Vitamin coenzymes — the vitamin niacin (vitamin B3) is a constituent of which canonical redox coenzyme?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: NAD+

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Niacin (as nicotinamide) forms the vitamin-derived core of the widely used redox cofactors NAD+ and NADP+. Recognizing this linkage is fundamental in metabolism and nutrition.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • NAD+ = nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide.
  • Nicotinamide ring accepts hydride (H−) to form NADH.
  • Pyridoxal phosphate is derived from vitamin B6, not niacin.
  • Ferredoxin is an iron–sulfur protein, not a nucleotide coenzyme.


Concept / Approach:
Map vitamin to coenzyme: niacin → nicotinamide moiety in NAD+/NADP+.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify niacin’s biochemical role as nicotinamide.Recall composition of NAD+: adenine nucleotide + nicotinamide nucleotide.Eliminate B6-derived PLP and protein ferredoxin.Select “NAD+.”


Verification / Alternative check:
Biochemistry references consistently attribute dehydrogenase reactions to NAD+/NADP+ using the nicotinamide ring.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
PLP derives from B6; ferredoxin is unrelated; “pyrophosphate” is not a coenzyme name; FAD derives from riboflavin (B2).



Common Pitfalls:
Confusing niacin (B3) with riboflavin (B2) due to both participating in redox chemistry.



Final Answer:
NAD+.

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