Question

Pyruvate dehydrogenase activity during aerobic respiration requires

• A. Magnesium
• B. Calcium
• C. Zinc
• D. Iron

Hint:

Magnesium ions act as essential cofactors for several enzymes involved in energy production, including pyruvate dehydrogenase.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Pyruvate dehydrogenase is an enzyme complex that plays a critical role in converting pyruvate to acetyl-CoA during aerobic respiration. Magnesium ions are required as cofactors for the enzyme's activity.

Step 2:
- (B) Calcium, while important in other cellular processes, is not involved in pyruvate dehydrogenase activity.
- (C) Zinc and (D) Iron are cofactors for other enzymes but not for pyruvate dehydrogenase.
Conclusion: Magnesium is required for pyruvate dehydrogenase activity.