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Multiple Choice
NAD$^+$, NADP$^+$, and which of the following are cofactors that participate in the reactions of cellular respiration?
A
Glucose
B
Pyruvate
C
ATP
D
FAD
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of cofactors in cellular respiration: Cofactors are non-protein molecules that assist enzymes in catalyzing reactions. In cellular respiration, cofactors like NAD⁺, NADP⁺, and FAD are involved in redox reactions, helping to transfer electrons.
Review the function of FAD: FAD (flavin adenine dinucleotide) is a cofactor that participates in the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle) and the electron transport chain. It accepts electrons and hydrogen ions to form FADH₂, which is later used to generate ATP.
Eliminate incorrect options: Glucose is a substrate, not a cofactor. Pyruvate is an intermediate product of glycolysis and also not a cofactor. ATP is the energy currency of the cell, not a cofactor.
Confirm the correct answer: FAD is indeed a cofactor that participates in cellular respiration, specifically in the citric acid cycle and the electron transport chain.
Summarize the reasoning: The correct answer is FAD because it functions as a cofactor in redox reactions during cellular respiration, unlike glucose, pyruvate, or ATP, which have different roles in the process.