Mitochondrial protein can prolong life and healthy longevity

Against the background of the growing global life expectancy, more and more scientists are switching from a simple increase in years to an expansion of the active period — the time when a person remains energetic, independent and free from age-related diseases. Since deterioration of mitochondrial function underlies many age-related disorders, researchers consider them to be a key target for new anti-aging strategies.

The team led by Satoshi Inoue studied the role of COX7RP, a protein involved in the formation of mitochondrial supercomplexes. These structures increase the efficiency of the respiratory chain, reducing oxidative stress and improving energy production. To test the effect of the protein on aging, the scientists created a line of transgenic mice in which COX7RP was elevated throughout life.

The results were impressive: the average life expectancy of such animals increased by 6.6% compared to ordinary mice. But more importantly, the transgenic animals showed a marked expansion of the active period. They demonstrated better insulin sensitivity, healthy blood lipids, lower fat deposits in the liver, and increased muscle endurance. That is, they aged more slowly and better.

At the cellular level, the researchers found enhanced assembly of mitochondrial supercomplexes, an increase in ATP levels, and a decrease in cell-damaging ROS molecules. Adipose tissue analysis also showed an increase in NAD+ levels and a decrease in cellular aging markers, including beta-galactosidase. Additional RNA sequencing confirmed that the activity of genes associated with age-related inflammatory processes and senescent cell phenotype (SASP) decreased in the tissues.

According to Inoue, the discovery points to a promising strategy: increasing the energy efficiency of mitochondria can become a tool for prolonging a healthy life. In the future, this may lead to the creation of drugs or nutraceuticals that stimulate the formation of respiratory chain supercomplexes — and thus protect against diabetes, obesity and other age-related disorders.