Understanding Horizontal Mitochondrial Transfer: The Good and the Bad

The World Mitochondria Society (WMS) is organizing a new online free webinar on the latest evidence on Horizontal Mitochondrial Transfer (HMT) and its dual role in health and disease. Recent discoveries highlight how HMT can support tissue homeostasis and metabolic function, while also contributing to tumor progression through intercellular communication between cancer cells and the stroma.

Webinar Details

Title: "Understanding Horizontal Mitochondrial Transfer: The Good and the Bad”
Date: April 9, 2025
Time: 16:00 CET

Presenters and Topics

Dr. Andrés Caicedo, from the Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), will discuss the intricate dynamics of mitochondrial transfer in skin tissue and share insights into therapeutic applications of mitochondrial transplantation.

Dr. Estefanía Nova, from the Universidad de Concepción, will delve into how HMT influences tumor onset and progression, revealing potential avenues for cancer intervention.

How to Participate? 

Attendance is free of charge, however places are limited so make sure to register. Book your spot.

The zoom link will be sent to you few days prior the webinar. 

This webinar also serves as a preview to the hands-on workshop “Mitochondrial Transfer and Transplantation: From Bench to Bedside”, led by Dr. Caicedo, which will take place on October 22, 2025, in Berlin — a pre-congress activity for the Targeting Mitochondria 2025 Congress.

Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of the crucial, yet complex, process of horizontal mitochondrial transfer, and to learn how new discoveries could transform approaches to cancer therapy and beyond.

"How Hot Are Mitochondria? Implications for Biology and Medicine” - Webinar by Howy Jacobs

The World Mitochondria Society is pleased to invite you to an exclusive online webinar featuring Professor Howy Jacobs from Tampere University, Finland. Prof. Jacobs will present groundbreaking insights into mitochondrial thermoregulation and its profound implications for cell biology, evolution, and disease.

Webinar Details

Title: "Mitochondria: More Heat than Light - How Hot Are Mitochondria? Implications for Biology and Medicine”
Date: March 26, 2025
Time: 17:00 CET

Key Topics

• The concept of elevated mitochondrial temperatures (~50°C) as a physiological characteristic.
• The role of mitochondrial temperature regulation in evolution and development.
• How mitochondrial thermal homeostasis influences cell signaling, immunity, and pathological conditions.

The webinar will conclude with a live Q&A session, offering attendees the opportunity to engage directly with Prof. Jacobs and deepen their understanding of this fascinating topic.

How to Participate? 

 Join us for this cutting-edge discussion on mitochondria and their surprising thermal dynamics! This webinar is open to researchers, students, and professionals interested in mitochondrial function, bioenergetics, and cellular physiology.

Registration is free! Register now. 

The zoom link will be sent to you few days prior the webinar. 

About Howy Jacobs

Prof. Howy Jacobs is a globally recognized expert in mitochondrial biology. In his recent work, A Century of Mitochondrial Research, 1922–2022 (Enzymes Book Series, 2023), he explores the fascinating journey of mitochondria—from their early recognition as bacteria-like structures to their pivotal roles in modern cell physiology. His contributions span biochemistry, genetics, pathology, and cell biology, shaping our current understanding of mitochondria.

Targeting Mitochondria 2025 will be held in Berlin

The 16th World Congress on Targeting Mitochondria on October 22-24, 2025 at

DoubleTree by Hilton Berlin Ku'damm
Los-Angeles-Platz 1
10789 Berlin, Germany

Book your room with a special rate

The WMS arranged a deal for all attendees a special reduced rate for all rooms booked at DoubleTree by Hilton, including VAT and breakfast. 

Booking Link will be available soon.

How to Reach DoubleTree by Hilton:

1. From Berlin Tegel Airport (TXL):

• By Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
  
• By Public Transport: Take the X9 bus towards Zoologischer Garten. The hotel is a short walk from there.

2. From Berlin Schönefeld Airport (SXF):

• By Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
• By Public Transport: Take the regional train RE7 or RB14 to Zoologischer Garten, then a 10-minute walk.

3. By Train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof:

• Take S-Bahn lines S3, S5, S7, or S9 to Zoologischer Garten, then a brief walk.

4. By Car:

• The hotel is near the A100 city motorway.
• Parking is available at the hotel for a fee.

