An Experimenter Studying the Oxidation of Fatty Acids in Extracts

question 9

Essay

An experimenter studying the oxidation of fatty acids in extracts of liver found that when palmitate (16:0) was provided as substrate, it was completely oxidized to CO₂. However, when undecanoic acid (11:0) was added as substrate, incomplete oxidation occurred unless he bubbled CO₂ through the reaction mixture. The addition of the protein avidin, which binds tightly to biotin, prevented the complete oxidation of undecanoic acid even in the presence of CO₂, although it had no effect on palmitate oxidation. Explain these observations in light of what you know of fatty acid oxidation reactions.

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Intrathecal

Relating to the administration of drugs or other substances into the space under the arachnoid membrane of the brain or spinal cord.

Spinal Canal

The cylindrical space within the vertebral column that contains the spinal cord.

By Mouth

A term used in medicine to indicate that a medication or substance is to be taken orally.