SKIN UVR DAMAGE PROTECTION IS MEDIATED BY THE MITOCHONDRIAL TRANSFER FROM MELANOCYTES TO OTHER CELLS TOWARDS THE DISCOVERY OF A NEW PROCESS
Abstract
Cells and tissues developed mechanisms to minimize or recover from environmental harm by regulating mitochondrial function. These mechanisms are associated with intracellular protection through the activation of damage signalization pathways involving the mitochondria activity and recently to the transfer of mitochondria from healthy to damaged cells. The skin is a complex tissue were different cell types interact to maintain homeostasis. Evidence has shown that skin cells protect themselves from harm; however, it is yet to be understood how cells interact with themselves or, among other types, to preserve their function or recover from damage. In previews studies, we observe that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) transfer mitochondria to other cells, harmed or stressed, to immune cells, and cancer. This process repairs the loss of function in mitochondria recipient cells and provides an increased ATP production, proliferation, migration, and possibly stress resistance or repair. Interestingly, melanocytes produce cellular connections and microvesicles secreted towards the keratinocytes, as MSCs do towards harmed cells. Using in vitro approaches such as cell culture, microscopy, and molecular biology, we want to discover if melanocytes can transfer mitochondria to other cells in the skin, in the same way as MSCs. Additionally, it will be essential to understand if the transfer of the mitochondria is stimulated towards cells harmed by UVR radiation. This proof of concept will provide a new understanding of a biological mechanism regarding intercellular cell repair.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 12, 2021
- Source ID
- FA95502010407
Entities
People
- Andrés Caicedo
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito