Overview of Electron Transport Chain and Oxidative Phosphorylation

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the electron transport chain and oxidative phosphorylation.

Electron Transport Chain (ETC)

A series of protein complexes that transfer electrons from NADH and FADH2 to oxygen, creating a proton gradient that is used for ATP synthesis.

Oxidative Phosphorylation (OP)

The process through which ATP is produced using the proton gradient generated by the electron transport chain.

Proton Gradient

A concentration gradient of protons (H+) across the inner mitochondrial membrane, which is used to power ATP synthesis.

NADH

A high-energy electron carrier generated during glycolysis and the citric acid cycle, used in the electron transport chain.

FADH2

Another high-energy electron carrier that contributes electrons to the electron transport chain, generated during the citric acid cycle.

Cofactors

Molecules that assist in biochemical reactions, such as NAD+ and FAD in the electron transport process.

ATP Synthase

A large membrane protein complex that synthesizes ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate as protons flow through it.

REDOX Reactions

Chemical reactions involving the transfer of electrons, central to the function of the electron transport chain.

Proton Motive Force

The potential energy stored in the proton gradient that drives ATP synthesis.

Citric Acid Cycle

A key metabolic pathway that produces energy through the oxidation of acetyl-CoA, generating NADH and FADH2.

Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+)

Coenzyme of most dehydrogenases in glycolysis, pyruvate dehydrogenation and krebs cycle

Flavin Adenine Dinucleotide (FAS)

Coenzyme of succinate dehydrogenases (complex 2/enzyme in citric acid cycle)

Mitochondrion

Double-membrane structure, made up of an outer membrane, inter membrane space, inner membrane, and matrix