Mg/KCl-ATPase of plant plasma membranes is an electrogenic pump

Partial characterization of a phosphorylated intermediate associated with the plasma membrane ATPase of corn roots

The phosphorylated protein associated with a deoxycholate-extracted plasma membrane fraction from corn (Zea mays L. var WF9 x Mol7) roots was characterized in order to correlate its properties with those of plasma membrane ATPase. Its phosphorylation, like that of plasma membrane ATPase, was dependent on Mg(2+), substrate specific for ATP, insensitive to azide, oligomycin, or molybdate, and sensitive to N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide, diethylstilbestrol, or vanadate. Monovalent cations affected the phosphorylation of the protein in a manner consistent with their stimulatory effects on ATPase. For K(+), this was shown to occur through an increase in the turnover of the phosphoenzyme. Analysis of the phosphorylated protein by NaDodSO(4)/polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed the presence of a single labeled polypeptide with a molecular weight of about 100,000. Phosphorylation of this polypeptide was dependent on Mg(2+), sensitive to K(+), and inhibited by vanadate. It is concluded that this polypeptide represents the catalytic subunit of the plasma membrane ATPase. These results are discussed in terms of a model for the coupling of metabolic energy to H(+) and K(+) transport in higher plants.

Novel p-type ATPases mediate high-affinity potassium or sodium uptake in fungi

Fungi have an absolute requirement for K+, but K+ may be partially replaced by Na+. Na+ uptake in Ustilago maydis and Pichia sorbitophila was found to exhibit a fast rate, low Km, and apparent independence of the membrane potential. Searches of sequences with similarity to P-type ATPases in databases allowed us to identify three genes in these species, Umacu1, Umacu2, and PsACU1, that could encode P-type ATPases of a novel type. Deletion of the acu1 and acu2 genes proved that they encoded the transporters that mediated the high-affinity Na+ uptake of U. maydis. Heterologous expressions of the Umacu2 gene in K+ transport mutants of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and transport studies in the single and double Deltaacu1 and Deltaacu2 mutants of U. maydis revealed that the acu1 and acu2 genes encode transporters that mediated high-affinity K+ uptake in addition to Na+ uptake. Other fungi also have genes or pseudogenes whose translated sequences show high similarity to the ACU proteins of U. maydis and P. sorbitophila. In the phylogenetic tree of P-type ATPases all the identified ACU ATPases define a new cluster, which shows the lowest divergence with type IIC, animal Na+,K(+)-ATPases. The fungal high-affinity Na+ uptake mediated by ACU ATPases is functionally identical to the uptake that is mediated by some plant HKT transporters.

Regulation of plasma membrane H+-ATPase activity by the membrane environment

The plant plasma membrane H(+)-ATPase is a proton pump which plays a central role in physiological functions such as nutrient uptake and intracellular pH regulation. This pump belongs to the P(3)-type ATPase family and creates an electrochemical gradient across the plasma membrane. The generation of this gradient has a major role in providing the energy for secondary active transport across the plasma membrane. The activity of the proton pump is regulated by the transcriptional and post-translational levels and by membrane environmental factors such as membrane lipids. Several reviews have appeared during the last few years concerning the regulatory mechanism at transcriptional and post-translational levels. The plasma membrane H(+)-ATPase requires lipids for activity. This lipid dependency suggests a possible mode of regulation of the H(+)-ATPase via modification of its lipid environment. This review focuses on the regulation of plasma membrane H(+)-ATPase by membrane lipids surrounding H(+)-ATPase molecules.

Fusicoccin action in cell-suspension cultures of Corydalis sempervirens Pers

Mid-log-phase cell suspensions of Corydalis sempervirens Pers., when incubated in micromolar or submicromolar concentrations of fusicoccin, strongly acidified the culture medium. High-affinity fusicoccin-binding sites were found in microsomes prepared from these cells using the radioligand [(3)H]-9'-norfusicoccin-8'-alcohol. Binding was saturable with an apparent dissociation constant (K d) of 2.8 nM, a pH optimum of 6.0, a temperature optimum of 35° C and was rapid (t1/2 = 8 min). The site abundance was 0.76±0.17 pmol · (mg of protein)(-1). In the same membrane preparations, the K(+), Mg(2+)-ATPase (EC 3.6.1.3) was characterized. The enzyme was highly vanadate-sensitive (IC50=6.5 μM) and nucleotide-specific (ATP≫NTP), had a pH optimum of 6.2, an apparent K m for ATP of 0.23±0.12 mM, and V max of 10.6±1.8 nkat (mg of protein)(-1). Fusicoccin doubled V max and lowered, by a factor of 2, the apparent K m for ATP of the enzyme when the cells were incubated with the toxin for 30 min prior to homogenization of the cells. The stimulation of the enzyme was also pronounced when fusicoccin was added to the homogenization medium just prior to homogenization of the cells, but was slight to zero when the toxin was added at the microsomal stage. The pronounced stimulatory effect of fusicoccin on the ATPase was seen at pH 7.1, i.e. at a pH typical for the cytoplasmic compartment, but was not detectable at pH 6.2, the pH optimum of the enzyme. The implications of these findings for an understanding of fusicoccin action are discussed.

Mechanism for the Activation of Plasma Membrane H-ATPase from Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Culture Cells by Molecular Species of a Phospholipid

The activation of H(+)-ATPase solubilized from plasma membrane of rice (Oryza sativa L. var Nipponbare) culture cells was examined by the exogenous addition of various phospholipids, free fatty acids, glycerides, polar head groups of phospholipids and molecular species of phosphatidylcholine (PC). H(+)-ATPase activity appeared to be stimulated by phospholipids in the following order: asolectin > phosphatidylserine > PC > lysophosphatidylcholine > phosphatidylglycerol, and maximal ATPase activation was noted at around 0.05 to 0.03% (w/v) of asolectin or molecular species of PC. Polar head groups such as glycerol, inositol, and serine only slightly activated ATPase activity or not at all, while ethanolamine and choline had no effect. Activation was dependent on the degree of saturation or unsaturation of the fatty acyl chain and its length. The activity decreased with increase in the length of fatty acyl chain from dimyristoryl(14:0)-PC to distearoyl(18:0)-PC and the degree of unsaturation from dioleoyl(18:1)-PC to dilinolenoyl(18:3)-PC. Maximum activation was observed when PC possessing 1-myristoyl(14:0)-2-oleoyl(18:1) or 1-oleoyl-2-myristoyl was added to the reaction mixture. These data show that the activation of plasma membrane H(+)-ATPase by PC depends on a combination of saturated (myristic acid 14:0, palmitic acid 16:0, and stearic acid 18:0) and unsaturated (oleic acid 18:1, linoleic acid 18:2, and arachidonic acid 20:4) fatty acids at the sn-1 and sn-2 positions of the triglycerides.

