Researchers successfully reversed aging associated skin and hair loss in animal models. Paying the way for the development of preventive and therapeutic drugs.
When a mutation leading to mitochondrial dysfunction is induced, the mouse develops wrinkled skin and extensive visible hair loss in a matter of weeks. When the mitochondrial function is restored by turning off the Gene responsible for mitochondrial dysfunction, the mouse returns to smooth skin and thick fur.
Indistinguishable from a healthy mouse of the same age. The mutation of the mouse model is induced when the antibiotic doxycycline is added to the food or drinking water. This causes depletion in the mitochondrial DNA.
In 4 weeks the mice show grey hair, reduced hair density, slowed movement and lethargy. Changes that are reminiscent of natural aging. Wrinkled skin was in 4 to 8 weeks after induction of the mutation and females had more severe skin wrinkles than males. This is caused by a mutation in the Gene in the cell's nucleus, which still affect mitochondrial function.
Mitochondria are the tiny compartments that are known as the powerhouse of the cell. Numerous mitochondria in cells produce 90% of the chemical energy cells need in humans. A decline of mitochondrial function is seen during aging and mitochondrial dysfunction can drive age-related diseases.
A deflection of the DNA in mitochondria is also implicated in human mitochondrial diseases, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes age-associated neurological disorders and cancer. The new findings will find an unprecedented opportunity for the development of preventive and therapeutic drug strategies to arguments and improve the mitochondria functions for the treatment of ageing associated skin and hair pathology, and other human diseases in which mitochondrial dysfunction plays a significant role.
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