Cyanide, oligomycin, and 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP) are inhibitors of mitochondrial aerobic phosphorylation. Which statement CORRECTLY describes the mode of action of the three inhibitors? A) Cyanide and 2,4-dinitrophenol inhibit the respiratory chain, and oligomycin inhibits the synthesis of ATP. B) Cyanide inhibits the respiratory chain, whereas oligomycin and 2,4-dinitrophenol inhibit the synthesis of ATP. C) Cyanide, oligomycin, and 2,4-dinitrophenol compete with O₂ for cytochrome oxidase (Complex IV). D) Oligomycin and cyanide inhibit synthesis of ATP; 2,4-dinitrophenol inhibits the respiratory chain. E) Oligomycin inhibits the respiratory chain, whereas cyanide and 2,4-dinitrophenol prevent the synthesis of ATP.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cyanide inhibits the respiratory chain by binding to and preventing cytochrome c oxidase from accepting electrons, whereas oligomycin and 2,4-dinitrophenol inhibit ATP synthesis by blocking the H+ movement across the inner mitochondrial membrane.

Cyanide, Oligomycin, and 2,4-Dinitrophenol (DNP) Are Inhibitors of Mitochondrial Aerobic