In a mitochondrion, if the matrix ATP concentration is high, and the intermembrane space proton concentration is too low to generate sufficient proton-motive force, then
A) ATP synthase will increase the rate of ATP synthesis.
B) ATP synthase will stop working.
C) ATP synthase will hydrolyze ATP and pump protons into the intermembrane space.
D) ATP synthase will hydrolyze ATP and pump protons into the matrix.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

ATP synthase can operate in reverse, using the energy from ATP hydrolysis to pump protons into the intermembrane space, thereby increasing the proton-motive force when the ATP concentration in the matrix is high and the proton gradient is too low to drive ATP synthesis.

In a Mitochondrion, If the Matrix ATP Concentration Is High