Mechanisms of ME-344 action include (1) inhibition of the respiratory complexes, such as complex I-V; (2) inhibition of HO-1 and induction of its translocation to mitochondria, accompanied by downstream signaling events exemplified by, (a) reduction in ATP production, activation of AMPK leading to mTOR mediated autophagy, (b) increase in mitochondrial ROS production, activation of ERK leading to Bax-mediated loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, Endo G nuclease translocation into nucleus which cleaves DNA, resulting in chromatin condensation. Possible inhibition of tubulin polymerization has also been shown.