At one time the uncoupler 2, 4-dinitrophenol was used as a weight reducing drug. Its side-effects, including death, resulted in its discontinued use. How could this drug cause weight loss?

Question

ObjectiveMcq · Accepted Answer

The uncoupler allows the oxidation of fats from adipose tissue without the production of ATP. This allows the oxidation to proceed continuously and use up the fats.

ObjectiveMcq · Answer

The uncoupler is an allosteric activator of ATP synthase. This increases the rate of translocation of H+ and the oxidation of fuels, including fats.

ObjectiveMcq · Answer

The uncoupler inhibits the transport of pyruvate into the matrix of the mitochondria. Fats are then degraded to glycerol and subsequently to pyruvate to provide the necessary energy. Thereby depleting fat stores.

ObjectiveMcq · Answer

The uncoupler causes ATP to be produced at a much higher rate than normal and this causes weight loss.