MT-CYB is the core subunit of Complex III (ubiquinol-cytochrome c reductase), a key component of the mitochondrial electron transport chain :
Role: Facilitates electron transfer from ubiquinol to cytochrome c, generating a proton gradient for ATP synthesis .
Catalytic Domains:
Mutations in MT-CYB (e.g., p.Phe18Leu, p.Asp171Asn) alter drug sensitivity and complex activity, as demonstrated in yeast models of human mtDNA variants . While M. kalinowskii MT-CYB has not been directly studied for functional mutations, its structural homology to human MT-CYB suggests conserved mechanisms .
Recombinant MT-CYB enables studies on mitochondrial disorders linked to Complex III dysfunction. For example:
Antiviral/Drug Interactions: Atovaquone (antimalarial) binds the Q₀ site, altering ATP production .
Mitochondrial Diseases: Mutations in MT-CYB correlate with Complex III deficiency, leading to multi-organ failure .
Phylogenetic Analysis: Cytochrome b sequences are used to trace bat evolution, as seen in Keenocardium buelowi studies .
Positive Selection: cob genes in marine species exhibit adaptive evolution, suggesting functional diversification .
Recombinant cytochrome b proteins from related bat species are also available:
| Species | Catalog Number | Expression System |
|---|---|---|
| Eumops glaucinus | CSB-CF654264EBAC | E. coli |
| Lasionycteris noctivagans | CSB-CF654942LBAI | E. coli |
| Tadarida brasiliensis | CSB-CF657773TAI | E. coli |
These proteins share structural homology but differ in application-specific modifications (e.g., His-tag positioning) .