flavinadeninidinukleotidi

Flavin adenine dinucleotide, often abbreviated as FAD, is a crucial coenzyme found in all living organisms. It is derived from riboflavin (vitamin B2) and is composed of two main parts: an adenine nucleotide and a flavin mononucleotide (FMN) moiety. The flavin group is the active part of FAD, responsible for its redox properties.

FAD plays a vital role in a wide array of metabolic processes, primarily in energy production. It acts as an electron acceptor in many oxidation-reduction reactions, particularly in the citric acid cycle and fatty acid beta-oxidation. In these pathways, FAD is reduced to FADH2 (flavin adenine dinucleotide, reduced form), which then carries electrons to the electron transport chain, ultimately contributing to ATP synthesis.

Beyond energy metabolism, FAD is also a component of various enzymes involved in DNA repair, neurotransmitter synthesis, and the metabolism of vitamins. Its ability to shuttle electrons makes it indispensable for numerous biological functions. The prosthetic group of flavoproteins, FAD is tightly bound to these enzymes, facilitating their catalytic activity. The regeneration of FAD from FADH2 is a continuous process essential for maintaining cellular metabolic balance.