The Bio-Chemistry Process
Understand the process of fermentation and how it helps micro-organisms to survive in anaerobic conditions.
Glycolysis
The Catabolism of Sugars. It breaks down glucose into 2 molecules of pyruvate through a series of reactions involving multiple enzymes. It also produces 2 adenosine triphosphate (ATP), an "energy currency" in the cell, and 2 nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide + hydrogen (NADH), an electron carrier.
(Thomas Shaffee, 2015)
Pyruvate
Pyruvate is a key organic molecule in cellular metabolism. Chemically, it is the conjugate base of pyruvic acid. It plays a central role in several biochemical pathways, particularly in the process of cellular respiration. (Ophardt, 2003)
Fermentation
Fermentation is a metabolic process that allows cells to produce energy without oxygen (anaerobic respiration). This occurs in the cytoplasm. Pyruvate is converted into other products to regenerate NAD⁺, allowing glycolysis to continue to produce energy. Hence, useful by-products are created.
(Hackmann, 2004)
An example of fermentation is alcohol fermentation, where ethanol is produced. (Davidcarmack, 2013)
Feature | Anaerobic Respiration | Aerobic Respiration |
|---|---|---|
Oxygen Required | ❌ | ✅ |
ATP per Glucose | ~2 | ~36 |
End Products | Varies | CO₂ + H₂O |
Location in Cell | Cytoplasm | Cytoplasm + Mitochondria |
NAD⁺ Regeneration | Via Reduction of Pyruvate | Via Electron Transport Chain |