It uses a proton gradient to drive ATP synthesis by allowing the passive flux of protons across the membrane down their electrochemical gradient and using the energy released by the transport reaction to release newly formed ATP from the active site of F-ATPase.

Together with V-ATPases and A-ATPases, F-ATPases belong to superfamily of related rotary ATPases.

That is to say, it usually makes ATP from the proton gradient instead of working in the other direction like V-ATPases typically do.

The Bovine Mitochondrial F1-ATPase Complexed with the inhibitor protein If1 is commonly cited in the relevant literature.

Examples of its use may be found in many cellular fundamental metabolic activities such as acidosis and alkalosis and respiratory gas exchange.