The atpB gene encodes subunit a, a hydrophobic protein essential for forming the proton channel in the F₀ sector of ATP synthase. In Gloeobacter violaceus (strain PCC 7421), this subunit facilitates proton movement across the membrane, driving the rotation of the F₁ sector and enabling ATP synthesis . The recombinant version is expressed in E. coli with an N-terminal His tag (Q7NCR8) to enhance solubility and purification efficiency .
Key Features:
| Parameter | Details | Source |
|---|---|---|
| UniProt ID | Q7NCR8 | |
| AA Sequence (1-246) | MELALATLGNQPLIAAVEVGKHLTWQLGPLSVHGQTMITTWVVmLLLIGLTFIGTRKLQR... | |
| Molecular Weight | ~27.5 kDa (predicted) | |
| Gene Locus | gll2910 |
The recombinant protein is produced via heterologous expression in E. coli, leveraging its simplicity for large-scale production.
Production Specifications:
| Parameter | Details | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Host Organism | E. coli | |
| Tag | N-terminal His tag | |
| Storage Buffer | Tris-based buffer, 50% glycerol | |
| Storage Conditions | -20°C (long-term), 4°C (short-term) |
Applications:
Biochemical Assays: ATP hydrolysis/synthesis activity measurements .
ELISA: Antigen in immunoassays for studying ATP synthase regulation .
Subunit a’s role in proton translocation is central to ATP synthase function. Studies in related cyanobacteria (e.g., Synechocystis PCC 6803) reveal that ATP synthase activity is regulated by environmental cues:
| Condition | Impact on ATP Synthase Activity | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Darkness | Induces AtpΘ expression to inhibit ATP hydrolysis . | |
| Proton Gradient | Sustains ATP synthesis; collapse triggers AtpΘ-mediated inhibition |
Functional Studies:
Knockout Experiments: Deletion of atpT (encoding AtpΘ) abolishes darkness-induced inhibition of ATPase activity .
Purified ATP Synthase: Recombinant subunit a, when incorporated into purified complexes, enables direct measurement of proton-driven ATP synthesis .
Subunit a interacts with multiple components of the ATP synthase complex, as identified through co-immunoprecipitation and far-Western blotting .
Interaction Partners:
KEGG: gvi:gvip403
STRING: 251221.gvip403