Electron transport system (ETS)

Definition

The electron transport system (ETS) is a series of protein complexes located in the inner mitochondrial membrane that transfer electrons through redox reactions. This process helps generate a proton gradient that drives ATP synthesis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The ETS is the final stage of cellular respiration and occurs in the inner mitochondrial membrane.
2. Electrons are transferred from NADH and FADH2 to oxygen, the final electron acceptor, forming water.
3. The energy released during electron transfer is used to pump protons across the mitochondrial membrane, creating an electrochemical gradient.
4. ATP synthase utilizes this proton gradient to produce ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate.
5. Inhibitors such as cyanide can block electron transport, halting ATP production.

Review Questions

Related terms

NADH:

A coenzyme that transfers electrons to the ETS after being produced in glycolysis and the Krebs cycle.

ATP Synthase:

An enzyme that produces ATP using energy derived from the proton gradient created by the ETS.

Oxidative Phosphorylation:

The process of generating ATP through the utilization of energy released by electrons moving through the ETS.