Fatty acids are connected with the respiratory pathway througha)Acetyl...
Fatty acids are broken down through a process called β-oxidation, which occurs in the mitochondria. During β-oxidation, fatty acids are sequentially cleaved into two-carbon units, which are then converted to Acetyl CoA
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Fatty acids are connected with the respiratory pathway througha)Acetyl...
Connection of Fatty Acids to the Respiratory Pathway
Fatty acids play a crucial role in cellular respiration, primarily through their conversion into Acetyl CoA. Here's how this process works:
1. Beta-Oxidation of Fatty Acids
- Fatty acids undergo beta-oxidation in the mitochondria.
- During this process, two-carbon units are cleaved off from the fatty acid chain.
- Each two-carbon unit is converted into Acetyl CoA.
2. Role of Acetyl CoA in the Krebs Cycle
- Acetyl CoA is a central metabolite in energy production.
- It enters the Krebs cycle (Citric Acid Cycle) by combining with oxaloacetate to form citrate.
- This cycle is pivotal for generating ATP, NADH, and FADH2, which are essential for the electron transport chain.
3. Energy Production
- The breakdown of fatty acids through beta-oxidation and subsequent entry into the Krebs cycle leads to significant ATP production.
- This makes fatty acids a vital energy source, especially during prolonged fasting or intense exercise.
Conclusion
- Thus, the connection of fatty acids with the respiratory pathway primarily occurs through their conversion into Acetyl CoA, making option 'A' the correct answer.
- Other options like alpha-ketoglutaric acid, dihydroxyacetone phosphate, and pyruvic acid do not directly relate to the metabolism of fatty acids in the same way.
This detailed understanding emphasizes the importance of Acetyl CoA in linking fatty acid metabolism to the respiratory pathway.
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