The mitochondrial respiratory chain

Enzymes. 2023:54:15-36. doi: 10.1016/bs.enz.2023.05.001. Epub 2023 May 26.

Abstract

We present a brief review of the mitochondrial respiratory chain with emphasis on complexes I, III and IV, which contribute to the generation of protonmotive force across the inner mitochondrial membrane, and drive the synthesis of ATP by the process called oxidative phosphorylation. The basic structural and functional details of these complexes are discussed. In addition, we briefly review the information on the so-called supercomplexes, aggregates of complexes I-IV, and summarize basic physiological aspects of cell respiration.

Keywords: Bioenergetics; Cell respiration; Cytochromes; Electron transfer; Oxidative phosphorylation; Oxygen consumption; Proton pumping; Proton transfer; Protonmotive force; Supercomplexes.

MeSH terms

  • Cell Respiration* / physiology
  • Electron Transport
  • Mitochondrial Membranes*
  • Oxidative Phosphorylation