Natural polyphenol boosts mitochondrial function and muscle performance during aging

[Sly Saint]

In a recent study published in the Cell Metabolism, a group of researchers explored mitochondrial calcium (mtCa²⁺) uptake in muscle aging and identified oleuropein as a mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) activator to boost energy and performance.

Background
Mitochondrial dysfunction is a key hallmark of aging, contributing to physiological decline and chronic diseases. In skeletal muscle, mtCa²⁺ uptake, regulated by the MCU, plays a vital role in oxidative metabolism and Adenosine trisphosphate (ATP) production during contraction.

Age-related declines in mitochondrial activity are linked to sarcopenia, characterized by reduced muscle mass, strength, and function. While exercise and nutrition reduce sarcopenia, direct therapeutic strategies targeting mtCa²⁺ uptake remain unexplored. Polyphenol-rich diets show promise, yet their molecular mechanisms are unclear.

Further research is needed to develop interventions enhancing mitochondrial bioenergetics and addressing age-related muscle dysfunction.

Oleuropein's efficacy depended on the presence of MICU1 and MCU, as genetic knockdown of either abolished its effects on mtCa²⁺ uptake and mitochondrial respiration. In human myotubes, oleuropein enhanced mitochondrial energy metabolism and reduced fatigue during muscle contractions, demonstrating physiological benefits.

Conclusions
To summarize, targeting mitochondria to enhance energy production is a critical focus due to its role in health and disease. Oleuropein, a natural polyphenol, uniquely stimulates mitochondrial respiration and ATP production by directly enhancing mtCa²⁺ uptake via binding to MICU1 of the MCU complex. This mechanism transiently elevates mtCa²⁺ levels, activating PDH dephosphorylation and boosting bioenergetics. Unlike other mitochondrial therapies, oleuropein acts rapidly and specifically without altering cytosolic calcium.

Natural polyphenol boosts mitochondrial function and muscle performance during aging

I recently started taking olive leaf extract for quite different reasons before I found this, so it will be interesting to see if it has any other beneficial effects.