Mild mitochondrial uncoupling in mice affects energy metabolism, redox balance and longevity.

Abstract

Caloric restriction is the most effective non-genetic intervention to enhance lifespan known to date. A major research interest has been the development of therapeutic strategies capable of promoting the beneficial results of this dietary regimen. In this sense, we propose that compounds that decrease the efficiency of energy conversion, such as mitochondrial uncouplers, can be caloric restriction mimetics. Treatment of mice with low doses of the protonophore 2,4-dinitrophenol promotes enhanced tissue respiratory rates, improved serological glucose, triglyceride and insulin levels, decrease of reactive oxygen species levels and tissue DNA and protein oxidation, as well as reduced body weight. Importantly, 2,4-dinitrophenol-treated animals also presented enhanced longevity. Our results demonstrate that mild mitochondrial uncoupling is a highly effective in vivo antioxidant strategy, and describe the first therapeutic intervention capable of effectively reproducing the physiological, metabolic and lifespan effects of caloric restriction in healthy mammals.

• Authors: Camille C Caldeira da Silva, Fernanda M Cerqueira, Lívea F Barbosa, Marisa H G Medeiros, Alicia J Kowaltowski
• Journal: Aging cell (Aging Cell) Vol. 7 Issue 4 Pg. 552-60 (Aug 2008) ISSN: 1474-9726 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 18505478 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Blood Glucose
• Insulin
• Triglycerides
• Uncoupling Agents
• 2,4-Dinitrophenol

Topics

• 2,4-Dinitrophenol (pharmacology)
• Animals
• Blood Glucose (metabolism)
• Cell Respiration (drug effects)
• Energy Metabolism (drug effects)
• Female
• Insulin (blood)
• Longevity (drug effects)
• Mice
• Mitochondria (drug effects, metabolism)
• Oxidation-Reduction (drug effects)
• Oxidative Stress (drug effects)
• Triglycerides (blood)
• Uncoupling Agents (pharmacology)