Question

The transport of pyruvate into mitochondria depends on the proton-motive force across the inner mitochondrial membrane. How does pyruvate enter the mitochondrion?

1) active transport
2) diffusion
3) facilitated diffusion
4) through a channel
5) through a pore

Answer 1

Pyruvate enters the mitochondria through active transport using the proton-motive force.

Step-by-step explanation:

The transport of pyruvate into mitochondria is an essential step in cellular respiration after glycolysis. Pyruvate enters the mitochondrion through active transport, which relies on the proton-motive force across the inner mitochondrial membrane. In this process, pyruvate is transported against its concentration gradient, meaning that transport proteins in the mitochondrial membrane use the energy provided by the proton gradient to move pyruvate into the mitochondrial matrix. This is necessary for pyruvate to enter the Krebs cycle, where it will be further processed for ATP production.