5. Public Transportation:

• U2 subway line stops at U-Bahnhof Zoologischer Garten.
• Numerous bus lines stop nearby.

World Mitochondria Society
16th Targeting Mitochondria 2025 Congress
October 22-25, 2025 - Berlin, Germany 
www.wms-site.com

Fighting Fire with Fire: Boosting T Cell Therapy by Intercellular Mitochondrial Transfer

It is a great pleasure to announce that Prof. Luca Gattinoni, Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy, Germany, will join Targeting Mitochondria 2025 as a major speaker.

Presentation Title: Fighting Fire with Fire: Boosting T Cell Therapy by Intercellular Mitochondrial Transfer.

Key Points

• Mitochondrial loss and dysfunction drive T cell exhaustion, representing major barriers to successful T cell-based immunotherapies.
• Bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) form nanotubular connections with T cells, enabling mitochondrial transfer into T cells.
• Transferred mitochondria enhance T cell mitochondrial mass and metabolic fitness.
• Mitochondria-boosted T cells exhibit resistance to exhaustion and demonstrate superior antitumor activity.

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Mitochondria and Creatine: Perspectives and Strategies

Dr. David Rizo Roca, Karolisnka Institutet, Sweden, will join the 16th World Congress on Targeting Mitochondria 2025 to tal about "Mitochondria and Creatine: Perspectives and Strategies".

Summary

Creatine supplementation is widely used for its benefits in muscle performance and energy metabolism. However, recent research has linked elevated creatine levels with a higher risk of type 2 diabetes.

This talk will explore the relationship between creatine metabolism, insulin resistance, and mitochondrial function, highlighting key findings from the latest research.

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Annual World Congress on Targeting Mitochondria
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Brain Organoids for drug discovery of Mitochondrial Neurological Disorders

It is a great pleasure to announce that Prof. Alessandro Prigione, active member or WMS scientific committee, Heinrich Heine University, Germany, will join Targeting Mitochondria 2025 as a major speaker.

Presentation Title: Brain Organoids for drug discovery of Mitochondrial Neurological Disorders.

Summary

Brain organoids are three dimensional structures that can be generated from pluripotent stem cells to model human neurodevelopemt.

In this talk, Prof. Prigione will describe how we can harness brain organoids to identify molecular targets and possible disease-modifying interventions for currently incurable mitochondrial and neurological diseases such as Huntington´s disease and Leigh syndrome.

Join Targeting Mitochondria 2025 to learn more about Prof. Prigione's interesting findings. You can submit a related abstract here.

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New Workshop on Mitochondrial Transfer and Transplantation: From Bench to Bedside

The World Mitochondria Society is pleased to announce a hands-on workshop, “Mitochondrial Transfer and Transplantation: From Bench to Bedside,” led by Dr. Andrés Caicedo, a prominent faculty member at the Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) School of Medicine, Ecuador, and Vice President for South and Central America of the International Society for Cell & Gene Therapy (ISCT).

This workshop will be held on October 22, 2025, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Berlin, as part of the pre-congress activities for the Targeting Mitochondria 2025 Congress.

Building on the success of the traditional “Mitochondria Evaluation” Workshop conducted by Dr. Naig Gueguen, it offers an immersive and practical learning experience.

Participants will explore advanced techniques in studying horizontal mitochondrial transfer (HMT) between cells, the isolation and artificial transfer of mitochondria to other cells ex vivo, their reimplantation into hosts, and the methodologies behind mitochondrial transplantation. The session will also address therapeutic applications, key challenges, and future prospects in this innovative field.

Key points to Be Covered

1. How it works – Understanding mitochondrial transfer and transplantation.

2. Barriers and pitfalls to avoid – Challenges to navigate during the process.

3. Challenges and future perspectives – Emerging applications, issues and potential solutions.

4. Methods and tools – Supporting materials provided in the workshop book.

 Supporting Material

1. Recorded Demonstrations – Key techniques for mitochondrial isolation and transplantation.

2. Case Studies and Applications – Real-world examples showcasing successful implementations in research and clinical settings.

3. Emerging Technologies – Innovative tools and methods reshaping the field of mitochondrial transfer and transplantation.

