The physiological role of an alternative oxidase and an uncoupling protein in plant and protists is discussed in terms of thermogenesis and energy metabolism balance in the cell. It is concluded that thermogenesis is restricted not only by a lower-limit size but also by a kinetically-limited stimulation of the mitochondrial respiratory chain.

Keywords:
Alternative oxidase, uncoupling protein, mitochondria
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© 2001 Plenum Publishing Corporation
2001
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