This gene encodes a member of the acyl-CoA thioesterase protein family, and is one of four acyl-CoA hydrolase genes located in a cluster on chromosome 14. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants. [provided by RefSeq, Jan 2012],catalytic activity:Palmitoyl-CoA + H(2)O = CoA + palmitate.,caution:Was originally (PubMed:10944470) thought to be peroxisomal but was later shown (PubMed:16940157) to be mitochondrial.,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. Displays high levels of activity on medium- and long chain acyl CoAs.,similarity:Belongs to the C/M/P thioester hydrolase family.,tissue specificity:Strongest expression in heart, liver, muscle and kidney. Weak in placenta and pancreas.,
