Category: ketone
Aliases: BHB, (R)-3-hydroxybutyrate, D-β-hydroxybutyrate, bhb, 3-hydroxybutyrate
Principal circulating ketone body in fasting + ketogenic states. Produced by hepatic mitochondrial β-oxidation of fatty acids when acetyl-CoA supply exceeds TCA-cycle capacity. Transported into most tissues via MCT1/2 (monocarboxylate transporters) and catabolised to acetyl-CoA for ATP production. R-BHB (the natural enantiomer) is metabolically active; L-BHB has mainly signalling roles. Pharmacologic concentrations inhibit class I HDACs (HDAC1/2/3), explaining signalling effects beyond fuel use.
PO: 2h, IV: 2h