NADPH

Definition

NADPH (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate) is a coenzyme that plays a crucial role in anabolic reactions and photosynthesis. It acts as a reducing agent, donating electrons and hydrogen to various biochemical reactions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. NADPH is produced in the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis.
2. It provides the necessary reducing power for the Calvin cycle in photosynthesis.
3. NADPH is also involved in various biosynthetic pathways, including fatty acid and nucleotide synthesis.
4. The enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase helps produce NADPH in the pentose phosphate pathway.
5. NADPH has a pivotal role in protecting cells against oxidative stress by regenerating glutathione.

Review Questions

• What role does NADPH play in the Calvin cycle?
• How is NADPH generated during photosynthesis?
• In which biosynthetic pathways is NADPH involved?

Related terms

ATP:

Adenosine Triphosphate, an energy carrier molecule used in various cellular processes.

Calvin Cycle:

A set of chemical reactions that take place in chloroplasts during photosynthesis, utilizing ATP and NADPH.

Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase: An enzyme that catalyzes the first step of the pentose phosphate pathway, leading to the production of NADPH.