The primary function of UCP1 is to facilitate non-shivering thermogenesis. It achieves this by dissipating the proton gradient generated by the electron transport chain in mitochondria. Instead of driving ATP synthesis, the energy from the proton gradient is released as heat. This process is particularly important for maintaining body temperature in newborns and during exposure to cold environments. UCP1 activity is regulated by various factors, including norepinephrine, which activates UCP1 through the β-adrenergic receptor pathway.
