AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -In order for pyruvate from glycolysis to enter the Kreb’s Cycle it must first be converted into acetyl-CoA by the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex which is an oxidative process wherein NADH and CO2 are formed. Another source of acetyl-CoA is beta oxidation of fatty acids.

Detailed explanation-2: -Pyruvate is the end product of a biochemical pathway called glycolysis, a series of reactions that converts one molecule of glucose into two molecules of pyruvate. Pyruvate then undergoes pyruvate oxidation to produce acetyl CoA, an intermediate in the Krebs cycle.

Detailed explanation-3: -Before the Krebs cycle begins, pyruvate, which has three carbon atoms, is split apart and combined with an enzyme known as CoA, which stands for coenzyme A. The product of this reaction is a two-carbon molecule called acetyl-CoA.

Detailed explanation-4: -In Summary: Pyruvate Oxidation In the presence of oxygen, pyruvate is transformed into an acetyl group attached to a carrier molecule of coenzyme A. The resulting acetyl CoA can enter several pathways, but most often, the acetyl group is delivered to the citric acid cycle for further catabolism.

Detailed explanation-5: -The first step of this pathway begins with the decarboxylation of pyruvate to the Krebs cycle starting molecule, acetyl-CoA.