UCP are mitochondrial transporter proteins that create proton leaks across the inner mitochondrial membrane, thus uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation. As a result, energy is dissipated in the form of heat. May play a role in the modulation of tissue respiratory control. Participates in thermogenesis and energy balance. Only in skeletal muscle and heart. Is more expressed in glycolytic than in oxidative skeletal muscles. The gene represented in this entry may be involved in disease pathogenesis. Belongs to the mitochondrial carrier (TC 2.A.29) family.