Proteins can be broken down for energy. They are typically broken down into amino acids, which then enter cellular respiration by:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Amino acids can be broken down via transamination and deamination reactions, which ultimately lead to the formation of pyruvate or acetyl-CoA, both of which are intermediates in the citric acid cycle. Therefore, amino acids can enter into cellular respiration through the citric acid cycle. Additionally, some amino acids can also enter cellular respiration through glycolysis. However, lactic acid fermentation and ethanol fermentation are pathways that do not utilize amino acids for energy. Electron transport/oxidative phosphorylation is also not directly involved in the breakdown of amino acids.

Proteins Can Be Broken Down for Energy