Does Mitochondrial Biogenesis Regulate Longevity?
Many interventions that improve health and longevity such as a calorically-restricted diet also increase the number of mitochondria in cells. Mitochondria provide the energy for cells to process nutrients and, as a result, produce free radicals thought to cause aging and disease. But increased mitochondria in cells may actually decrease the harmful effects of free radicals since the energy needs of the cells may be less stressed if the work is shared among more mitochondria. Dr. Baur will test the hypothesis that extra mitochondria can account for some of the beneficial effects of caloric restriction at the cellular level, and that stimulating the production of extra mitochondria may be a way to alleviate age-related degeneration in humans.
