Mitochondrial Complex IV Subunit 4 Isoform 2 Is Essential for Acute Pulmonary Oxygen Sensing

Abstract

Cox4i2 is essential for acute but not chronic pulmonary oxygen sensing by triggering mitochondrial hyperpolarization and release of mitochondrial superoxide which, after conversion to hydrogen peroxide, contributes to cellular membrane depolarization and HPV. These findings provide a new model for oxygen-sensing processes in the lung and possibly also in other organs.