What are the 3 main ketone bodies produced by Acetyl CoA?

The three main ketone bodies produced from Acetyl CoA during ketogenesis are acetoacetate, beta-hydroxybutyrate, and acetone.

Acetoacetate is the primary ketone body synthesized from Acetyl CoA in the mitochondria of liver cells. It can then be converted into beta-hydroxybutyrate or decarboxylated to form acetone. Beta-hydroxybutyrate often serves as the predominant energy source during prolonged fasting or carbohydrate restriction, as it is more stable and can be transported efficiently to other tissues.

Acetone is a volatile ketone that is produced in smaller amounts compared to the other two ketone bodies but is significant for its role in the breath of individuals in ketosis.

While other compounds like DHA, EPA, and arachidonic acid are important in various metabolic pathways, they are not classified as ketone bodies and do not result from Acetyl CoA in the context of ketogenesis. Thus, understanding the formation and function of the correct ketone bodies is crucial for grasping metabolic states such as fasting, starvation, and diabetes.