Apoptosis-inducing factor mitochondria-associated 1 (AIFM1)

Apoptosis-inducing factor mitochondria-associated 1 (AIFM1) is a mitochondrial flavoprotein essential for initiating caspase-independent apoptosis through nuclear fragmentation and chromatin condensation[1][2][6]. In healthy cells, AIFM1 resides in the mitochondrial intermembrane space, but upon apoptotic stimuli, it is cleaved and translocates to the nucleus, resulting in programmed cell death[1][6]. Besides its apoptotic role, AIFM1 participates in redox metabolism as an NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase of the NDH-2 family[3][5], supports oxidative phosphorylation, regulates reactive oxygen species, and controls aspects of immune function[2][3][5]. Mutations disrupt mitochondrial energy production and are linked to inherited neuropathies, encephalopathies, and hearing loss[2]. No approved drugs specifically target AIFM1, but the protein is a critical node in cell death pathways and mitochondrial health[1][6].

Other names

Apoptosis-inducing factor 1, mitochondrialAIFM1AIF (Apoptosis-inducing factor)

Drugs targeting apoptosis pathways may indirectly modulate AIFM1 function by triggering or inhibiting its release from mitochondria (no approved direct AIFM1 modulators currently known)