Mitochondrial Respiratory Chain (Fungal) (ETC (Fungal))

The mitochondrial respiratory chain in fungi is a series of protein complexes and mobile electron carriers embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Its primary function is to transfer electrons from metabolic substrates to oxygen, generating a proton gradient that drives ATP synthesis through oxidative phosphorylation. This process is central to fungal energy metabolism, growth, stress response, and pathogenicity. Because it is indispensable for energy production and survival under stress, the fungal mitochondrial respiratory chain—especially Complex III—is a validated target for antifungal drugs used both clinically (*e.g.*, atovaquone) and agriculturally (*e.g.*, azoxystrobin). However, high conservation between human/fungal mitochondria complicates selective targeting; thus research focuses on identifying unique fungal components or assembly factors as potential drug targets.

Other names

Fungal Electron Transport ChainFungal Oxidative Phosphorylation SystemMitochondrial Respiratory Complexes (Fungal)Complex I (Fungal)Complex II (Fungal)Complex III (Fungal)Complex IV (Fungal)Complex V (Fungal)

Inhibition of electron transport, disruption of proton gradient, inhibition of ATP synthesis