NADH/FADH2 Oxidation Leads to ATP Production

The Biochemistry of Movement > 9.7.9. ATP used in muscle contraction is continually regenerated > NADH/FADH2 Oxidation Leads to ATP Production >

Describe the NADH/FADH2 oxidation as part of an oxidation-reduction process leading to ATP production

  • NADH electrons are at a high energy level, making them able to easily donate electrons in oxidation/reduction reactions. They transfer electrons to complex I in the ETC. This recycles it back into NAD+.
  • FADH2 is able to donate electrons as well; however, these electrons are at a lower energy level, so it is not able to transfer electrons directly to complex I. Instead, it donates electrons through complex II.
  • Electrons donated from both NADH and FADH2 aid the pumping of hydrogen ions (H+) from the matrix to the inter-membrane space. This leads to the production of ATP.