The following are required for the conversion of pyruvic acid into active acetate?

The conversion of pyruvic acid into active acetate, which is crucial in metabolic processes, specifically requires a range of coenzymes and substrates that facilitate this transformation through the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC). The correct answer includes thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, and NAD, all of which play critical roles in this enzymatic process.

Thiamin (vitamin B1) acts as a coenzyme for decarboxylation, allowing for the conversion of pyruvic acid to acetyl-CoA. Niacin (vitamin B3) is a precursor of NAD, which is essential for accepting electrons during the oxidative decarboxylation of pyruvate. Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is involved in redox reactions as it forms FAD, participating indirectly in the electron transport chain. Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) is a critical component of Coenzyme A (CoA), which is necessary for the formation of acetyl-CoA from acetate. Additionally, NAD is a key electron carrier in this process, facilitating the generation of energy.

This combination of nutrients is vital for the proper functioning of the pyruvate