Cytochrome c is pivotal in the process of oxidative phosphorylation, where it facilitates the transfer of electrons. The heme group within cytochrome c undergoes redox reactionsâalternating between the reduced Fe2+ and oxidized Fe3+ states. This redox capability enables cytochrome c to accept an electron from Complex III and donate it to Complex IV. The seamless electron transfer is a catalytic process that contributes to the proton gradient used to generate ATP.