4. Interactive Q&A – A dedicated session for addressing specific questions, sharing challenges, and proposing solutions with expert input.

5. Workshop Book – Tangible takeaways for participants, including summaries of techniques, resources, publications and a certificate of participation.

6. Follow-up Webinars – Post-meeting sessions to track progress and share updates, fostering a sense of community within the WMS. 

Abstracts of Targeting Mitochondria 2024 are Published in the "Journal of Mitochondria, Plastids and Endosymbiosis"

It is a great pleasure to announce that all abstracts accepted at Targeting Mitochondria 2024 are now published in the journal by Taylor & Francis "Journal of Mitochondria, Plastids and Endosymbiosis" - with a DOI !

This publication serves as a lasting record of the innovative research and findings shared during the congress. All abstracts are accessible under a single DOI, ensuring easy reference and seamless access for researchers and professionals around the world.

Access the abstracts: https://doi.org/10.1080/28347056.2024.2422726.

WMS Best Short Oral Presentation: GPCR Agonist CAP-1902 Enhances Mitophagy to Improve Mitochondrial Function in Complex III Deficiency

Congratulations to Cristiane Beninca, the scientific director of the Metabolism and Mitochondria Imaging Core at UCLA.  for receiving the Best Short Oral Presentation Award at the 15th Annual World Congress on Targeting Mitochondria! Her research introduces a novel approach to treating mitochondrial dysfunction by activating selective mitophagy.

In this study, Beninca and her team demonstrated that CAP-1902, an agonist of the MAS G-protein-coupled receptor (MASR), can selectively induce mitophagy in cells with complex III deficiency, a common mitochondrial dysfunction. Activation of MASR by CAP-1902 stimulated the AMPK/ULK1/FUNDC1 pathway, promoting mitochondrial biogenesis and turnover, which ultimately improved cellular bioenergetics and reduced mitochondrial stress. This innovative approach could pave the way for new GPCR-mediated therapies targeting mitochondrial diseases.

Dr. Beninca stated "Our core's mission is to provide access to state-of-the-art microscopes, training, and comprehensive services for mitochondrial imaging techniques in collaboration with academia and industry. Our research projects focus on discovering new pathological processes and exploring potential treatments for mitochondrial disorders."

This research highlights the therapeutic potential of selective mitophagy in addressing mitochondrial disorders and enhancing cellular health.

Exploring Mitochondria-Containing Extracellular Vesicles in Alzheimer’s Disease Wins WMS Best Poster Presentation (2)

Congratulations to Tingting Chen from the University of Groningen, Netherlands, for receiving the Best Poster Presentation Award at the 15th Annual World Congress on Targeting Mitochondria!

Her groundbreaking research investigates mitochondria-containing extracellular vesicles (mitoEVs) and their role in Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Chen’s study involved isolating mitoEVs from neural progenitor cells (NPCs) derived from an AD patient with a PSEN1 mutation and comparing them with control cells. While no significant differences were observed in protein concentrations or particle sizes, proteomic analysis revealed a greater diversity of proteins in control EVs.

Dr. Chen stated to the WMS: 

"Alzheimer’s disease (AD) affects millions of people worldwide and we do not have a cure for it. Dysfunctional intercellular communication contributes to the pathology of the disease. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are now recognized as key components in cell–cell communication. During my research I investigate the role of mitochondria-containing EVs in AD pathology. Through proteomic analysis of EVs derived from the neural progenitor cells (NPCs) with the PSEN1 ΔE9 mutation, I aim to identify potential biomarkers for AD. This work aims to shed light on the connection between mitochondrial proteins in EVs and mitochondrial health within cells.

Ultimately, I hope to demonstrate the potential of mitochondria-containing EVs as a promising tool for tracking disease progression in early-stage AD."

Gallbladder Mitochondrial Function as a Predictor of Liver Transplantation Outcomes Wins WMS Best Poster (2)

The World Mitochondria Society is excited to announce that Danielius Umbrasas from the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences received the Best Poster Presentation Award at the 15th WMS Annual Meeting on Targeting Mitochondria for his research on gallbladder mitochondrial function as a prognostic factor for liver transplantation (LT) outcomes.

