<prompt> Which of the following deficiency in alcoholics inhibit pyruvate dehydrogenase?ThiaminNiacinRiboflavinAscorbic acid  <response>: Arsenite and mercuric ions react with the - SH groups of lipoic acid and inhibit pyruvate dehydrogenase, as does a dietary deficiency of thiamin, allowing pyruvate to accumulate. Many alcoholics are thiamin-deficient both because of a poor diet and also because alcohol inhibits thiamin absorption, and may develop potentially fatal pyruvic and lactic acidosis. Ref: Harper 28th edition, Chapter 17. 