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Updated: May 11, 2026
07:47
Analysis of Brain Mitochondria Using Serial Block-Face Scanning Electron Microscopy
Published on: July 9, 2016
Dynamic changes in mitochondrial function in brain cortex synaptosomes during aging.
Paulina Lombardi1,2, Analía G Karadayian3, Juan Ignacio Guerra1,2
1Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Fisicoquímica, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Journal of Bioenergetics and Biomembranes
|May 9, 2026
Summary
Aging impairs brain mitochondrial function, increasing oxidative stress. Synaptic mitochondria show significant dysfunction by 20 months, with complex bioenergetic compromise at advanced ages.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Mitochondrial Biology
- Aging Research
Background:
- Physiological aging is linked to mitochondrial dysfunction and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation.
- Synaptic mitochondria play a crucial role in neuronal function and are susceptible to age-related changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate age-related changes in mitochondrial function and ROS production in mouse brain cortex synaptosomes.
- To identify specific age points at which mitochondrial dysfunction becomes significant.
Main Methods:
- Mice of different ages (3, 10, 20, 24 months) were used.
- Mitochondrial membrane potential, coupling efficiency, ATP synthesis, and respiratory complex activities (I-III, II-III, IV) were measured.
- Superoxide and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production were assessed.
Main Results:
- Mitochondrial membrane potential decreased at 20 months but increased at 24 months.
- Coupling efficiency and ATP synthesis declined in aged mice (24 months).
- Complex II-III and IV activities decreased at 10 months; Complex I-III increased at 20 months but decreased at 24 months.
- Superoxide generation increased with age, while H2O2 production decreased at 20 months.
Conclusions:
- Aging leads to significant mitochondrial dysfunction in brain cortex synaptosomes, particularly by 20 months.
- Compensatory mechanisms may emerge at advanced ages, but overall mitochondrial bioenergetics remain compromised.
- These findings highlight the impact of aging on neuronal energy metabolism and oxidative stress.
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