Acyl CoA oxidase: from its expression, structure, folding, and import to its role in human health and disease

β-oxidation of fatty acids is an important metabolic pathway and is a shared function between mitochondria and peroxisomes in mammalian cells. On the other hand, peroxisomes are the sole site for the degradation of fatty acids in yeast. The first reaction of this pathway is catalyzed by the enzyme acyl CoA oxidase housed in the matrix of peroxisomes. Studies in various model organisms have reported the conserved function of the protein in fatty acid oxidation. The importance of this enzyme is highlighted by the lethal conditions caused in humans due to its altered function. In this review, we discuss various aspects ranging from gene expression, structure, folding, and import of the protein in both yeast and human cells. Further, we highlight recent findings on the role of the protein in human health and aging, and discuss the identified mutations in the protein associated with debilitating conditions in patients.