Final answer:
NSF undoes SNARE complexes using ATP hydrolysis, with the assistance of SNAP adaptor proteins, allowing for recycling of SNARE proteins for future membrane fusion events.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mechanism by which NSF (N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor) undoes SNARE complexes involves an adaptor protein called SNAP (Soluble NSF Attachment Protein). When a vesicle docks at a target membrane, a set of SNARE proteins on the vesicle (v-SNAREs) and target membrane (t-SNAREs) form a highly stable complex. This tight binding is necessary for membrane fusion but must be disassembled after fusion to recycle the SNARE proteins for future use.
NSF, an ATPase, binds to the SNARE complexes through SNAPs. The energy from ATP hydrolysis by NSF is used to catalyze the disassembly of the SNARE complex, releasing the individual SNARE proteins and allowing them to participate in subsequent rounds of vesicle trafficking.