Energy efficiency of different mechanistic models for potassium ion uptake in lower eukaryotic cells

Different mechanistic models for potassium ion uptake are analyzed by an equilibrium-thermodynamic formalism in terms of their comparative efficiency in setting chemical potential differences of the potassium ion of different magnitudes across the plasma membrane of lower eukaryotic cells. The possible adaptive advantages for a multimode mechanism(s) operating in alternative modes depending on the physiological and/or environmental conditions of the cells are discussed.

Plasmalemma- and tonoplast-ATPase activity in mesophyll protoplasts, vacuoles and microsomes of the Crassulacean-acid-metabolism plant Kalanchoe daigremontiana

Adenosine-triphosphatase activity on the plasmalemma and tonoplast of isolated mesophyll protoplasts, isolated vacuoles and tonoplast-derived microsomes of the Crassulacean-acid-metabolism plant Kalanchoe daigremontiana Hamet et Perr., was localized by a cytochemical procedure using lead citrate. Enzyme activity was detected on the cytoplasmic surfaces of the plasmalemma and tonoplast. The identity of the enzymes was confirmed by various treatments differentiating the enzymes by their sensitivity to inhibitors of plasmalemma and tonoplast H(+)-ATPase. Isolated vacuoles and microsomes prepared from isolated vacuoles clearly exhibited single-sided deposition on membrane surfaces.

Potential-dependent anion transport in tonoplast vesicles from oat roots

Potential-dependent anion movement into tonoplast vesicles from oat roots (Avena sativa L. var Lang) was monitored as dissipation of membrane potentials (Deltapsi) using the fluorescence probe Oxonol V. The potentials (positive inside) were generated with the H(+)-pumping pyrophosphatase, which is K(+) stimulated and anion insensitive. The relative rate of DeltaPsi dissipation by anions was used to estimate the relative permeabilities of the anions. In decreasing order they were: SCN(-) (100) > NO(3) (-) (72) = Cl(-) (70) > Br(-) (62) > SO(4) (2-) (5) = H(2)PO(4) (-) (5) > malate (3) = acetate (3) > iminodiacetate (2). Kinetic studies showed that the rate of Deltapsi dissipation by Cl(-) and NO(3) (-), but not by SCN(-), was saturable. The K(m) values for Cl(-) and NO(3) (-) uptake were about 2.3 and 5 millimolar, respectively, suggesting these anions move into the vacuole through proteinaceous porters. In contrast to a H(+)-coupled Cl(-) transporter on the same vesicles, the potential-dependent Cl(-) transport was insensitive to 4,4'-diisothiocyano-2,2'-stilbene disulfonate. These results suggest the existence of at least two different mechanisms for Cl(-) transport in these vesicles. The potentials generated by the H(+)-translocating ATPase and H(+)-pyrophosphatase were nonadditive, giving support to the model that both pumps are on tonoplast vesicles. No evidence for a putative Cl(-) conductance on the anion-sensitive H(+)-ATPase was found.

Studies on H-Translocating ATPases in Plants of Varying Resistance to Salinity : I. Salinity during Growth Modulates the Proton Pump in the Halophyte Atriplex nummularia

Membrane vesicles were isolated from the roots of the halophyte Atriplex nummularia Lindl. H(+)-translocating Mg(2+)-ATPase activity was manifested by the establishment of a positive membrane potential (measured as SCN(-) accumulation); and also by the establishment of a transmembrane pH gradient (measured by quinacrine fluorescence quenching). H(+)-translocation was highly specific to ATP and was stable to oligomycin. Growing the plants in the presence of 400 millimolar NaCl doubled the proton-translocating activity per milligram of membrane protein and otherwise modulated it in the following ways. First, the flat pH profile observed in non-salt-grown plants was transformed to one showing a peak at about pH 6.2. Second, the lag effect observed at low ATP concentration in curves relating SCN(-) accumulation to ATP concentration was abolished; the concave curvature shown in the double reciprocal plot was diminished. Third, sensitivity to K-2 (N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid stimulation was shown in salt-grown plants (about 40% stimulation) but was absent in non-salt-grown plants. Fourth, the KCl concentration bringing about 50% dissipation of ATP-dependent SCN(-) accumulation was 20 millimolar for salt-grown plants and 50 millimolar for non-salt-grown plants. Vanadate sensitivity was shown in both cases. No clear NO(3) (-) inhibition was observed.

A potassium-proton symport in Neurospora crassa

Combined ion flux and electrophysiological measurements have been used to characterized active transport of potassium by cells of Neurospora crassa that have been moderately starved of K+ and then maintained in the presence of millimolar free calcium ions. These conditions elicit a high-affinity (K1/2 = 1-10 microM) potassium uptake system that is strongly depolarizing. Current-voltage measurements have demonstrated a K+-associated inward current exceeding (at saturation) half the total current normally driven outward through the plasma membrane proton pump. Potassium activity ratios and fluxes have been compared quantitatively with electrophysiological parameters, by using small (approximately 15 micron diam) spherical cells of Neurospora grown in ethylene glycol. All data are consistent with a transport mechanism that carries K ions inward by cotransport with H ions, which move down the electrochemical gradient created by the primary proton pump. The stoichiometry of entry is 1 K ion with 1 H ion; overall charge balance is maintained by pumped extrusion of two protons, to yield a net flux stoichiometry of 1 K+ exchanging for 1 H+. The mechanism is competent to sustain the largest stable K+ gradients that have been measured in Neurospora, with no direct contribution from phosphate hydrolysis or redox processes. Such a potassium-proton symport mechanism could account for many observations reported on K+ movement in other fungi, in algae, and in higher plants.

