Which of the following amino acids is a ketogenic amino acid, meaning it can be converted into acetyl-CoA or acetoacetyl-CoA?

A Leucine ✓
B Isoleucine
C Valine
D Phenylalanine

Explanation

Leucine is a ketogenic amino acid, meaning it can be converted into acetyl-CoA or acetoacetyl-CoA, which can then be used to synthesize ketone bodies.

Mnemonic

Leucine = Ketone Lover

Source

Nelson et al., Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry
Protein Metabolism Biochemistry Amino Acid Metabolism Hard MEDICAL Confidence: high