Mitochondria
Duke-led Nature study links glia-to-neuron mitochondria transfer to reduced nerve pain in neuropathy models
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Duke University researchers report that boosting the transfer of healthy mitochondria from support cells to sensory neurons reduced pain-like behaviors in mouse models of diabetic and chemotherapy-related peripheral neuropathy, an approach they say could address a root driver of nerve pain rather than simply blocking pain signals.
Scientists at EPFL report that a transient shape change in mitochondria—known as “pearling,” in which the organelle briefly forms bead-like constrictions—can redistribute clusters of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) into more evenly spaced nucleoids. The work, published April 2, 2026 in Science, suggests the process is triggered by calcium influx into mitochondria and may help explain how cells maintain robust mtDNA organization, a feature implicated in a range of mitochondrial-related disorders.
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Researchers in Japan have discovered that boosting a protein called COX7RP in mice improves mitochondrial function, leading to longer lives and better health. The engineered mice lived 6.6% longer on average, with enhanced metabolism and reduced signs of aging. This finding points to potential ways to promote healthier aging in humans.