As glucose is oxidized, NAD+ is...

As glucose undergoes oxidation during cellular respiration, NAD+ serves as a crucial electron carrier. When NAD+ accepts two electrons and one proton (H+), it is reduced to NADH. This conversion is a key step in the metabolic pathways, particularly during glycolysis and the citric acid cycle, where NAD+ captures high-energy electrons released during the breakdown of glucose. The formation of NADH from NAD+ helps to shuttle these electrons into the electron transport chain, where they ultimately contribute to the generation of ATP through oxidative phosphorylation.

The other choices do not accurately describe the role of NAD+ in this process. NADH is not simply released; it is the product of the reduction of NAD+. NAD+ is not converted into ATP directly; instead, it plays a role in the transfer of electrons that leads to ATP production later in the process. Additionally, the term "protected from oxidation" does not apply here, as NAD+ itself is involved in oxidation-reduction reactions rather than being shielded from them.