Very low concentrations of detergent make membranes leaky to small molecules and ions without damaging proteins. In isolated mitochondria exposed to detergent, the molecules of the electron transport chain and of ATP synthase remain intact. Do you expect ATP synthesis to continue in the presence of low concentrations of detergent?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

ATP synthesis depends on the maintenance of a proton gradient across the mitochondrial inner membrane. A leaky membrane would allow protons to leak back into the matrix, preventing the establishment of a proton gradient necessary for ATP synthesis.

Very Low Concentrations of Detergent Make Membranes Leaky to Small