Master Oxidative Phosphorylation

Which arm of the pore in oxidative phosphorylation faces towards the matrix and takes up protons?

What happens to the affinity of the arm facing towards the intermembrane space when the electron passes through the complex in oxidative phosphorylation?

What is the end result of the consumption of O2 in oxidative phosphorylation?

What happens to the arm facing towards the middle of the pore in oxidative phosphorylation?

What happens when the electron leaves in oxidative phosphorylation?

Pore Structure in Oxidative Phosphorylation

The arm of the pore that faces the mitochondrial matrix is responsible for taking up protons during oxidative phosphorylation.
This arm facilitates proton entry, playing a critical role in the proton gradient necessary for ATP synthesis.

Electron Passage and Affinity Changes

When an electron passes through the complex, the affinity of the arm facing the intermembrane space decreases.
This reduction in affinity is crucial for driving protons across the membrane, contributing to the electrochemical gradient.

O2 Consumption and End Result

The utilization of O2 in oxidative phosphorylation results in the production of water (H2O).
This reaction is essential as it serves as the final electron acceptor, completing the electron transport chain process.

Middle Pore Functionality

The arm facing toward the center of the pore continues to facilitate the transport of protons.
It acts as a channel through which protons are effectively released into the intermembrane space.

Consequences of Electron Departure

When the electron exits the complex, it leads to a conformation change in the protein structure.
This change further promotes proton pumping into the intermembrane space, maintaining the proton gradient that drives ATP synthase.

Test your knowledge of oxidative phosphorylation with this quiz! Learn about the different arms of the pore and their functions in proton uptake, as well as the role of electron transport in this process. Put your understanding of this important cellular process to the test and ace your next biology exam.