Citric acid cycle

Definition

The Citric Acid Cycle is a series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to generate energy through the oxidation of acetate derived from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into carbon dioxide. Additionally, it provides precursors for certain amino acids as well as the reducing agent NADH that is used in numerous other biochemical reactions.

Related terms

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate):

ATP serves as the main energy currency of the cell, providing the energy needed for most cellular processes.

NADH (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide): NADH is an important coenzyme in the citric acid cycle, acting as an electron carrier to help transfer energy.

Oxidative Phosphorylation:

This is a metabolic pathway that uses energy released by the oxidation of nutrients to produce ATP, closely linked with the citric acid cycle