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. 1988 Apr;7(4):1139–1145. doi: 10.1002/j.1460-2075.1988.tb02923.x

Unfolding and refolding of a purified precursor protein during import into isolated mitochondria.

M Eilers 1, S Hwang 1, G Schatz 1
PMCID: PMC454448  PMID: 2841112

Abstract

A purified mitochondrial precursor protein unfolds to a protease-sensitive conformation at the surface of isolated mitochondria before being imported into the organelles. This unfolding is stimulated by a potential across the mitochondrial inner membrane, but does not require ATP. In contrast, import of the surface-bound unfolded precursor requires ATP, but no potential; it is accompanied by a refolding inside the mitochondria.

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Selected References

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