Mitochondrial NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase (fungal) (Complex I)

Fungal mitochondrial complex I, also known as mitochondrial NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase, is the largest and first enzyme complex in the mitochondrial electron transport chain[1][6][9]. It is embedded in the inner mitochondrial membrane and comprises both conserved and fungal-specific protein subunits[1][3][4][5]. Complex I catalyzes electron transfer from NADH (generated during metabolism) to ubiquinone, coupling this reaction to the translocation of protons across the membrane, which establishes a proton gradient used by ATP synthase for energy production[1][6][9]. In fungi, unique subunits of complex I can regulate additional processes such as cell wall biosynthesis and virulence[3][5][10]. Mutations or inhibition of this complex can impair fungal growth, lead to hypersensitivity to antifungal agents, and attenuate pathogenicity, which validates mitochondrial complex I as a promising target for antifungal drug development[3][5][6][8][10]. Targeting fungal-specific elements of this complex may allow development of selective antifungal therapies with reduced host toxicity[3][5][6].

Other names

Complex INADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductaseNADH dehydrogenase (mitochondrial)ETC Complex I

Inhibition of electron transfer from NADH to ubiquinone, blocking ATP synthesis\n- Disruption of proton translocation across the inner mitochondrial membrane\n- Induction of oxidative stress due to increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS)\n- Destabilization of cell wall synthesis and impairment of energy-intensive processes in fungi