P00403

Cytochrome c oxidase subunit II (COX2), also known as MTCO2, COII is a crucial component of the oxidative phosphorylation complex IV, which plays a vital role in cellular respiration. Located in the mitochondrial inner membrane, Cox2 is one of three subunits encoded by mitochondrial DNA that form the catalytic core of respiratory complex IV, alongside Cox1 and Cox3. This enzyme complex is responsible for the reduction of molecular oxygen to water, a process that releases energy used to pump protons across the mitochondrial inner membrane, creating an electrochemical gradient essential for ATP synthesis. Proper functioning of Cox2 is critical, as defects can lead to impaired energy production and are associated with various pathologies, including tumor formation.