Bacterial flagellar motor and H(+)/ATP synthase: two proton-driven rotary molecular devices with different functions

Both the bacterial flagellar motor and the H(+)/ATP synthase are membrane-bound macromolecular complexes in which the movement of protons through channels across the membrane is coupled to the rotation of a part of the complex around an axis perpendicular to the membrane. Despite this similarity, the two devices are designed for quite different functions. The flagellar motor is responsible for a practically smooth rotation of the flagellar filament in order to propel the cell. Smooth rotation is not essential for the H(+)/ATP synthase, which accumulates torque by twisting a rod-shaped structure. Possible mechanisms for generating torque in the two devices are presented, based on the models which have been proposed. The performances of the various mechanisms are discussed.