mitochondria
Coverage of mitochondria in the Nexus archive.
- Scientists “recharge” damaged nerves to ease chronic pain
Scientists at Duke University discovered that damaged nerves can be revived by introducing healthy mitochondria, potentially offering a new solution for chronic nerve pain. This approach targets the root cause of the condition by restoring cellular energy production.
- Scientists discover the nutrient that can supercharge cellular energy
Researchers have discovered that leucine, an amino acid found in protein-rich foods, can enhance mitochondrial function by protecting energy-producing proteins within cells. This breakthrough reveals a significant connection between diet and cellular energy production, with potential applications in treating cancer and metabolic diseases.
- Scientists reversed memory loss by recharging the brain’s tiny engines
Researchers have shown that malfunctioning mitochondria may cause cognitive decline in neurodegenerative diseases. Scientists created a new tool to boost mitochondrial activity, restoring memory performance in mouse models of dementia. This discovery could offer a new target for future Alzheimer's treatments.
- STAT+: How a global effort to explore the ‘dark proteome’ is upending our understanding of human disease
Sebastiaan van Heesch used a new method to analyze ribosomes in donated hearts and discovered hundreds of previously unknown mini-proteins. These 'dark proteins' may influence energy production in heart muscles. The findings could change our understanding of human disease.
- Briefing Chat: Stressed mitochondria spawn new 'organelles' in cells
A study published in Nature on May 1, 2026, reveals that stressed mitochondria in cells generate new 'organelles.' The research highlights a cellular response mechanism under stress and is discussed as part of the week's top science news.
- Daily briefing: AI forces us to rethink maths, says Fields medallist
Mathematician Terence Tao discusses the transformative role of AI in mathematics, the exploration of acupuncture's scientific basis, and new findings on mitochondria generating organelles that may explain cellular evolution.
- Mitochondria can spawn new ‘organelles’ — hinting at how modern cells evolved
A study published in Nature on 27 April 2026 reveals that mitochondria can form new, specialized 'sacs' in cells by shedding their outer membranes, supporting theories about the evolutionary origins of modern cells. The discovery provides insights into how ancient mitochondria contributed to cellular complexity.
- A “death” protein may be the key to slowing aging at its source
Scientists discovered a protein linked to cell death damages mitochondria in blood stem cells, weakening the immune system over time. Disabling the protein preserved stem cell strength and balance under stress, suggesting a new strategy to slow aging.
- This strange “pearling” motion inside cells could change how we understand disease
Scientists discovered 'mitochondrial pearling,' where mitochondria form bead-like shapes to evenly space mitochondrial DNA clusters. This phenomenon could revolutionize our understanding of cellular processes and disease mechanisms.
- Why some cancer-fighting immune cells lose their strength inside tumours
The article discusses how mitochondria are critical for powering dendritic cells, which are immune cells that fight cancer. Research published in Nature explores why these cells lose effectiveness within tumors.