Summary
During fasting the liver makes ketones from fatty acids as alternative fuel for the brain.
In depth
Liver converts acetyl-CoA to acetoacetate and beta-hydroxybutyrate when carbohydrate is scarce. Tissues, including the brain, use ketones (up to 70 percent of the brain's energy in prolonged fasting). Diabetic ketoacidosis is a dangerous complication.
Ketones are produced when insulin is low and fatty acid supply is high. Ketoacidosis in type 1 diabetes is dangerous. Ketogenic diets mimic fasting.
Key idea: ketones give the brain an alternative fuel in starvation.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ketone Body Metabolism?
During fasting the liver makes ketones from fatty acids as alternative fuel for the brain.
Which area of biology covers Ketone Body Metabolism, and how advanced is it?
Ketone Body Metabolism is one of the 53 topics in Metabolism & Bioenergetics. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Glucose as Fuel, Gluconeogenesis, Lipid Biosynthesis.
Can you give an example of Ketone Body Metabolism?
Ketogenic diets are used for epilepsy.
What should I learn before Ketone Body Metabolism?
Work through the Beginner topics in Metabolism & Bioenergetics first, such as Metabolism, Anabolism and Catabolism, ATP, then return to Ketone Body Metabolism. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Ketone Body Metabolism?
The closest topics to Ketone Body Metabolism are Glucose as Fuel, Gluconeogenesis, Lipid Biosynthesis, Respiratory Quotient. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Ketone Body Metabolism?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Ketone Body Metabolism. To practise the whole of Metabolism & Bioenergetics, use the Metabolism & Bioenergetics quiz.
How is Ketone Body Metabolism different from Glucose as Fuel?
Ketone Body Metabolism: During fasting the liver makes ketones from fatty acids as alternative fuel for the brain. Glucose as Fuel: The main sugar broken down to supply cellular energy. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Ketone Body Metabolism step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Glucose as Fuel and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Metabolism & Bioenergetics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.