Cytochrome c oxidase generates a proton motive force by two separate mechanisms. The first mechanism is similar to that postulated by Peter Mitchell, and is based on electrons and protons used to generate water coming from opposite sides of the membrane. The second mechanism was not initially anticipated, but is now firmly established as a proton pump. A brief review of the current state of our understanding of the proton pump of cytochrome oxidase is presented. We have come a long way since the initial observation of the pump by Mårten Wikström in 1977, but a number of essential questions remain to be answered.

• PMID: 18975062
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Reference Type

Journal Article | Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural | Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't | Review

Authors

Brzezinski P, Gennis RB

Primary Lit For

Mitochondrial respiratory chain complex IV, COX5A variant | Mitochondrial respiratory chain complex IV, COX5B variant

Additional Lit For

Review For