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Updated: Aug 16, 2026

The Use of the Patch-Clamp Technique to Study the Thermogenic Capacity of Mitochondria
Published on: May 3, 2021
Physiological functions of the mitochondrial uncoupling proteins UCP2 and UCP3
Martin D Brand1, Telma C Esteves
1MRC Dunn Human Nutrition Unit, Hills Road, Cambridge, United Kingdom. martin.brand@mrc-dunn.cam.ac.uk
Abstract:
Evidence for the physiological functions of UCP2 and UCP3 is critically reviewed. They do not mediate adaptive thermogenesis, but they may be significantly thermogenic under specific pharmacological conditions. There is strong evidence that the mild regulated uncoupling they cause attenuates mitochondrial ROS production, protects against cellular damage, and diminishes insulin secretion. Evidence that they export fatty acids physiologically is weak. UCP2 and UCP3 are important potential targets for treatment of aging, degenerative diseases, diabetes, and perhaps obesity.
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