The structure of the electron transport system protein called cytochrome c is highly conserved in nature because the A) enzyme has the rare ability to bind O₂ and reduce it. B) protein active site contains a cofactor unique to the electron transport system. C) protein is located inside the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells. D) protein plays an important role in the electron transport system and in other critical cellular pathways such as apoptosis.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The conservation of the structure of cytochrome c across different species suggests that it plays an important role in key cellular pathways, including the electron transport system and apoptosis. This conservation likely reflects the critical importance of these functions in cellular metabolism and survival. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because cytochrome c does not bind or use the mentioned chemicals or components unique to the electron transport system, and its location inside mitochondria is not the sole reason for its conservation.

The Structure of the Electron Transport System Protein Called Cytochrome