Questions and Answers
What happens in pyruvate oxidation?
Two pyruvate molecules formed in glycolysis are transported through the two mitochondrial membranes into the matrix.
Pyruvate oxidation is the next step in capturing the remaining _________ in the form of _____________
energy, ATP
Where does pyruvate oxidation take place?
In the mitochondrial matrix.
Pyruvate molecules are produced by _______ in the ______________ but takes place in the ______________________ _________________
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What must happen before pyruvate oxidation occurs?
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What is the process of pyruvate oxidation?
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What happens after pyruvate oxidation?
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What is the purpose of Acetyl CoA?
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What are the steps of pyruvate oxidation carried out by which enzyme?
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What is the equation for pyruvate oxidation?
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How much ATP is produced in pyruvate oxidation?
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Study Notes
Overview of Pyruvate Oxidation
- Pyruvate oxidation follows glycolysis, where two pyruvate molecules enter the mitochondrial matrix.
- It is crucial for capturing remaining energy, which will be converted into ATP.
Location and Process
- Takes place in the mitochondrial matrix after pyruvate is transported from the cytoplasm.
- Requires the crossing of the inner mitochondrial membrane to reach the matrix.
Steps of Pyruvate Oxidation
- Step 1: A carboxyl group is removed from each pyruvate, resulting in the release of CO2 and leaving a 2-carbon molecule.
- Step 2: The remaining 2-carbon molecule is oxidized by NAD+, converting it into acetate, and NAD+ gains electrons and protons.
- The reaction in Step 2 transfers potential energy to NAD+, forming NADH.
Formation of Acetyl-CoA
- Step 3: Acetate combines with coenzyme A (CoA) to form acetyl-CoA, which is essential for the Krebs cycle.
Products of Pyruvate Oxidation
- Two molecules of acetyl-CoA are produced, entering the Krebs cycle for further energy extraction.
- Two NADH are generated, which participate in oxidative phosphorylation to produce ATP.
- Two CO2 molecules are released as waste products and exit the cell.
- H+ ions dissolve into the matrix, contributing to the electrochemical gradient.
Function of Acetyl-CoA
- Serves as a critical fuel for the citric acid cycle, advancing the cellular respiration process.
Enzymatic Action
- The entire pyruvate oxidation process is facilitated by the enzyme pyruvate dehydrogenase.
Pyruvate Oxidation Equation
- The chemical equation can be summarized as:
- 2 pyruvate + 2 NAD+ + 2 CoA → 2 acetyl-CoA + 2 NADH + 2 H+ + 2 CO2
Energy Yield
- Pyruvate oxidation contributes to a theoretical yield of 6 ATP, linked to the production of NADH and its role in the electron transport chain.
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Description
This quiz covers the essential process of pyruvate oxidation following glycolysis. Examining the steps involved, it highlights the conversion of pyruvate to acetyl-CoA and the importance of NAD+ in energy capture. Test your understanding of mitochondrial processes and their roles in cellular respiration.
