PROTECTION AND REACTIVATION OF OXIDATIVE-PHOSPHORYLATION IN MITOCHONDRIA BY A STABLE FREE-RADICAL PROSTAGLANDIN POLYMER (PGBX)

A PGBx was synthesized that exhibits regenerative effects on oxidative phosphorylation in aged [rat liver] mitochondria. The MW of the most active preparations fell between 2000-2600. PGBx was characterized by a single-line ESR spectrum that was stable at room temperature. PGBx restored phosphorylating ability and net ATP synthesis in isolated mitochondria aged for 4 days at 0.degree. C and protected against further degradation of phosphorylating activity when such aged mitochondria are preincubated at 28.degree. C in the absence of adenine nucleotide phosphate acceptors. This compound has been reported to exert beneficial effects in vivo in experimental pathological conditions, such as regional ischemia, in which the mitochondria of the ischemic region may be damaged.