Electron transfer (ET)

Electron transfer is the physical process by which electrons move from one atom, molecule, or ion, to another, serving as the basis for redox reactions. In biological systems, electron transfer enables critical processes including cellular respiration, photosynthesis, and metabolic regulation, primarily via protein complexes such as the electron transport chain. In these systems, electrons flow through a series of protein complexes and cofactors (flavoproteins, cytochromes, iron–sulfur proteins) by inner-sphere or outer-sphere mechanisms, creating an electrochemical gradient harnessed for ATP synthesis. Disorders or inhibitors affecting electron transfer processes can lead to mitochondrial dysfunction, generation of reactive oxygen species, and disease states such as neurodegeneration or cardiovascular disorders

Other names

Electron transportETElectron transport reactionElectron transport chain (ETC)

Inhibition or activation of electron transport chain components (e.g., Complex I inhibitors block NADH electron donation)\nAntioxidants may neutralize reactive species generated by electron transfer malfunction\nModulation of redox enzymes (e.g., modulation of cytochrome function)