What would happen to the H+ gradient if the inner mitochondrial membrane was perforated (punctured)?

Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
11th Edition
ISBN:9780134580999
Author:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Publisher:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Chapter1: The Human Body: An Orientation
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**Question:**
What would happen to the H+ gradient if the inner mitochondrial membrane was perforated (punctured)?

**Discussion:**
The inner mitochondrial membrane is crucial for maintaining the proton (H+) gradient that drives ATP synthesis during cellular respiration. If this membrane were perforated, it would disrupt the proton gradient established by the electron transport chain. Normally, protons are pumped from the mitochondrial matrix into the intermembrane space, creating a higher concentration of protons outside the inner membrane compared to the inside. This gradient represents potential energy used by ATP synthase to produce ATP.

A perforation in the inner mitochondrial membrane would allow protons to leak back into the mitochondrial matrix, bypassing ATP synthase. This would lead to a collapse of the proton gradient, severely affecting ATP production and potentially leading to cellular energy deficits.
Transcribed Image Text:**Question:** What would happen to the H+ gradient if the inner mitochondrial membrane was perforated (punctured)? **Discussion:** The inner mitochondrial membrane is crucial for maintaining the proton (H+) gradient that drives ATP synthesis during cellular respiration. If this membrane were perforated, it would disrupt the proton gradient established by the electron transport chain. Normally, protons are pumped from the mitochondrial matrix into the intermembrane space, creating a higher concentration of protons outside the inner membrane compared to the inside. This gradient represents potential energy used by ATP synthase to produce ATP. A perforation in the inner mitochondrial membrane would allow protons to leak back into the mitochondrial matrix, bypassing ATP synthase. This would lead to a collapse of the proton gradient, severely affecting ATP production and potentially leading to cellular energy deficits.
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