Abstract: The invention discloses creatine derivatives that are represented by Formula (I), Formula (II), and Formula (III); wherein Z is a functional group; Y is a mitochondrial targeting agent, a cationic ammonium group, or a polypeptide containing at least one positively charged amino acid residue; each R1 is independently hydrogen, alkyl, or a phosphate group; R2 a linker; R3 is a spacer group; R4 is hydrogen, alkyl, aryl, or heterocyclic; or R4 and R1, or R4 and R3, together with the nitrogen atoms to which they are attached form a heterocyclic ring, and W is hydrogen or alkyl.

Abstract: The invention discloses creatine derivatives that are represented by Formula (I), Formula (II), and Formula (III); wherein Z is a functional group; Y is a mitochondrial targeting agent, a cationic ammonium group, or a polypeptide containing at least one positively charged amino acid residue; each R1 is independently hydrogen, alkyl, or a phosphate group; R2 a linker; R3 is a spacer group; R4 is hydrogen, alkyl, aryl, or heterocyclic; or R4 and R1, or R4 and R3, together with the nitrogen atoms to which they are attached form a heterocyclic ring, and W is hydrogen or alkyl.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods for direct transfection of mitochondria and chloroplast DNA in living cells. More particularly, the present invention is based on the use of viral vectors that specifically bind to receptors uniquely found on the target organelle. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, a eukaryotic cell containing an organelle (1) that has been modified to express a viral receptor (2) on the organelle's surface is provided. A viral vector (6) comprising a desired recombinant DNA construct (3) is introduced into the cytosol of the cell, wherein the viral vector binds to its receptor and introduces the recombinant DNA into the interior of the organelle.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for modifying the metabolism of a subject are provided. One embodiment provides a recombinant polypeptide having a polynucleotide-binding domain, a protein transduction domain, and a targeting domain. In a preferred embodiment, the polynucleotide-binding domain includes one or more HMG box domains.