Problem:
The ability of the human body to catabolize ethanol in alcoholic beverages depeneds on the presence of alcohol dehydrogenase enzymes in liver cells. Ethanol intoxication leads to
(i) a dramatic decrease in NAD+ levels in liver cells and (
ii) a significant reduction in aerobic utilization of glucose.
Required:
Question 1: Why are NAD+ levels reduced by ethanol intoxication?
Question 2: Why is aerobic utilization of glucose (TCA cycle activity) reduced by ethanol intoxication?
Explain thoroughly.