Controlled-release mitochondrial protonophore reverses diabetes and steatohepatitis in rats

Abstract

Special delivery for fatty liver disease Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is one of many unwelcome consequences of the global rise in obesity rates. Fat accumulation within the liver can lead to inflammation and cirrhosis, a predisposing factor for liver cancer. Treatment options are limited. Perry et al. revisit a mitochondrial uncoupling agent (2,4-dinitrophenol) that was used as a drug for weight loss in the 1930s but was discontinued because of serious toxicities. Encouragingly, an altered formulation of the drug that ensures its controlled release at low levels ameliorated fatty liver and diabetes in rodent models, without side effects. Science , this issue p. 1253