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Multiple Choice
Cytochromes can best be described as:
A
structural proteins that provide support to cellular membranes
B
enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of peptide bonds
C
heme-containing proteins that function as electron carriers in the electron transport chain
D
storage proteins that reserve amino acids for later use
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of cytochromes in cellular processes. Cytochromes are proteins that contain a heme group, which is a prosthetic group with an iron atom capable of undergoing oxidation and reduction. This makes them essential for electron transfer reactions.
Recall the function of the electron transport chain (ETC). The ETC is a series of protein complexes and molecules in the inner mitochondrial membrane that transfer electrons from electron donors (like NADH and FADH2) to oxygen, ultimately producing ATP.
Recognize that cytochromes are integral to the ETC. They act as electron carriers, transferring electrons between complexes in the chain. The heme group in cytochromes alternates between reduced (Fe²⁺) and oxidized (Fe³⁺) states during this process.
Eliminate incorrect options by matching the description of cytochromes to their function. For example, cytochromes are not structural proteins, enzymes for peptide bond hydrolysis, or storage proteins. Instead, they are heme-containing proteins involved in electron transport.
Conclude that the correct description of cytochromes is: 'heme-containing proteins that function as electron carriers in the electron transport chain.' This matches their biochemical role in cellular respiration.