Cherimolin-1, new selective inhibitor of the first energy-coupling site of the NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase (complex I)

The mechanism linking electron transport to proton translocation in the NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase (complex I of the mitochondrial respiratory chain) is still unclear. Inhibitors acting at different sites of the enzyme are powerful tools to clarify this mechanism. Up to now, a unique inhibitor, the Annonaceous acetogenin rolliniastatin-2, selectively blocks the most internal proton-translocation site. This study introduces cherimolin-1, a new acetogenin that inhibits the complex I with this special mode of action, which is more easily available from the plant material. Moreover, the mode of action of this scarce type of complex I inhibitor is further characterized. (C) 1997 Academic Press.