Electron carrier

Electron Carrier

Electron carrier (/ɪˈlɛktrɒn ˈkærɪər/), also known as an electron transport molecule, is a molecule that transports electrons during cellular respiration and photosynthesis, two fundamental processes in biology. The term originates from the Greek words 'electron' meaning amber, from which the concept of electricity was derived, and 'carrier' meaning one that carries or transports.

Function

Electron carriers are integral to the process of oxidative phosphorylation, where they play a crucial role in the transfer of electrons from one molecule to another. This transfer of electrons, also known as an electron transport chain, is a series of chemical reactions that generates energy through the sequential transfer of electrons.

Types

There are several types of electron carriers, including NAD+, NADP+, FAD, and cytochromes. These carriers are often referred to as coenzymes and they play a vital role in energy production within cells.

NAD+

NAD+ (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in all living cells. It is a key player in energy metabolism by accepting and donating electrons.

NADP+

NADP+ (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate) is a coenzyme used in anabolic reactions, such as lipid and nucleic acid synthesis, which require NADPH as a reducing agent.

FAD

FAD (Flavin adenine dinucleotide) is another coenzyme that is central to metabolism. FAD can exist in two different forms, which is the oxidized quinone form, and the reduced hydroquinone form, FADH2.

Cytochromes

Cytochromes are, in essence, electron or hydrogen carriers that are part of many metabolic pathways, including the electron transport chain of cellular respiration.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Electron carrier
Wikipedia's article - Electron carrier

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Electron carrier