What is the fate of pyruvate under aerobic conditions?

Under aerobic conditions, pyruvate is transported into the mitochondria, where it is converted into acetyl-CoA by the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex. Acetyl-CoA then enters the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle), where it is oxidized to produce ATP, NADH, FADH2, and CO2. These molecules participate in oxidative phosphorylation, leading to the generation of a large amount of ATP. This pathway is highly efficient in ATP production compared to anaerobic pathways.