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Multiple Choice
Which organic compound do brain cells primarily rely on for fuel?
A
Glucose
B
Lactate
C
Amino acids
D
Fatty acids
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context: Brain cells primarily rely on a specific organic compound for energy. This is because the brain has unique metabolic requirements compared to other tissues in the body.
Recall the primary energy source for the brain: Glucose is the main fuel for brain cells under normal physiological conditions. It is transported across the blood-brain barrier and metabolized to produce ATP, the energy currency of the cell.
Consider alternative energy sources: While glucose is the primary fuel, lactate can also be used by brain cells under certain conditions, such as during intense exercise or hypoglycemia. Fatty acids and amino acids are generally not significant energy sources for the brain due to the blood-brain barrier and metabolic constraints.
Eliminate incorrect options: Fatty acids are not used directly by brain cells because they cannot cross the blood-brain barrier efficiently. Amino acids are primarily used for protein synthesis rather than energy production in the brain.
Conclude with the correct answer: Based on the brain's reliance on glucose for energy under normal conditions, glucose is the primary organic compound brain cells rely on for fuel.