The ACADM gene provides instructions for making an enzyme called medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD). This enzyme functions within mitochondria, the energy-producing centers in cells. MCAD is essential for fatty acid oxidation, which is the multistep process that breaks down (metabolizes) fats and converts them to energy.
MCAD is required to metabolize a group of fats called medium-chain fatty acids. These fatty acids are found in foods and body fat and are produced when larger fatty acids are metabolized. Fatty acids are a major source of energy for the heart and muscles. During periods without food (fasting), fatty acids are also an important energy source for the liver and other tissues.
Other Names
ACAD1; ACADM_HUMAN; acyl-CoA dehydrogenase, C-4 to C-12 straight chain; MCAD; MCADH
Related Genetics Topics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 34
- OMIM: 607008
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
