How Does the Body Metabolize Alcohol and Where Do the Protons Go?

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SUMMARY

The metabolism of alcohol involves the conversion of ethanol (CH3CH2OH) to acetaldehyde (CH3CHO) and subsequently to acetic acid, which enters the Krebs cycle. During this process, protons (H+) are produced and enter solution, but the cell has mechanisms to pump excess protons out of the cytosol to prevent acidification. The balanced equation for the oxidation of acetaldehyde to acetic acid is essential for understanding this metabolic pathway.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic organic chemistry, specifically alcohol metabolism.
  • Familiarity with the Krebs cycle and its role in cellular respiration.
  • Knowledge of redox reactions and the role of NAD+ and NADH.
  • Basic grasp of cellular mechanisms for proton transport.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the balanced equation for the oxidation of acetaldehyde to acetic acid.
  • Study the role of NAD+ and NADH in metabolic pathways.
  • Explore cellular mechanisms for proton transport and acid-base balance.
  • Learn about the Krebs cycle and its significance in energy production.
USEFUL FOR

Biochemists, medical students, and anyone interested in understanding alcohol metabolism and its biochemical implications.

Master J
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In the metabolism of alcohol, where do the protons produced go?

ie.

CH3CH2OH + NAD+ -----> CH3CHO + NADH + H+
 
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They just go into solution. There are other metabolic reactions that will eventually use them up. To prevent acidification, the cell also has mechanisms to pump protons out of the cytosol if too many protons start building up.
 
Am I right in saying that when the ethanol is oxidized to acetaldehyde, the acetaldehyde is oxidized to acetic acid, which is used up in the Krebs cycle?

What is the balanced equation for the oxidation of acetaldehyde to acetic acid?
 

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