FAD

Definition

FAD (Flavin Adenine Dinucleotide) is a redox-active coenzyme involved in several important metabolic reactions. It functions as an electron carrier in cellular respiration and other biochemical pathways.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. FAD is reduced to FADH2 during the Krebs cycle.
2. FADH2 donates electrons to the electron transport chain, contributing to ATP production.
3. Unlike NAD+, FAD is often covalently bound to enzymes it assists.
4. FAD is synthesized from riboflavin (vitamin B2).
5. In the Krebs cycle, FAD participates in the oxidation of succinate to fumarate.

Review Questions

• What role does FAD play in the electron transport chain?
• How is FAD different from NAD+ in terms of enzyme binding?
• During which step of the Krebs cycle is FAD reduced to FADH2?

Related terms

NAD+:

A coenzyme involved in redox reactions, serving as an electron carrier similar to FAD.

Krebs Cycle:

A series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to generate energy through the oxidation of acetate.

Electron Transport Chain:

A sequence of proteins within mitochondria that transfer electrons and produce ATP.