Pyruvate processing occurs in the matrix of the mitochondria
The enzyme that converts pyruvate into acetyl-CoA is pyruvate dehydrogenase. This multienzyme complex is responsible for catalyzing the conversion of pyruvate into acetyl-CoA, which is a key step in the metabolism of carbohydrates to produce energy.
Pyruvate cannot be directly converted into glucose in humans. This is because humans lack the enzyme pyruvate carboxylase needed for this conversion. Instead, pyruvate is normally converted into acetyl-CoA for entry into the citric acid cycle to produce energy.
Pyruvic acid breakdown occurs through a process called pyruvate oxidation, which takes place in the mitochondria. During this process, pyruvate is converted into acetyl-CoA, releasing carbon dioxide and producing NADH. Acetyl-CoA then enters the Krebs cycle to generate more ATP.
Pyruvic acid
The substrate of pyruvate oxidation is pyruvate, a three-carbon molecule derived from glycolysis. The products of pyruvate oxidation are acetyl-CoA, which is a two-carbon molecule, and carbon dioxide. This process occurs in the mitochondria and is a crucial step in the aerobic respiration pathway.
During pyruvate processing
Cytoplasm
Acetyl CoA
Acetyl CoA
Acetyl CoA
Acetyl CoA
Acetyl CoA
smooth endoplasmic reticula
There will be a buildup of pyruvate in the cell
Acetyl CoA
The mitochondrial membrane has special transporter proteins which are needed to transport pyruvate. This transport also requires ATP.
The synthesis of pyruvate occurs in the cytoplasm of the cell during glycolysis. It is the final step in the glycolytic pathway, where glucose is converted to two molecules of pyruvate.