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Mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant supplementation for improving age-related vascular dysfunction in humans: A study
Kevin O Murray1, Morgan Berryman-Maciel1, Sanna Darvish1
1Integrative Physiology of Aging Laboratory, Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States.
Frontiers in Physiology
|October 3, 2022
Summary
This study investigates if the antioxidant MitoQ can improve vascular function in older adults by reducing mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS). Results from this phase IIa trial will determine MitoQ
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Cardiovascular Medicine
- Mitochondrial Biology and Oxidative Stress
- Clinical Trials and Therapeutics
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading global cause of death, with aging as its primary risk factor.
- Age-related vascular dysfunction is significantly driven by excessive mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) production.
- Targeting mtROS offers a potential therapeutic strategy to improve vascular health in aging populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish the efficacy of MitoQ, a mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant, in improving vascular endothelial function in healthy older adults.
- To investigate the underlying mechanisms by which MitoQ supplementation impacts vascular health and reduces arterial stiffness.
- To provide evidence for MitoQ as a potential therapy for age-related vascular dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group phase IIa clinical trial involving 90 healthy older adults (≥60 years).
- Participants received daily oral supplementation of MitoQ (20 mg) or placebo for 3 months.
- Primary outcome: nitric oxide-mediated endothelium-dependent dilation (EDD) via brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMDBA); secondary outcomes include aortic stiffness and endothelial cell assessments.
Main Results:
- Preliminary evidence from a pilot study suggests MitoQ improves vascular function in older adults.
- The ongoing phase IIa trial aims to confirm these findings and elucidate mechanisms of action.
- Outcome measures are assessed at baseline, 6 weeks, and 3 months to evaluate treatment effects.
Conclusions:
- This trial is designed to determine if chronic MitoQ supplementation can enhance vascular endothelial function and reduce arterial stiffness in older adults.
- The study will explore the mechanistic links between MitoQ, mtROS reduction, and improved vascular health.
- Findings will inform the development of targeted therapies for age-related cardiovascular decline.
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