Question

Refer to the Biochemistry in Focus section of your text for this chapter to answer this question. A mutation in Complex I decreases the efficiency of the electron transport chain. However, not all components of the electron transport chain are affected by this mutation. Which component of the electron transport chain will remain unaffected by a mutation in Complex I

Answer 1

Complex II

Step-by-step explanation:

The electron transport chain refers to a group of electron transporters embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane that transfer electrons from electron donors to electron acceptors which undergo redox (reduction and oxidation) reactions. The energy released during the transfer of electrons is coupled to the transfer of protons (H+) from the mitochondrial matrix into the intermembrane space, generating an electrochemical gradient that is then used to synthesize ATP. Complex I and Complex II are membrane-bound complexes that act as mitochondrial redox carriers. Complex I is a proton pump that uses energy from the electron transfer chain to pump protons, while Complex II sends H+ onto Complex III in the form of the reduced ubiquinol. Complex I receives electrons from NADH and transfers them to ubiquinone, while Complex II directly receives the redox cofactor FADH2 that does not pass through Complex I.