Question

Imagine an organism with mutations in complexes I, III, and IV that prevent pumping of hydrogen ions into the intermembrane space but still allow electrons to pass through the electron transport chain. Which of the following is the most likely consequence of these mutations?
ATP synthase will not convert ADP to ATP. T/F

Answer 1

Answer:  ATP synthase will not convert ADP to ATP.

Explanation:

Cyanide poisons the mitochondrial electron transport chain within cells and causes the body to be unable to obtain energy (adenosine triphosphate-ATP) from oxygen. Specifically, it binds to the a3 (complex IV) portion of cytochrome oxidase and prevents cells from using oxygen, causing rapid death.

Therefore, ATP synthase takes advantage of the protonmotrial force created during the Krebs cycles when cytochromes as electrons pass pump protons into the intermembrane spaces of the mitochondria. As the protons return to the matrix, ATP synthase uses this potential energy to convert ADP to ATP.