Question

Thiamin pyrophosphate (TPP), the coenzyme from thiamin is

A. essential for the various oxidation-reduction reactions of the electron transport system
B. essential for teh addition of two carbon fragments to fatty acids
C. essential for the oxidative decarboxylation of pyruvate
D. not really needed because our contemporary diets are low in carbohydrate.

Answer 1

Thiamin pyrophosphate (TPP) is essential for the oxidative decarboxylation of pyruvate, converting it into acetyl CoA and linking glycolysis to the citric acid cycle for energy production.

Step-by-step explanation:

Thiamin pyrophosphate (TPP), the coenzyme form of thiamin, plays a crucial role in the metabolism of carbohydrates and the oxidative decarboxylation of pyruvate in particular. One of TPP's primary functions is as a coenzyme for the enzyme complex pyruvate dehydrogenase, which catalyzes the conversion of pyruvate into acetyl CoA, a critical step linking glycolysis with the citric acid cycle. This process is essential for energy production in cells and is why TPP is a significant nutrient that must be regularly included in our diet.