Isolated Mitochondria Transfer Improves Neuronal Differentiation of Schizophrenia-Derived Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells and Rescues Deficits in a Rat Model of the Disorder

What is it about?

This study shows that isolated active mitochondria can enter various cell types without manipulation. It also shows that transfer of isolated active normal mitochondria (IAN-MIT) into schizophrenia-derived lymphoblasts induces long-lasting improvement in various mitochondrial functions. It also demonstrates improved differentiation of schizophrenia-derived iPSCs into neurons in vitro. In an animal model, we show intra-prefrontal cortex injection of IAN-MIT in adolescence, prevents mitochondrial disfunction and attentional deficit in adulthood.

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Why is it important?

Our results provide evidence for a direct link between mitochondrial function and schizophrenia-related deficits both molecular and behavioral and suggest a therapeutic potential for IAN-MIT transfer in diseases with bioenergetic and neurodevelopmental abnormalities such as schizophrenia.