The regulation of fatty acid synthesis and degradation plays a crucial role in controlling lipid metabolism and transport in the human body. This regulation ensures that the body maintains a balance between energy storage and energy utilization. The major enzymes, hormones, and pathways involved in this process include:1. Enzymes: a. Acetyl-CoA carboxylase ACC : This enzyme catalyzes the conversion of acetyl-CoA to malonyl-CoA, which is the first committed step in fatty acid synthesis. b. Fatty acid synthase FAS : This enzyme is responsible for the synthesis of long-chain fatty acids from malonyl-CoA and acetyl-CoA. c. Hormone-sensitive lipase HSL : This enzyme is responsible for the breakdown of stored triglycerides in adipose tissue, releasing free fatty acids into the bloodstream. d. Carnitine palmitoyltransferase I CPT1 : This enzyme is involved in the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria for -oxidation, which is the process of breaking down fatty acids for energy production.2. Hormones: a. Insulin: This hormone is released in response to high blood glucose levels and promotes fatty acid synthesis by activating ACC and increasing glucose uptake in adipose tissue and liver. b. Glucagon: This hormone is released in response to low blood glucose levels and promotes fatty acid degradation by activating HSL and inhibiting ACC. c. Adrenaline epinephrine and norepinephrine: These hormones are released in response to stress or exercise and promote fatty acid degradation by activating HSL.3. Pathways: a. Fatty acid synthesis: This pathway occurs primarily in the liver and adipose tissue and involves the conversion of acetyl-CoA to malonyl-CoA by ACC, followed by the elongation of the fatty acid chain by FAS. b. Fatty acid degradation -oxidation : This pathway occurs in the mitochondria and involves the breakdown of fatty acids into acetyl-CoA units, which can then enter the citric acid cycle for energy production. c. Lipogenesis: This is the process of converting excess carbohydrates and proteins into fatty acids for storage as triglycerides in adipose tissue. d. Lipolysis: This is the process of breaking down stored triglycerides in adipose tissue into free fatty acids and glycerol, which can be used for energy production or gluconeogenesis.In summary, the regulation of fatty acid synthesis and degradation is essential for maintaining energy homeostasis in the human body. Key enzymes and hormones work together to control these processes, ensuring that the body has an adequate supply of energy while preventing the excessive accumulation of lipids.