Acetyl-CoA directs pyruvate's fate
During fasting, β-oxidation in the liver produces large amounts of acetyl-CoA. How does this affect pyruvate metabolism?
Answer A: explanation for every choice
A
Correct. This sends pyruvate toward oxaloacetate and gluconeogenesis instead of oxidizing it for energy.
B
This is the reverse. Acetyl-CoA signals that the cell has enough fuel for the citric acid cycle.
C
Activating pyruvate dehydrogenase would waste the pyruvate needed for gluconeogenesis.
D
Pyruvate carboxylase requires acetyl-CoA as an allosteric activator.
TakeawayHigh acetyl-CoA: stop oxidizing pyruvate and make oxaloacetate for glucose.
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Reviewed 2026-11-05 by a medical student. Spot an error? Report it with question ID bb157.