Articles tagged with Mitochondria
Researchers have discovered that proteins released from mitochondria can activate the immune system in a similar way to invading bacteria. Elevated levels of mitochondrial proteins were found circulating in the bloodstream even when no live bacteria were present, leading to excessive inflammation.
A study at USC discovers a common genetic variant in Indigenous American populations that silences the microprotein MENTSH, restoring it improves insulin signaling and blocks diet-induced weight gain. MENTSH-based therapies could offer a precision-medicine approach to Type 2 diabetes.
Researchers identify a previously unknown mechanism linking dysfunctional mitochondria and epigenetic machinery to chronic inflammation in aging cells. The discovery reveals how senescent cells drive inflammation by switching on inflammatory genes through metabolic signals from mitochondria.
Researchers develop SenMayo gene set to identify senescent cells across different tissues and experimental models. Several studies evaluate approaches to reduce the burden or harmful effects of senescent cells in preclinical models.
Researchers at Brown and U.T. Southwestern have identified a key mechanism underlying GPT2 deficiency, a rare genetic disease affecting brain development. Supplementing a metabolite called alpha-ketoglutarate may improve DNA structure and gene expression in the brain, potentially leading to new treatments.
Researchers found that preserving peroxisomes preserves mitochondrial health during aging by maintaining long, interconnected mitochondrial networks and reducing oxidative stress. The study identifies peroxisome homeostasis as a promising area for future aging research.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes found that hypoxia therapy can extend lifespan and improve brain function in mice with motor neuron degeneration. The therapy works by reducing the amount of oxygen available to cells, which can help counteract the effects of defective mitochondrial quality control machinery.
Cellular senescence is a stable form of cell-cycle arrest induced by intrinsic and extrinsic stimuli. The review highlights the importance of understanding how different initiating events shape distinct senescent cell phenotypes, contributing to chronic inflammation, tissue dysfunction, cancer, and age-related diseases.
This study defines IFRD1's disease-protective function and elucidates its molecular regulatory mechanism, which suppresses de novo hepatic lipogenesis by boosting α-KG production. Clinical correlations and translational potential are also established for therapeutic interventions targeting the GLUD1/α-KG axis.
Researchers discover that kidney cancer cells lacking the tumor suppressor gene SETD2 become highly dependent on protein BCL-xL for survival. By targeting this dependency, they can selectively eliminate SETD2-deficient cancer cells, offering a potential new therapeutic strategy for patients with aggressive subset of kidney cancers.
Scientists from the University of Osaka have identified a previously unknown molecular mechanism linking mitochondrial morphology to innate immune activation. Abnormally long mitochondria can trigger the release of mitochondrial RNA into the cytosol, activating RNA-sensing proteins and leading to anti-tumor immunity.
A groundbreaking study identifies a direct energy route between mitochondria and the nucleus, supporting gene regulation, chromatin remodeling, and cell differentiation. The finding challenges traditional assumptions about energy transfer in cells and has significant implications for understanding health and disease.
Mitochondrial damage fuels neuroinflammation in CNS diseases, but targeted nanomedicines can restore function and reduce inflammation. Intelligent nanomaterials designed to cross the blood-brain barrier have shown striking efficacy in preclinical models.
Researchers have tested a new experimental cancer drug called gamitrinib in its first-in-human study. Gamitrinib is designed to target the mitochondria of cancer cells, where it can disrupt their energy systems.
Scientists identified a previously uncharacterized protein, SNOR, playing a significant role in awakening dormant yeast cells. The discovery sheds light on how microbes adapt to inhospitable environments and provides new insights into cellular quiescence.
A new Northwestern University study finds metformin primarily targets the gut, driving glucose utilization inside cells lining the intestine to prevent blood sugar levels from rising. The drug slows mitochondrial energy production in gut cells, allowing the intestine to metabolize extra sugar and regulate blood sugar levels.
A review from Florida Atlantic University links obesity to Alzheimer's disease through disruptions in metabolism, highlighting the importance of mitochondrial function and gut-brain axis balance. Early detection and whole-body prevention may become possible through monitoring metabolic health.
The partnership aims to generate evidence on the potential of MitoQ to slow or improve markers of biological ageing and support longevity. Mitochondria-targeted antioxidants like MitoQ are crucial in producing energy while reducing oxidative stress, a key contributor to ageing.
Researchers at Keck School of Medicine have identified a new potential treatment target for AARS2-related cardiomyopathy, a rare and fatal heart muscle disease in infants. By targeting the PCBP1 gene, they aim to restore healthier AARS2 function in heart cells and prevent damage.
