The ATP-driven Na(+)-pump in the plasma membrane of the marine unicellular alga, Platymonas viridis.

The ATP-supported 22NA+ uptake by plasma membrane vesicles from the marine microalga, Platymonas viridis, was studied. At pH 7 in the medium, Na+ uptake did not occur in the presence of ATP although delta pH across the plasma membrane was generated. The ATP-dependent Na+ uptake was induced by adding the protonophore, ClCCP. At pH 8, Na+ uptake took place when ATP was added even without ClCCP. The delta pH generated across the plasma membrane was negligible under these conditions. The Na+ uptake at pH 8 was not affected by ClCCP and amiloride, an inhibitor of the Na+/H+ antiporter. It is concluded that the ATP-supported Na+ uptake by Pl. viridis vesicles is catalyzed by Na(+)-ATPase.