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This reaction generates NAD+ from NADH. You need NAD+ for glycolysis, so this conversion (pyruvate to lactate) regenerates one of the reactants needed for glycolysis to continue. You're usually taught that NADH is a source of energy, so getting rid of it when you are energy starved seems counterintuitive. However, when no oxygen is available, you can't use NADH as a source of energy because the electron transport chain is out of commission without oxygen.
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What are the three possible fates of pyruvate and what conditions are necessary for each pathway?
Pyruvate can be converted to acetyl-CoA under aerobic conditions in the presence of oxygen, entering the citric acid cycle. It can be converted to lactate in anaerobic conditions when oxygen is limited. Pyruvate can also undergo fermentation to produce ethanol or lactic acid in certain microorganisms.
What is is the order of the steps for cellular respiration?
1. Glucose is metabolised to form pyruvate (glycolysis) Anaerobic (without oxygen): - Pyruvate is converted to lactate or ethanol Aerobic (in the presence of oxygen): - Pyruvate is converted to acetyl CoA - Citric Acid Cycle - Electron transport chain
Muscle cells in oxygen deprivation convert pyruvate to?
Muscle cells in oxygen deprivation convert pyruvate to lactate through a process called anaerobic glycolysis. This allows for the generation of ATP in the absence of oxygen, but results in the build-up of lactate in the muscles, leading to muscle fatigue and soreness.
What is the significance of the pyruvate to lactate during fermentation?
During fermentation, pyruvate is converted to lactate as a way to regenerate NAD+ from NADH, which is necessary to sustain glycolysis. This conversion allows glycolysis to continue in the absence of oxygen, providing cells with a way to generate ATP for energy production.
When oxygen is plentiful pyruvate from glucose is converted to?
acetyl CoA
