# cytochrome

CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cytochrome
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

a protein in your cells that helps carry energy around. It is very important for keeping your body alive because it helps turn food into energy.

For teachers: a protein complex containing a heme group that functions as an electron carrier in the respiratory chain of cells. It plays a central role in cellular respiration and photosynthesis.

## Examples

- Cytochrome helps your cells produce energy from food.
- During cellular respiration, cytochrome acts as a final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain.
- The unique absorption spectra of different cytochrome variants allow researchers to track the flow of electrons through the mitochondrial membrane during metabolic stress.

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