Which one is amphibolic

Options

A. Glycolysis
B. ETC
C. Gluconeogenesis
D. Krebs cycle

Answer

To determine which of the given options is amphibolic, we need to understand the concept of an amphibolic pathway. An amphibolic pathway is one that has both catabolic (breakdown) and anabolic (synthesis) functions.

Let's analyze each option step by step:

1. **Glycolysis**:
- Glycolysis is the metabolic pathway that converts glucose into pyruvate.
- This process is primarily catabolic because it breaks down glucose to release energy.
- Therefore, glycolysis is not amphibolic.

2. **Electron Transport Chain (ETC)**:
- The ETC is involved in the transfer of electrons and the production of ATP.
- It does not directly involve the breakdown of molecules or the synthesis of new molecules, so it does not fit the definition of an amphibolic pathway.
- Thus, the ETC is not amphibolic.

3. **Gluconeogenesis**:
- Gluconeogenesis is the process of synthesizing glucose from non-carbohydrate sources.
- This pathway is purely anabolic because it focuses on the formation of glucose.
- Therefore, gluconeogenesis is not amphibolic.

4. **Krebs Cycle (Citric Acid Cycle)**:
- The Krebs cycle is a central metabolic pathway that plays a crucial role in both catabolism and anabolism.
- It is catabolic because it oxidizes acetyl-CoA to produce energy in the form of ATP, NADH, and FADH2.
- It is also anabolic because it provides intermediates that can be used to synthesize amino acids, fatty acids, and other biomolecules.
- Therefore, the Krebs cycle is indeed an amphibolic pathway.

Based on this analysis, the correct answer is:

**Krebs Cycle (Option D)** is the amphibolic pathway.