Remodeling of the extracellular matrix promotes longevity via mitochondrial signaling
Aging is associated with both compromised homeostasis within cells and remodeling of the cellular micro-environment, the extracellular matrix (ECM). However, it remains poorly understood how signals derived from the ECM may affect cellular functions and organismal aging. In this project, focusing on a novel role of the ECM in regulating mitochondrial homeostasis, Dr. Zhang will investigate the molecular mechanism of this newly discovered ECM-mitochondria crosstalk, and test whether this pathway is implicated in worm and mammalian aging. This study will generate a new working model of how two hallmarks of aging may interact with each other, and facilitate the development of novel interventions to maintain mitochondrial homeostasis during aging.
