The TCA cycle, also known as the citric acid cycle or the Krebs cycle, is a series of chemical reactions that occurs in the mitochondria of cells. It is a central metabolic pathway that is responsible for the oxidation of acetyl-CoA, derived from carbohydrates, fats, and amino acids, to generate energy in the form of ATP.
The TCA cycle is a closed loop, meaning that the end products of the cycle are the same as its starting materials. The cycle begins with the condensation of acetyl-CoA and oxaloacetate to form citric acid, which then undergoes a series of reactions that lead to the production of ATP, CO2, and hydrogen ions. The hydrogen ions are used to generate energy in the form of ATP by the electron transport chain, and the CO2 is exhaled.
The TCA cycle is a vital process in the generation of energy in the body and is essential for the functioning of the body's cells and tissues. Imbalances in the TCA cycle can lead to a variety of metabolic disorders, including certain types of cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.
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