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Multiple Choice
How does cyanide poisoning result in the decrease of ATP production?
A
Cyanide inhibits cytochrome c oxidase in the electron transport chain, preventing ATP synthesis.
B
Cyanide directly binds to ATP synthase, blocking ATP production.
C
Cyanide enhances glycolysis, which reduces the need for ATP production in mitochondria.
D
Cyanide increases the permeability of the mitochondrial membrane, leading to ATP leakage.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of the electron transport chain (ETC) in ATP production: The ETC is a series of protein complexes located in the inner mitochondrial membrane that transfer electrons from electron donors to electron acceptors via redox reactions. This process creates a proton gradient across the membrane, which is used by ATP synthase to produce ATP.
Identify the function of cytochrome c oxidase: Cytochrome c oxidase is the last enzyme in the electron transport chain. It facilitates the transfer of electrons to oxygen, the final electron acceptor, and helps maintain the proton gradient necessary for ATP synthesis.
Examine how cyanide affects cytochrome c oxidase: Cyanide is a potent inhibitor of cytochrome c oxidase. By binding to the heme group of this enzyme, cyanide prevents the transfer of electrons to oxygen, effectively halting the electron transport chain.
Analyze the impact on ATP production: With the electron transport chain inhibited, the proton gradient cannot be maintained. As a result, ATP synthase cannot function properly, leading to a significant decrease in ATP production.
Consider the incorrect options: Cyanide does not directly bind to ATP synthase, nor does it enhance glycolysis or increase mitochondrial membrane permeability. Its primary action is the inhibition of cytochrome c oxidase, which disrupts the electron transport chain and ATP synthesis.