Cellular Respiration: Pyruvate Oxidation and the Link Reaction

Key Concepts:

• Pyruvate Oxidation
  • Pyruvate produced from glycolysis is further oxidized in the mitochondrion.
  • During oxidation, pyruvate transfers electrons and hydrogen to NAD+, forming NADH.
  • This process releases CO2 as a byproduct.

Mitochondrial Processes:

• CO2 Release
  • Pyruvate oxidation contributes to the release of CO2.
  • For each glucose molecule that undergoes cellular respiration, 6 CO2 molecules are released.
  • At this stage, 2 out of the 6 CO2 molecules are released.

Electron Carriers and Energy:

• NADH Formation
  • NADH acts as an electron carrier and will be utilized in the electron transport chain.
  • The electron transport chain is crucial for ATP production.

Krebs Cycle:

• Acetyl-CoA Production
  • The oxidation of pyruvate results in the formation of Acetyl-CoA.
  • Acetyl-CoA enters the Krebs cycle, which is the next stage of cellular respiration.

Link Reaction:

• Purpose
  • Connects glycolysis to the Krebs cycle.
  • Ensures the continuation of cellular respiration.

Additional Resources:

• Bioman Biology Interactive Activity
  • Suggested to complete tasks related to the link reaction.
  • Link to the interactive activity is provided in the description.

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