How can proteins make ATP? Understanding Cellular Respiration
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4 min read
Over 90% of the body's energy currency, adenosine triphosphate (ATP), is produced through the process of oxidative phosphorylation within the mitochondria. While carbohydrates are the primary fuel source, proteins can also be catabolized to contribute to this crucial energy supply. When glucose is scarce or protein intake is excessive, the body shifts to breaking down amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, which then enter the metabolic pathways that lead to ATP synthesis. This process provides a vital backup system to ensure the cell's energy needs are always met.
