Cellular Metabolism and Dietary Supplements Overview

Cellular Metabolism Overview

• Focus on key processes involved in cellular energy production.

Key Pathways of Cellular Metabolism

• Glycolysis:

  • Conversion of glucose to pyruvate.
  • Occurs in the cytosol and produces 2 ATP via substrate-level phosphorylation.

• Conversion to Acetyl CoA:

  • Pyruvate is not directly converted into Acetyl CoA; rather, it is added to CoA to form Acetyl CoA during metabolic processes.
  • Requires Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) as a coenzyme for the enzymatic reaction.

Mitochondrial Function and Structure

• The mitochondria are essential for oxidative phosphorylation and the electron transport chain.
• Key components of the mitochondrion:
  • Outer Mitochondrial Membrane (OMM)
  • Inner Mitochondrial Membrane (IMM)
  • Cristae: Folds that increase surface area for ATP production.

Electron Transport Chain (ETC)

• The ETC pumps protons (H+ ions) into the intermembrane space, creating a gradient used for ATP synthesis.
• Main players in the ETC:
  • NADH and FADH2: Carry electrons from metabolic processes to the ETC.
  • Cyt c: Key protein involved in electron transfer in the chain.
  • ATP synthase: Enzyme that utilizes the proton gradient to produce ATP from ADP + Pi.
• Final acceptor is O2, which forms H2O upon reduction, crucial for maintaining the flow of electrons.

ATP Yield and Energy Efficiency

• Total ATP production from cellular respiration includes 2 ATP from glycolysis and 34 ATP from oxidative phosphorylation, yielding a total of 36 ATP as the theoretical maximum per glucose molecule.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) Supplementation

• CoQ10 is vital for efficient mitochondrial function and energy production.
  • The body synthesizes CoQ10, but production may decline with age, necessitating supplementation.
• Evidence suggests that individuals may benefit from CoQ10 supplementation, particularly as they age, to support energy levels and mitochondrial health.