Proton Movement in ATP Synthase

Introduction

In the context of ATP synthesis in cells, the movement of protons plays a crucial role in the generation of ATP molecules. The process involves the F0 region of ATP synthase, which consists of two types of polypeptide subunits - the C subunit and the a subunit. The C subunits aggregate to form the C ring, while the a subunit contains two half channels open to the matrix and intermembrane space respectively. Protons move through these half channels, binding to aspartate residues on the C subunits. This proton movement causes the rotation of the C ring, which in turn rotates the gamma epsilon stalk connected to the central cavity of the alpha3 beta3 hexamer. This rotation drives the binding change mechanism that leads to the synthesis of ATP molecules. On average, about 4 protons need to move through ATP synthase to generate a single ATP molecule.

Keywords

ATP synthase, Proton movement, F0 region, C ring, Half channels, Aspartate residues, Rotation, Gamma epsilon stalk, ATP synthesis

FAQ

1. What is the role of proton movement in ATP synthase?
2. How does the movement of protons through the F0 region of ATP synthase lead to ATP synthesis?
3. How many protons need to move through ATP synthase to generate a single ATP molecule?