Which enzyme is used to convert trans-Δ2-enoyl-CoA to L-ß-hydroxy-acyl-CoA in step 2 of ß-oxidation?

The conversion of trans-Δ2-enoyl-CoA to L-β-hydroxy-acyl-CoA in step 2 of β-oxidation is specifically catalyzed by enoyl-CoA hydratase. This enzyme plays a crucial role in the metabolic pathway of fatty acid degradation.

In this step, enoyl-CoA hydratase adds a water molecule across the double bond of trans-Δ2-enoyl-CoA. This hydration reaction results in the formation of L-β-hydroxy-acyl-CoA. The importance of this reaction lies in its ability to prepare the acyl chain for further oxidation in subsequent steps of β-oxidation, which ultimately leads to the production of acetyl-CoA units and energy.

Understanding the correct enzyme is significant for comprehending the overall process of fatty acid metabolism, where each enzyme has a specific substrate and role that contributes to the efficiency of energy production from fats.