The proton/electron coupling ratio at heme a and Cu(sub)A in bovine heart cytochrome c oxidase

Research elucidates the mechanism of proton pump of the cytochrome c oxidase with the demonstration of a cooperative proton-electron coupling at heme a/Cu(sub)A complex. Proton release occurs in the external aqueous phase during oxidation of heme a and copper, whereas during oxidase's rereduction, protons are derived from the inner space.