Biomedical engineers at Texas A&M published a study in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. They used microscopic flower-shaped nanoparticles called nanoflowers together with stem cells. In the presence of nanoflowers, the stem cells produced twice the normal number of mitochondria.
When placed near damaged or aging cells, the boosted stem cells transferred their extra mitochondria to the weaker cells. Those cells regained energy production and function and resisted cell death, even after exposure to damaging agents such as chemotherapy drugs. The researchers described the treated stem cells as mitochondrial bio factories.
The nanoparticles are made of molybdenum disulfide and stay inside the cell, where they continue to promote mitochondria creation. Because they are larger than many drug molecules, treatments based on these particles might need only monthly doses. The team suggests possible uses near the heart or in muscle.
Difficult words
- nanoflowers — very small particles shaped like flowers
- nanoparticles — very small particle used in science or medicine
- stem cells — cell that can grow into different cells
- mitochondria — part of a cell that makes energy
- molybdenum disulfide — a chemical compound used to make the particles
- chemotherapy — medical treatment that uses strong drugs
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How can extra mitochondria help weaker cells?
- Would you accept a treatment with monthly nanoparticle doses? Why or why not?
- Which body parts did the team suggest for possible use, and why might these parts need help?
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