Energy Carriers: ATP, NADPH & NADH
ATP (Adenosine 5'-Triphosphate)
ATP, also known as adenosine 5'-triphosphate, is the most common energy carrier found within the cell. ATP, although it carries a smalled energy load, is responsible for facilitating many different chemical reactions throughout the body. ATP is produced when sugars and fats are broken down, providing the body with energy.
NADPH (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate) & NADH (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide)
NADPH, also known as nicotinamide dinucleotide phosphate, and NADH are two types of energy carriers, very closely related to one another. These energy carriers store and deliver energy in the form of electrons and hydrogen atoms. NADPH is involved in the chemical reactions that help to build up macromolecules, also known as anabolism. NADH, on the other hand is involved in the chemical reactions that break down macromolecules, also known as catabolism.
Reduction
When a molecule accepts electrons of hydrogen atoms, this is known as a reduction. The reductions that occur within NADPH and NADH are also referred to as oxidation.
References
Cain, Michael L., Carol Kaesuk Yoon, and Anu Cundy. Discover biology . 4th ed. New York: W.W. Norton & Co., 2009. Print.
Published by Samantha Van Vleet - Featured Contributor in Health & Wellness and Lifestyle
Samantha Van Vleet is a birth doula, postpartum doula, childbirth educator and third year pre-medical student. She, her husband and her three children reside in southcentral Alaska. She is actively involved... View profile
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