Impact of NAD+ Decrease on Citric Acid Cycle

Hard Biochemistry Metabolism

The citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle, is a crucial metabolic pathway that plays a significant role in cellular respiration. During this cycle, acetyl-CoA, derived from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, is oxidized to produce energy. It produces NADH and FADH2, which are essential for the electron transport chain that generates ATP. However, various cellular factors can influence the efficiency of this metabolic pathway. Consider a situation in a eukaryotic cell where the concentration of NAD+ is significantly decreased due to a disruption in mitochondrial function. Which of the following statements is likely to be TRUE regarding the impact of this disruption on the citric acid cycle?

The rate of the citric acid cycle will significantly increase due to higher concentrations of acetyl-CoA.

The decreased concentration of NAD+ will lead to an accumulation of intermediates in the cycle.

NADH will be overproduced, resulting in enhanced ATP synthesis.

The disruption will have no significant effect as the cycle can proceed using FADH2 as the electron acceptor.

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