FADH2molekyyleistä

FADH2, also known as flavin adenine dinucleotide (reduced), is a crucial molecule in cellular respiration and metabolism. It is a coenzyme that plays a vital role in transferring high-energy electrons during metabolic processes. FADH2 is derived from the vitamin riboflavin (vitamin B2) and acts as an electron carrier, particularly in the citric acid cycle and fatty acid oxidation.

During cellular respiration, FADH2 is generated when FAD (flavin adenine dinucleotide) accepts two electrons and two protons from substrate molecules, such as succinate in the citric acid cycle. This reduction process converts FAD into its reduced form, FADH2. The energy stored in the electrons carried by FADH2 is then transferred to the electron transport chain.

In the electron transport chain, FADH2 donates its electrons to complex II. This donation initiates a series of redox reactions that ultimately lead to the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of the cell. The ATP generated through this process is essential for powering various cellular activities. FADH2 is therefore indispensable for efficient energy production in aerobic organisms.