Monday, June 30, 2025

Break down NAD⁺ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) and its role in the electron transport chain (ETC)

 Break down NAD⁺ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) and its role in the electron transport chain (ETC).


🔋 What is NAD⁺?


NAD⁺ is a coenzyme found in all living cells. It acts as an electron carrier — essential for cellular respiration.


NAD⁺ = oxidized form (can accept electrons)


NADH = reduced form (has accepted electrons)


🔁 NAD⁺ in Metabolism


In metabolic pathways like:


Glycolysis


Citric Acid Cycle (Krebs)


Beta-oxidation (fat metabolism)


NAD⁺ accepts 2 electrons and 1 proton → becomes NADH.

This NADH then carries electrons to the electron transport chain.


⚡ Role of NADH in the Electron Transport Chain (ETC)


1. Where: ETC is located in the inner mitochondrial membrane.


2. Goal: Generate ATP via oxidative phosphorylation.


🧬 ETC Step-by-Step (Simplified)


1. NADH donates electrons to Complex I (NADH dehydrogenase).


2. As electrons move through Complex I, III, and IV, protons (H⁺) are pumped from the mitochondrial matrix to the intermembrane space.


3. This creates a proton gradient (like a battery).


4. Oxygen is the final electron acceptor at Complex IV → combines with electrons and protons to make H₂O.


5. Protons flow back into the matrix through ATP synthase (Complex V) → powering the synthesis of ATP from ADP.

📊 ATP Yield

1 NADH = approx. 2.5–3 ATP

1 FADH₂ = approx. 1.5–2 ATP (enters at Complex II)

🧠 Summary

Molecule Role Destination in ETC

NAD⁺ Electron acceptor Becomes NADH in metabolism

NADH Electron donor Complex I

O₂ Final electron acceptor Complex IV → H₂O

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