title: Na(+) as coupling ion in energy transduction in extremophilic Bacteria and Archaea.
abstract: For microorganisms to live under extreme physical conditions requires important adaptations of the cells. In many organisms the use of Na(+) instead of protons as coupling ion in energy transduction is associated with such adaptation. This review focuses on the enzymes that are responsible for the generation and utilization of Na(+) gradients in extremophilic microorganisms. Aspects that are dealt with include: bioenergetics and ion homeostasis in extremophilic Bacteria and Archaea; the molecular mechanism of Na(+) translocation; and (dis)advantages of Na(+) as coupling ion in energy transduction.
authors.affiliation: , .
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Speelmans
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Poolman
authors.forename: W N
authors.initials: WN
authors.lastname: Konings