Notes from NEET topper
The efficiency of the ETC and its role in energy production make it vital for many metabolic processes. Disruptions in the electron transport chain can lead to a variety of cellular and physiological dysfunctions.
| Complex | Name | Function | Electron Donors | Electron Acceptors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I | NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase | Transfers electrons from NADH to ubiquinone (coenzyme Q) | NADH | Ubiquinone (Q) |
| II | Succinate:ubiquinone oxidoreductase (Succinate dehydrogenase) | Transfers electrons from succinate to ubiquinone | Succinate | Ubiquinone (Q) |
| III | Ubiquinol:cytochrome c oxidoreductase | Transfers electrons from ubiquinol to cytochrome c | Ubiquinol (QH2) | Cytochrome c |
| IV | Cytochrome c oxidase | Transfers electrons from cytochrome c to oxygen, reducing it to water | Cytochrome c | Oxygen (O2) |
Each of these complexes has multiple subunits and cofactors involved in electron transfer and proton translocation. The flow of electrons through these complexes is coupled with the pumping of protons across the mitochondrial membrane, creating a proton gradient that drives ATP synthesis.
