Biochemistry74: a look at cellular respiration

Biochemistry74: a look at cellular respiration

Cellular respiration is the process by which cells break down glucose and other organic molecules to produce energy in the form of ATP. This complex series of biochemical reactions occurs in the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells and involves three main stages: glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation.

Glycolysis is the first stage of cellular respiration and takes place in the cytoplasm. During glycolysis, a molecule of glucose is broken down into two molecules of pyruvate, producing a small amount of ATP and NADH in the process. The pyruvate then enters the mitochondria to continue the process of cellular respiration.

The citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle, takes place in the mitochondrial matrix. During this stage, the pyruvate is further broken down into carbon dioxide, generating additional ATP, NADH, and FADH2. These molecules then carry high-energy electrons to the final stage of cellular respiration.

Oxidative phosphorylation is the final stage of cellular respiration and occurs in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Here, the high-energy electrons carried by NADH and FADH2 are used to create a proton gradient across the membrane. This gradient drives the production of ATP through a process known as chemiosmosis.

Overall, cellular respiration is a vital process that provides cells with the energy they need to carry out essential functions. By understanding the biochemical reactions involved in cellular respiration, researchers can gain insights into various diseases and develop new treatments to target metabolic pathways.