What is the primary product of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase?

Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) is an enzyme that catalyzes a crucial step in the glycolytic pathway. During this reaction, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate is oxidized. One of the key aspects of this process is the reduction of NAD+ to NADH.

The primary product of the reaction catalyzed by GAPDH is indeed NADH. This is significant because NADH is an important electron carrier that plays a crucial role in cellular respiration. The reduction of NAD+ to NADH allows the cell to store energy that can later be used in processes such as oxidative phosphorylation, where NADH is oxidized back to NAD+ in the presence of oxygen, facilitating the production of ATP.

In glycolysis, this step is essential for energy production, as it reflects the cell's ability to convert chemical energy stored in glucose into a form that can be utilized during the later stages of respiration. By generating NADH, GAPDH contributes to the overall efficiency and energy yield of the glycolytic pathway.