Where exactly does the citric acid cycle take place within the cell?
As with any metabolic process, the citric acid cycle is dependent on a specific location within the cell to perform all of its reactions. It is usually said to occur in the mitochondrial matrix, because of the location where the respiratory enzymes that carry out the reactions are located. However, mitochondrial proteins are not the only ones involved in the citric acid cycle. In fact, enzymes from other organelles are also required for the complete reaction to occur.
Where does the citric acid cycle start?
The citric acid cycle begins in the cytoplasm, where three of the four main enzymes involved are located. The first enzyme, which is called the citrate synthase, converts oxaloacetate into citrate. This reaction is the rate-limiting step in the cycle. The citrate is then transported into the mitochondria, where the citrate is oxidized to oxoglutarate by the enzyme aconitase. The next enzyme in the cycle that is located in
Where does the citric acid cycle occur?
The citric acid cycle occurs within the matrix of the mitochondria, the energy-producing plant organelles. How the citric acid cycle generates energy is a topic that is covered in more detail in the next section.
Where does the citric acid cycle take place in the mitochondria?
The citric acid cycle takes place in the mitochondrial matrix, which is the space inside the mitochondria where most of the organelle’s enzymes reside. In order for the citric acid cycle to take place, a chemical called coenzyme A must be present. This chemical acts as a high-energy carrier, transferring a high-energy phosphate group between enzymes and the other metabolites in the cycle.
Where does the citric acid cycle happen in the body?
The citric acid cycle can be found in most cells of the body, but its primary function is to provide fuel for the cells that line your muscles, brain, and heart. These cells burn sugar for energy and use the citric acid cycle to produce the high-energy molecule ATP. The citric acid cycle also helps to regulate the chemical composition of your cells. Since the cycle is an energy-producing process, it needs to be tightly controlled to prevent damage to the cell.