Acyl-CoA Synthetase plays a critical role in lipid metabolism by activating fatty acids for biochemical reactions. It catalyzes the formation of acyl-CoA from fatty acids, ATP, and coenzyme A, which is a necessary step before the fatty acids can undergo β-oxidation to produce energy. This enzyme is essential in cellular energy production, particularly in tissues with high metabolic demand like liver, heart, and skeletal muscle.

In metabolic research, Acyl-CoA Synthetase is studied for its involvement in obesity, diabetes, and fatty liver disease, as dysregulation can lead to abnormal fat accumulation. It is also used in biotechnological applications where engineered metabolic pathways require efficient activation of fatty acids for the production of biofuels or bioplastics. Inhibitors of specific isoforms of this enzyme are being explored as potential therapeutics for metabolic disorders and cancer, where altered lipid metabolism supports tumor growth.