Link Reaction

Question 1

Where does the reaction occur?

Answer 1

Occurs in the matrix of cytoplasm
Pyruvate crosses the mitochondrial membrane and moves into the matrix

Question 2

What happens in decarboxylation?

Answer 2

Carbon atom is removed by decarboxylase enxzymes per pyruvate molecule.
This produces an ACETYL GROUP

Question 3

What happens in dehydrogenation?

Answer 3

2 atoms of hydrogen are removed from each pyruvate and picked up by NAD.
4 H —-> 2 reduced NAD (one NAD picks up 2 H)

Question 4

What is the final product of the reaction?

Answer 4

2 ACETYLCOENZYME A
Acetyl group combines with coenzyme A (CoA)

2 reduced NAD
2 CO2s