NADHNADPHdependent

NADHNADPHdependent refers to a class of enzymes that utilize nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) as cofactors for their catalytic activity. These cofactors are essential electron carriers involved in a vast array of metabolic pathways within living organisms. Enzymes classified as NADHNADPHdependent are typically oxidoreductases, meaning they catalyze redox reactions. They facilitate the transfer of electrons from a substrate to either NAD+ or NADP+, or vice versa, depending on whether the enzyme is acting as an oxidoreductase in a catabolic or anabolic direction.

NADH is predominantly involved in catabolic processes, such as cellular respiration, where it acts as a reducing agent to generate ATP. Conversely, NADPH is primarily used in anabolic pathways, like fatty acid and nucleotide synthesis, where it serves as a source of reducing power. Many enzymes can utilize either NADH or NADPH, though some show a preference for one over the other. The activity of these enzymes is crucial for maintaining cellular redox homeostasis and for the synthesis of essential biomolecules. Understanding the NADHNADPHdependent nature of these enzymes is fundamental to comprehending cellular metabolism and the regulation of biochemical processes.