Purification and Properties of the Plasma Membrane H-Translocating Adenosine Triphosphatase of Phaseolus mungo L. Roots

The plasma membrane ATPase of mung bean (Phaseolus mungo L.) roots has been solubilized with a two-step procedure using the anionic detergent, deoxycholate (DOC) and the zwitterionic detergent, zwittergent 3-14 as follows: (a) loosely bound membrane proteins are removed by treatment with 0.1% DOC; (b) The ATPase is solubilized with 0.1% zwittergent in the presence of 1% DOC; (c) the solubilized material is further purified by centrifugation through a glycerol gradient (45-70%). Typically, about 10% of the ATPase activity is recovered, and the specific activity increases about 11-fold. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis shows that the peak fraction from the glycerol gradient contains three major polypeptides of M(r) = 105,000, 67,000, and 57,000 daltons. The properties of the purified ATPase are essentially the same as those of membrane-bound ATPase, with respect to pH optimum, substrate specificity, inhibitor sensitivity, and ion stimulation.

Calcium transport in tonoplast and endoplasmic reticulum vesicles isolated from cultured carrot cells

Two active calcium (Ca(2+)) transport systems have been identified and partially characterized in membrane vesicles isolated from cultured carrot cells (Daucus carota Danvers). Both transport systems required MgATP for activity and were enhanced by 10 millimolar oxalate. Ca(2+) transport in membrane vesicles derived from isolated vacuoles equilibrated at 1.10 grams per cubic centimeter and comigrated with Cl(-)-stimulated, NO(3) (-)-inhibited ATPase activity on sucrose density gradients. Ca(2+) transport in this system was insensitive to vanadate, but was inhibited by nitrate, carbonyl cyanide-m-chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP), N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD), and 4,4-diisothiocyano-2,2'-stilbene disulfonic acid (DIDS). The K(m) for MgATP and Ca(2+) were 0.1 mm and 21 micromolar, respectively. The predominant Ca(2+) transport system detectable in microsomal membrane preparations equilibrated at a density of 1.13 grams per cubic centimeter and comigrated with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) marker, antimycin A-insensitive NADH-dependent cytochrome c reductase. Ca(2+) transport activity and the ER marker also shifted in parallel in ER shifting experiments. This transport system was inhibited by vanadate (I(50) = 12 micromolar) and was insensitive to nitrate, CCCP, DCCD, and DIDS. Transport exhibited cooperative MgATP dependent kinetics. Ca(2+) dependent kinetics were complex with an apparent K(m) ranging from 0.7 to 2 micromolar. We conclude that the vacuolar-derived system is a Ca(2+)/H(+) antiport located on the tonoplast and that the microsomal transport system is a Ca,Mg-ATPase enriched on the ER. These two Ca(2+) transport systems are proposed to restore and maintain cytoplasmic Ca(2+) homeostasis under changing cellular and environmental conditions.

Accumulation of alkaloids in plant vacuoles does not involve an ion-trap mechanism

Alkaloid uptake into vacuoles isolated from a Fumaria capreolata L. cell suspension culture was investigated. The uptake is carrier-mediated as shown by its substrate saturation, its sensitivity to metabolic inhibitors and especially by its exclusive preference for the (S)-forms of reticuline and scoulerine while the (R)-enantiomers which do not occur in this plant species were strictly discriminated. The carrier has a high affinity for (S)-reticuline with a K m=0.3 μM. The rate of alkaloid uptake was 6 pmol·h(-1)·μl(-1) vacuole, and 0.03 mg alkaloid·mg(-1) vacuolar protein were taken up. Transport was stimulated five-to seven-fold by ATP and was inhibited by the ATPase inhibitors N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide and 4-4'-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2' disulfonic acid, as well as by the protonophore carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone. A number of alkaloids did not compete with labelled (S)-reticuline for uptake into vacuoles. The uptake system is absolutely specific for alkaloids indigenous to the plant from which the vacuoles were isolated. Slight modifications of the topography of an alkaloid molecule even with full retention of its electrical charge results in its exclusion. Alkaloid efflux was also shown to be mediated by a highly specific energy-dependent carrier. These results contradict the previously proposed ion-trap mechanism for alkaloid accumulation in vacuoles. A highly specific carrier-mediated and energy-dependent proton antiport system for alkaloid uptake and release is postulated.

A Ca/H Antiport System Driven by the Proton Electrochemical Gradient of a Tonoplast H-ATPase from Oat Roots

Two types of ATP-dependent calcium (Ca(2+)) transport systems were detected in sealed microsomal vesicles from oat roots. Approximately 80% of the total Ca(2+) uptake was associated with vesicles of 1.11 grams per cubic centimeter and was insensitive to vanadate or azide, but inhibited by NO(3) (-). The remaining 20% was vanadate-sensitive and mostly associated with the endoplasmic reticulum, as the transport activity comigrated with an endoplasmic reticulum marker (antimycin A-insensitive NADH cytochrome c reductase), which was shifted from 1.11 to 1.20 grams per cubic centimeter by Mg(2+).Like the tonoplast H(+)-ATPase activity, vanadate-insensitive Ca(2+) accumulation was stimulated by 20 millimolar Cl(-) and inhibited by 10 micromolar 4,4'-diisothiocyano-2,2'-stilbene disulfonic acid or 50 micromolar N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide. This Ca(2+) transport system had an apparent K(m) for Mg-ATP of 0.24 millimolar similar to the tonoplast ATPase. The vanadate-insensitive Ca(2+) transport was abolished by compounds that eliminated a pH gradient and Ca(2+) dissipated a pH gradient (acid inside) generated by the tonoplast-type H(+)-ATPase. These results provide compelling evidence that a pH gradient generated by the H(+)-ATPase drives Ca(2+) accumulation into right-side-out tonoplast vesicles via a Ca(2+)/H(+) antiport. This transport system was saturable with respect to Ca(2+) (K(m) apparent = 14 micromolar). The Ca(2+)/H(+) antiport operated independently of the H(+)-ATPase since an artifically imposed pH gradient (acid inside) could also drive Ca(2+) accumulation. Ca(2+) transport by this system may be one major way in which vacuoles function in Ca(2+) homeostasis in the cytoplasm of plant cells.

