NADH oxidation

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

A metabolic process that results in the oxidation of reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, NADH, to the oxidized form, NAD+. [GOC:ai]

NADH oxidation is a fundamental process in cellular respiration, where the reduced form of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) is oxidized to NAD+, releasing electrons that fuel the electron transport chain. This process occurs within the mitochondria, specifically in the inner mitochondrial membrane. The oxidation of NADH is catalyzed by the enzyme NADH dehydrogenase, also known as Complex I of the electron transport chain. This complex acts as a proton pump, translocating protons from the mitochondrial matrix to the intermembrane space, creating a proton gradient. The electrons from NADH are passed along a series of electron carriers within Complex I, including flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and iron-sulfur clusters. The final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain is molecular oxygen (O2), which is reduced to water (H2O). The energy released during electron transfer is used to pump protons across the mitochondrial membrane, generating the proton gradient that drives ATP synthesis via ATP synthase. NADH oxidation is tightly coupled to the reduction of oxygen, ensuring that the electron transport chain remains functional. This process is essential for energy production in all aerobic organisms, providing the majority of ATP required for cellular functions. The efficiency of NADH oxidation is crucial for cellular metabolism, as it directly influences the production of ATP, the primary energy currency of cells.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (14)