Question

Explain why metabolic acidosis (Box 2-2) may result from the accumulation of some citric acid cycle intermediates.

Short answer

These substances are acids that, if collected, can cause acidosis.

Step-by-step solution

About Acidosis

• Acidosis occurs when the pHof the blood falls below the normal value ( pH of blood 7.4
• The pH of substances that are a potential source of hydrogen tends to decrease.

Define why metabolic acidosis results accumulation of some citric acid cycle intermediates.

• Blood functions as a buffer, allowing the pH value to be maintained.
• However, a disruption in its blood buffer system can cause a drop in pH, which is referred to as acidosis.
• In severe circumstances, acidosis can be lethal. For metabolism, the citric acid cycle is critical.
• It produces a number of hydrogen-ion-producing intermediates such as citric acid, a-ketoglutaric acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, malic acid, and oxalic acid.
• These substances are acids that, if collected, can cause acidosis.