Characterization of Anion Effects on the Nitrate-Sensitive ATP-Dependent Proton Pumping Activity of Soybean (Glycine max L.) Seedling Root Microsomes

The ATP-dependent proton-pumping activity of soybean (Glycine max L.) root microsomes is predominantly nitrate sensitive and presumably derived from the tonoplast. We used microsomes to characterize anion effects on proton pumping of the tonoplast vesicles using two distinctly different techniques.Preincubation of the vesicles with nitrate caused inhibition of proton pumping and ATPase activity, with similar concentration dependence. Fluoride, which preferentially inhibits the plasma membrane ATPase, inhibited ATPase activity strongly at concentrations which did not affect proton pumping activity.Addition of potassium salts, after a steady-state pH gradient is established in the absence of such salts, caused an increased pH gradient which was due to alleviation of Delta Psi and subsequent increased influx of H(+) into these vesicles. This anion-induced increase in the pH gradient could be used as a measure of the relative anion permeabilities, which were of the order Br(-) = NO(3) (-) > Cl(-) >> SO(4) (2-). Phosphate and fluoride caused no increase in the pH gradient. Since the concentration dependence of KCl- and KNO(3)-induced quenching exhibited a saturable component, and since H(+) uptake was increased by only certain anions, the data suggest that there may be a relatively specific anion channel associated with tonoplast-derived vesicles.

The proton pumps of the plasmalemma and the tonoplast of higher plants

Studies on intact cells, membrane vesicles, and reconstituted proteoliposomes have demonstrated in higher plants the existence of an ATP-driven electrogenic proton pump operating at the plasmalemma. There is also evidence of a second ATP-driven H+ pump localized at the tonoplast. The characteristics of both these ATP-driven pumps closely correspond to those of the plasmalemma and tonoplast proton pumps of Neurospora and yeasts.

Sugar transport in isolated corn root protoplasts

Isolated corn (Zea mays L.) root protoplasts were used to study sucrose and hexose uptake. It is found that glucose was preferentially taken up by the protoplasts over sucrose and other hexoses. Glucose uptake showed a biphasic dependence on external glucose concentration with saturable (K(m) of 7 millimolar) and linear components. In contrast, sucrose uptake only showed a linear kinetic curve. Sucrose and glucose uptake were linear over a minimum of 1 hour at pH 6.0 and 1 millimolar exogenous sugar concentration. Glucose uptake showed a sharp 42 degrees C temperature optimum, while sucrose uptake showed a lower temperature sensitivity which did not reach a maximum below 50 degrees C. Uptake of both sugars was sensitive to several metabolic inhibitors and external pH. Differences between sucrose and glucose uptake in two different sink tissue (i.e. protoplasts from corn roots and soybean cotyledons) are discussed.

Anion-Sensitive, H-Pumping ATPase of Oat Roots : Direct Effects of Cl, NO(3), and a Disulfonic Stilbene

To understand the mechanism and molecular properties of the tonoplast-type H(+)-translocating ATPase, we have studied the effect of Cl(-), NO(3) (-), and 4,4'-diisothiocyano-2,2'-stilbene disulfonic acid (DIDS) on the activity of the electrogenic H(+)-ATPase associated with low-density microsomal vesicles from oat roots (Avena sativa cv Lang). The H(+)-pumping ATPase generates a membrane potential (Deltapsi) and a pH gradient (DeltapH) that make up two interconvertible components of the proton electrochemical gradient (Deltamuh(+)). A permeant anion (e.g. Cl(-)), unlike an impermeant anion (e.g. iminodiacetate), dissipated the membrane potential ([(14)C]thiocyanate distribution) and stimulated formation of a pH gradient ([(14)C]methylamine distribution). However, Cl(-)-stimulated ATPase activity was about 75% caused by a direct stimulation of the ATPase by Cl(-) independent of the proton electrochemical gradient. Unlike the plasma membrane H(+)-ATPase, the Cl(-)-stimulated ATPase was inhibited by NO(3) (-) (a permeant anion) and by DIDS. In the absence of Cl(-), NO(3) (-) decreased membrane potential formation and did not stimulate pH gradient formation. The inhibition by NO(3) (-) of Cl(-)-stimulated pH gradient formation and Cl(-)-stimulated ATPase activity was noncompetitive. In the absence of Cl(-), DIDS inhibited the basal Mg,ATPase activity and membrane potential formation. DIDS also inhibited the Cl(-)-stimulated ATPase activity and pH gradient formation. Direct inhibition of the electrogenic H(+)-ATPase by NO(3) (-) or DIDS suggest that the vanadate-insensitive H(+)-pumping ATPase has anion-sensitive site(s) that regulate the catalytic and vectorial activity. Whether the anion-sensitive H(+)-ATPase has channels that conduct anions is yet to be established.

A link between transport and plasma membrane redox system(s) in carrot cells

Carrot (Daucus carota L.) cells grown in suspension culture oxidized exogeneous NADH. The NADH oxidation was able to stimulate K+ (86Rb+) transport into cells, but it did not affect sucrose transport. N,N'-Dicyclohexyl-carbodiimide, diethylstilbestrol, and oligomycin, which only partially inhibited NADH oxidation, almost completely collapsed the K+ (86Rb+) transport. Vanadate, which is less effective as an ion transport inhibitor, was less effective in inhibiting the NADH-driven transport of K+ (86Rb+). p-Fluormethoxycarbonylcyanide phenylhydrazone inhibits the K+ transport over 90% including that induced by NADH. The results are interpreted as evidence that a plasma membrane redox system in root cells is closely associated with the ATPase which can drive K+ transport. Because of the inhibitor effects, it appears that membrane components common to the redox system and ATPase function in the transport of K+.

