Learning Objectives
Associate specific carrier molecules with the functional groups they transport. Identify the vitamin precursors for major activated carriers. Distinguish between different 1-carbon unit carriers (SAM vs. THF).
1. Table of Activated Carriers
Activated carriers are essential for transferring high-energy electrons or chemical groups between different metabolic pathways.
| Carrier Molecule | Group Carried (Activated Form) |
|---|---|
| ATP | Phosphoryl groups |
| NADH, NADPH, FADH2 | Electrons |
| CoA, Lipoamide | Acyl groups |
| Biotin (B7) | CO2 (Carbon dioxide) |
| Tetrahydrofolates (THF) | 1-carbon units |
| S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) | CH3 (Methyl groups) |
| TPP (B1) | Aldehydes |
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2. Key Metabolic Intersections
These carriers are the bridge between catabolism and anabolism. For example, NADH is primarily used for ATP generation in the mitochondria, while NADPH is used for reductive biosynthesis (fatty acids, steroids) and the respiratory burst in neutrophils.
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Mnemonic
TPP carries Two-carbon aldehydes. SAM the Methyl man (Methyl groups). Biotin Binds CO2.
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