Coenzyme A

Discovered by: Fritz Lipmann, awarded the 1953 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine "for his discovery of co-enzyme A and its importance for intermediary metabolism".

What is it? A coenzyme, notable for its role in the synthesis and oxidation of fatty acids, and the oxidation of pyruvate in the citric acid cycle.

Why is it important? Used in the body for fatty acid synthesis, energy production and glucose regulation.