Subunits I and II form the functional core of the enzyme complex. Electrons originating in cytochrome c are transferred via heme a and Cu(A) to the binuclear center formed by heme a3 and Cu(B) (By similarity). 4 Fe(II)-[cytochrome c] + 8 H(+)(in) + O2 = 4 Fe(III)-[cytochrome c] + 4 H(+)(out) + 2 H2O Binds a copper A center. Was identified as a high-confidence drug target. Belongs to the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 2 family.