoA synthase

The rate-limiting enzyme of ketogenesis, which converts acetyl-CoA to ketone bodies.

Ketosis

A metabolic state characterized by elevated levels of ketone bodies in the blood and urine, occurring during fasting, prolonged exercise, or low-carbohydrate diets.

Cholesterol biosynthesis

The process of synthesizing cholesterol, regulated by feedback inhibition, phosphorylation/dephosphorylation, and hormonal signals.

Hypercholesterolemia

A condition of elevated cholesterol levels in the bloodstream, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.

Atherosclerosis

A cardiovascular disease characterized by the formation of plaques in blood vessels, resulting from inflammation and lipid accumulation.