Mitochondrial Oxidative Phosphorylation System (OXPHOS)

The mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) system comprises five multi-subunit enzyme complexes (Complexes I–V) embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane, along with two mobile electron carriers. This system is central to cellular energy production, generating ATP via electron transport and chemiosmosis. Defects in any component can lead to severe metabolic diseases. Many drugs and poisons target these enzymes directly. Reactive oxygen species produced as side products contribute both physiologically—as signaling molecules—and pathologically—to aging/disease processes if not properly controlled.

Other names

Electron Transport ChainRespiratory ChainMitochondrial Respiratory ChainComplex I-VNADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductaseSuccinate dehydrogenaseCytochrome bc1 complexCytochrome c oxidaseATP synthase

Inhibition of electron transport, uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation, or direct inhibition of ATP synthase.