Question

How does NADH make ATP?

Answer 1

NADH, often known as coenzyme-1 is the body's top-ranking coenzyme, which facilitates a wide range of cellular processes. NADH is crucial for cellular growth and energy generation. It is the primary electron carrier in the power mechanism which occurs in the cells.

Complete answer:
NADH stands for Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Hydride, which is a naturally occurring biological molecule. To signify that this chemical is at its most physiologically active, the ‘H’ stands for high-energy hydrogen. As an electron transporter, NADH is crucial for cellular growth and energy production. NADH also acts as a powerful antioxidant.
NADH is a very potent form of vitamin B3, also known as niacin or niacinamide. A lack of NADH will result in an energy shortage at the cellular level, resulting in feelings of exhaustion. Cells can create more energy when they have more NADH accessible. NADH synthesis in our bodies diminishes with age, especially those involved in energy generation.
Another organic molecule and hydrotrope is Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), which powers numerous activities in living cells such as muscular contraction and nerve impulse propagation. Also known as the molecular currency of intracellular energy transmission, ATP is found in all kinds of life forms known to humankind.
NADH works as a crucial coenzyme in production of ATP. The entire process of production of ATP from NADH occurs in a procedure called cellular respiration. This activity occurs in three steps which are as follows:
1. Glycolysis: In this step, glucose enters the cell and this further leads to the cell going through a series of chemical reactions. In this step, two ATP and two NADH are created which are then transported to mitochondria.
2. Citric Acid Cycle: In this process, NADH is produced along with $FADH_2$, which carries an extra electron making NADH to formulate more energy per molecule.
3. Oxidative Phosphorylation: Both NADH and $FADH_2$ have reached the end of their development in this stage. The inner membrane of the mitochondria contains a variety of proteins and organic compounds through which electrons are continually transferred, resulting in the release of energy and the production of ATP. Chemiosmosis is the process through which ATP is produced.

Note:
In the body, a coenzyme is a chemical that boosts or is required for all enzymes to function properly. As a rule of thumb, coenzymes are considerably smaller molecules when compared to enzymes. Enzymes are huge biological molecules that accelerate biological processes and generate products in our bodies that we require for basic living, such as energy. Without coenzymes, most enzymes are rendered ineffective. If an enzyme isn't working because of a coenzyme, then it can't make full protein systems for the human body. Hence, an enzyme cannot function without a cofactor such as coenzyme. Therefore, NADH can be categorized as a coenzyme, not a hormone like DHEA or melatonin.