The atp operon: nucleotide sequence of the promoter and the genes for the membrane proteins, and the δ subunit of Escherichia coli ATP-synthase

Abstract

The nucleotide sequence of the promoter region and the first five genes of the atp (or unc) operon of Escherichia coli has been determined. The first proposed gene in the operon contains four AUA codons and may be poorly expressed; it encodes a basic but yet hydrophobic protein which could function as a pilot protein for assembly of ATP-synthase. The three genes that follow are structural genes for proteins comprising the proton channel of the enzyme. The fifth gene codes for the delta-subunit of F(1)-ATPase.