Chapter 19.SE, Problem 40MP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

A mechanism for the reaction of an unsaturated acyl CoA with water to give a β-hydroxyacyl CoA, a step in the metabolism of fats, is to be proposed.

Concept introduction:

In addition to the normal 1,2-addition reactions, the α,β-unsaturated ketones undergo 1,4-addition or conjugate additions. The initial product of conjugate addition is a resonance stabilized enolate ion which undergoes protonation on the α-carbon to give a saturated aldehyde or ketone as the product.

To propose:

A mechanism for the reaction of an unsaturated acyl CoA with water to give a β-hydroxyacyl CoA, a step in the metabolism of fats.