Two ions produced during catabolism of glutamine are:
a. Ammonium ions
b. Bicarbonate
c. Calcium
d. Chloride
e. Hydrogen ions
f. Magnesium
g. Phosphate
h. Potassium
i. Sodium
j. Water

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand the process of glutamine catabolism. Glutamine is an amino acid that, when broken down (catabolized), releases certain ions as byproducts. The key is to identify which ions are typically produced during this metabolic process.

Step 2: Recall that glutamine catabolism primarily occurs in the kidneys and liver, where glutamine is deaminated to produce ammonium ions (NH4+). This is important for acid-base balance and nitrogen excretion.

Step 3: Recognize that during glutamine catabolism, bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) are also generated. This happens because the removal of ammonium ions is often coupled with the production of bicarbonate, which helps buffer blood pH.

Step 4: Review the list of ions given and identify which ones are commonly associated with glutamine catabolism. Ammonium ions and bicarbonate are the main ions produced, while ions like calcium, chloride, magnesium, phosphate, potassium, and sodium are not directly produced by this process.

Step 5: Conclude that the two ions produced during glutamine catabolism are ammonium ions and bicarbonate ions, corresponding to options a and b.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Glutamine Catabolism

Glutamine catabolism refers to the metabolic breakdown of the amino acid glutamine, primarily in the liver and kidneys. During this process, glutamine is deaminated to produce glutamate and free ammonium ions, which are important for nitrogen excretion and acid-base balance.

Ammonium Ion Production

Ammonium ions (NH4+) are produced when glutamine undergoes deamination, releasing ammonia that is quickly converted to ammonium in the body. This ion plays a key role in nitrogen disposal and helps maintain acid-base homeostasis by buffering excess hydrogen ions.

Bicarbonate Ion Generation

Bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) are generated during glutamine metabolism as a byproduct of the conversion of glutamine to glutamate and subsequent reactions. Bicarbonate acts as a major buffer in blood, neutralizing acids and maintaining pH balance.

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