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Modulation of ER-mitochondria tethering complex VAPB-PTPIP51: Novel therapeutic targets for aging-associated diseases

Tao Jiang1, Nan Ruan1, Pengcheng Luo1

  • 1Department of Geriatrics, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.

Ageing Research Reviews
|May 8, 2024
PubMed

Insights

The VAPB-PTPIP51 protein tether is crucial for mitochondria-associated membranes (MAMs) function, which declines with aging. Targeting this tether may offer new treatments for age-related diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Cellular Biology
  • Aging Research
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Aging leads to cellular functional decline, increasing susceptibility to age-related diseases.
  • Mitochondria-associated membranes (MAMs) connect mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum, regulating key cellular processes.
  • Alterations in MAMs, particularly the VAPB-PTPIP51 tether, are implicated in aging.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the structure and function of the VAPB-PTPIP51 tether in MAMs.
  • To elucidate the role of the VAPB-PTPIP51 tether in age-related diseases.
  • To review potential therapeutic strategies targeting VAPB-PTPIP51-mediated MAMs.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and analysis of existing studies on VAPB-PTPIP51 and MAMs.
  • Delineation of the molecular structure and interactions of the VAPB-PTPIP51 complex.
  • Discussion of the functional implications in cellular aging and disease pathogenesis.

Main Results:

  • The VAPB-PTPIP51 tether is essential for MAMs integrity and function.
  • Dysfunctional VAPB-PTPIP51 tethers are linked to cellular aging and neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases.
  • Specific molecular interactions within MAMs are critical for maintaining cellular homeostasis during aging.

Conclusions:

  • The VAPB-PTPIP51 tether plays a significant role in aging and associated pathologies.
  • Therapeutic targeting of VAPB-PTPIP51-mediated MAMs presents a promising avenue for anti-aging interventions.
  • Further research into MAMs regulation could yield novel treatments for age-related disorders.
Keywords:
AgingEndoplasmic reticulumMAMsMitochondriaPTPIP51VAPB

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