ATP synthase subunit E (AtpE)

ATP synthase subunit E (AtpE) is a small integral membrane protein that forms part of the F₀ motor of the ATP synthase complex, primarily in prokaryotes and mitochondria. ATP synthase is a molecular rotary motor responsible for synthesizing ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate using the proton gradient generated during cellular respiration. AtpE plays a critical role in the structural integrity and function of the F₀ portion, coupling proton flow through the membrane with rotation of the enzyme and thus enabling ATP production. In Mycobacterium tuberculosis, AtpE is an essential enzyme—making it a validated drug target for novel antimycobacterial agents such as bedaquiline, which bind specifically and inhibit its activity, causing cell death due to energy starvation.

Other names

ATP synthase epsilon chainF₀ subunit ESubunit epsilon

Inhibition of ATP synthase activity via interference with proton translocation and ATP generation