ATP-dependent Clp protease ATP-binding subunit clpX-like, mitochondrial is an enzyme that in humans is encoded by the CLPX gene. This protein is a member of the family of AAA Proteins (AAA+ ATPase) and is to form the protein complex of Clp protease. ClpX is an ATP-dependent chaperone that can recognize protein substrates by binding to protein degradation tags. These tags can be short unstructured peptide sequences (e.g., ssrA-tag in E coli). As an essential component of ClpP protease complex, ClpX recruits degradable substrates and unfolds their tertiary structure, which requires energy provided by ATP hydrolysis. Subsequently, these ClpX Chaperones transfer protein substrates into the proteolytic chamber formed by ClpP tetradecamer. In mammals, ClpXP protease is a pivotal contributor to mitochondrial protein quality control. A compromised ClpXP function usually leads to the accumulation of damaged proteins and mitochondrial dysfunctions, which believes to be potential causes for neurodegenerative diseases and aging.