What are the Factors Affecting the Catalytic Efficiency?
Various factors can influence the catalytic efficiency of ACAT:
1. Substrate Availability: The concentrations of free cholesterol and acyl-CoA directly affect the rate of esterification. 2. Enzyme Inhibitors: Certain molecules can inhibit ACAT activity, reducing the rate of cholesterol esterification. For example, pharmacological inhibitors like avasimibe are designed to reduce cholesterol esterification to manage conditions like atherosclerosis. 3. pH and Temperature: Like most enzymes, ACAT has an optimal pH and temperature range within which it operates most efficiently.
