Definition

1. Noun:
   • (Biochemistry) A class of hemoprotein: Cytochrome refers to a specific group of proteins containing a heme group. Their principal biological function is electron transfer, especially in processes like cellular respiration.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Cytochrome c is essential for the electron transport chain in mitochondria.
  • The enzyme's activity depends on the presence of a specific cytochrome.
  • Researchers studied the mutation in the cytochrome gene.

Advanced Usage

• "Cytochrome P450": A large and important family of cytochrome enzymes involved in the metabolism of drugs and other compounds.
  • The liver uses cytochrome P450 enzymes to break down many medications.

Variants and Related Words

• Cytochrome c (n): A specific, well-studied cytochrome involved in apoptosis and cellular respiration.
• Cytochrome oxidase (n): An enzyme complex containing cytochromes, which is the final electron acceptor in the respiratory chain.

Synonyms

• Hemoprotein (n): A broader class of proteins containing a heme prosthetic group, which includes cytochromes.
• Electron carrier (n): A functional description for molecules, including cytochromes, that transfer electrons in biological systems.

Related Phrases

• "Cytochrome system" or "Cytochrome chain": Refers to the series of cytochromes involved in electron transport.
  • Electrons flow through the cytochrome chain to generate a proton gradient.

Noun

1. (biochemistry) a class of hemoprotein whose principal biological function is electron transfer (especially in cellular respiration)