SkQ1
SkQ1 (plastoquinonyl decyltriphenylphosphonium, Visomitin)
Also known as: Visomitin, Plastoquinonyl-decyl-triphenylphosphonium
A mitochondria-targeted antioxidant registered in Russia as an eye drop for dry eye; rodent lifespan claims come from a single research group and oral systemic use has no human data.
Overview
SkQ1 attaches a plastoquinone antioxidant to a lipophilic cation that concentrates it inside mitochondria, where it limits cardiolipin oxidation. Two randomized trials support the eye drop for dry-eye symptoms, and the Skulachev group reported lifespan extension in rodents. That lifespan work has not been independently replicated, and the oral 'longevity' products sold in the West have no human studies.
Mechanism of action
Accumulates in mitochondria via its triphenylphosphonium cation and scavenges lipid radicals at the inner membrane.
Key studies & citations
- Human2016
SkQ1 eye drops for dry eye: randomized trial
Symptom improvement versus vehicle.
Advances in Therapy - Animal2011
Mitochondria-targeted plastoquinone derivatives and rodent lifespan
Lifespan extension reported in rodents by the originating group.
Aging
Frequently asked questions
SkQ1 or MitoQ?
Both are mitochondria-targeted quinones. MitoQ has more Western human studies (mostly on vascular function); SkQ1's human data are limited to eye drops.