Structural Biochemistry/Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Complex

Overview

This process involves with the conversion of pyruvate molecule into compound called acetyl coenzyme A, or acetyle CoA. This step is the junction between glycolysis and the Krebs Cycle (Citric Acid cycle) and is accomplished by a multi-enzyme complex that catalyzes three reactions:

1. Pyruvate's carboxyl group (COO^–), which is fully oxidized and is removed to release CO₂
2. The remainning two-carbon is oxidized and form a compound named acetate. An enzyme transfers the extracted electrons to NAD⁺, storing energy in the form of NADH
3. Finally, coenzyme A(CoA), a sulfur-containing compound derived from a B vitamin, is attached to the acetate by an unstable bond and this makes the acetyl group become very reactive. acetyl CoA has a high potential energy will undergoes the Citric Acid cycle to release energy to make ATP.

Reference

1. Reece, Jane B., and Neil A. Campbell. Campbell biology Jane B. Reece ... [et al.].. 9th ed. San Francisco: Benjamin Cummings :, 2011. Print.