Role of Proton Gradient in ATP Synthesis

Medium Biochemistry Bioenergetics

During cellular respiration, energy is derived from the oxidation of glucose. This process occurs in several stages, including glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. Each of these stages employs different mechanisms to capture and convert energy. One important aspect of oxidative phosphorylation is the creation of a proton gradient across the inner mitochondrial membrane. Which of the following statements accurately describes the role of this proton gradient in ATP synthesis?

The proton gradient facilitates the direct phosphorylation of ADP to ATP through substrate-level phosphorylation.

The proton gradient is used to drive ATP synthase, which catalyzes the synthesis of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate.

The proton gradient causes a decrease in the pH of the mitochondrial matrix, leading to increased ATP production.

The proton gradient is essential for the conversion of NADH and FADH2 to glucose during gluconeogenesis.

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