Metabolism and Release of Cytochrome c from Mitochondria

Lipid Metabolism and Release of Cytochrome c from Mitochondria... 

We now know that release of cytochrome c and other proteins from the Intermembrane space of mitochondria Into the cytosol plays a major role In triggering apoptosis (Chapter 22). Certain members of the Bcl-2 family of apoptotic proteins and Ion channels localized In part to the outer mitochondrial membrane participate In this process. Yet much remains to be learned about the structure of these proteins In the mitochondrial membrane, their normal functions in cell metabolism, and the alterations that lead to apoptosis. 

The role of these interesting plasma membrane-dependent, vanadate-stimulated NAD(P)H oxidation reactions in cellular metabolism remains to be elucidated, although multiple interactions with cellular metabolism and components are possible including interactions with xanthine oxidase and lipid peroxidation [24], Decavanadate has been shown to enhance cytochrome c reduction [31], and cytochrome c release from mitochondria is associated with initiation of apoptosis. Perhaps the reduced cytochrome c is more readily released from the mitochondria. With increasing emphasis on the redox properties of vanadium being important in its pharmacological effects, it is quite possible that these reactions, either protein dependent or not, may play a role in therapeutic actions of vanadium. 

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