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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about the synthesis of amino acids is accurate?
A
All amino acids must be obtained from the diet because humans cannot synthesize any of them.
B
Essential amino acids are synthesized in the human body from glucose and fatty acids.
C
Nonessential amino acids can be synthesized by humans from metabolic intermediates.
D
Amino acids are synthesized exclusively in the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the classification of amino acids into essential and nonessential categories. Essential amino acids cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be obtained through the diet, while nonessential amino acids can be synthesized by the body.
Step 2: Review the metabolic pathways involved in the synthesis of nonessential amino acids. These amino acids are typically derived from intermediates of central metabolic pathways, such as glycolysis and the citric acid cycle.
Step 3: Analyze the statement 'Nonessential amino acids can be synthesized by humans from metabolic intermediates.' This aligns with biochemical knowledge, as nonessential amino acids are indeed synthesized from intermediates like pyruvate, α-ketoglutarate, and oxaloacetate.
Step 4: Evaluate the other statements provided in the problem. For example, the claim that 'All amino acids must be obtained from the diet' is incorrect because humans can synthesize nonessential amino acids. Similarly, the statement 'Essential amino acids are synthesized in the human body from glucose and fatty acids' is false because essential amino acids cannot be synthesized by humans. Lastly, the statement 'Amino acids are synthesized exclusively in the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells' is inaccurate, as amino acid synthesis occurs in various cellular compartments, not exclusively in mitochondria.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'Nonessential amino acids can be synthesized by humans from metabolic intermediates,' based on the biochemical principles of amino acid synthesis.