15. There are multiple possible explanations for how and why -oxidation might be
ID: 203857 • Letter: 1
Question
15. There are multiple possible explanations for how and why -oxidation might be blocked. Consider that there could be an inborn error in metabolism (a polymorphism in a gene coding for an enzyme in the pathway), a vitamin deficiency leading to the lack of enzyme action, or a problem with the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria among other possibilities. You call your biochemistry professor up to ask for any ideas about how to proceed and she/he suggests that you consider looking at whether Jessie can metabolize short-chain fatty acids (12 or fewer carbons). When you ask why, your professor tells you to consult your book if you are unclear about what this might accomplish. What is different about the metabolism of short-chain fatty acids compared to long-chain fatty acids? Hint: Review pages 649-650 of Stryer 8E to answer the question. Note: the relevant section on these pages of this textbook refers specifically to “medium-chain (C8-C10) fatty acids”. In this case study, we will simply consider any fatty acid 12 carbons or shorter to be “short-chain”. A. Short-chain fatty acids are not catabolized by -oxidation. B. Short-chain fatty acids do not require the carnitine-shuttle to enter the mitochondria. C. Short-chain fatty acids are catabolized by humans and used to produce pyruvate for gluconeogenesis. D. Short-chain fatty acids are not catabolized in the mitochondria. E. All of the above. F. None of the above.
Explanation / Answer
There are many reasons why beta-oxidation might be blocked. Some of the prominent reasons are polymorphism in gene encoding for the enzyme, vitamin deficiency leading to lack of enzyme activity or error in transportation of fatty acid into mitochondria.
The answer is (a) short chain fatty acids are not catabolised by beta-oxidation
It is the right answer because beta-oxidation is a process which is involved only in degrading the long chain fatty acid. It is a process by which the fatty acids are degraded and broken down to provide energy. It helps in converting the long chain fatty acid chains.
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