What role does ATPase play in cellular metabolism?

ATPase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism by breaking down ATP (adenosine triphosphate) into ADP (adenosine diphosphate) and inorganic phosphate. This hydrolysis reaction results in the release of energy, which is essential for various cellular processes, such as muscle contraction, active transport of molecules across membranes, and biosynthesis of macromolecules.

The significance of ATPase in releasing energy stems from the high-energy phosphate bonds within ATP. When ATPase catalyzes the breakdown of ATP, it provides the energy needed to fuel many biochemical reactions and cellular activities. This process is fundamental to the functioning of all living cells, as it allows them to perform necessary tasks that sustain life.

In contrast, synthesizing ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate is carried out by ATP synthase, not ATPase. Active transport of molecules against their concentration gradients involves different transport proteins or pumps, which may use the energy provided by ATP hydrolysis. Regarding DNA replication, this process is aided by DNA polymerases and other specific enzymes rather than ATPase. Thus, the role of ATPase is specifically related to the breakdown of ATP and the release of energy, which is why it is the correct choice in this