Coenzyme A precursors flow from mother to zygote and from microbiome to host

Coenzyme A (CoA) is essential for metabolism and protein acetylation. Current knowledge holds that each cell obtains CoA exclusively through biosynthesis via the canonical five-step pathway, starting with panto-thenate uptake. However, recent studies have suggested the presence of additional CoA-generating mech-anisms, indicating a more complex system for CoA homeostasis. Here, we uncovered pathways for CoA generation through inter-organismal flows of CoA precursors. Using traceable compounds and fruit flies with a genetic block in CoA biosynthesis, we demonstrate that progeny survive embryonal and early larval development by obtaining CoA precursors from maternal sources. Later in life, the microbiome can provide the essential CoA building blocks to the host, enabling continuation of normal development. A flow of stable, long-lasting CoA precursors between living organisms is revealed. This indicates the presence of complex strategies to maintain CoA homeostasis.

Automated summary

Coenzyme A (CoA) is essential for metabolism and protein acetylation. Current knowledge suggests that each cell obtains CoA through biosynthesis, but recent studies have shown the presence of additional CoA-generating mechanisms, indicating a more complex system for CoA homeostasis. In this study, researchers discovered pathways for CoA generation through inter-organismal flows of CoA precursors. Fruit flies with a genetic block in CoA biosynthesis were used to demonstrate that progeny can obtain CoA precursors from maternal sources for survival during embryonal and early larval development. Later in life, the microbiome can provide necessary CoA building blocks to the host, enabling normal development to continue. This study reveals the presence of stable, long-lasting CoA precursor flows between living organisms, indicating complex strategies for maintaining CoA homeostasis.