a cyclic series of biochemical reactions, usually in the mitochondria, that represents the final common pathway in all aerobic organisms for the oxidation of amino acids, fats, and carbohydrates, and that converts the citric acid, etc. from food into carbon dioxide and ATP
Origin:
after H. A. Krebs (1900-81), Brit biochemist
See Krebs cycle in American Heritage Dictionary 4
noun
A series of enzymatic reactions in aerobic organisms involving oxidative metabolism of acetyl units and producing high-energy phosphate compounds, which serve as the main source of cellular energy. Also called citric acid cycle, tricarboxylic acid cycle.