Biochemistry 2288A Lecture Notes - Lecture 15: Chemiosmosis, Electrochemical Gradient, Intermembrane Space
17 Jun 2016
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Document Summary
Electron transport chain pumps protons out of the mitochondrial matrix. Under normal conditions the proton concentration in the intermembrane space is higher than the concentration in the matrix. Excess positive charge builds up on the outside of the inner mitochondrial membrane. Electrical potential + proton concentration gradient = electrochemical gradient. Causes the protons to ow back into the matrix if they are given the opportunity. In 1961peter mitchell proposed the chemiosmotic hypothesis that the protonmotive force drives synthesis of atp. This theory explains why destruction of the proton gradient inhibits atp synthesis. Conversely, creation of an arti cial proton gradient stimulates atp synthesis. By making the normally impermeable membrane permeable to protons can make atp synthesis stop. A protein complex that allows protons to ow down their electrochemical gradient. The energy from this proton movement is used to make atp. A- helps form proton channel; anchors b2 in membrane.
