PA-TPP+C10

PA-TPP+C10 is a mitochondria-targeted small molecule consisting of protocatechuic acid (PA), a natural hydroxybenzoate, conjugated to a triphenylphosphonium (TPP+) lipophilic cation via a 10-carbon (C10) alkyl linker. This compound is designed to selectively accumulate within the mitochondrial matrix of cancer cells, a process driven by the elevated mitochondrial membrane potential characteristic of malignant cells. Once localized, PA-TPP+C10 acts as a mitochondrial destabilizer, disrupting organelle function, inducing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and promoting apoptosis. It has been specifically investigated for its potential to overcome therapy resistance in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), particularly by targeting tumor-initiating cells (TICs) and metabolic adaptations in hypoxic microenvironments. Research suggests that its efficacy is significantly enhanced when used in combination with doxycycline, which inhibits mitochondrial biogenesis, leading to a comprehensive reduction in mitochondrial mass and metabolic viability in resistant cancer models.

Other names

10-(3,4-dihydroxybenzoyloxy)decyltriphenylphosphoniumprotocatechuic acid-decyl-triphenylphosphoniumTPP+-conjugated hydroxybenzoate C10