An example of an active transport pump is the Na+-K+ ATPase pump.
Active transport pumps are integral membrane proteins that use energy, typically in the form of ATP, to move molecules across a cell membrane against their concentration gradient. Here's more detail on some specific examples, drawing from provided reference information:
Examples of Active Transport Pumps
| Pump Name | Ions Transported | Type of Protein | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| Na+-K+ ATPase | Sodium (Na+) and Potassium (K+) | Antiporter | Maintains sodium and potassium gradients across the cell membrane. |
| H+-K+ ATPase | Hydrogen (H+) and Potassium (K+) | Antiporter | Secretes acid into the stomach. |
Na+-K+ ATPase (Sodium-Potassium Pump)
This is a crucial pump found in animal cells. It actively transports:
- Three sodium ions (Na+) out of the cell
- Two potassium ions (K+) into the cell
This process requires ATP and helps maintain the electrochemical gradient vital for nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and other cellular functions. The Na+-K+ ATPase is an antiporter carrier protein, meaning it transports two different ions in opposite directions.
H+-K+ ATPase (Proton-Potassium Pump)
Found in parietal cells of the stomach, this pump is responsible for:
- Transporting hydrogen ions (H+) out of the cell (into the stomach lumen)
- Transporting potassium ions (K+) into the cell
Like the Na+-K+ ATPase, the H+-K+ ATPase is also an antiporter. This action acidifies the stomach contents, aiding in digestion.
