Mitochondria, the tiny energy-producing structures inside cells, are essential for keeping our bodies — and especially our brains — functioning.
A new study published in Nature Neuroscience by researchers from Inserm and the University of Bordeaux, in collaboration with the Université de Moncton in Canada, has for the first time shown a direct causal link between mitochondrial dysfunction and the cognitive symptoms seen in neurodegenerative diseases.
Using a unique and innovative tool, the researchers were able to increase mitochondrial activity in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases.
When they did this, the animals showed improved memory, suggesting that targeting mitochondria could be a promising new therapeutic approach. While the findings are still at an early stage, they represent an important step toward understanding the role of mitochondria in brain health.
Mitochondria provide the energy cells need to function, and neurons depend heavily on this energy to communicate effectively. In neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, brain cells gradually lose their function and die.
Researchers have observed that even before neurons die, mitochondrial activity is often impaired. However, until now, it was unclear whether mitochondrial dysfunction was a cause of the disease or simply a byproduct.
In this study, the scientists developed a tool to temporarily stimulate mitochondrial activity. They reasoned that if boosting mitochondria improved symptoms, it would indicate that mitochondrial problems occur before neuron loss and may contribute directly to the disease process.
