Question:

Beta‐oxidation occurs in__________

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Beta-oxidation gets its name because the oxidative attack happens at the $\beta$-carbon (the 3rd carbon) of the fatty acid chain.
  • Proteins
  • Lipids
  • Carbohydrates
  • Amino acids
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks which class of macronutrients undergoes the metabolic pathway known as Beta-oxidation.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:


Mechanism: Beta-oxidation is the primary catabolic process for fatty acids. It occurs within the mitochondria of the cell.

Process: Long-chain fatty acids are broken down in a cycle of four steps (oxidation, hydration, oxidation, and cleavage). During each cycle, a two-carbon unit is removed as Acetyl-CoA.

Relationship to Lipids: Lipids (specifically triglycerides) are first hydrolyzed into glycerol and free fatty acids. These fatty acids then enter the beta-oxidation cycle to generate energy in the form of ATP through the TCA cycle and electron transport chain.

Other pathways:
• Carbohydrates mainly undergo Glycolysis.

• Proteins/Amino acids undergo Deamination or Transamination.

Step 3: Final Answer:

Beta-oxidation is exclusively the pathway for fatty acid (lipid) degradation. Option (B) is correct.
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