Acetyl CoA is a molecule that plays a critical role in metabolism by conveying the carbon atoms within the acetyl group to the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle) for energy production. It is formed from the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
Citric Acid Cycle: A series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to generate energy through the oxidation of acetyl-CoA.
Oxidative Phosphorylation: The process in mitochondria where ATP is synthesized from ADP and inorganic phosphate, driven by electron transport.
Pyruvate Decarboxylation: The conversion of pyruvate into Acetyl CoA, involving decarboxylation and occurring in the mitochondrial matrix.