Cytochrome c
Cytochrome c is a small heme protein found loosely associated with the inner membrane of the mitochondrion. It belongs to the cytochrome c family of proteins and plays a major role in cell apoptosis and the electron transport chain.
Structure[edit | edit source]
Cytochrome c has a primary structure consisting of a chain of about 100 amino acids. Many amino acids in cytochrome c are post-translationally modified, in a process called isomerization. The protein has a secondary structure which folds into a compact tertiary structure, due to the heme group which is attached to the protein.
Function[edit | edit source]
Cytochrome c plays a key role in the electron transport chain, in the third stage of cellular respiration. It accepts electrons from the bc1 complex and transfers them to the cytochrome c oxidase complex. In addition, cytochrome c is also involved in initiation of apoptosis. Upon release of cytochrome c to the cytoplasm, the protein binds Apaf-1 and ATP, which then bind procaspase-9 to create a protein complex known as an apoptosome.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
Alterations in the structure or function of cytochrome c can lead to a variety of diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. For example, mutations in cytochrome c can disrupt the function of the electron transport chain, leading to a buildup of reactive oxygen species and cell damage.
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
Cytochrome c Resources | ||
---|---|---|
|
|
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD