Title:Mitochondrial-Derived Peptides as Therapeutics and Biomarkers for Combating Vascular Aging and Associated Cardiovascular Diseases
Volume: 22
Issue: 1
Author(s): Rooban Sivakumar*, Arul Senghor Kadalangudi Aravaanan, Vinodhini Vellore Mohanakrishnan and Janardhanan Kumar
Affiliation:
- Department of Biochemistry, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRM Institute of Science and
Technology, SRM Nagar, Kattankulathur – 603203, Kanchipuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Keywords:
Mitochondrial-derived peptides, vascular aging, oxidative stress, endothelial function, cardiovascular diseases, biomarkers.
Abstract: Vascular aging profoundly affects the onset of cardiovascular diseases in the elderly,
mostly as a result of mitochondrial dysfunction. This review examines the protective roles of mitochondrial-
derived peptides such as humanin, MOTS-c, and small humanin-like peptides in mitigating
vascular aging. These peptides, encoded by mitochondrial DNA, are crucial for regulating
apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress, which have a major role in vascular health. MDPs
have significant prospects as therapeutic and biomarker possibilities for the early diagnosis and intervention
of vascular aging. MDPs influence the functions of endothelial and vascular smooth
muscle cells by modulating critical signaling pathways, including AMPK, mTOR, and sirtuins.
These pathways are essential for facilitating cellular metabolism, enhancing stress resilience, and
prolonging longevity. Moreover, MDPs are essential in mitochondrial bioenergetics and dynamics,
vital for mitigating endothelial dysfunction and enhancing vascular resilience. Furthermore, MDPs
contribute to immunological modulation and the regulation of inflammatory responses, underscoring
their potential therapeutic applications in the treatment of age-related vascular disorders. This
review analyzes the various functions of MDPs in vascular health and their therapeutic importance,
advocating for more studies to optimize their clinical benefits. By understanding the comprehensive
roles and mechanisms of these multifunctional peptides, we can better appreciate their capacity
to prevent and treat vascular aging and associated cardiovascular disorders. Future research
should aim to further elucidate their therapeutic effects and optimize their clinical applications.
