Oxidative Phosphorylation

Definition

Oxidative phosphorylation is a process in cells that produces energy by combining electrons with oxygen to make water, playing a crucial role in generating ATP, the energy currency of the cell.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Oxidative phosphorylation is a metabolic pathway occurring in the mitochondria where electrons are transferred from electron donors to oxygen in a series of redox reactions. This process is coupled with the phosphorylation of ADP to ATP by chemiosmosis, utilizing the energy released from these electron transfers.

Benefits

• Supports ATP production, providing energy for cellular functions
• Helps maintain metabolic balance in cells
• Essential for muscle contraction and nerve impulse propagation

Examples

• Occurs in the inner mitochondrial membrane of all aerobic organisms
• A key component of cellular respiration

Additional Information

• importance: Oxidative phosphorylation is critical for energy production, affecting nearly all physiological processes.

Related Terms

• Electron Transport Chain
• Chemiosmosis
• ATP Synthase
• Cellular Respiration

References

• Oxidative Phosphorylation: Enzymology and Biological Significance
• The Mitochondrial Electron Transport Chain