Oxidation of pyruvate forms

Options

A. Acetyl CoA
B. NADH
C. `CO_(2)`
D. All the above

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Pyruvate Formation**: Pyruvate is produced during glycolysis, which is the breakdown of glucose. In glycolysis, glucose is converted into fructose, then into biphosphate, and subsequently into dihydroxyacetone phosphate (DHAP) and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (3GAP), ultimately leading to the formation of two molecules of pyruvate.

2. **Entry into Mitochondria**: Once formed, pyruvate, which is a three-carbon compound, enters the mitochondrial matrix for further processing.

3. **Oxidative Decarboxylation**: In the mitochondrial matrix, pyruvate undergoes a process called oxidative decarboxylation. This is a crucial step where pyruvate is converted into acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl CoA).

4. **Enzymatic Reaction**: The conversion of pyruvate to acetyl CoA is catalyzed by a multi-enzyme complex known as pyruvate dehydrogenase. This complex requires several coenzymes, including NAD+, coenzyme A, thiamine pyrophosphate, and lipoic acid.

5. **Products of the Reaction**:
- **Acetyl CoA**: One of the primary products formed from the oxidation of pyruvate.
- **Carbon Dioxide (CO2)**: During this reaction, one molecule of carbon dioxide is released as a byproduct.
- **NADH**: The coenzyme NAD+ is reduced to form NADH + H+, which is another product of this reaction.

6. **Integration into the Krebs Cycle**: The acetyl CoA produced then enters the Krebs cycle (also known as the TCA cycle) for further energy production.

7. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the oxidation of pyruvate results in the formation of acetyl CoA, the release of carbon dioxide, and the production of NADH.

**Final Answer**: The oxidation of pyruvate forms acetyl CoA, carbon dioxide, and NADH.

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