Paired moving charges in mitochondrial energy coupling. II. Universality of the principles for energy coupling in biological systems

Abstract

The thesis is developed that an acceptable model of biological energy coupling must have universal application. The paired moving charge model of mitochondrial energy coupling is examined from the standpoint of this thesis. Fundamental to this model is the notion that energy coupling involves interaction between paired uncompensated charged species in two vectorially aligned and spatially separated reaction centers. The two charge-separating devices are assumed to be the electron transfer chain (in chloroplast and mitochondria) and intrinsic ionophores (in all transducing organelles and kinases). The universality of the ionophore principle becomes then the crucial test of the validity of the paired moving charge model. The multiple facets of ionophore-mediated couples processes are explored, e.g., coupled hydrolysis of ATP, hormonal control of ion movements, and active transport.