MT-ND (mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase) 抑制因子

The MT-ND family, consisting of mitochondrially encoded NADH dehydrogenase genes, plays a pivotal role in the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC), essential for cellular energy production. These genes encode subunits of Complex I, the largest and first enzyme complex in the ETC, which initiates the process of oxidative phosphorylation by transferring electrons from NADH to ubiquinone. Complex I is integral in creating a proton gradient across the inner mitochondrial membrane, a critical step for ATP synthesis. The MT-ND genes contribute to the formation of the core structure and functional sites of Complex I, ensuring efficient electron transfer and coupling with proton translocation. Furthermore, the MT-ND family is involved in generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) as by-products of electron transport, linking mitochondrial function to cellular signaling pathways related to stress response and apoptosis.

Targeting NADH dehydrogenase (Complex I) for disruption or inhibition using small molecules is a fundamental approach in mitochondrial biology to understand the mechanism of ETC and its impact on cellular metabolism. Inhibition of Complex I allows researchers to investigate the consequences of reduced electron transport and consequent decrease in the mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP synthesis.