Acyl-CoA is a group of coenzymes that metabolize fatty acids. Acyl-CoA's are susceptible to beta oxidation, forming, ultimately, acetyl-CoA. The acetyl-CoA enters the citric acid cycle, eventually forming several equivalents of ATP. In this way, fats are converted to ATP, the universal biochemical energy carrier.

What is Acyl-CoA for?

Long-chain acyl-CoAs are substrates for most pathways that use FA for energy production or for the synthesis of complex lipids like phospholipids, cholesteryl esters, ceramide, and TAG. Acyl-CoAs are substrates for β-oxidation in peroxisomes and mitochondria and for ω-oxidation in the endoplasmic reticulum.

What is the difference between Acetyl-CoA and Acyl-CoA?

These are very important molecules in the metabolism of different biological compounds. The key difference between acetyl CoA and acyl CoA is that the acetyl CoA helps in protein, carbohydrate, and lipid metabolism whereas, the acyl CoA helps in the metabolism of fatty acids.