isokitraattidekarboksylaatio

Isokitraattidekarboksylaatio is a biochemical reaction that occurs in the mitochondrial matrix as part of the Krebs cycle. This process involves the oxidative decarboxylation of isocitrate, a six-carbon dicarboxylic acid, to alpha-ketoglutarate, a five-carbon dicarboxylic acid. The reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme isocitrate dehydrogenase. During this step, one molecule of carbon dioxide is released, and one molecule of NAD+ is reduced to NADH. This is the first of two decarboxylation steps in the Krebs cycle. The release of carbon dioxide signifies the removal of one carbon atom from the cycle. The NADH produced is then used in the electron transport chain to generate ATP. This reaction is crucial for the complete oxidation of glucose and other fuel molecules, providing energy for the cell. The regulation of isocitrate dehydrogenase activity is important for controlling the rate of the Krebs cycle and cellular respiration.