What is the Difference Between Cytochrome and Phytochrome?

Cytochrome and phytochrome are two types of pigments found in plants, but they have distinct functions and structures. Here are the main differences between them:

1. Function: Cytochrome is a heme protein involved in the electron transport chain as an electron carrier in aerobic respiration. In contrast, phytochrome is a photoreceptor protein that is important for many aspects of plant development, especially photomorphogenic aspects.
2. Light Absorption: Cytochrome responds to blue light, while phytochrome responds to red and far-red light.
3. Presence: Cytochromes are present in animals, while phytochromes are absent in animals.
4. Structure: Phytochrome is a photomorphogenic pigment, while cytochrome is present as a protein.
5. Photoreversible Forms: Phytochrome is found in two photoreversible forms, which are responsible for chlorophyll development but not for chlorophyll synthesis.

In summary, the main differences between cytochrome and phytochrome are their functions, light absorption, presence in organisms, and structure. Cytochrome is an electron carrier involved in aerobic respiration, while phytochrome is a photoreceptor protein that plays a crucial role in plant development and morphogenesis.

Comparative Table: Cytochrome vs Phytochrome

Here is a table comparing the differences between cytochrome and phytochrome:

Cytochrome is an electron transfer protein involved in aerobic respiration and is found in animals, bacteria, and fungi. On the other hand, phytochrome is a photoreceptor protein that plays a crucial role in plant development, especially in response to light, and is found exclusively in plants.