What is ATP synthase?

ATP synthase is an enzyme that acts as a catalyst for the formation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This occurs when adenosine diphosphate (ADP) is phosphorylated with inorganic phosphate by using some form of energy.

ATP contains three phosphate rings, a ribose sugar and an adenine ring. Most living things use it as a major form of energy transfer in cells. ATP is also located in nucleic acid, where it is used in DNA transcription and replication. Different types of cells also use ATP for photosynthesis, beta oxidation, glycolysis and anaerobic respiration. It is continuously synthesized by ATP synthase and therefore has a high turnover rate in cells.