14 September 2026

News item - BI-4500

As mitochondrial NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase (Complex I) is a major source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) under conditions of cellular stress, selective modulation of Complex I-derived ROS provides a valuable opportunity to study disease-relevant pathways while preserving normal mitochondrial function.

To support research in this field, Boehringer Ingelheim is making BI-4500 available through opnMe. BI-4500 is a potent and selective Complex I ROS modulator that reduces mitochondrial ROS formation. Unlike classical Complex I inhibitors, which impair oxidative phosphorylation and ATP production, BI-4500 selectively targets ROS-generating mechanisms without disrupting normal electron transport and cellular metabolism.

BI-4500 demonstrated potent inhibition of Complex I-mediated ROS formation and selectivity over other ROS-generating enzymes. In cellular and neuronal models of oxidative stress, the compound showed protective effects without evidence of impaired mitochondrial respiration, supporting its utility as a research tool for investigating ROS-driven biology.

To enable well-controlled studies, BI-4500 is accompanied by the matched negative control compound BI-5330. Access the full profile on opnMe and order both compounds free of charge to support your research.

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About BI-4500:

BI-4500 is a potent and selective NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase (Complex I) ROS modulator that reduces oxidative stress by inhibiting mitochondrial ROS generation while preserving Complex I activity. The molecule shows nanomolar potency, selectivity against other ROS-generating enzymes, and activity in cellular models of oxidative stress. BI-5330, a structurally related analog, is available as a matched negative control.

About opnMe:

opnMe.com, the open innovation portal of Boehringer Ingelheim, fosters science and collaboration initiatives in areas of high unmet medical need. As part of our “Molecules to Order” pillar, we share well-characterized tool compounds free of charge with no IP strings attached. With “opn2EXPERTS”, we enlist scientific advice on key biologic issues to fuel further drug discovery and deliver novel solutions that benefit unmet patient needs. Our opn2TALENTS PostDoc grants provide an opportunity for high-caliber talents to pitch their scientific approaches for well-defined research questions to conduct their research at one of our discovery research sites.