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Fatty Acid Oxidation

Meaning

Fatty acid oxidation, often termed beta-oxidation, is a core metabolic pathway where fatty acid molecules are broken down in the mitochondria to generate acetyl-CoA, which subsequently enters the citric acid cycle to produce cellular energy in the form of ATP. This crucial process is a primary energy source during periods of fasting or prolonged exercise when glucose availability is limited. Optimal hormonal balance, particularly involving thyroid hormone and insulin, is necessary for efficient fatty acid metabolism.