Enzymatic mechanism of ATP synthesis

The energy cycle of all living organisms involves the molecule adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which captures the chemical energy released by the metabolism of nutrients and makes it available for cellular functions such as muscle contraction and transmission of nerve messages. A hard-working human adult can convert almost a ton of ATP daily. From the early 1960s through 1994, the Office of Science supported Paul D. Boyer's research at the University of California at Los Angeles on ATP synthase, the enzyme responsible for synthesizing ATP. His research examined the detailed chemical reactions involved in ATP synthesis and how the enzyme uses energy to create new ATP. Boyer theorized that this "molecular machine" with rotating parts functions in a surprising way for enzymes, a mechanism later supported by the work of John E. Walker of the United Kingdom. Among other things, Boyer discovered that energy input was not used primarily to form the ATP molecule, but rather to promote the release of an already formed and tightly bound ATP. Boyer and Walker shared half of the 1997 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for these achievements.

Scientific Impact: This work uncovered new concepts in enzymology and advanced understanding of how living cells function at the molecular level. Determination of how cells store and transfer energy has been among the most important advances in molecular and cell biology, enabling an entire generation of work at the cellular level in animal and plant research.

Social Impact: Research in cell biology has led to tremendous advances in medicine and physiology, such as clues to the genesis and treatment of cancer.

Reference: Boyer, P.D., "The ATP synthase—a splendid molecular machine," Ann Rev Biochem 997;66:717-49

URL: http://www.nobel.se/chemistry/laureates/1997/press.html

Technical Contact: Don Freeburn, Office of Science, 301-903-3156

Press Contact: Jeff Sherwood, Office of Public Affairs, 202-586-5806

SC-Funding Office: Basic Energy Sciences