NADH – A COFACTOR NEEDED FOR ENERGY PRODUCTION
What is NADH? Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is a cofactor (a substance whose presence is essential for activity) for a number of cellular processes including energy production, DNA repair, gene expression, antioxidant activity, brain dopamine production, and immunological functions. [29] Because of its role in DNA repair and gene expression, NAD, through its activity on the sirtuin family of enzymes, may play a pivotal role in extending the life of the cell and therefore, slowing the aging process. [30] NAD can exist in two forms: NAD+ and NADH (also referred to as the reduced form of NAD). How does NADH create energy? The conversion of NAD+ to NADH, and vice versa, are essential reactions in creating ATP (adenosine triphosphate). [31] ATP is the main carrier of energy that is used for all cellular activities. When ATP is enzymatically converted to adenosine diphosphate (ADP) , energy is released. In order to generate ATP, the food that we eat is directed through three processes: glycolysis, the Krebs Cycle, and the electron transport chain. In glycolysis and the Krebs cycle, NADH molecules are formed from NAD+. On the other hand, in the electron transport chain (a series of proteins and organic molecules found in the inner membrane of the mitochondria) , all of the NADH molecules are subsequently split into NAD+, H+, and electrons. These electrons are passed from one member of the transport chain to another in a series of reactions and the energy released in these reactions is then used to make ATP. Glycolysis and the Krebs cycle produce 2 ATP molecules each while the electron transport chain transfers energy into as many as 32 ATP molecules. [32]
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