Krebs cycle biology Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈkrɛbz sɪkl baɪˈɒlədʒi/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A key metabolic pathway that takes place in the mitochondria of cells, involving a series of chemical reactions that convert acetyl-CoA into carbon dioxide, producing energy in the form of ATP, NADH, and FADH2.

Examples

• The Krebs cycle is essential for cellular respiration and energy production in the human body.
• Understanding the Krebs cycle is crucial for grasping the fundamental principles of biochemistry.

Synonyms

• Citric acid cycle
• TCA cycle

Antonyms

• Photosynthesis
• Resting potential

Additional Information

The Krebs cycle is a crucial step in cellular respiration, where it produces ATP, NADH, and FADH2, which are then used to generate energy in the form of ATP. This process is essential for the proper functioning of cells and is involved in various physiological processes, including muscle contraction and nerve signal transmission. The Krebs cycle is also important in the context of cancer research and is a potential target for therapeutic interventions.

The Krebs cycle is typically described as an eight-step process, involving the conversion of acetyl-CoA into citrate, which is then further processed to produce carbon dioxide, ATP, NADH, and FADH2. The cycle is regulated by various enzymes and cofactors, which help to control the rate of the reactions and ensure that the cycle operates efficiently.

The Krebs cycle has been extensively studied and researched, and its mechanisms and pathways have been elucidated through various experimental techniques, including spectroscopy, chromatography, and molecular biology. Understanding the Krebs cycle is essential for grasping the fundamental principles of biochemistry and is a critical aspect of cellular biology and physiology.

The Krebs cycle is not limited to biology and chemistry; it has also been applied in various technological fields, including energy production and medical research. For instance, researchers have explored the potential of manipulating the Krebs cycle to produce biofuels and therapeutic agents. These advancements demonstrate the far-reaching impact of basic research and the importance of understanding the Krebs cycle.

Etymology

The term “Krebs cycle” is named after Hans Krebs, a German-born British biochemist who first described the citric acid cycle in the 1930s. Krebs, a pioneer in the field of biochemistry, discovered the citric acid cycle while studying the metabolism of carbohydrates and fatty acids. He proposed that the cycle was a key mechanism for energy production in cells, which laid the foundation for the development of modern biochemistry.

Usage Notes

The term “Krebs cycle” is commonly used in academic and biomedical contexts, particularly in research papers and textbooks. However, it should be noted that the term “citric acid cycle” is also widely used and accepted as a synonym. In informal settings, the term “Krebs cycle” may be less familiar, but it is still used to describe the metabolic pathway. When referring to the Krebs cycle in scientific or technical contexts, it is essential to use the correct terminology and avoid ambiguity.

Cultural References

The Krebs cycle has been mentioned in several renowned novels and scientific texts, including Albert Einstein’s “The Meaning of Relativity” and Peter Medawar’s “The Uniqueness of the Individual.” The Krebs cycle has also been referenced in music and art, often symbolizing the intricate and complex nature of cellular biology.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

One example of an idiomatic expression related to the Krebs cycle is “breaking down barriers,” which refers to the process of cellular respiration, where the Krebs cycle is a key aspect of energy production.

Related Words or Phrases

The term “Krebs cycle” is closely related to other biochemical pathways and processes, including cellular respiration, oxidative phosphorylation, and the electron transport chain. Other related words include “photosynthesis,” “cellular biology,” and “biochemistry.” The study of the Krebs cycle has also been influenced by advancements in molecular biology, genetics, and biotechnology.

Collocations

The term “Krebs cycle” is often used in conjunction with other biochemical terms, such as “citric acid,” “pyruvate,” and “ATP.” It is also commonly collocated with technical words like “electron,” “proton,” and “ion.” By understanding the collocations of the Krebs cycle, readers can better comprehend complex biochemical processes and pathways.

Frequency of Use

The term “Krebs cycle” is widely used in research and academic contexts, where it is referred to frequently in scientific papers, textbooks, and articles. According to Google Ngram Viewer, the term “Krebs cycle” has seen a significant increase in usage since the 1950s, reflecting the growing interest and research in cellular biology and biochemistry.

Common Misspellings

The most common misspellings of the term “Krebs cycle” include “Krebus cycle,” “Crebbs cycle,” and “Kruebs cycle.” These variations can be avoided by using up-to-date language resources and dictionaries, particularly in academic and professional settings.