Dr. Danielius Umbrasas and his team are investigating the connection between mitochondrial damage in the biliary system and patient outcomes following liver transplantation. Recognizing that up to 30% of patients experience biliary complications post-transplant, he questioned whether bioenergetic parameters in biliary tissues might serve as predictors for these issues. He specifically focused on mitochondrial respiratory rates, given that donor livers are subjected to ischemia before transplantation, with mitochondria being critical players in ischemia-reperfusion injury.

“To better understand this, Dr. Umbrasas utilized gallbladder mucosa as a representative for the biliary system in the liver. His research revealed that following ischemia-reperfusion, respiratory rates in gallbladder mitochondria show a significant decrease, particularly in Complex I-driven phosphorylating respiration. He identified an inverse correlation between this respiratory rate and poor early patient outcomes, including biliary strictures, leakage, and the need for repeat surgeries. Dr. Umbrasas is hopeful that these insights might one day assist in clinical settings to improve prediction of liver transplant outcomes.

Dr. Umbrasas shared with the WMS: "Looking forward, we plan to compare traditional cold static preservation with a newer method—cold machine perfusion—to assess any potential benefits of this approach on gallbladder mitochondrial function and patient recovery, both in the short and long term."

Nominations for Best Mitochondria Image 2024

1. Never Tear Us Apart

By Una Rastovic, The Roger Williams Institute of Liver Studies, King's College London & Foundation for Liver Research, London, UK

Study Context: The image depicts the mitochondrial network (TOM20, shown in orange) and Drp1 (in purple) within a proliferating hepatic stellate cell. Hepatic stellate cells are the primary producers of extracellular matrix (ECM) in liver fibrosis. During their activation in the fibrogenic process, these cells undergo proliferation, metabolic changes, and begin producing collagen along with other ECM proteins. This study seeks to investigate mitochondrial alterations during hepatic stellate cell activation, with the goal of developing mitochondria-targeted therapies for liver fibrosis.

 2. Mitochondrial Networks and Communication between Cardiac Fibroblasts

By Aybuke Celik, Research Fellow at Department of Cardiac Surgery in Boston Childrens Hospital/ Harvard Medical School 

Study Context: This image reveals the complex mitochondrial network within cardiac fibroblasts (Mitotracker Red CMXRos). The central fibroblast extends its network toward neighboring cells, illustrating the dynamic intercellular communication essential for cellular energy metabolism and signal transduction. The image also highlights the cell membrane and cytoskeletal structures (Cell Mask Green), emphasizing the scaffolding that facilitates these cellular interactions. This visual insight underscores the pivotal role mitochondria play in cardiac fibroblast function, contributing to cardiac homeostasis and the maintenance of cellular signaling.

3. Mitochondrial network, a solar symphony and the nucleus, a lunar presence

By Nada Dhaouadi, PhD Student in the Histology laboratory at the polytechnic university of marches, under the supervision of Pr. Saverio Marchi

Study Description: In this captivating image, we observe the intricate architecture of mitochondria within a breast cancer cell, where the dynamic interplay between cellular structures creates a striking visual metaphor reminiscent of celestial bodies. The mitochondrial network, depicted in vibrant hues, radiates outward like the sun's rays, symbolizing energy production and vitality. Each mitochondrion appears as a luminous orb, interconnected in a web that suggests both strength and fragility. This network is not just a source of power for the cell; it embodies the relentless drive of cancer cells to proliferate and thrive, much like the sun's relentless energy that fuels life on Earth. In contrast, the nucleus stands out as a serene and powerful presence, akin to the moon illuminating the night sky. Its distinct shape and darker tones create a focal point within the chaotic beauty of the mitochondrial network. The nucleus houses the genetic material that dictates cellular function and behavior, representing both control and mystery—much like the moon's influence over tides and cycles. Together, the mitochondria and nucleus form a cosmic relationship within the breast cancer cell. The sun-like mitochondria provide energy and vitality, while the moon-like nucleus governs cellular processes with an enigmatic authority. This imagery not only highlights the complexity of cancer biology but also invites reflection on the dualities present in nature—light and dark, energy and control, chaos and order.

