Mycobacterial ATP Synthase (ATP Synthase)

Mycobacterial ATP synthase is a multi-subunit enzyme complex essential for the survival and energy metabolism of mycobacteria, including *Mycobacterium tuberculosis*. It catalyzes the synthesis of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate, driven by a transmembrane proton motive force. Its inhibition leads rapidly to cell death even under non-replicating conditions—making it an attractive drug target against persistent Mtb infections. Unique structural features absent from human mitochondrial counterparts provide opportunities for selective inhibitor design with minimal risk for cross-reactivity or toxicity toward human cells.

Other names

Mycobacterium tuberculosis ATP synthaseMtb ATP synthaseF-ATP synthase

Inhibition of ATP synthase by blocking proton translocation and ATP generation.