Chapter 9, Problem 21RQ

Summary Introduction

Toreview:

The role played by each enzyme, cofactor, and coenzyme of the enzyme complex pyruvate dehydrogenase.

Introduction:

Pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDHC) is a large structure consisting of multiple enzymes, which aid the conversion of pyruvate to acetyl-CoA. The process of conversion is called pyruvate decarboxylation. Acetyl-CoA (coenzyme A) can be utilized for carrying out cellular respiration in the citric acid cycle or in the synthesis of fatty acids, depending upon the cellular conditions. The activity of the enzymeincreases due to its association with cofactors, which can be either metal ions or coenzymes (organic as well as inorganic).