Brown fat cells produce a protein called thermogenin in their mitochondrial inner membrane. Thermogenin is a channel for facilitated transport of protons across the membrane. What will occur in the brown fat cells when they produce thermogenin?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The role of thermogenin is to allow protons to cross the mitochondrial inner membrane, bypassing ATP synthase. This process, called proton leak, dissipates the proton motive force generated by the electron transport chain, which reduces ATP synthesis. However, it also generates heat due to the energy loss from the proton gradient, thus increasing heat generation. Therefore, the production of thermogenin in brown fat cells results in a decrease in ATP synthesis and an increase in heat generation, making choice C the correct answer.

Brown Fat Cells Produce a Protein Called Thermogenin in Their