Dose-Related Structural and Functional Modifications of Mitochondria Are Induced In Vitro by Low Ozone...

Area of Science:

• Mitochondrial biology
• Oxidative stress research
• Medical ozone therapy

Background:

• Ozone (O3) therapy is a complementary treatment for various conditions.
• Low O3 doses induce mild oxidative stress, activating antioxidant pathways like Nrf2.
• Mitochondria are sensitive targets of oxidative stress.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the mitochondrial response to low-dose ozone therapy.
• To evaluate structural and molecular changes in mitochondria.
• To assess the role of Nrf2 in ozone-induced mitochondrial adaptation.

Main Methods:

• Murine non-tumoral muscle cell line as an in vitro model.
• Transmission electron microscopy for structural analysis.
• Biochemistry and flow cytometry for molecular and functional assessment.

Main Results:

• Low O3 doses increased mitochondrial area and cristae.
• Enhanced electron transport chain complexes and antioxidant enzymes (catalase, SOD).
• Nrf2 remained associated with mitochondria, providing protection; effects were transient (24h, resolved by 48h).

Conclusions:

• Low-dose ozone therapy beneficially modulates mitochondrial structure and function.
• Ozone treatment activates cellular antioxidant defenses via Nrf2.
• Muscle cells exhibit a prompt and effective homeostatic response to ozone-induced oxidative stress.