The properties of a partially purified acetyl-CoA carboxylase (acetyl-CoA:CO2 ligase (ADP), EC 6.4.1.2) from rat epididymal fat pads have been studied. The properties of the rat adipose tissue enzyme are similar to those of the liver in regard to the pH optimum and affinity for substrates and inhibitors. The rat adipose tissue carboxylase shows a pH-dependent, reversible cold inactivation.