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Multiple Choice
Which component of an amino acid can be utilized as an energy source during the cellular respiration pathway after deamination?
A
The amino group (–NH_2)
B
The carboxyl group (–COOH)
C
The carbon skeleton (α-keto acid)
D
The side chain (R group) only
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of an amino acid: Amino acids consist of an amino group (–NH₂), a carboxyl group (–COOH), a side chain (R group), and a central carbon atom (α-carbon). The carbon skeleton refers to the α-carbon and its associated groups, excluding the amino group.
Learn about deamination: Deamination is the process by which the amino group (–NH₂) is removed from the amino acid. This process occurs in the liver and results in the formation of ammonia (NH₃) and a carbon skeleton (α-keto acid).
Recognize the fate of the carbon skeleton: After deamination, the carbon skeleton (α-keto acid) can enter various metabolic pathways. Depending on the specific amino acid, the carbon skeleton may be converted into intermediates of the citric acid cycle (e.g., oxaloacetate, α-ketoglutarate) or other pathways involved in energy production.
Understand the role of cellular respiration: Cellular respiration is the process by which cells generate ATP (energy) from organic molecules. The carbon skeleton of the amino acid can be utilized as an energy source by being metabolized into compounds that feed into glycolysis or the citric acid cycle.
Clarify why other components are not used for energy: The amino group (–NH₂) is removed during deamination and converted into urea for excretion. The carboxyl group (–COOH) is part of the carbon skeleton and contributes to energy production indirectly. The side chain (R group) varies among amino acids and may influence the metabolic fate of the carbon skeleton but is not directly utilized as an energy source.