Editing ATP synthase (section)

== Physiological role ==

Like other enzymes, the activity of F<sub>1</sub>F<sub>O</sub> ATP synthase is reversible. Large-enough quantities of ATP cause it to create a transmembrane [[proton]] [[gradient]], this is used by fermenting bacteria that do not have an electron transport chain, but rather hydrolyze ATP to make a proton gradient, which they use to drive [[flagella]] and the transport of nutrients into the cell.

In respiring [[bacteria]] under physiological conditions, ATP synthase, in general, runs in the opposite direction, creating ATP while using the [[electrochemical potential|proton motive force]] created by the [[electron transfer chain|electron transport chain]] as a source of energy. The overall process of creating energy in this fashion is termed [[oxidative phosphorylation]].
The same process takes place in the [[mitochondria]], where ATP synthase is located in the inner mitochondrial membrane and the F<sub>1</sub>-part projects into the [[mitochondrial matrix]]. By pumping proton cations into the matrix, the ATP-synthase converts ADP into ATP.