Chapter 22, Problem 3MCP

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The concept map that illustrates the relationship between pyruvate mitochondrial structure, citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation has to be created.

Concept Introduction:

Pyruvate is an important chemical compound in biochemical pathways. It is formed by the metabolism of glucose known as glycolysis. One molecule of glucose breaks down to form two molecules of pyruvate, which are then used to provide energy. Pyruvate in the mitochondrial matrix loses one carboxyl group and linked to coenzyme A to form acetyl CoA.

Mitochondria are capsule-shaped organelles similar to the size of a bacterial cell also known as the powerhouse of the cell. Mitochondria are double-membrane organelle surrounded by an outer mitochondrial membrane and an inner mitochondrial membrane. The space between the outer membrane and inner membranes is called intermembrane space.

The citric acid cycle is a set of chemical reactions catalyzed by many enzymes and plays a role in energy production and biosynthesis. It is the last stage of carbohydrates, fats, and amino acids breakdown.

Oxidative phosphorylation is the mechanism of energy production that occurs in the inner membrane of mitochondria. This NADH from the citric acid cycle, is oxidized and establishes potential gradient across the boundary of the inner mitochondrial membrane and produces ATP catalyzed by different enzymes.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The concept map that illustrates the stages of amino acid degradation has to be created.

Concept Introduction:

The general structure of $\text{α-amino acid}$ contains an alpha carbon. The alpha carbon is made up of four different atoms or groups present at its four bonds. This carbon is also called chiral carbon. In $\text{α-amino acid}$, four different groups are a carboxylate group $\left(-{\text{COO}}^{-}\right)$, a protonated amino group $\left(-{\text{NH}}_3^{+}\right)$, hydrogen $\left(-\text{H}\right)$, and an alkyl chain or R group $\left(-\text{R}\right)$. Amino acids are building blocks of protein.