QUESTION 3 24Dinitrophenol DNP is a molecule that can shuttl

QUESTION 3

2,4-Dinitrophenol (DNP) is a molecule that can shuttle protons across cellular membranes and was used in diet pills in the 1930s (but was quickly discontinued for its lethality). Explain how this molecule might induce weight loss, and why its consumption is often fatal.

QUESTION 4

How might a pathogenic mutation in the mitochondrial genome disrupt glycolysis and the pentose phosphate pathway?

Solution

Ans 3

DNP is used as weight loss diet pill . When the proton passes through ATP synthase , the energy is used to derive ATP creation. This drift of proton causes steady supply of ATP . Now when DNP is present it acts as a protonophore . This causes the drift of protons back into inner membrane of mitochondria and bypass the ATP synthase. This way the ATP is not produced, the energy simply gets wastee in the form of radiated heat.

DNP can cause acute toxicity . It leads to increased basal metabolic rate, nausea, vomiting , sweating , dizziness and headache. It can also lead to formation of cataracts and skin lesions and cause effect on bone marrow, central nervous system and cardiovascular disease system.