Question

1 Why ATP only synthase in the mitochondria?

Answer 1

ATP is synthesized only in mitochondria because for ATP synthesis ATP synthase enzyme is needed. This enzyme is located in the inner membrane of mitochondria. ATP synthase is a enzyme motor complex, formed of F0 and F1 motor. F0 motor is embedded in the membrane whereas F1 motor is positioned facing mitochondrial matrix. For ATP synthesis, a gradient of H+ ions is required. This gradient is generated during cellular respiration in the mitochondria. H+ ions moved out from the mitochondrial matrix during whole cellular respiration. This leads to increase in H+ ions concentration of the cytoplasm compared to mitochondrial matrix and generation of a proton motive force. In the last step of ETC, as ATP synthase motor rotates, 3 H+ ions are moved inside of the mitochondrial matrix and synthesized one ATP. Thus proton motive force is required along with ATP synthase to synthesize ATP.