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Excess acetyl CoA cannot enter the Krebs cycle due to what?

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Excess acetyl CoA is diverted from the Krebs cycle to the ketogenesis pathway in the liver's mitochondria, leading to the production of ketone bodies used for energy during low glucose levels, with B-Hydroxybutyrate being the primary ketone body formed.

Step-by-step explanation:

Excess acetyl CoA cannot enter the Krebs cycle due to an overload of the cycle's capacity, which can occur particularly when glucose levels are low, and the body is relying on the oxidation of fatty acids for energy. When there is an excessive amount of acetyl CoA, and it cannot be efficiently processed by the Krebs cycle, it is diverted to the ketogenesis pathway, specifically in the mitochondria of liver cells.

This process results in the production of ketone bodies such as B-Hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate, and acetone. These ketone bodies then serve as an alternative energy source for the body during times of need, such as starvation or uncontrolled diabetes. Notably, excessive production of ketone bodies can lead to conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis, which is characterized by symptoms including a sweet or alcohol-like smell to the breath.

The correct answer from the provided options is:

  • (C) It lacks Krebs cycle enzymes for processing acetyl-CoA to CO₂.

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