Pyruvate Metabolism and Transport Concepts

This video tutorial covers the transport of pyruvate for aerobic respiration, focusing on the link reaction. It begins with a recap of glycolysis, explaining how pyruvate is produced in the cytoplasm. The tutorial then details the active transport of pyruvate into the mitochondrial matrix, where it undergoes the link reaction. This reaction involves decarboxylation and dehydrogenation, converting pyruvate into acetyl CoA. The video concludes with an invitation to explore more biology tutorials.

What is the primary purpose of glycolysis in cellular respiration?

• To produce oxygen

• To generate pyruvate and ATP

• To break down fatty acids

• To synthesize proteins

What determines the pathway pyruvate will follow after glycolysis?

• The temperature of the cell

• The presence of glucose

• The presence of oxygen

• The amount of ATP available

How is pyruvate transported into the mitochondrial matrix?

• Via osmosis

• By simple diffusion

• By passive diffusion

• Through a pyruvate hydrogen ions symporter

What is the role of ATP in the transport of pyruvate into the mitochondria?

• It binds to pyruvate

• It is not involved

• It provides energy for active transport

• It acts as a catalyst

What is the main product of the link reaction?

• Glucose

• Acetyl CoA

• NADH

• Lactic acid

What process involves the removal of a carboxyl group from pyruvate?

• Hydrogenation

• Decarboxylation

• Phosphorylation

• Oxidation

Which enzyme complex catalyzes the link reaction?

• Lactate dehydrogenase

• ATP synthase

• Hexokinase

• Pyruvate dehydrogenase

What is produced when a carboxyl group is removed from pyruvate?

• NADH

• Carbon dioxide

• Oxygen

• Water

What happens to NAD during the link reaction?

• It is phosphorylated

• It is reduced

• It is hydrolyzed

• It is oxidized

What does the acetyl group combine with to form acetyl CoA?

• Coenzyme A

• Glucose

• ATP

• NADH