What is the Role of Membrane Proteins in Catalysis within Organelles?
Membrane proteins embedded in the lipid bilayers of organelles are crucial for various catalytic functions. These proteins include transporters, channels, and receptors that facilitate the movement of substrates, products, and ions across membranes. For example, ATP synthase in the mitochondrial membrane catalyzes the synthesis of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate, driven by a proton gradient.