Science & Nature · 3
What enzyme complex in mitochondria produces the majority of ATP through oxidative phosphorylation?
Answer
ATP synthase
ATP synthase is the enzyme complex that synthesizes approximately 90% of cellular ATP by using the proton gradient created by the electron transport chain. Protons flow through ATP synthase down their concentration gradient, driving a turbine-like rotary mechanism that phosphorylates ADP to ATP. This process, called oxidative phosphorylation, couples electron transfer to ATP synthesis with remarkable efficiency.
💡 Did you know?
ATP synthase is one of nature's most efficient nanomachines, rotating at speeds up to 300 revolutions per second.
Other options people guess
- Cytochrome c oxidase (Complex IV)
- Krebs cycle enzymes
- Pyruvate dehydrogenase
Topics
- biochemistry
- cellular-respiration
- mitochondria
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