How many NAD⁺ are reduced in the b-oxidation of stearoyl-CoA to form 9 molecules of acetyl-CoA?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the β-oxidation of stearoyl-CoA, which is a saturated fatty acid with 18 carbons, the process yields 9 molecules of acetyl-CoA. However, for each cleavage cycle, 1 molecule of NAD⁺ is reduced (except for the last cycle, as it directly yields 2 acetyl-CoA). Since 8 cycles are needed to produce 9 acetyl-CoA from stearoyl-CoA, 8 NAD⁺ are reduced.

How Many NAD⁺ Are Reduced in the B-Oxidation of Stearoyl-CoA