Question

Name two mitochondrial membrane translocase proteins, and describe their functions in mediating ongoing ATP synthesis by the ATP synthase complex.

Short answer

Question: Name two mitochondrial membrane translocase proteins and describe their functions in ATP synthesis by the ATP synthase complex. Answer: Two mitochondrial membrane translocase proteins are Adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT) and Phosphate translocase (PiC). ANT exchanges the newly synthesized ATP from the mitochondrial matrix for ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi) from the cytosol, maintaining ongoing ATP synthesis. PiC transports inorganic phosphate (Pi) from the cytosol into the mitochondrial matrix, ensuring sufficient Pi is present for ATP synthase to synthesize ATP efficiently.

Step-by-step solution

Name two mitochondrial membrane translocase proteins

Two examples of mitochondrial membrane translocase proteins are: 1. Adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT) 2. Phosphate translocase (PiC)

Describe the function of Adenine nucleotide translocase

Adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT) is an important mitochondrial inner membrane protein that functions as an antiporter, exchanging ADP and ATP across the inner mitochondrial membrane. When ATP is synthesized by the ATP synthase complex, its accumulation within the mitochondrial matrix would ultimately inhibit the enzyme's activity. To prevent this, ANT exchanges the newly synthesized ATP from the matrix for ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi) from the cytosol, thereby maintaining the ongoing ATP synthesis. The ADP and Pi are subsequently used by the ATP synthase to generate more ATP.

Describe the function of Phosphate translocase

Phosphate translocase (PiC) is another protein found in the inner mitochondrial membrane and plays a crucial role in ATP synthesis. PiC is involved in transporting inorganic phosphate (Pi) from the cytosol into the mitochondrial matrix. Since the regeneration of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi) occurs within the mitochondrial matrix, the availability of Pi is essential for the ATP synthase complex to function properly. The PiC ensures that sufficient inorganic phosphate (Pi) is present in the matrix, allowing the ATP synthase to continue synthesizing ATP efficiently.