What is a Pyruvic acid (C₃H₄O₃)?

Pyruvic acid (C₃H₄O₃) is an essential organic compound in cellular energy metabolism. It is the end product of glycolysis, the process in which glucose is broken down to generate energy in the form of ATP. Under aerobic conditions (with oxygen), pyruvic acid is converted into acetyl-CoA and enters the citric acid cycle (TCA cycle) in the mitochondria. In anaerobic conditions (without oxygen), it can be converted into lactic acid or ethanol, allowing continued ATP production even in low-oxygen environments.

Pyruvic acid also serves as an important intermediate in the synthesis of amino acids and fatty acids, making it vital for many metabolic pathways.

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