Chapter 24, Problem 24.37EP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: To identify the location within a cell where pyruvate is converted to $\text{acetyl CoA}$ in the human body.

Concept introduction: In the glycolysis metabolic pathway, a glucose molecule is converted to two pyruvate molecules. Two ATP molecules and NADH-reduced coenzymes are formed along with pyruvate. Pyruvate is the end product in the glycolysis. The production of the fate of pyruvate varies with the nature of the organism and the cellular conditions.

Aerobic reactions need oxygen while anaerobic reactions don’t need oxygen.

In the mitochondrion, the space within the inner membrane is defined as the matrix. The mitochondria matrix contains the ribosomes, mitochondria’s DNA, soluble enzymes, nucleotide cofactors, small organic molecules, and inorganic ions.