ATP Synthase: Mechanism of ATP Synthesis

Kevin Tokoph explains the rotation of the gamma subunit in ATP synthase, which causes conformational changes in the alpha and beta subunits, leading to ATP synthesis. The process involves a proton gradient that powers the rotation, overcoming the endergonic nature of ATP formation. The mechanism includes the formation of a trigonal bipyramidal intermediate and highlights the surprising rate-limiting step of ATP dissociation.

What is the relationship between the conformations of ATP synthase and ATP production?

Why is the dissociation of ATP from the beta subunit considered the rate-limiting step?