Mitochondrial Restoration Reverses Hair Loss and Wrinkles

Hallmarks of aging include hair loss and wrinkled skin. The development of anti-aging treatment and beauty products are ongoing in the pursuit of eternal youth. New research points to novel targets for reversing age-related hair loss and skin deterioration. Mitochondria create most of the energy cells use to survive and dysfunction has been linked with aging, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. A mutation has been identified that can cause a decline in mitochondrial function. In a recent study, within four weeks, mice showed signs of aging including hair loss and wrinkles due to mitochondrial dysfunction. When the gene mutation was turned off, the normal mitochondrial function was restored. This led to an impressive reversal of aging, including the regrowth of fur and smoothing of skin wrinkles.

This mouse study suggests that epigenetic signaling plays an essential role in maintaining and restoring skin and hair. Increased matrix metalloproteinases and decreased expression of matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor TIMP1 are also implemented in the development of skin wrinkles. Further research will be needed to see if this mitochondrial restoration can be replicated in humans to reverse the anti-aging effects and other diseases in which mitochondrial dysfunction plays a significant role.

For more information: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41419-018-0765-9

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