What classification do amino acids that are degraded to acetyl CoA fall under?

Amino acids that are degraded to acetyl CoA are classified as ketogenic. This classification is based on their metabolic pathway during amino acid catabolism. Ketogenic amino acids can be converted directly into ketone bodies, which can serve as an energy source, particularly during periods of fasting or low carbohydrate intake.

When amino acids are broken down, some can be converted into intermediates that feed into the citric acid cycle and contribute to gluconeogenesis, resulting in glucose production; these are termed glucogenic amino acids. However, those that yield acetyl CoA do not contribute to glucose production but instead can lead to the formation of ketone bodies when energy needs require it.

The classification of amino acids also includes essential and non-essential categories. Essential amino acids must be obtained through the diet because the body cannot synthesize them, while non-essential amino acids can be synthesized by the body. However, the classification into glucogenic or ketogenic is specific to their metabolic fate and not related to the body's ability to synthesize them.

Thus, the classification of amino acids that degrade to acetyl CoA as ketogenic reflects their role in energy metabolism, particularly in the production of ketone bodies rather than glucose.