Question

Question:What are ketone bodies?

Short answer

Answer

Ketone bodies are synthesized from acetyl-CoA, which is the product of fatty acid oxidation through ketogenesis. The products include acetoacetate or D- -hydroxybutyrate.

Step-by-step solution

Ketogenesis

Ketogenesis is a biochemical or metabolic pathway that produces ketone bodies through the breakdown of the fatty acid chain. The reaction provides energy for the body.

Ketone bodies

Acetyl-CoA synthesized from the oxidation of long chain fatty acid undergoes the ketogenesis process to give acetoacetate or D--hydroxybutyrate. These compounds, together with acetone, are termed ketone bodies. These are used as the energy source when glucose is not available.