What is the role of ATP synthase?

The role of ATP synthase is to synthesize ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate by utilizing the proton gradient created during cellular respiration. In the process known as oxidative phosphorylation, electrons are transferred through the electron transport chain, which creates a proton gradient across the inner mitochondrial membrane. As protons flow back into the mitochondrial matrix through ATP synthase, the energy released is harnessed to combine ADP and inorganic phosphate, resulting in the formation of ATP. This mechanism is crucial for energy production in aerobic organisms, making ATP synthase a vital enzyme in cellular respiration.