What is the ultimate function of NADH in cellular respiration?

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In the context of cellular respiration, the ultimate function of NADH is to carry electrons to the electron transport chain. During the process of glycolysis and the citric acid cycle, NAD+ is reduced to NADH, capturing high-energy electrons from glucose and other metabolites. This collection of electrons is crucial for the production of ATP, as NADH serves as an electron donor when it reaches the electron transport chain located in the inner mitochondrial membrane.

Once NADH donates its electrons to this chain, it helps drive a series of redox reactions that ultimately lead to the generation of ATP through oxidative phosphorylation. The flow of electrons through the chain powers the pumping of protons across the membrane, creating a gradient that ATP synthase uses to produce ATP. This is a fundamental step in the energy transformation process within cells, making the role of NADH integral to efficient ATP production.

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