Question

Which subset of the following is directly involved in driving protein import into the mitochondrial matrix space?

1) ATP hydrolysis inside mitochondria
2) ATP hydrolysis outside mitochondria
3) GTP hydrolysis inside mitochondria
4) GTP hydrolysis outside mitochondria
5) Light
6) Membrane potential across the inner membrane
7) Membrane potential across the outer membrane

Answer 1

ATP hydrolysis inside mitochondria and the membrane potential across the inner membrane are directly involved in the import of proteins into the mitochondrial matrix, utilizing energy generated by the movement of hydrogen ions through ATP synthase.

Step-by-step explanation:

The subset of factors directly involved in driving protein import into the mitochondrial matrix space includes ATP hydrolysis inside mitochondria, as it provides the energy necessary for protein translocation through the mitochondrial membranes. The membrane potential across the inner membrane of the mitochondria is also crucial, as it creates the electrochemical gradient required for chemiosmosis. During chemiosmosis, hydrogen ions (H+) move across the inner membrane through ATP synthase, generating ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate, thereby providing the energy for various cellular processes, including protein import into the mitochondrial matrix.