Signalling functions of coenzyme A and its derivatives in mammalian cells.

In all living organisms, CoA (coenzyme A) is synthesized in a highly conserved process that requires pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), cysteine and ATP. CoA is uniquely designed to function as an acyl group carrier and a carbonyl-activating group in diverse biochemical reactions. The role of CoA and its thioester derivatives, including acetyl-CoA, malonyl-CoA and HMG-CoA (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA), in the regulation of cellular metabolism has been extensively studied and documented. The main purpose of the present review is to summarize current knowledge on extracellular and intracellular signalling functions of CoA/CoA thioesters and to speculate on future developments in this area of research.