Molecular dynamics
In SkQ compounds, a decamethylenic linker (an aliphatic chain of 10 carbon atoms) is used. Reduction of the length of the chain leads to a deterioration in the penetrating ability of ions. The compound with such pentamethylenic linker is demonstrated on SkQ5. Molecular dynamics in the membrane calculated with a computer have shown that the length of the linker of 10 is optimal for the manifestation of antioxidant properties of SkQ1. The quinone residue is located right next to the C9 or C13 atoms of the fatty acids of the membrane that has to be protected from oxidative damage.