Dehydrogenases are a type of enzyme that catalysis the processes of oxidation and reduction in biological systems. They are essential in many metabolic pathways because they facilitate the movement of hydrogen atoms (or electrons) from one molecule to another.
Dehydrogenases are involved in energy production, biosynthesis, and hazardous chemical removal in living organisms. They help in cellular respiration by converting reduced coenzymes like NADH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) and FADH2 (flavin adenine dinucleotide) into their oxidized forms (NAD+ and FAD). This process produces energy-rich molecules like ATP, which cells use for energy.
These enzymes also aid in the breakdown of substances such as carbs, lipids, and amino acids. Dehydrogenases help to break down these compounds and contribute to the creation of other essential chemicals within the cell.
Dehydrogenases also play an important part in detoxification by assisting in the removal of toxic chemicals from the body. They catalyze the oxidation of hazardous chemicals, making them more water soluble and excretable.
Dehydrogenases are substrate selective, and several types of dehydrogenases exist depending on the molecule on which they operate. Alcohol dehydrogenase, for example, operates on alcohols, whereas lactate dehydrogenase catalyzes the conversion of lactate to pyruvate.
Dehydrogenases are a class of enzymes that catalyze the transfer of hydrogen ions (protons) from one molecule to another in metabolism. This process is known as the oxidation-reduction (redox) reaction and is required for nutrient breakdown to produce energy. Dehydrogenases are classified according to the substrates they use and the cofactors they use to catalyze reactions. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), which is found in many tissues including muscle, liver, and heart, is one of the most well-known dehydrogenases. In the presence of the coenzyme NAD+, LDH catalyzes the conversion of lactate to pyruvate. This reaction is necessary for the breakdown of glucose and other sugars for energy production. Alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) is another important dehydrogenase that is responsible for the breakdown of ethanol in the liver. In the presence of the coenzyme NAD+, ADH catalyzes the oxidation of ethanol to acetaldehyde. This reaction is the first step in the breakdown of alcohol and produces toxic acetaldehyde, which can cause hangovers and other health problems.