Ubiquinone, a metabolite critical to generating energy in cells, has long been thought to be the only mitochondrial electron transport chain carrier in mammals. Although other electron transporters have been identified in bacteria, nematodes and other organisms, evidence of their presence in mammals has remained elusive.

Thanks to new high-resolution mass spectrometry technology, Jessica Spinelli, Ph.D., assistant professor of molecular medicine, has identified rhodoquinone as another fundamental electron transporter in the mammalian electron transport chain. The research was recently published in Cell.

Because rhodoquinone allows mitochondria to function in a low oxygen environment, Dr. Spinelli research may have clinical potential for protecting cells from hypoxia.