Structure and Mechanisms of F-Type ATP Synthases

F 1 F o ATP synthases produce most of the ATP in the cell. F-type ATP synthases have been investigated for more than 50 years, but a full understanding of their molecular mechanisms has become possible only with the recent structures of complete, functionally competent complexes determined by electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM). High-resolution cryo-EM structures offer a wealth of unexpected new insights. The catalytic F 1 head rotates with the central γ -subunit for the first part of each ATP-generating power stroke. Joint rotation is enabled by subunit δ/OSCP acting as a flexible hinge between F 1 and the peripheral stalk. Subunit a conducts protons to and from the c -ring rotor through two conserved aqueous…