Further Characterization on the Transport Property of Plasmalemma NADH Oxidation System in Isolated Corn Root Protoplasts

Recent experiments show that exogenous NADH increases the O(2) consumption and uptake of inorganic ions into isolated corn (Zea mays L. Pioneer Hybrid 3320) root protoplasts (Lin 1982, Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 79: 3773-3776). A mild treatment of protoplasts with trypsin released most of the NADH oxidation system from the plasmalemma (Lin 1982 Plant Physiol 70: 326-328). Further studies on this system showed that exogenous NADH (1.5 millimolar) tripled the proton efflux from the protoplasts thus generating a greater electrochemical proton gradient across the plasmalemma. Trypsin also released ubiquinone (11.95 nanomoles per milligrams protein) but not flavin or cytochrome from the system. Kinetic analyses showed that 1.5 millimolar NADH quadrupled V(max) of the mechanism I (saturable) component of K(+) uptake, while K(m) was not affected. Diethylstibestrol and vanadate inhibited basal (ATPase-mediated) K(+) influx and H(+) efflux, while NADH-stimulated K(+) uptake was not or only slightly inhibited. p-Chloromercuribenzene-sulfonic acid, N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide, ethidium bromide, and oligomycin inhibited both ATPase- and NADH-mediated H(+) and K(+) fluxes. A combination of 10 millimolar fusicoccin and 1.5 millimolar NADH gave an 11-fold increase of K(+) influx and a more than 3-fold increase of H(+) efflux. It is concluded that a plasmalemma ATPase is not involved in the NADH-mediated ion transport mechanism. NADH oxidase is a -SH containing enzyme (protein) and the proton channel is an important element in this transport system. Fusicoccin synergistically stimulates the effect of NADH on K(+) uptake.

Separation of two types of electrogenic h-pumping ATPases from oat roots

Microsomal vesicles of oat roots (Avena sativa var Lang) were separated with a linear dextran (0.5-10%, w/w) or sucrose (25-45%, w/w) gradient to determine the types and membrane identity of proton-pumping ATPases associated with plant membranes. ATPase activity stimulated by the H(+)/K(+) exchange ionophore nigericin exhibited two peaks of activity on a linear dextran gradient. ATPase activities or ATP-generated membrane potential (inside positive), monitored by SCN(-) distribution, included a vanadate-insensitive and a vanadate-sensitive component. In a previous communication, we reported that ATP-dependent pH gradient formation (acid inside), monitored by quinacrine fluorescence quenching, was also partially inhibited by vanadate (Churchill and Sze 1983 Plant Physiol 71: 610-617). Here we show that the vanadate-insensitive, electrogenic ATPase activity was enriched in the low density vesicles (1-4% dextran or 25-32% sucrose) while the vanadate-sensitive activity was enriched at 4% to 7% dextran or 32% to 37% sucrose. The low-density ATPase was stimulated by Cl(-) and inhibited by NO(-) (3) or 4,4'-diisothiocyano-2,2'-stilbene disulfonic acid (DIDS). The distribution of Cl(-)-stimulated ATPase activity in a linear dextran gradient correlated with the distribution of H(+) pumping into vesicles as monitored by [(14)C]methylamine accumulation. The vanadate-inhibited ATPase was mostly insensitive to anions or DIDS and stimulated by K(+). These results show that microsomal vesicles of plant tissues have at least two types of electrogenic, proton-pumping ATPases. The vanadate-insensitive and Cl(-)-stimulated, H(+)-pumping ATPase may be enriched in vacuolar-type membranes; the H(+)-pumping ATPase that is stimulated by K(+) and inhibited by vanadate is most likely associated with plasma membrane-type vesicles.

Evidence for an electrogenic adenosine-triphosphatase in Hevea tonoplast vesicles

The function of the Mg-dependent ATPase of Hevea tonoplast in active proton transport was investigated by using a purified tonoplast fraction containing tightly sealed vesicles. In the used experimental conditions, the uptake of [(14)C]triphenylmethyl-phosphonium ion ([(14)C]TPMP(+)) and [(3)H]tetraphenyl-phosphonium ion ([(3)H]TPP(+)) by the vesicles indicated a transmembrane potential difference, negative inside. In parallel, the uptake of [(14)C]methylamine into the vesicles monitored a transmembrane pH gradient, interior acid. The addition of 5 mM Mg-ATP markedly depolarized the membrane and increased the magnitude of trnasmembrane pH gradient. These ATP-driven events were substrate specific for Mg-ATP. They were strongly inhibited by ATPase inhibitors such as N, N'-dicyclohexylcar-bodiimide. They were completely eliminated by proton conductors such as carbonylcyanide-p-trifluoromethoxy-phenylhydrazone and 5-chloro-3-tert-butyl-2'-chloro-4-nitro-salicylanilide. They depended on the pH of the medium, the maximum being reached at about pH 7.0. These data provide in vitro evidence that the Mg-ATPase localized at tonoplast level is an electrogenic pump. They are consistent with the hypothesis that an electrogenic H(+) pump is catalyzed by the tonoplast ATPase of higher plants.

Characterization of a NO(3)-Sensitive H-ATPase from Corn Roots

When assayed in the presence of azide, NO(3) (-) was shown to be a specific inhibitor of a proton-translocating ATPase present in corn (Zea mays L. cv WF9 x M017) root microsomal membranes. The distribution of the NO(3) (-)-sensitive ATPase on sucrose gradients and its general characteristics are similar to those previously reported for the anion-stimulated H(+)-ATPase of corn roots believed to be of tonoplast origin. An ATPase inhibited by 20 mum vanadate and insensitive to molybdate was also identified in corn root microsomal membranes which could be largely separated from the NO(3) (-)-sensitive ATPase on sucrose gradients and is believed to be of plasma membrane origin. Inasmuch as both ATPase most likely catalyze the efflux of H(+) from the cytoplasm, our objective was to characterize and compare the properties of both ATPases under identical experimental conditions. The vanadate-sensitive ATPase was stimulated by cations (K(+) > NH(4) (+) > Rb(+) > Cs(+) > Li(+) > Na(+) > choline(+)) whereas the NO(3) (-)-sensitive ATPase was stimulated by anions (Cl(-) > Br(-) > C(2)H(3)O(2) (-) > SO(4) (2-) > I(-) > HCO(3) (-) > SCN(-)). Both ATPases required divalent cations. However, the order of preference for the NO(3) (-)-sensitive ATPase (Mn(2+) > Mg(2+) > Co(2+) > Ca(2+) > Zn(2+)) differed from that of the vanadate-sensitive ATPase (Co(2+) > Mg(2+) > Mn(2+) > Zn(2+) > Ca(2+)). The vanadate-sensitive ATPase required higher concentrations of Mg:ATP for full activity than did the NO(3) (-)-sensitive ATPase. The kinetics for Mg:ATP were complex for the vanadate-sensitive ATPase, indicating positive cooperativity, but were simple for the NO(3) (-)-sensitive ATPase. Both ATPases exhibited similar temperature and pH optima (pH 6.5). The NO(3) (-)-sensitive ATPase was stimulated by gramicidin and was associated with NO(3) (-)-inhibitable H(+) transport measured as quenching of quinacrine fluorescence. It was insensitive to molybdate, azide, and vanadate, but exhibited slight sensitivity to ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl carbodiimide) and mersalyl. Overall, these results indicate several properties which distinguish these two ATPases and suggest that under defined conditions NO(3) (-)-sensitive ATPase activity may be used as a quantitative marker for those membranes identified tentatively as tonoplast in mixed or nonpurified membrane fractions. We feel that NO(3) (-) sensitivity is a better criterion by which to identify this ATPase than either Cl(-) stimulation or H(+) transport because it is less ambiguous. It is also useful in identifying the enzyme following solubilization.

