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Oxidative phosphorylation is the process by which cells produce ATP, the energy currency of the cell. This process occurs in the mitochondria and involves two main stages: the electron transport chain and chemiosmosis.
The electron transport chain is a complex series of proteins and other molecules that are embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane. These proteins work together to transfer electrons from NADH and FADH2 to oxygen, creating a proton gradient across the membrane. This gradient is then used to power ATP synthesis through chemiosmosis.
The regulation of oxidative phosphorylation is critical for maintaining normal cellular function. When this regulation breaks down, cells can experience a variety of problems, including decreased energy production and increased oxidative stress.
