Which of the following substances serves as an intermediate through which all cellular energy sources are interconvertible?
acetyl CoA
glucose
pyruvate
citrate
Interconvertible, like fructose to glucose to glycogen to fat back to glucose? What does pyruvate do?
pyruvate
Look at biochem testbook. "Acetal CoA is a cental character in the cellular metabolism... [through which] all the energy sources (fats, proteins, and carbohydrates) are interconvertible".
Acetyl CoA is the correct answer.
Acetyl CoA is the answer according to the book, pg 741.
The substance that serves as an intermediate through which all cellular energy sources are interconvertible is acetyl CoA.
To arrive at this answer, we need to understand the process of cellular metabolism and the conversion of different energy sources.
First, glucose is a primary source of energy for cells. It undergoes a series of reactions through a process called glycolysis, which converts glucose into pyruvate. Pyruvate is then further converted into acetyl CoA in a process called pyruvate oxidation. This conversion takes place in the mitochondria of the cell.
Once acetyl CoA is formed, it serves as a central molecule and plays a crucial role in various metabolic pathways. It can enter the citric acid cycle (also known as the Krebs cycle or TCA cycle) to produce energy in the form of ATP. Additionally, acetyl CoA can be used to synthesize fatty acids, cholesterol, and other molecules needed for cell growth and function.
Therefore, while glucose and pyruvate are important energy sources in cellular metabolism, acetyl CoA acts as an intermediate through which these energy sources are interconverted and utilized by cells.