ATP SYNTHASE — MOLECULAR MOTOR

Proton gradient drives F0 rotor, rotating the central stalk, causing F1 β-subunits to cycle through
Open → Loose (ADP+Pi binding) → Tight (ATP synthesis) conformations.

ATP Production

0

ATP molecules synthesized


Rotation:

Speed: 0 rpm

Protons/turn: 10–14

ATP/turn: 3


β₁: Open

β₂: Loose

β₃: Tight

Controls