Researchers measured mitochondrial function using MRI in 11 cancer survivors, finding slower recovery time signals weaker function, but also a surprising correlation between worse mitochondrial recovery and lower fatigue. The study suggests that subjective experience of fatigue is multidimensional and not solely physical.
Researchers developed a nasal spray that reversibly reduces brain inflammation, restores cellular power plants, and improves memory. The treatment bypasses the brain's protective shield through intranasal delivery, suppressing chronic inflammation and promoting successful brain aging.
The study found that ATF5 plays a critical role in coordinating mitochondrial quality control and adaptive stress signaling in skeletal muscle. Absence of ATF5 resulted in increased muscle fatigability and elevated ROS production, highlighting its importance in maintaining muscle function with age.
Salk Institute researchers have developed a new biological platform for studying mitochondrial DNA in human physiology, adaptation, and therapeutic development. The platform allows scientists to investigate mitochondrial DNA variation in health and disease, enabling therapeutic innovation for mitochondrial disorders.
A Waseda University research team developed a nanotube membrane-based injector to directly and reliably manipulate the cytoplasmic composition of living cells. The system successfully transferred cytoplasmic contents, including mitochondria, into target cells with high efficiency and minimal damage.
Researchers identify 'mitochondrial pearling' as key process for maintaining uniform spacing of nucleoids in mitochondria. Pearling involves a transient transformation that helps redistribute mtDNA clusters, ensuring efficient energy production and preventing disease.
Scientists discovered how tumors disable dendritic cell function by decreasing their mitochondrial fitness, leading to weakened immune defenses against cancer. Restoring mitochondrial function in dendritic cells improves antitumor immune responses and enhances immunotherapeutic efficacy.
Researchers found that people following a Mediterranean-style diet have higher levels of humanin and SHMOOSE, which are linked to protection against cardiovascular disease and neurodegeneration. The study suggests that specific components of the Mediterranean diet may directly influence mitochondrial biology.
A new study shows that high-intensity interval training increases the number of mitochondria and expands the active membrane, enhancing energy production and potentially improving endurance. The findings, published in the University of Southern Denmark, also suggest that muscle mitochondria are more adaptable than previously thought.
Researchers at Rice University developed a CRISPR-based technique that increases mitochondrial production in heart cells, improving energy levels and pumping contractions. The system successfully boosted mitochondrial function in human cell types, animal models, and adult human heart donor tissue.
A recent study has shed light on the processes that drive mitochondrial uptake and its benefits for cells. Isolated mitochondria were found to be taken up by mesenchymal stromal cells, enhancing proliferation and cytoprotection, and improving energy metabolism.
Researchers have discovered that native rice stink bugs have more genetic diversity than invasive species, which could help monitor the spread of insecticide resistance. This study provides valuable insights into pest management for Arkansas rice growers, who face significant costs due to the bug's impact on their crops.
A new study published in Science Advances has shed light on how the body responds to energy demands from exercise, identifying a crucial cell signaling mechanism that could lead to a new treatment for diabetes. The research focuses on Adenosine Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK), a regulator of energy production, and reveals...
A study profiles mitochondrial circular RNAs in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells from young and old human cohorts, revealing that circMT-RNR2 levels are depleted in older cohorts and are involved in promoting the TCA cycle. Loss of GRSF1 reduces circMT-RNR2 levels, decreasing mitochondrial TCA intermediates and accelerating cellular ...
A new study suggests that a lack of fiber in the diet may impair emotional memory in older adults, linked to cognitive problems and inflammation. The amygdala, responsible for processing fearful experiences, is sensitive to highly processed diets, regardless of fat or sugar content.
Research by Amita Sehgal and her team reveals that sleep helps neurons stay healthy by removing oxidative damage through lipid transfer to glia cells. This process is crucial for maintaining neuronal function and may contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
Researchers found that Parkinson's patients experience weight loss due to selective fat depletion, not muscle loss, driven by impaired carbohydrate-based energy production. This metabolic shift highlights a disorder of both the brain and body, driving disease progression.
Researchers focus on system-level resilience and long-term biological coordination to understand aging as a loss of coordination between biological systems. Studies show how mitochondrial signaling influences inflammation in senescence and microbiota–brain interactions shape aging trajectories.
Researchers found that an experimental compound SB-216 reduced the growth of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells by inhibiting oncogenic microtubules and mitochondrial function. This approach may reduce cancer cell adaptation and survival.
A new study reveals that a tiny, disordered protein in mitochondrial supercomplexes can increase energy-conversion efficiency by up to 30% through its acidic and flexible region. This 'molecular flycatcher' protein hooks and shepherds electron carriers toward reaction centers, reducing the energy barrier for efficient metabolism.
