What are fatty acids primarily synthesized from?

Fatty acids are primarily synthesized from glucose through a process called lipogenesis. When glucose levels are high, typically following the consumption of carbohydrates, the excess glucose is converted into pyruvate during glycolysis. Once pyruvate is formed, it can enter the mitochondria and be converted into acetyl-CoA, which is a key building block for fatty acid synthesis.

The synthesis process then continues in the cytoplasm where acetyl-CoA is combined with other molecules to form fatty acids. This highlights the critical role of glucose in providing the building blocks necessary for fatty acid production.

While pyruvate is directly linked to the initial steps of this process, glucose serves as the substrate from which pyruvate is derived, establishing it as a fundamental source for fatty acid synthesis. Understanding this pathway emphasizes the interconnected nature of carbohydrate metabolism and fat synthesis in the body.