How many ATP’s are formed by one turn of Palmitic acid oxidation:
**Core Concept**
The question requires understanding of the process of beta-oxidation of fatty acids, a key metabolic pathway that generates energy in the form of ATP. During beta-oxidation, fatty acid chains are broken down into acetyl-CoA units, which then enter the citric acid cycle to produce ATP.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
In one turn of palmitic acid oxidation, one acetyl-CoA unit is formed, which enters the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle). Each turn of the citric acid cycle produces 2 ATP, 6 NADH, and 2 FADH2. The energy from NADH and FADH2 is then used in the electron transport chain, generating approximately 10.5 ATP per NADH and 2 ATP per FADH2. Therefore, the total ATP yield from one turn of palmitic acid oxidation, including the 2 ATP from the citric acid cycle, is approximately 106 ATP.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not account for the additional ATP yield from NADH and FADH2 in the electron transport chain.
- **Option B:** This option underestimates the ATP yield from one turn of palmitic acid oxidation by not considering the energy from NADH and FADH2.
- **Option D:** This option overestimates the ATP yield from one turn of palmitic acid oxidation by not accounting for the 2 ATP from the citric acid cycle.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that the net ATP yield from beta-oxidation of fatty acids is approximately 106 ATP per acetyl-CoA unit, with 2 ATP produced directly in the citric acid cycle and the remaining 104 ATP generated from the energy in NADH and FADH2.
**Correct Answer:** C. 106.