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.
