Small Molecule Mitochondrial Uncouplers and Their Therapeutic Potential

J Med Chem. 2018 Jun 14;61(11):4641-4655. doi: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.7b01182. Epub 2017 Dec 8.

Abstract

Small molecule mitochondrial uncouplers transport protons from the mitochondrial inner membrane space into the mitochondrial matrix independent of ATP synthase, uncoupling nutrient metabolism from ATP generation. The therapeutic potential of mitochondrial uncouplers has been investigated for the treatment of metabolic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D), ischemia-reperfusion injury, and neurodegenerative diseases. This communication will review the small molecule mitochondrial uncouplers reported to date and explore their potential as therapeutics.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biological Products / pharmacology
  • Biological Products / therapeutic use
  • Cell Respiration / drug effects
  • Drug Synergism
  • Humans
  • Mitochondria / drug effects*
  • Mitochondria / metabolism*
  • Small Molecule Libraries / pharmacology*
  • Small Molecule Libraries / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Biological Products
  • Small Molecule Libraries