MUSCLE PHYSIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The Krebs cycle, by itself, does not require the presence of oxygen; this element is necessary for the last stage of aerobic cellular respiration, i.e., oxidative phosphorylation. Organic molecules endowed with energy (carbohydrates, lipids, proteins) are split in previous reactions.

Detailed explanation-2: -The Kreb’s Cycle is an aerobic process consisting of eight definite steps. In order to enter the Kreb’s Cycle pyruvate must first be converted into Acetyl-CoA by pyruvate dehydrogenase complex found in the mitochondria.

Detailed explanation-3: -Acetyl-CoA is not produced during Krebs cycle. It is produced from the decarboxylation of a pyruvate molecule, which occurs before the Krebs cycle can begin.

Detailed explanation-4: -The Krebs cycle itself actually begins when acetyl-CoA combines with a four-carbon molecule called OAA (oxaloacetate) (see Figure above). This produces citric acid, which has six carbon atoms. This is why the Krebs cycle is also called the citric acid cycle.