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Mitochondrial-derived peptides in energy metabolism
Troy L Merry1,2, Alex Chan1, Jonathan S T Woodhead1,2
1Discipline of Nutrition, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
American Journal of Physiology. Endocrinology and Metabolism
|August 11, 2020
Summary
Mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs) are small molecules involved in cellular protection and metabolic regulation. Research indicates MDPs are linked to metabolic health, with potential therapeutic applications for metabolic diseases.
Area of Science:
- Mitochondrial biology
- Metabolic signaling
- Genetics
Background:
- Mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs) are bioactive peptides encoded by mitochondrial DNA.
- Eight MDPs identified, including MOTS-c and humanin (H), possess cytoprotective and metaboloprotective properties.
- MDPs are encoded by 12S and 16S ribosomal RNA genes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence on endogenous MDPs' sensitivity to metabolic changes.
- To explore MDPs' role in metabolic homeostasis and stress response.
- To assess the therapeutic potential of MDPs for metabolic disorders.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on MDPs, metabolism, and aging.
- Analysis of circulating MDP levels in metabolic conditions.
- Review of rodent studies using MDPs for metabolic interventions.
Main Results:
- Metabolic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and aging correlate with lower circulating MDPs.
- Human muscle MDP expression increases with mitochondrial stress (e.g., exercise, aging).
- MDP treatment in rodents improves insulin sensitivity and protects against metabolic disorders.
Conclusions:
- MDPs act as metabolic signal transducers, forming a retrograde signaling network.
- MDPs modulate adaptive responses to metabolic stress.
- Further research is needed to determine MDPs' therapeutic utility for metabolic diseases.
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