Question

The pyruvate dehydrogenase complex catalyzes the conversion of pyruvate to acetyl CoA. Which of the following changes will increase the metabolic consumption of pyruvate?

• A. High levels of ATP
• B. High levels of NAD${}^{+}$
• C. Low levels of glucose
• D. Low levels of Acetyl CoA

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

High levels of NAD${}^{+}$

Pyruvate dehydrogenase complex is a complex of three enzymes that catalyzes the conversion of pyruvate to acetyl CoA by a process called pyruvate decarboxylation with the help of cofactors. This acetyl-CoA is then used in the Kreb cycle. This complex is a link between the glycolysis and the Kreb cycle. During this conversion, NAD${}^{+}$ is converted into NADH. Hence, if there are high levels of NAD${}^{+}$, it will increase the metabolic consumption of pyruvate and production of acetyl CoA

Thus, the correct answer is 'High levels of NAD${}^{+}$.'