Regulation of mitochondrial respiration and apoptosis through cell signaling: Cytochrome c oxidase and cytochrome c in ischemia/reperfusion injury and inflammation

► Cytochrome c oxidase (COX) activity is controlled by cell signaling pathways. ► Cell signaling leads to changes of the phosphorylation state of COX. ► COX activity controls the mitochondrial membrane potential, energy, and ROS production. ► During acute inflammation COX is hypoactive leading to an energy crisis and cell death. ► Ischemia/reperfusion causes COX hyperactivation, excessive ROS, and apoptosis.