On the fundamentals of quantum rate theory and the long-range electron transport in respiratory chains

Abstract

It has been shown that both the electron-transfer rate constant of an electrochemical reaction and the conductance quantum are correlated with the concept of quantum capacitance. This simple association between the two separate concepts has an entirely quantum rate basis that encompasses the electron-transfer rate theory as originally proposed by Rudolph A. Marcus whether statistical mechanics is appropriately taken into account. I have prepared a concise review of the quantum mechanical rate theory principles focused on its quantum electrodynamics character to demonstrate that it can reconcile the conflicting views established on attempting to use the super-exchange (supported on electron transfer) or ‘metallic-like’ (supported on conductance quantum) mechanisms separately to explain the highly efficient long-range electron transport observed in the respiratory processes of living cells. The unresolved issues related to long-range electron transport are clarified in light of the quantum rate theory with a discussion focused on Geobacter sulfurreducens films as a reference standard of the respiration chain. Theoretical analyses supported by experimental data suggest that the efficiency of respiration within a long-range electron transport path is intrinsically a quantum mechanical event that follows relativistic quantum electrodynamics principles as addressed by quantum rate theory.