Question: is pyruvate converted to acetyl coa in the mitochondrial matrix

Answer: Yes, Following glycolysis, the citric acid cycle is activated by the production of acetyl-CoA. The oxidation of pyruvate by Pyruvate dehydrogenase in the matrix produces CO, acetyl-CoA, and NADH. Beta oxidation of fatty acids serves as an alternate catabolic pathway that produces acetyl-CoA, NADH, and FADH. The production of acetyl-CoA begins the citric acid cycle while the co-enzymes produced are used in the electron transport chain.