Oxidative phosphorylation

Definition

Oxidative phosphorylation is a metabolic process by which cells generate ATP, the primary energy currency, through the transfer of electrons from nutrient molecules to molecular oxygen in mitochondria. This process involves a chain of protein complexes and electron carriers within the inner mitochondrial membrane, culminating in the production of water and ATP.

Related terms

Electron Transport Chain:

A series of complexes that transfer electrons from electron donors to electron acceptors via redox reactions, coupled with the transfer of protons across a membrane.

ATP Synthase:

An enzyme that creates ATP by adding a phosphate group to ADP as protons flow back into the mitochondrial matrix through it.

Mitochondrial Matrix: The innermost compartment of the mitochondrion, surrounded by the inner mitochondrial membrane, where parts of metabolism including parts of oxidative phosphorylation occur