Mitochondria (Part 1)

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts related to mitochondria, their structure, function, and the electron transport chain.

Electron Transport Chain (ETC)

A series of protein complexes that transfer high energy electrons to produce ATP and create a proton gradient.

Proton Gradient

An electrochemical gradient generated by the pumping of protons (H+) across a membrane, crucial for ATP synthesis.

Cristae

Inward folds of the inner mitochondrial membrane that increase surface area for electron transport complexes.

Citric Acid Cycle

A series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to generate energy through the oxidation of acetyl-CoA.

NADH

An electron carrier that feeds high energy electrons into the electron transport chain.

Complex I

The first protein complex in the electron transport chain that accepts electrons from NADH and pumps H+ into the crista space.

Cardiolipin

A lipid that provides an environment for electron transport chain proteins and is abundant in the mitochondrial inner membrane.

Proton-Motive Force

The force that drives H+ ions back into the mitochondrial matrix, generating ATP via ATP synthase.

Aerobic Respiration

A form of cellular respiration that requires oxygen to efficiently extract energy from food molecules.

Redox Reactions

Chemical reactions involving the transfer of electrons, essential for the function of the electron transport chain.

Final Electron Acceptor

Oxygen, which accepts electrons at the end of the electron transport chain, forming water.

Na+/H+ Exchange Function

A role of Complex I in mitochondrial function that also contributes to the membrane potential.