Efflux pumps operate by utilizing energy, often derived from ATP hydrolysis, to transport toxic substances out of the cell. This action involves the binding of the toxic substrate to the pump, followed by a conformational change that facilitates the expulsion of the substrate outside the cell membrane. These pumps are highly specific, meaning they often recognize and transport specific substrates. However, some efflux pumps can expel a wide variety of substances, contributing to multidrug resistance.
