Energy that is generated by the transfer of protons or electrons across an energy-transducing
membrane and that can be used for chemical, osmotic, or mechanical work. Proton-motive
force can be generated by a variety of phenomena including the operation of an electron
transport chain, illumination of a PURPLE MEMBRANE, and the hydrolysis of ATP by a
proton ATPase. (From Singleton & Sainsbury, Dictionary of Microbiology and Molecular
Biology, 2d ed, p171)
Note publique d''information :
Change in HYDROGEN-ION CONCENTRATION across a membrane. The pH gradient together with
the voltage gradient constitute an electrochemical proton gradient which exerts the
PROTON-MOTIVE FORCE