Research found that widespread contaminants like mercury and certain PFAS compounds affect the function of mitochondria in wild seabirds, potentially undermining fitness. The study measured pollutant levels and mitochondrial function in Scopoli's shearwaters and connected diet to exposure through stable isotopes.
Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy involves structural, inflammatory, and metabolic pathologies. Inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction promote cardiac damage, and the liver-heart axis highlights the impact of cirrhosis severity on cardiac health.
Researchers develop experimental drugs that encourage mitochondria in cells to work harder and burn more calories. The findings offer a framework for designing safe and effective weight-loss treatments with potential benefits for metabolic health and neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers used long-read sequencing to analyze the nuclear genome of Amorphochlora amoebiformis, revealing an extremely high proportion of introns (74%) compared to other eukaryotic genomes. The study provides important insights into the evolutionary dynamics and potential functional roles of introns in eukaryotic genomes.
Research suggests that mitochondria, the powerhouses of cells, play a crucial role in linking psychological processes to physiological changes in the brain. Alterations in mitochondrial function have been linked to various mental health disorders and physical health outcomes.
Research shows that high glucose levels cause mitochondria to move towards the periphery of pancreatic beta cells. This movement is linked to insulin secretion and may play a role in regulating blood sugar levels. The study found that inhibiting microtubules disrupted this process, suggesting a key role for these structures in mitochon...
Proton therapy has been shown to provide a significant survival benefit for patients with head and neck cancers. In another study, researchers have identified a promising target for treating pancreatic cancer by inhibiting the mitochondrial enzyme GFER. Additionally, diagnostic breast MRI may be unnecessary for some patients with early...
Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center have found that inhibiting GFER, a mitochondrial enzyme, in combination with immune checkpoint blockade improves antitumor response in preclinical models. This two-pronged approach holds promise for patients with pancreatic cancer.
Researchers discover GFAP's crucial role in regulating mitochondrial fusion and fission, a dynamic process that meets cells' energy needs. The study sheds light on Alexander disease, a genetic disorder caused by GFAP mutations, providing potential new avenues for therapies.
A study conducted at the University of California, Riverside, has uncovered a link between soybean oil consumption and obesity in mice. The research found that a genetically engineered group of mice on a high-fat diet rich in soybean oil did not gain weight, suggesting that the liver protein HNF4α plays a crucial role in fat metabolism.
A team of researchers from Texas A&M University has developed a new method to give damaged cells new mitochondria, restoring energy output and cell health. The technique uses nanoflowers to boost stem cells, which then transfer their surplus mitochondria to injured neighbors.
The review highlights the complex relationship between mitochondria and tumorigenesis, exploring molecular mechanisms underlying this association. Mitochondrial dysfunction is linked to various cancers, and targeting mitochondria represents an ideal anti-tumor therapeutic approach.
A new type of DNA damage, glutathionylated DNA adducts, accumulates at high levels in mitochondrial DNA, affecting energy production and stress response. The discovery sheds light on how cells sense and respond to stress, with potential implications for diseases like cancer and diabetes.
High-resolution label-free imaging reveals stable organelle dynamics and spatial organization, overcoming phototoxicity and halo artifacts. ExAPC microscopy captures biomolecular condensate-like structures and cellular responses to drugs.
Researchers at University of Utah Health have found that AKI is triggered by ceramides, which cause serious injury by damaging kidney mitochondria. Using a backup drug candidate, the team was able to preserve mitochondrial integrity and prevent kidney injury in mice.
Research highlights the importance of mitochondria-endoplasmic reticulum cross-talk in colorectal cancer, regulating Ca2+ homeostasis and lipid metabolism. Novel therapeutic strategies targeting this crosstalk may suppress CRC progression and improve patient outcomes.
A research team discovered that leucine prevents the degradation of specific mitochondrial proteins, enabling efficient energy production. This mechanism allows cells to adapt to increased energy demands during periods of nutrient abundance.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that metabolism guides the activation states of regulatory T cells, which dampen inflammation. The study reveals a link between mitochondrial function and lysosome activity in controlling these immune cells.
Researchers at UC Riverside discovered that two toxic chemicals can form when propylene glycol is heated, harming human lung cells. The chemicals, methylglyoxal and acetaldehyde, disrupt cell functions and cause damage even at low levels.
Researchers at Redoxoma found that mitochondrial potassium channels regulate heat production in brown adipose tissue, a process critical for regulating energy expenditure and promoting metabolic health. Closing the channel is necessary for maximum thermogenesis.
Researchers at UTA discovered that mitochondria can protect a cell from dying by taking in calcium, regulating complex cell death. The findings offer insights into brain development and disease, potentially leading to targeted treatments.