Oxidative phosphorylation is the process in which ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is produced in the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells via electron transport.

Inputs

The energy for oxidative phosphorylation is harnessed from the transfer of electrons between different molecules. The source of electrons is either from the breakdown of glucose in glycolysis, or fatty acids in fatty acid oxidation. The electrons are held in molecules known as electron carriers (NADH and FADH2) which are produced during these processes. These electrons are then transferred to the inner mitochondrial membrane where they are used to create a proton-motive force across the inner mitochondrial membrane.

Outputs

This proton-motive force is used to drive the synthesis of ATP by the enzyme ATP synthase. ATP is the primary energy storage molecule used by cells for energy production. In addition to ATP, oxidative phosphorylation also produces water, carbon dioxide, and heat. The heat is used by the cell to regulate its temperature, while the carbon dioxide is released from the cell during respiration.

Conclusion

Oxidative phosphorylation is an important process in eukaryotic cells for ATP production. It involves the transfer of electrons from energy-rich molecules, such as glucose and fatty acids, to the inner mitochondrial membrane. This proton-motive force is then used by ATP synthase to produce ATP. In addition to ATP, oxidative phosphorylation also produces water, carbon dioxide, and heat.