Cyanide inhibits the enzyme in the mitochondrial electron transport chain that reduces O₂ to water. Suppose that you add cyanide to a suspension of muscle cells from a rat. Which statement given below is the most accurate with respect to the effects of cyanide on glucose catabolism?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cyanide inhibition of the electron transport chain prevents the generation of ATP, which will lead to an accumulation of NADH and a subsequent increase in the production of lactate through anaerobic glycolysis. The citric acid cycle requires the reduction of NAD+ to NADH for energy production; therefore, inhibition of the electron transport chain with cyanide will block the citric acid cycle as well. Ethanol accumulation (choice B) is not relevant to glucose catabolism in mammalian cells.

Cyanide Inhibits the Enzyme in the Mitochondrial Electron Transport Chain