Mitochondrial Transplantation Improves Muscle Function in Old Mice

In this study 15 female mice (24 months old) were randomized into two groups (placebo or mitochondrial transplantation). Isolated mitochondria from a donor mouse of the same sex and age were transplanted into the hindlimb muscles of recipient mice. The results indicated significant increases (ranging between ~36% and ~65%) in basal cytochrome c oxidase and citrate synthase activity as well as ATP levels in mice receiving mitochondrial transplantation relative to the placebo. Moreover, there were significant increases (approximately two-fold) in protein expression of mitochondrial markers in both glycolytic and oxidative muscles. These enhancements in the muscle translated to significant improvements in exercise tolerance.
Source: Fight Aging! - Category: Research Authors: Tags: Medicine, Biotech, Research Source Type: blogs