Biochem Stuff 1

Citric acid (TCA; Krebs) cycle

A series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to generate energy through the oxidation of acetyl-CoA derived from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Oxidative phosphorylation

The metabolic pathway in which cells use enzymes to oxidize nutrients, thereby releasing energy which is used to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP).

Pyruvate dehydrogenase complex

Enzyme complex that catalyzes the conversion of pyruvate into acetyl-CoA, a key step in the citric acid cycle.

Flavoprotein

Proteins containing a flavin molecule that participate in various biological processes, including the transfer of electrons in cellular respiration.

Isocitrate dehydrogenase

Enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of isocitrate to α-ketoglutarate in the citric acid cycle.

Anaplerotic reaction

Reactions that replenish intermediates in the citric acid cycle to maintain its function under various metabolic conditions.

Beriberi

A disease caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, leading to neurological and cardiovascular symptoms.

Glyoxylate cycle

A metabolic pathway in plants and bacteria that allows the net synthesis of carbohydrates from fats.

Isocitrate lyase

Enzyme involved in the glyoxylate cycle that catalyzes the cleavage of isocitrate into succinate and glyoxylate.

Glyoxysome

Specialized organelles found in plants that house enzymes involved in the glyoxylate cycle.