How Do ABC Transporters Use ATP to Move Molecules Across Membranes?

💡 The Answer

• ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters are powered by ATP hydrolysis.
• They translocate diverse substrates like ions, sugars, and drugs against concentration gradients.
• ABC transporters have two transmembrane domains forming the pathway and two nucleotide-binding domains.
• Conformational changes driven by ATP binding and hydrolysis alternate exposure to each side.
• Multidrug resistance in cancer often arises from overexpression of ABC transporter P-glycoprotein.