Anion-sensitive, h-pumping ATPase in membrane vesicles from oat roots

H(+)-pumping ATPases were detected in microsomal vesicles of oat (Avena sativa L. var Lang) roots using [(14)C]methylamine distribution or quinacrine fluorescent quenching. Methylamine (MeA) accumulation into vesicles and quinacrine quench were specifically dependent on Mg,ATP. Both activities reflected formation of a proton gradient (DeltapH) (acid inside) as carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone, nigericin (in the presence of K(+)), or gramicidin decreased MeA uptake or increased quinacrine fluorescence. The properties of H(+) pumping as measured by MeA uptake were characterized. The K(m) (app) for ATP was about 0.1 millimolar. Mg,GTP and Mg, pyrophosphate were 19% and 30% as effective as Mg,ATP. MeA uptake was inhibited by N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide and was mostly insensitive to oligomycin, vanadate, or copper. ATP-dependent MeA was stimulated by anions with decreasing order of potency of Cl(-) > Br(-) > NO(3) (-) > SO(4) (2-), iminodiacetate, benzene sulfonate. Anion stimulation of H(+) pumping was caused in part by the ability of permeant anions to dissipate the electrical potential and in part by a specific requirement of Cl(-) by a H(+) -pumping ATPase. A pH gradient, probably caused by a Donnan potential, could be dissipated by K(+) in the presence or absence of ATP. MeA uptake was enriched in vesicles of relatively low density and showed a parallel distribution with vanadate-insensitive ATPase activity on a continuous dextran gradient. DeltapH as measured by quinacrine quench was partially vanadate-sensitive. These results show that plant membranes have at least two types of H(+) -pumping ATPases. One is vanadate-sensitive and probably enriched in the plasma membrane. One is vanadate-resistant, anion-sensitive and has many properties characteristic of a vacuolar ATPase. These results are consistent with the presence of electrogenic H(+) pumps at the plasma membrane and tonoplast of higher plant cells.

Plasma membrane ATPase of red beet forms a phosphorylated intermediate

When a plasma membrane-enriched fraction isolated from red beet (Beta vulgaris L.) was incubated in the presence of 40 micromolar [gamma-(32)P] ATP, 40 micromolar MgSO(4) at pH 6.5, a rapidly turning over phosphorylated protein was formed. Phosphorylation of the protein was substrate-specific for ATP, sensitive to diethylstilbestrol and vanadate, but insensitive to azide. When the dephosphorylation reaction was specifically studied, KCl was found to increase the turnover of the phosphorylated protein consistent with its stimulatory effect upon plasma membrane ATPase. The protein-bound phosphate was found to be most stable at a pH between 2 and 3 and under cold temperature, suggesting that the protein phosphate bond was an acyl-phosphate. When the phosphorylated protein was analyzed with lithium dodecyl sulfate gel electrophoresis, a labeled polypeptide with a molecular weight of about 100,000 daltons was observed. Phosphorylation of this polypeptide was rapidly turning over and Mg-dependent. It is concluded that the phosphorylation observed represents a reaction intermediate of the red beet plasma membrane ATPase.

Membrane-associated ATPases in isolated secretory vesicles

Polysaccharide-containing vesicles were collected from secretory cells maintained in liquid culture. Characterization of membrane-associated nucleosidephosphatases revealed that the vesicles specifically hydrolyze ATP, have a pH optimum between 6.0 and 6.5, and are stimulated by inorganic cations, especially K(+). The ATPase activity in these vesicles was inhibited by orthovanadate and N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide; other inhibitors, such as oligomycin, sodium azide, and diethylstilbestrol were generally ineffective. Results from these studies are consistent with the notion that vesicles derived from the Golgi apparatus have partially differentiated into plasmalemma before they fuse with the plasma membrane.

Dependence of the membrane potential on intracellular ATP concentration in tonoplast-free cells of Nitellopsis obtusa

The membrane potential of tonoplast-free cells of Nitellopsis obtusa Graves in relation to the intracellulcar concentration of ATP ([ATP])i was measured using either the ordinary microelectrode method or the open-vacuole method (M. Tazawa, M. Kikuyama and S. Nakagawa, 1975, Plant Cell Physiol. 16, 611). The intracellular ATP concentration was modified in the microelectrode method by introducing into the cell ATP-regenerating media composed of phosphoenolpyruvate and pyruvate kinase, and in the open-vacuole method by continuously perfusing the cell interior with media of known ATP concentrations. Plots of the membrane potential against the [ATP]i follow a rectangular hyperbola. Using the microelectrode method, the maximum ATP-dependent potential was about-120-130 mV and the apparent K m about 10-30 μM. When the openvacuole method was used, the maximum ATP-dependent potential was about 100 mV and the apparent K m about 100 μM. The membrane was still excitable when the [ATP]i was 10 μM but not at 1.7 μM [ATP]i. The membrane resistance increased in parallel with a decrease in [ATP]i or membrane depolarization, but decreased again at a very low [ATP]i (1.7 μM).

