citrater

Citrate, commonly referred to as citrater in some contexts, is an anion with the chemical formula C₆H₅O₇³⁻. It is derived from citric acid, a weak organic acid naturally occurring in citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits. Citrate plays a significant role in various biological and industrial processes due to its versatile chemical properties.

In biochemistry, citrate is a key intermediate in the citric acid cycle (also known as the Krebs cycle or TCA cycle), a central metabolic pathway that generates energy through the oxidation of acetyl-CoA derived from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. The cycle occurs in the mitochondria of cells and is essential for cellular respiration, producing ATP, the primary energy currency of the cell.

Citrate also has applications in medicine and food preservation. As a food additive, it is classified under the European Union’s E number system as E330. It functions as a preservative, flavor enhancer, and acidity regulator, contributing to the tangy taste of citrus-based products. In pharmaceuticals, citrate salts, such as trisodium citrate, are used as anticoagulants to prevent blood clotting during medical procedures.

Additionally, citrate is utilized in household and industrial cleaning products due to its ability to chelate metal ions, effectively removing scale and mineral deposits. Its role in preventing kidney stones by binding calcium ions in urine has also been studied, though its efficacy varies among individuals.

Synthetically, citrate can be produced through fermentation processes involving microorganisms such as *Aspergillus niger*, which metabolizes sugars to produce citric acid. This method is widely used in industrial-scale production due to its cost-effectiveness and scalability.