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Modifying heart cell metabolism unlocks self-repair system after heart attack

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys discovered that blocking an energy transfer enzyme shifts mammalian hearts into a regenerative state, promoting regeneration and improving recovery after a heart attack. By modulating heart cell metabolism, scientists can potentially awaken the heart's dormant regenerative abilities.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2026

Treatment for mitochondrial diseases within reach

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have discovered a molecule that helps more mitochondria function properly, improving energy production in cells from patients with POLG mutations. This breakthrough paves the way for a new treatment strategy and may have broader therapeutic use for other mitochondrial diseases.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2025

Breakthrough observation of real-time protein translocation by SecYEG-SecA complex

A team of researchers from Japan directly visualized protein translocation across membranes for the first time, providing insights into the SecYEG-SecA complex dynamics and its role in facilitating protein movement. The study estimated a protein translocation rate of 2.2 amino acid residues per second.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 17, 2025

CNIO and CNIC research identifies a key protein for ‘burning’ fat

A new mechanism by which brown fat is converted into heat has been identified, revealing a potential target for treating obesity and related metabolic diseases. The MCJ protein plays a crucial role in this process, protecting against health problems associated with obesity such as diabetes and increased blood lipids.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2025

What is metformin’s secret sauce?

A new Northwestern Medicine study reveals how metformin lowers glucose levels by targeting mitochondrial complex I in cells. The drug also improves COVID outcomes and reduces inflammation, suggesting that mitochondrial complex I inhibition may be a unifying mechanism behind its diverse effects.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 18, 2024

What we can learn from hungry yeast cells

Scientists discovered a unique way in which yeast cells adapt to starvation by coating their mitochondria with massive molecular complexes called ribosomes. This adaptation has potential implications for cancer treatment as it may help overcome the challenges faced by cancer cells when they are starved of nutrients.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 8, 2024

Can we ‘recharge’ our cells?

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a method to recharge cellular mitochondria using nanotechnology, potentially extending healthy lifespans and improving outcomes for patients with age-related diseases. The molybdenum disulfide nanoparticles stimulate mitochondrial regeneration, helping cells generate more energy.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 25, 2024

Scientists at the CNIC discover an unexpected involvement of sodium transport in mitochondrial energy generation

Researchers at the CNIC found that respiratory complex I possesses sodium transport activity essential for efficient cellular energy production. This discovery provides a molecular explanation for Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy and may have implications for other neurodegenerative diseases.

Beige fat cells with a “Sisyphus mechanism”

Researchers have discovered a new type of beige fat cells that consume energy and produce heat through a futile-cycle mechanism, known as the 'Sisyphus mechanism'. These cells are found in adults and help break down excess fat, leading to improved metabolic health and reduced risk of obesity.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 14, 2024

New drug candidate reverses obesity in mice

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a new class of drugs that block mitochondrial function and reverse diet-induced obesity, fatty liver, and diabetes in mice. The treatment increased fat metabolism, leading to drastic weight loss and restored glucose tolerance.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2024

Longer genes are linked to aging

Four studies conclude that longer genes are most susceptible to aging due to increased potential sites for DNA damage. Long genes have more sites for damage, making them prone to degradation with age, contributing to conditions like Alzheimer's disease.

SourceNorthwestern University·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2024

Natural molecule found in coffee and human body increases NAD+ levels, improves muscle function during ageing

A recent discovery reveals that the natural molecule trigonelline can increase NAD+ levels and improve muscle function during ageing. Lower levels of trigonelline were found in older people with sarcopenia, a condition where muscles weaken and mass is lost.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalNature Metabolism·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 21, 2024

Insulin affects the recycling of cellular power plants

In nerve cells, insulin facilitates the elimination of defective mitochondria when energy is available. However, during energy scarcity or disrupted insulin signaling, mitochondrial recycling is reduced, allowing potentially damaged power plants to continue operating. This process affects ageing processes and neurological diseases.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Metabolism·DateMar 19, 2024

Pennington Biomedical researchers looking for new ways to improve life span and health during aging

Researchers found that a compound called BAM15 makes mitochondria less efficient at producing energy, extending life span and improving body composition in fruit flies. The study also showed reduced age-related decline in motor activity. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings in humans.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalAging Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2024

Promising anti-inflammatory properties of black soldier fly larvae oil – implications on conditions such as ulcerative colitis

The study found that black soldier fly larvae oil exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, suppressing proinflammatory cytokines and improving colon health. BSFL oil's unique compound profile may offer a new approach to managing inflammatory diseases.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2023

GLA, the fatty acid that makes the heart function properly after birth

A study by CNIC researchers reveals that gamma-linolenic acid in breast milk binds to the retinoid X receptor protein, activating gene expression and influencing biological functions. This activation initiates genetic programs that equip mitochondria with the necessary enzymes and proteins to start consuming lipids as energy.

The complete respiratory supercomplex identified

The study resolves a long-standing question about the structure of respiratory supercomplexes in unicellular eukaryotic organisms. Complex II is found to be part of the supercomplex in these organisms, optimizing ATP formation and revealing a surprising variety in supercomplex construction.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature·DateMar 22, 2023

New intracellular "smoke detector" discovered

Researchers have identified a molecule called NLRP10 as an intracellular 'smoke detector' that warns of mitochondrial damage. This detection triggers a process that eliminates damaged cells, preventing chronic inflammation and tissue damage. The discovery could lead to new therapies for skin and intestinal diseases.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2023

NTU Singapore study shows new way to spur brain immune cells to clear toxic waste linked to Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers at NTU Singapore have found a way to spur brain immune cells to clear toxic waste linked to Alzheimer’s disease by targeting their metabolism. The study reveals a ‘metabolic switch’ in the brain’s immune cells that can be manipulated to improve their function.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 15, 2023

Commonly used antiretroviral drugs used to treat HIV and hepatitis B reduce immune cells’ energy production

Research reveals that commonly used antiretroviral drugs TAF and TDF directly impact mitochondria's energy production in immune cells. The study suggests a larger energy reduction when combined with other antiretrovirals, sparking concerns about potential long-term effects on human cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalMetabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2023