What is released during the conversion of isocitrate to alpha-ketoglutarate?

During the conversion of isocitrate to alpha-ketoglutarate, carbon dioxide (CO2) is released as a byproduct of the decarboxylation reaction that occurs in the citric acid cycle. In this step, isocitrate is oxidized and loses a carboxyl group (-COO), which is released in the form of carbon dioxide. This reaction is also coupled with the reduction of NAD+ to NADH, reflecting the dual role of this step in energy production and the release of waste products. The production of CO2 is a critical aspect of cellular respiration, as it marks the removal of carbon atoms that are part of the original organic molecules entering the cycle. This helps to maintain the flow of the cycle and is essential for the overall metabolic pathway that generates energy for the cell.