What would happen to a mutated ATP synthase enzyme where the proton binding aspartate residue on the c subunits was mutated to an alanine?
A) The enzyme would make ATP as normal in the presence of a proton gradient.
B) The enzyme would not make ATP in the presence of a proton gradient.
C) The enzyme would make ATP without the need for a proton gradient.
D) The rotor would rotate in response to a proton gradient, but no ATP would be made.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The proton binding aspartate residue on the c subunits is essential for the functioning of ATP synthase. Its mutation to alanine would mean that the enzyme cannot bind protons and thus cannot synthesize ATP in the presence of a proton gradient. Therefore, the enzyme would not make ATP in the presence of a proton gradient.

What Would Happen to a Mutated ATP Synthase Enzyme Where