Biochemistry · TCA Cycle and ETC (Bioenergetics, Oxidative Phosphorylation)

Succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) is unique among TCA cycle enzymes because it:

  • A Is the only TCA enzyme located in the mitochondrial matrix
  • B Generates GTP directly and is the only energy-coupling step in the TCA cycle
  • C Uses FAD as cofactor but releases it as FADH2 into the mitochondrial matrix
  • D Is embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane and is identical to ETC Complex II, directly transferring electrons to ubiquinone without generating NADH
Correct answer: D. Is embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane and is identical to ETC Complex II, directly transferring electrons to ubiquinone without generating NADH

Explanation

SDH (succinate → fumarate) is the only TCA cycle enzyme that is an integral inner mitochondrial membrane protein; it is identical to Complex II of the ETC, oxidising succinate and passing electrons via FADH2 directly to CoQ (ubiquinone) without generating free FADH2 in the matrix. This yields only ~1.5 ATP per succinate (vs. 2.5 for NADH). GTP is generated by succinyl-CoA synthetase (a different TCA enzyme). All other TCA enzymes are matrix-soluble.

Reference: Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry, 32nd ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.

Sponsored

Want to test yourself?

Create a free account for timed mock tests, mistake tracking, and FSRS spaced-repetition revision across 23,000+ MCQs.

Start free → Log in

More TCA Cycle and ETC (Bioenergetics, Oxidative Phosphorylation) MCQs

See all TCA Cycle and ETC (Bioenergetics, Oxidative Phosphorylation) MCQs →