Which two vitamins are important as cofactors in the Citric Acid Cycle?

The correct response highlights the significance of Vitamin B1 (thiamine) and Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) as essential cofactors in the Citric Acid Cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle.

Vitamin B1 plays a crucial role in the decarboxylation of alpha-ketoglutarate and pyruvate, facilitating the conversion of these substrates into acetyl CoA and succinyl CoA, which are key intermediates in the cycle. It is critical for the activity of the enzyme pyruvate dehydrogenase, which links glycolysis to the Citric Acid Cycle.

Vitamin B2, on the other hand, is a precursor of flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD), both of which are vital cofactors in various enzymatic reactions within the Citric Acid Cycle. FAD is particularly important in the oxidation reactions catalyzed by succinate dehydrogenase, allowing for the transfer of electrons to the electron transport chain.

These vitamins ensure that the biochemical processes of the Citric Acid Cycle occur efficiently, leading to effective energy production and metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.