Pyruvate is converted to Acetyl-CoA through a process known as pyruvate decarboxylation, which occurs in the mitochondrial matrix. Pyruvate must first enter the mitochondria before undergoing this conversion, as it cannot directly enter the citric acid cycle. The discussion highlights the importance of the mitochondrial matrix in this biochemical process and mentions the glyceraldehyde and malate-oxaloacetate shuttles as pathways for transport.
PREREQUISITESBiochemistry students, molecular biologists, and anyone interested in cellular respiration and metabolic pathways.
BogMonkey said:After glycolysis where is pyruvate converted to Acetyl-CoA? I know pyruvate can't enter the citric acid cycle but does the pyruvate molecule make its way into the matrix of the mitochondria then get converted to Acetyl-CoA or does it have to be converted before it can even cross the membranes of the mitochondrion?