Chemical Forums

Chemistry Forums for Students => Undergraduate General Chemistry Forum => Topic started by: yungbrothersf on May 06, 2019, 11:41:31 PM

Title: Carbon Labeling TCA Cycle Problem
Post by: yungbrothersf on May 06, 2019, 11:41:31 PM

Hi everyone,

I have a question about carbon labeling I was hoping to get some help on. Here it is:

https://imgur.com/nyDcfER

So, I am very confused as to where to go with this. The reason being, I know how normal carbon lableing would work with the a-ketogulatarate and the TCA cycle, and what happens with a-ketoglutrate dehydrogenase. But when this question says there is a dysfunction in the enzyme, and there is no labeling on this C-1... it is pretty confusing. Any clarity and starting point would be awesome!

Thanks

Title: Re: Carbon Labeling TCA Cycle Problem
Post by: Babcock_Hall on May 07, 2019, 02:45:59 PM

It is a forum rule (see red link above) that you must show your attempt at solving a problem before we can help you.  However, I will give you a small hint.  A mutation in α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase would affect the fate of this compound, but the question is asking you about α-ketoglutarate itself.  In other words, you may be confusing yourself unnecessarily about the mutation issue.  I would start by drawing out the reactions.