Final answer:
Ketosis is caused by hypoinsulinemia and increased fatty acid breakdown, resulting in the liver converting acetyl-CoA to ketoacids. This is seen in conditions like diabetes mellitus when insulin is insufficient or not functioning properly. Symptoms include frequent urination, excessive thirst, and a sweet smell on the breath.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ketosis is caused by hypoinsulinemia and increased fatty acid breakdown, which causes the liver to convert acetyl-CoA to ketoacids. In conditions such as diabetes mellitus, when there is insufficient insulin or it is not functioning properly, less glucose is sent to muscles for energy. As a result, muscles break down fatty acids through beta-oxidation, leading to elevated levels of acetyl-CoA. The excess acetyl-CoA is then converted to ketone bodies, including acetoacetic acid and 3-hydroxybutyric acid, in the liver.
These ketone bodies can cause ketosis or ketoacidosis, which is characterized by an increase in blood acidity. This condition can be detected through symptoms such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, and a sweet smell on the breath. Treatment for these conditions involves low carbohydrate diets, insulin therapy, or other medications to control diabetes.