Oxidation of pyruvate is accompanied by

Options

A. Oxidation of `NAD^(+)`
B. Reduction of `NAD^(+)`
C. Oxidation of CoA
D. Reduction of CoA

Answer

To solve the question "Oxidation of pyruvate is accompanied by," we will analyze the process of pyruvate oxidation step by step.

### Step 1: Understanding Pyruvate
- Pyruvate is the end product of glycolysis, which occurs in the cytoplasm of the cell.
- After glycolysis, pyruvate enters the mitochondria for further processing.

**Hint:** Remember that pyruvate is produced from glucose during glycolysis.

### Step 2: Pyruvate Oxidation Process
- Once inside the mitochondria, pyruvate undergoes oxidative decarboxylation.
- This process involves the removal of a carbon atom from pyruvate, releasing it as carbon dioxide (CO₂).

**Hint:** Think about what happens to the carbon atoms in pyruvate during this reaction.

### Step 3: Role of Coenzymes
- During the oxidation of pyruvate, the coenzyme NAD⁺ plays a crucial role.
- NAD⁺ is reduced to NADH as it accepts electrons during the oxidation process.

**Hint:** Consider the function of NAD⁺ in cellular respiration and how it changes during oxidation.

### Step 4: Formation of Acetyl CoA
- The remaining two-carbon molecule after decarboxylation is converted into acetyl CoA.
- Acetyl CoA then enters the Krebs cycle for further energy production.

**Hint:** Remember that acetyl CoA is a key molecule that links glycolysis to the Krebs cycle.

### Conclusion
- The oxidation of pyruvate is accompanied by the **reduction of NAD⁺** to NADH, as NAD⁺ accepts electrons during the reaction.

**Final Answer:** The correct answer is **reduction of NAD⁺**.

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