ATP synthase

Definition

ATP synthase is an enzyme complex embedded in the mitochondrial membrane that facilitates the synthesis of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the primary energy carrier in cells, from ADP (adenosine diphosphate) and inorganic phosphate during the process of oxidative phosphorylation within carbohydrate metabolism. It acts as a molecular generator, converting an electrochemical gradient into energy stored in the form of ATP.

Related terms

Oxidative phosphorylation: A metabolic pathway that uses oxygen and high-energy electrons to produce ATP through the electron transport chain.

Electron transport chain: A series of complexes that transfer electrons from electron donors to electron acceptors via redox reactions and couples this electron transfer with the transfer of protons across a membrane.

Mitochondrial membrane: The double-layered membrane surrounding a mitochondrion, involved in the electron transport chain and ATP synthesis processes