Characterization of a k-stimulated adenosine triphosphatase associated with the plasma membrane of red beet

A membrane fraction enriched with a magnesium-dependent, monovalent cation-stimulated ATPase was isolated from red beet (Beta vulgaris L.) storage roots by a combination of differential centrifugation, extraction with KI, and sucrose density gradient centrifugation. This fraction was distinct from endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi, mitochondrial, and possibly tonoplast membranes as determined from an analysis of marker enzymes. The ATPase activity associated with this fraction was further characterized and found to have a pH optimum of 6.5 in the presence of both Mg(2+) and K(+). The activity was substrate specific for ATP and had a temperature optimum near 40 degrees C. Kinetics with Mg:ATP followed a simple Michaelis-Menten relationship. However the kinetics of K(+)-stimulation were complex and suggestive of negative cooperativity. When monovalent cations were present at 2.5 millimolarity, ATPase was stimulated in the sequence K(+) > Rb(+) > Na(+) > Li(+) but when the concentration was raised to 50 millimolarity, the sequence changed to K(+) >/= Na(+) >/= Rb(+) > Li. The activity was not synergistically stimulated by combinations of Na(+) and K(+). The enzyme was insensitive to NaN(3), oligomycin, ouabain, and sodium molybdate but sensitive to N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide, diethylstilbestrol, and sodium vanadate. Based on the similarity between the properties of this ATPase activity and those from other well characterized plant tissues, it has been concluded that this membrane fraction is enriched with plasma membrane vesicles.

Localization of the proton pump of corn coleoptile microsomal membranes by density gradient centrifugation

Previous studies characterizing an ATP-dependent proton pump in microsomal membrane vesicles of corn coleoptiles led to the conclusion that the proton pump was neither mitochondrial nor plasma membrane in origin (Mettler, Mandala, Taiz 1982 Plant Physiol 70: 1738-1742). To facilitate positive identification of the vesicles, corn coleoptile microsomal membranes were fractionated on linear sucrose and dextran gradients, with ATP-dependent [(14)C]methylamine uptake as a probe for proton pumping. On sucrose gradients, proton pumping activity exhibited a density of 1.11 grams/cubic centimeter and was coincident with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). In the presence of high magnesium, the ER shifted to a heavier density, while proton pumping activity showed no density shift. On linear dextran gradients, proton pumping activity peaked at a lighter density than the ER. The proton pump appears to be electrogenic since both [(14)C]SCN(-) uptake and (36)Cl(-) uptake activities coincided with [(14)C] methylamine uptake on dextran gradients. On the basis of density and transport properties, we conclude that the proton pumping vesicles are probably derived from the tonoplast. Nigericin-stimulated ATPase activity showed a broad distribution which did not coincide with any one membrane marker.

Characterization of a proton-translocating ATPase in microsomal vesicles from corn roots

Sealed microsomal vesicles were prepared from corn (Zea mays, Crow Single Cross Hybrid WF9-Mo17) roots by centrifugation of a 10,000 to 80,000g microsomal fraction onto a 10% dextran T-70 cushion. The Mg(2+)-ATPase activity of the sealed vesicles was stimulated by Cl(-) and NH(4) (+) and by ionophores and protonophores such as 2 micromolar gramicidin or 10 micromolar carbonyl cyanide p-trifluoromethoxyphenyl hydrazone (FCCP). The ionophore-stimulated ATPase activity had a broad pH optimum with a maximum at pH 6.5. The ATPase was inhibited by NO(3) (-), was insensitive to K(+), and was not inhibited by 100 micromolar vanadate or by 1 millimolar azide.Quenching of quinacrine fluorescence was used to measure ATP-dependent acidification of the intravesicular volume. Quenching required Mg(2+), was stimulated by Cl(-), inhibited by NO(3) (-), was insensitive to monovalent cations, was unaffected by 200 micromolar vanadate, and was abolished by 2 micromolar gramicidin or 10 micromolar FCCP. Activity was highly specific for ATP. The ionophore-stimulated ATPase and ATP-dependent fluorescence quench both required a divalent cation (Mg(2+) >/= Mn(2+) > Co(2+)) and were inhibited by high concentrations of Ca(2+). The similarity of the ionophore-stimulated ATPase and quinacrine quench and the responses of the two to ions suggest that both represent the activity of the same ATP-dependent proton pump. The characteristics of the proton-translocating ATPase differed from those of the mitochondrial F(1)F(0)-ATPase and from those of the K(+)-stimulated ATPase of corn root plasma membranes, and resembled those of the tonoplast ATPase.

Characterization of in vitro proton pumping by microsomal vesicles isolated from corn coleoptiles

Corn (Zea mays L. cv Golden Cross Bantam) coleoptile microsomal vesicles have been isolated which are capable of ATP-driven H(+)-transport as measured by [(14)C]methylamine accumulation and quinacrine fluorescence quenching. Formation of the pH gradient in vitro shows a high specificity for ATP.Mg, is temperature-sensitive, exhibits a pH optimum at 7.5, and is inhibited by carbonyl cyanide-m-chlorophenylhydrazone. Of the divalent cations tested, Mn(2+) is almost as effective as Mg(2+), while Ca(2+) is ineffective. Excess divalent cations, particularly Ca(2+), reduces the pH gradient. H(+) transport is strongly promoted by anions, especially chloride, while potassium does not affect pump activity. Studies with (36)Cl(-) indicate that ATP-driven H(+) transport into the vesicles is associated with chloride uptake. Both carbonyl cyanide-m-chlorophenylhydrazone and the anion transport inhibitor, 4,4'-diisothiocyano-2,2'-disulfonic acid stilbene, inhibit methylamine accumulation and (36)Cl(-) uptake. Proton pumping is also blocked by diethyl stilbestrol and N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide, but is insensitive to oligomycin and vanadate. These properties of the pump are inconsistent with either a mitochondrial or plasma membrane origin.

Effect of vanadate, molybdate, and azide on membrane-associated ATPase and soluble phosphatase activities of corn roots

The effects of vanadate, molybdate, and azide on ATP phosphohydrolase (ATPase) and acid phosphatase activities of plasma membrane, mitochondrial, and soluble supernatant fractions from corn (Zea mays L. WF9 x MO17) roots were investigated. Azide (0.1-10 millimolar) was a selective inhibitor of pH 9.0-ATPase activity of the mitochondrial fraction, while molybdate (0.01-1.0 millimolar) was a relatively selective inhibitor of acid phosphatase activity in the supernatant fraction. The pH 6.4-ATPase activity of the plasma membrane fraction was inhibited by vanadate (10-500 micromolar), but vanadate, at similar concentrations, also inhibited acid phosphatase activity. This result was confirmed for oat (Avena sativa L.) root and coleoptile tissues. While vanadate does not appear to be a selective inhibitor, it can be used in combination with molybdate and azide to distinguish the plasma membrane ATPase from mitochondrial ATPase or supernatant acid phosphatase.Vanadate appeared to be a noncompetitive inhibitor of the plasma membrane ATPase, and its effectiveness was increased by K(+). K(+)-stimulated ATPase activity was inhibited by 50% at about 21 micromolar vanadate. The rate of K(+) transport in excised corn root segments was inhibited by 66% by 500 micromolar vanadate.

