What is the function of NAD + / NADH in cellular respiration? Carries the electrons harvested from glucose to the electron transport chain Catalyzes the reactions in glycolysis and Krebs Cycle. such as the formation of pyruvate Is a cofactor in the decarboxylation (removing a CO 2 molecule) of glucose Provides the activation energy necessary to set the process of glycolysis in motion Becomes oxidized during glycolysis, allowing the reduction of glucose..