Question

what would happen if a molecule could inhibit the enzyme of Cytochrome c oxidase?

Answer 1

Cytochrome c oxidase (complex IV) is a component of the electron transport chain, which functions to transport electron to oxygen, the terminal electron acceptor and also pumps protons out of the matrix. The pumping of protons is important for building up the electrochemical gradient, which is necessary for ATP synthesis. Inhibition of cytochrome c oxidase by molecules such as cyanide, prevents electronselectrons transport to oxygen and the proton pumping is also disturbed. Thus, there will be no establishment of electrochemical gradient, as a result of which, ATP synthesis will be stopped. This will result in cell death.