What is DNP (2,4-Dinitrophenol)?
2,4-Dinitrophenol (DNP) is a protonophore and mitochondrial uncoupler — dissipates the proton gradient across the inner mitochondrial membrane, uncoupling electron transport chain activity from ATP synthesis. This forces increased substrate oxidation and dramatically raises metabolic rate and thermogenesis. DNP is the canonical research tool for mitochondrial uncoupling, bioenergetics, and proton leak studies. Research use only. Note: DNP has an extremely narrow therapeutic index and is highly toxic at doses only modestly above research concentrations — handle with appropriate laboratory precautions.
Research Applications
Mitochondrial Uncoupling
Proton leak quantification, respiratory control ratio, membrane potential dissipation
Thermogenesis Research
Heat production from uncoupled respiration, body temperature models, metabolic rate
Bioenergetics Studies
ATP synthesis inhibition, substrate oxidation flux, oxygen consumption rate (OCR)
Brown Adipose Tissue Research
UCP1 vs chemical uncoupling comparison, thermogenic capacity studies
Metabolic Rate & Fat Oxidation
Accelerated substrate use, fat oxidation kinetics, energy balance studies
Quick Specs
| Form | C₆H₄N₂O₅ |
| Purity | ≥99% by HPLC — every batch |
| CAS Number | 51-28-5 |
| Molecular Weight | MS molecular weight confirmed — every batch |
| Specification | ≥99% by HPLC — every batch |
| Shelf Life | 24 months unopened |
| Storage | Cool, dry storage | away from heat sources | handle with care |
| Manufacture | In-house synthesis — Qingdao, China |
| Brand | China |