Q.Explain the reactions of Krebs Cycle.
You're viewing a preview — the full solution, concept, methods & PYQ mapping are locked.
Start your 14-day free trial to unlock the full solution →The Krebs cycle is a cyclic sequence of eight enzyme-catalysed reactions in the mitochondrial matrix that fully oxidises the acetyl group of acetyl-CoA, releasing CO2 and generating reduced coenzymes (NADH, FADH2) and one ATP/GTP per turn, while regenerating oxaloacetate.
The Krebs cycle (also called the citric acid cycle or TCA cycle) occurs in the mitochondrial matrix and follows glycolysis and the formation of acetyl-CoA (via pyruvate oxidation). Each turn of the cycle processes one acetyl-CoA (2-carbon unit).
Reactions of the Krebs cycle:
-
Condensation: Acetyl-CoA (2C) combines with oxaloacetate (OAA, 4C) to form citrate (6C), catalysed by citrate synthase; CoA-SH is released.
-
Isomerisation: Citrate is converted to its isomer isocitrate via the intermediate cis-aconitate (aconitase enzyme).
-
First oxidative decarboxylation: Isocitrate is oxidised and decarboxylated to α-ketoglutarate (5C), releasing one CO2 and reducing NAD+ to NADH.
-
Second oxidative decarboxylation: α-ketoglutarate is oxidatively decarboxylated to succinyl-CoA (4C), releasing a second CO2 and producing a second NADH (catalysed by α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex).
-
Substrate-level phosphorylation: Succinyl-CoA is converted to succinate, coupled to the formation of one GTP (or ATP) directly (substrate-level phosphorylation).
-
Oxidation (FADH2 formed): Succinate is oxidised to fumarate by succinate dehydrogenase, which is embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane, reducing FAD to FADH2.
-
Hydration: Fumarate is hydrated to malate.
…
Unlock everything free for 14 days
- Full step-by-step solutions
- Concept-first explanations
- Methods, shortcuts & mistakes
- PYQ mapping + timed mock tests
Full access for 14 days. No credit card required.