Proton Pump

Proton pumps are vital enzymes found across various biological membranes. They actively transport protons (hydrogen ions, H⁺) out of cells or into organelles, playing a critical role in maintaining pH balance and ionic gradients essential for cellular functions. One of the most well-known proton pumps is the gastric H⁺/K⁺ ATPase, which secretes hydrochloric acid into the stomach for digestion. Another key type is the vacuolar-type H⁺-ATPase found in intracellular compartments. Dysfunctions in proton pumps can lead to diseases like acid reflux, osteoporosis, and lysosomal storage disorders. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are drugs designed to block these pumps, effectively treating conditions like peptic ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).