What molecule acts as a carrier of acetyl groups into the Krebs cycle?

Acetyl CoA is the molecule that acts as a carrier of acetyl groups into the Krebs cycle, also known as the citric acid cycle. This is an essential step in cellular respiration where Acetyl CoA, derived from pyruvate, fatty acids, or amino acids, enters the cycle to undergo a series of enzymatic reactions. Once inside the Krebs cycle, Acetyl CoA donates its acetyl group to oxaloacetate, forming citrate and initiating the cycle.

This process is crucial because the Krebs cycle is responsible for generating energy-rich electron carriers, NADH and FADH2, which are later used in the electron transport chain to produce ATP through oxidative phosphorylation. Acetyl CoA thus serves as a significant link between glycolysis and the Krebs cycle, facilitating the flow of carbon and energy through cellular respiration.