Flavin adenine dinucleotide

Definition

Flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) is a redox-active coenzyme associated with various proteins. It plays a crucial role in metabolism by acting as an electron carrier in the electron transport chain.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. FAD is vital for the function of certain enzymes, including succinate dehydrogenase in the citric acid cycle.
2. It can exist in two states: oxidized (FAD) and reduced (FADH2).
3. During cellular respiration, FADH2 donates electrons to the electron transport chain, contributing to ATP production.
4. Conversion of FAD to FADH2 involves the acceptance of two electrons and two protons.
5. FAD is synthesized from riboflavin (vitamin B2), which must be obtained from dietary sources.

Review Questions

• What role does FAD play in the citric acid cycle?
• How does FADH2 contribute to ATP production?
• What vitamin is essential for the synthesis of FAD?

Related terms

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+): A coenzyme that functions similarly to FAD but accepts only one hydrogen atom.

Citric Acid Cycle: A central metabolic pathway that generates high-energy electron carriers like NADH and FADH2.

Electron Transport Chain: A series of protein complexes that transfer electrons from electron donors to electron acceptors via redox reactions.