4. Mitochondria Movement in Neurons

By Gaurav Verma, Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Gothenburg University, Sweden

Study Description: Primary cortical neurons are grown in the coated (Poly-D-Lysin+Laminin) imaging plates and stained with MitoTracker Red, where we get a fascinating look at their energy production and overall health. MitoTracker Red is a special dye that stains active mitochondria. In neurons, this staining technique shows a complex network of mitochondria spread throughout the cell body, (axons and dendrites), highlighting where energy is being used the most. This allows us to track the movement of mitochondria movements from one neuron to others.

5. Mitochondrial Highways: Powering the Neuronal Network

By Amandine Grimm, Research Cluster Molecular and Cognitive Neurosciences, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Switzerland

The image depicts a culture of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC)-derived neurons. The gray color indicates the nucleus (DAPI staining), the cyan color represents the neuronal marker MAP2 (microtubule-associated protein 2 staining), and the orange color represents the mitochondria (TOMM20 staining). 

Study context: Our study aimed to investigate whether the mitochondrial aging signature is retained in iPSC-derived neurons from aged donors. IPSCs from both young and aged donors were differentiated into neurons before the assessment of mitochondria parameters. Notably, neurons from aged donors displayed mitochondrial dysfunction, including reduced ATP, mitochondrial membrane potential, and respiration, as well as increased free radicals and mitochondrial mass, and fragmented mitochondrial network compared to neurons from young donors. Our study indicates that aged iPSC-derived neurons could be a valuable tool for studying neuronal aging of mitochondrial parameters in vitro.

6. Forever young: Unravelling the lights of the eternal youth

By Vanessa López Polo, PhD student, Cellular Plasticity and Disease Laboratory, Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB), Barcelona, Spain

Senescent cell. Mitochondria was stained using mitotracker (magenta), mtDNA was stained using dsDNA antibody (green) and DNA was stained with DAPI (blue). Magnification: mtDNA staining resembles fireflies travelling along highly interconnected bridges which are mitochondria.

Study context: Senescent cells are used to study biological processes related to cellular aging and age-relate diseases. Senescent cells present an increase in the mitochondrial mass, increased in mtDNA number and hyperfused mitochondrial networks. Some cells present multiple nuclei.

 7. Disruption of the Mitochondrial Network in Oxidative Stress-Induced Senescent Melanocytes

By Ines Martic, Institute for Biomedical Aging Research, Universität Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria

This complex V immunofluorescence image (60x magnification) in tBHP-treated melanocytes, highlights the mitochondrial network, with visible signs of increased fragmentation—an indicator of mitochondrial dysfunction associated with oxidative stress-induced senescence.

Study context: The study focuses on oxidative stress-induced senescence in melanocytes using tert-butyl hydroperoxide (tBHP) as a proxy for cigarette smoke exposure. Upon induction of senescence in melanocytes, the team aims to understand their role in skin aging and age-related pigmentation disorders. The observed mitochondrial fragmentation in tBHP-treated cells provides insight into how oxidative stress contributes to the cellular senescence, impairing mitochondrial function and promoting age-related phenotypes.

8. Parking Lot

By Dipti Baskar, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, India

Description:  Genetic abnormalities in Mitochondria, the "Power house" of the cell, result in "Power failure" of the body machinery. This can lead to paracrystalline inclusions called "Parking lot" inclusions within the abnormal mitochondria commonly noted in mitochondrial myopathy which is represented in this digital artwork.

Targeting Mitochondria 2024 Congress
October 29-31, 2024 - Berlin, Germany 
wms-site.com

Report Book & Replay of the Workshop are Now Available

Workshop Access - How to Evaluate Mitochondria Function?

If you couldn't join the workshop, the materials are now available for purchase.

• Benefit from a 3 weeks access to the workshop. The recording includes 3+ hours on "How to Evaluate Mitochondria Function?"

• Access the Report Book of the workshop. It contains all PowerPoint slides discussed during the workshop, as well as the full bibliography and useful protocols.

Access Workshop Recording.

Purchase the Report Book.

Posters List of Targeting Mitochondria 2024

More than 112 communications were presented during Targeting Mitochondria 2024, including more than 70 posters. Access full posters list. 

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WMS 2024 Best Mitochondria Image Nominations

Forever young: Unravelling the lights of the eternal youth
By Vanessa López Polo, Cellular Plasticity and Disease Laboratory, Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Spain

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