Phosphorylation of the adenosine triphosphatase in a deoxycholate-treated plasma membrane fraction from corn roots

The ATP phosphohydrolase (ATPase) activity of a corn (Zea mays L., WF9 x Mo17) root plasma membrane fraction was enriched almost 2-fold by selective extraction with 0.1% (w/v) deoxycholate. The detergent treatment solubilized about 30% of the total membrane protein and some ATP hydrolyzing activity that was not K(+)-stimulated, but the major portion of the ATPase activity could be pelleted with membranes. The properties of the ATPase associated with the detergent-extracted plasma membrane fraction were similar to those for the ATPase of the untreated plasma membrane fraction with respect to substrate specificity, pH optimum, kinetics with MgATP, ion stimulation, and inhibitor sensitivity. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed only minor differences in protein composition resulting from the detergent treatment.The plasma membrane fraction from corn roots contained an endogenous protein kinase activity. This was shown by the time course of phosphate incorporation and by the labeling of a number of protein bands on SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The deoxycholate treatment removed measurable protein kinase activity and allowed the demonstration of a rapidly turning over covalent phosphorylated intermediate associated with the detergent-extracted plasma membrane fraction. The phosphorylated intermediate was present as a 100,000 dalton polypeptide and may represent the catalytic subunit of the plasma membrane K(+)-ATPase.

Localization of a proton-translocating ATPase on sucrose gradients

Ionophore-stimulated ATPase activity and ATP-dependent quinacrine quench were enriched in parallel when microsomal vesicles were prepared from corn (Crow Single Cross Hybrid WF9-Mo17) roots and collected on a cushion of 10% dextran. Activities were highest in the apical 1.5 centimeters of the roots. Vesicles collected on the dextran cushion also contained NADH cytochrome c reductase (enriched in the apical 0.5 cm of the root) and nucleoside diphosphatase (distributed throughout the first four cm). On continuous sucrose gradients, ATP-dependent proton transport and ionophore-stimulated ATPase activity coincided in a broad band extending from 1.08 to 1.15 grams per cubic centimeter with maximum activity at 1.10 to 1.12 grams per cubic centimeter. Large portions of the proton-translocating ATPase activity and ionophore-stimulated ATPase activity were clearly separable from mitochondrial membranes containing cytochrome c oxidase activity and azide-sensitive, pH 8.5 ATPase activity and from membranes bearing beta-glucan synthetase I and II. The vesicles coincided with a minor portion of the NADH-cytochrome c reductase and nucleoside diphosphatase activities. It is suggested that the vesicles are of tonoplast origin.

Characterization of nigericin-stimulated ATPase from sealed microsomal vesicles of tobacco callus

To understand the function and membrane origin of ionophore-stimulated ATPases, the activity of nigericin-stimulated ATPase was characterized from a low-density microsomal fraction containing sealed vesicles of autonomous tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum Linnaeous cv. Wisconsin no. 38) callus. The properties of KCl-stimulated, Mg-requiring ATPases (KCl-Mg,ATPase) were similar in the absence or presence of nigericin. Nigericin (or gramicidin) stimulation of a KCl-Mg,ATPase activity was optimum at pH 6.5 to 7.0. The enzyme was inhibited completely by N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (10 mum), tributyltin (5 mum), and partially by vanadate (200 mum), but it was insensitive to fusicoccin and mitochondrial ATPase inhibitors, such as azide (1 mm) and oligomycin (5 mug/ml). The ATPase was more sensitive to anions than cations. Cations stimulated ATPase activity with a selectivity sequence of NH(4) (+) > K(+), Rb(+), Cs(+), Na(+), Li(+) > Tris(+). Anions stimulated Mg, ATPase activity with a decreasing sequence of Cl(-) = acetate > SO(4) (2-) > benzene sulfonate > NO(3) (-). The anion stimulation was caused partly by dissipation of the electrical potential (interior positive) by permeant anions and partly by a specific ionic effect. Plant membranes had at least two classes of nigericin-stimulated ATPases: one sensitive and one insensitive to vanadate. Many of the properties of the nigericin-sensitive, salt-stimulated Mg,ATPase were similar to a vanadate-sensitive plasma membrane ATPase of plant tissues, yet other properties (anion stimulation and vanadate insensitivity) resembled those of a tonoplast ATPase. These results support the idea that nigericin-stimulated ATPases are mainly electrogenic H(+) pumps originated in part from the plasma membrane and in part from other nonmitochondrial membranes, such as the tonoplast.

Evidence for a Cl-Stimulated MgATPase Proton Pump in Oat Root Membranes

The possibility that plant membrane-bound MgATPases may act as electrogenic proton pumps has been investigated. Using an oat (Avena sativa L. cv. Victory) root membrane preparation which is partially enriched in tightly sealed vesicles, we have shown that MgATP stimulates the uptake of the membrane-permeable anion [(14)C]SCN(-) by the vesicles; this indicates that an electrical potential (interior positive) is generated across the membrane. Both Cl(-) ions and the proton ionophore trifluoromethoxy(carbonyl-cyanide)phenylhydrazone inhibit the MgATP-driven [(14)C]SCN(-) uptake, presumably by collapsing the MgATP-generated membrane potential. The uptake of the pH gradient probe [(14)C]imidazole into the vesicles is also greatly stimulated by MgATP, indicating the presence of a transmembrane proton gradient (interior acid). MgATP-driven [(14)C]imidazole uptake is temperature sensitive, Cl(-)-stimulated, substrate specific for MgATP, sensitive to the MgATPase inhibitors vanadate and N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide, and completely eliminated by trifluoromethoxy(carboxyl-cyanide)phenylhydrazone. The mitochondrial ATPase inhibitor oligomycin has little effect on the MgATPase activity and on the MgATP-dependent [(14)C]SCN(-) and [(14)C]imidazole uptake. These data indicate that a class of oat root membrane-bound MgATPases, stimulated primarily by Cl ions, is capable of using the free energy of ATP-hydrolysis to generate an apparent electrochemical proton gradient in vitro.