# Ketoacids --- **Ketoacids** are a type molecule with a [[carboxyl group|carboxylic acid]] attached to a [[ketones|ketone group]][^1]. Ketoacids have several potential biological uses, depending on what is needed by the body. Ketoacids are formed when a ketogenic [[amino acids|amino acid]] becomes [[deamination|deaminated]]. [^1]: Not to be confused with [[ketone bodies]], the byproduct of fat metabolism. Keto acids can be used three differne ways: - They can be used to perform [[transamination]] to create non-essential amino acids. - They can be converted to [[acetyl CoA]], which can be used as alternate sources for [[biological energy]] than [[glucose]]. - They can be turned into [[fatty acids]] for storage. A buildup of ketoacids can lead to called [[ketones#Ketosis Ketoacidosis|ketosis]] which can become dangerous. ## Types There are three types of ketoacids, α, β and γ. **α-Keto acids** are generally[^2] analogous with [[amino acids]], and can be turned into them by recieving an amine group through [[transamination]]. [^2]: as far as I can tell... %%this line intentionally left blank%%