1. A four-carbon organic compound that plays a central role in cellular respiration and the citric acid cycle, formed by the oxidation of malate and serving as a substrate for the enzyme citrate synthase.
Usage: biochemistry; also spelled oxaloacetate

Examples

• Oxalacetate is a key intermediate in the citric acid cycle.
• The enzyme malate dehydrogenase catalyzes the conversion of malate to oxalacetate.
• In gluconeogenesis, oxalacetate serves as a precursor for glucose synthesis.
• Oxalacetate concentration affects the rate of cellular energy production.
• The regeneration of oxalacetate is essential for the continuous operation of the Krebs cycle.