Ubiquinone is also known as Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10. It is used by some people to improve heart function and treat heart failure. Others may use it to help lower high blood pressure. Some people believe CoQ10 will help with nerve problems in diseases like diabetes or migraines.

Abstract. The cytochrome bc1 complex (ubiquinol: cytochrome c oxidoreductase) is an energy-transducing, electron-transfer enzyme located in the inner mitochondrial membrane of oxygen-utilizing eukaryotic cells, where it participates in cell respiration.

Cytochrome c oxidase, a membrane-bound enzyme in the respiratory chain of aerobic organisms, reduces oxygen to water. This process, which takes place at the binuclear metal center constituted by a heme a3 and a Cu ion, runs via several intermediate states with lifetimes in the micro- and millisecond range.

How do the roles of ubiquinone and cytochrome c differ from the other components of the electron transport chain? Ubiquinone and cytochrome c are small, mobile, electron carriers, whereas the other components of the electron transport chain are large complexes anchored in the inner mitochondrial membrane.

Function. Cytochrome c is a component of the electron transport chain in mitochondria. The heme group of cytochrome c accepts electrons from the bc1 complex and transfers electrons to the complex IV. Upon release of cytochrome c to the cytoplasm, the protein binds apoptotic protease activating factor-1 (Apaf-1).

How do the roles of ubiquinone and cytochrome c differ from the other components of the electron transport chain? Q and cytochrome c are transport molecules. Their function does not result directly in ATP synthesis in that they are not pumps.

Cyanide poisons the mitochondrial electron transport chain within cells and renders the body unable to derive energy (adenosine triphosphate—ATP) from oxygen. Specifically, it binds to the a3 portion (complex IV) of cytochrome oxidase and prevents cells from using oxygen, causing rapid death.