New research enhances mitochondrial function in worms and mice

a new way to raise levels of niacin adenine dinucleotides (NAD-plus) can enhance mitochondrial function, extend worm life, and protect the health of mice, according to a paper published online in the journal Nature.
NAD plus is a key molecule in mitochondrial energy production, but its level decreases with age. Studies have shown that increasing NAD-plus levels has many benefits for metabolism and longevity.
Johan Auwerx of the Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, Switzerland, and colleagues report a new method that promotes NAD-plus synthesis by inhibiting 2-amino3-adhesive acid 6-semialde deaginase (ACMSD), which reduces the molecules used in the body to synthesize NAD-plus. The rise in the level of NAD plus enhances the mitochondrial function of beautiful crypto-worms and mice.
researchers increased the worm's activity level and longevity by gene blocking inhibition of ACMSD production in the worm, while gene blocking inhibition of ACMSD in mice protected liver cells in mice and prevented related cell death. Drugs blocking ACMSD (using inhibitors TES-991 and TES-1025) can promote the synthesis of NAD-plus in the liver, kidneys, and brains of mice. TES-991 protects liver cells in mice in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease models, while TES-1025 protects kidney cells in mice in acute renal injury models.
, although these effects have not yet been tested in humans, whether the results can be translated into clinical applications is worth further exploration, the researchers said. (Source: Tang Erdu, China Science Daily)