Uncoupling protein

A uncoupling protein is a proton channel which disrupts the gradient before it can be used to provide the energy for oxidative phosphorylation.

There are five types known in mammals:
 * , also known as thermogenin
 * , also known as "UCP4"
 * , also known as "UCP5"
 * , also known as "UCP4"
 * , also known as "UCP5"

Uncoupling proteins play a role in normal physiology, as in hibernation, because the energy is used to generate heat (see thermogenesis) instead of producing ATP. However, other substances such as 2,4-Dinitrophenol and CCCP also serve the same uncoupling function, and are considered poisonous.