ATP synthase
ATP synthase
ATP synthase (pronounced: A-T-P sin-thase) is an important enzyme that creates the energy storage molecule adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is the most commonly used "energy currency" of cells for most organisms. It is formed from adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and inorganic phosphate (Pi), and needs ATP synthase for the process.
Etymology
The term "ATP synthase" comes from the words "adenosine triphosphate" and "synthesis". "Adenosine" is derived from the Greek words "adenos", meaning gland, and "inos", meaning fiber. "Triphosphate" refers to the three phosphate groups attached to the adenosine molecule. "Synthase" is derived from the Greek word "synthesis", meaning "to put together".
Function
ATP synthase is found in the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells, the chloroplasts of plant cells, and the plasma membrane of prokaryotic cells. It uses the energy from a proton gradient, or flow of protons, across a membrane to drive the synthesis of ATP from ADP and Pi. This process is known as oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria and photophosphorylation in chloroplasts.
Structure
ATP synthase is a complex enzyme that is composed of multiple subunits. These include the F1 subunit, which is responsible for ATP synthesis, and the F0 subunit, which forms a channel for protons to cross the membrane. The rotation of these subunits, driven by the proton gradient, is what allows ATP synthase to synthesize ATP.
Related Terms
- Adenosine triphosphate (ATP): The energy-carrying molecule that is the end product of ATP synthase.
- Mitochondria: The organelles in eukaryotic cells where ATP synthase is located and ATP is produced.
- Chloroplasts: The organelles in plant cells where ATP synthase is located and ATP is produced during photosynthesis.
- Oxidative phosphorylation: The process in mitochondria that uses ATP synthase to produce ATP.
- Photophosphorylation: The process in chloroplasts that uses ATP synthase to produce ATP.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on ATP synthase
- Wikipedia's article - ATP synthase
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