Acetyl-CoA

Acetyl-CoA is an important biochemical molecule in cellular respiration. It is produced in the second step of aerobic respiration after glycolysis and carries the carbon atoms of the acetyl group to the TCA cycle to be oxidized for energy production. It is produced by decarboxylation of pyruvate in the matrix of the mitochondria.

Acetyl-CoA is also an important component in the biogenic synthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.