Acyl-coenzyme A thioesterase 8 is an enzyme that in humans is encoded by the ACOT8 gene.

The protein encoded by this gene is a peroxisomal thioesterase that appears to be involved more in the oxidation of fatty acids rather than in their formation. The encoded protein can bind to the human immunodeficiency virus-1 protein Nef, and mediate Nef-induced down-regulation of CD4 in T-cells. [provided by RefSeq, Oct 2010]. Publication Note: This RefSeq record includes a subset of the publications that are available for this gene. Please see the Gene record to access additional publications.
Function: Acyl-CoA thioesterases are a group of enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of acyl-CoAs to the free fatty acid and coenzyme A (CoASH), providing the potential to regulate intracellular levels of acyl-CoAs, free fatty acids and CoASH. May mediate Nef-induced down-regulation of CD4. Major thioesterase in peroxisomes. Competes with BAAT (Bile acid CoA: amino acid N-acyltransferase) for bile acid-CoA substrate (such as chenodeoxycholoyl-CoA). Shows a preference for medium-length fatty acyl-CoAs (By similarity). May be involved in the metabolic regulation of peroxisome proliferation.