Cell Respiration, Fermentation, and Secondary Metabolism

Flashcards covering key concepts related to cell respiration, fermentation processes, and secondary metabolism in organisms.

Glycolysis

The process of breaking down glucose into pyruvate, producing ATP and NADH.

Anaerobic Respiration

A type of respiration that occurs without oxygen, using substances other than O2 as final electron acceptors.

Fermentation

A metabolic process that converts sugars to acids, gases, or alcohol in the absence of oxygen.

Pyruvate

The end product of glycolysis, which can be further processed in aerobic or anaerobic conditions.

NAD+

A coenzyme that acts as an electron acceptor in cellular respiration and is required for glycolysis.

Secondary Metabolism

The synthesis of secondary metabolites that are not essential for cell structure but may provide advantages such as defense.

Alkaloids

Bitter-tasting compounds produced by plants, often used for defense and can have toxic effects.

Phenolics

Compounds based on the carbon ring benzene that have antioxidant properties and can produce flavors and smells.

Citric Acid Cycle

A series of enzymatic reactions that produce ATP and electron carriers via the oxidation of acetyl CoA.

Oxidative Phosphorylation

The process that produces the most ATP during cellular respiration, occurring in the mitochondria.

Terpenoids

A diverse class of organic compounds produced by various plants, known for their strong odors and colors.

Polyketides

Compounds produced by certain bacteria and fungi often used as defense mechanisms; includes antibiotics like streptomycin.