Influence of several perturbants on the rate of autoxidation of horse heart ferrocytochrome c.

This research article investigates how various perturbants and pH levels affect the rate of autoxidation of horse heart ferrocytochrome c, revealing that each perturbant offers unique kinetic behavior.

Objective of the Study

• The main goal of this study was to delve into how various types of perturbants, as well as the pH levels, influence the rate of autoxidation of horse heart ferrocytochrome c.

Methods of the Study

• Different types of perturbants were used to conduct this research, and their resultant kinetic behavior was analyzed.
• The researchers proceeded to study the rates of autoxidation using first-order kinetics, taking measurements within a span of 0 to 180 minutes.

Findings of the Study

• A unique kinetic behavior was observed for each perturbant that was used. For instance, the Cl- and Br- anions displayed an initial increase in autoxidation rates up until the concentration reached 100 mM.
• Thereafter, a decrease in the kinetics was observed once the anion concentration reached 500 mM.
• On the other hand, for the case of the ClO4- anion, an increase in the autoxidation rate was all that was observed even as the ionic strength increased.
• Propylurea, which is a hydrophobic perturbant, did not manifest any effect in terms of altering the autoxidation rate even at equivalent concentrations.

Conclusion from the Study

• The study concludes that the perturbations of the reduced form of cytochrome c in solution are primarily influenced by non-specific solvent effects.