Question

37. Summarize the function of the TCA cycle.

Answer 1

TCA cycle or Tri carboxylic acid cycle also known as kreb cycle occurs in all eukaryotic cell under aerobic conditions.

In TCA cycle Acetyl CoA is converted into oxaloacetate and cycle continues producing ATP ,NADH₂ And FADH₂ .

NADH₂ and FADH₂ enter ETC under aerobic condition and forms ATP. If there is anaerobic condition it will result in accumulation of NADH₂ and FADH₂ , thus depletion of NAD and FAD , which results TCA cycle to stop.

Function Of TCA

1. It provide energy to cell in form of ATP .

2. It has a Catabolic role :- acetyl CoA serves as common substrate for TCA , which is final product from carbohydrate ,protein & fat metabolism.

3. It has a Anabolic role :- intermediate in TCA cycle are used as substrates for synthesis of different compound essential to cell. eg succinyl CoA for Heame synthesis.