beta-hydroxybutyryl-S-ACP

chemical compound

Also known as: β-hydroxybutyryl-S-ACP

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June 22, 2026

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Beta-hydroxybutyryl-S-ACP is an intermediate compound in the synthesis of fatty acids. This process begins with acetyl coenzyme A, which is carboxylated to form malonyl coenzyme A. Malonyl coenzyme A then reacts with acetyl coenzyme A and acyl-carrier protein (ACP) to form acetoacetyl-S-ACP. This molecule is subsequently reduced to beta-hydroxybutyryl-S-ACP, a key step in building longer fatty acid chains. This synthesis is an energy-requiring process that utilizes reducing power generated during carbohydrate metabolism. Acetyl coenzyme A itself is a vital compound formed during metabolism and plays a role in biological acetylations.12

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metabolism
Fatty acids
…for example, undergoes reduction to β-hydroxybutyryl-S-ACP (reaction [65]); the reaction is catalyzed by β-ketoacyl-ACP reductase. Reduced NADP⁺ is the electron donor, however, and not reduced NAD⁺ (which would participate in the reversal of reaction [24]). NADP⁻ is thus a product in [65].
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…for example, undergoes reduction to β-hydroxybutyryl-S-ACP (reaction [65]); the reaction is catalyzed by β-ketoacyl-ACP reductase. Reduced NADP⁺ is the electron donor, however, and not reduced NAD⁺ (which would participate in the reversal of reaction [24]). NADP⁻ is thus a product in [65].
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