Curcumin Protects SDH2 Mutant from Oxidative Stress and Improves Mitochondrial Function: Application Potential for
1College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|June 26, 2026
Summary
Curcumin shows promise for treating Complex II deficiency, a rare inherited mitochondrial disorder. This study found curcumin can restore cell viability and mitochondrial function in a yeast model, offering hope for new therapeutic strategies.
Area of Science:
- Mitochondrial Biology
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Complex II deficiency is a rare inherited mitochondrial disorder with no current drug treatments.
- Curcumin, a polyphenol, possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- A yeast model mimicking human Complex II defects was developed using the *Saccharomyces cerevisiae SDH2* gene.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ameliorative effects of curcumin on Complex II functional defects.
- To explore curcumin's potential as an intervention for mitochondrial diseases.
Main Methods:
- Constructed a *Saccharomyces cerevisiae* mutant strain mimicking Complex II defects.
- Assessed cell viability using MTT and CFU assays.
- Evaluated antioxidant capacity (DCFH-DA, enzyme activity) and gene expression (qRT-PCR).
Main Results:
- Curcumin restored cell growth and viability in the mutant yeast strain.
- Curcumin effectively scavenged reactive oxygen species (ROS) and positively regulated mitochondrial function.
- The observed effects were concentration-dependent.
Conclusions:
- Curcumin demonstrates potential as a preliminary intervention for Complex II deficiency.
- These findings support curcumin's application in treating mitochondrial diseases.
- Further research is warranted to explore curcumin's therapeutic efficacy.
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