where does krebs cycle take place

Sourav PanApril 18, 2025

Answered

The Krebs cycle takes place in the mitochondrial matrix in eukaryotic cells. This is the site where all the necessary enzymes, cofactors, and intermediates of the cycle are present to facilitate the oxidation of acetyl-CoA into carbon dioxide and high-energy electron carriers such as NADH and FADH₂. These electron carriers then participate in the electron transport chain to generate ATP. In prokaryotes, which lack mitochondria, the cycle is localized in the cytoplasm, where similar enzymes perform the corresponding functions. The strategic placement of the Krebs cycle within the mitochondrial matrix in eukaryotes optimizes substrate availability, product removal, and proximity to the electron transport chain.