Question #a1373

1 Answer
Jul 29, 2016

4 ATP (net gain: 2 ATP)

Explanation:

In theory a cell can still produce 4 ATP when the electron chain is inhibited. In the processes before the electron transport takes place, ATP can still be produced.

The image below shows that during glycolysis 2 ATP is produced and 2 more are produced in the Krebs cycle (citric acid cycle). In the first steps of glycolysis there is an investment of 2 ATP, so the net gain would be 2 ATP.

The other ATP will not be produced, because for this the electron transport chain is required: NADH hands over the gained electrons to the proteins in the electron transport chain.

https://online.science.psu.edu/biol011_sandbox_7239/node/7357 (adapted)

However, the inhibition of the electron transport chain is so toxic for the cell that also this production of ATP will stop. There is a build up of intermediate products and reactive oxygen species are produced. If the inhibition continues, the cell will inevitably die.