The bridge between glycolysis and the powerhouse of the cell
In short: To understand how cells extract energy, you must look at the critical transition in the mitochondria. This video breaks down the link reaction, explaining how pyruvate is transformed into a fuel source for the next stage of aerobic respiration.
The link reaction occurs within the mitochondrial matrix and serves as the essential bridge between glycolysis and the Krebs cycle. It involves a process called oxidative decarboxylation, where pyruvate undergoes two primary transformations: decarboxylation and dehydrogenation.
During these stages, pyruvate loses a carbon atom in the form of carbon dioxide. Simultaneously, it undergoes oxidation, which reduces NAD to form reduced NAD. Finally, the remaining acetate binds with coenzyme A to produce acetyl coenzyme A, the primary reactant for the next phase of aerobic respiration.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: A-Level Biology - Link Reaction - What It Is | Key Stages | Reactants & Products (2027/28 exams)
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