Ageing, Alzheimer's, MS and Parkinson's - Quality control for longevity Flashcards
(10 cards)
What initiates autophagy and mitophagy?
AMPK and sirtuins initiate autophagy and mitophagy during low cellular energy states.
What is autophagy?
Autophagy is the process of self-digestion where damaged cellular components are broken down and recycled.
What is mitophagy?
Mitophagy is the selective autophagy of damaged mitochondria.
What are the components of mitochondrial quality control?
Fusion, fission, mitophagy, and mitochondrial biogenesis.
How often do mitochondria undergo mitophagy?
Depending on tissue type, mitochondria are digested between 9–25 days after biogenesis.
What organs have faster mitochondrial turnover?
Liver mitochondria turn over faster than heart, kidney, and brain mitochondria.
What diseases are associated with defective mitophagy?
Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
What are some signs of cellular ageing that autophagy protects against?
Genome instability, telomere shortening, epigenetic alterations, protein disposal issues, insulin resistance, cell senescence, stem cell loss, altered communication.
Why is mitophagy important for brain energy?
Mitophagy maintains mitochondrial health and energy production, which is impaired in neurodegenerative diseases.
What role do sirtuins play in quality control?
Sirtuins regulate mitochondrial function and promote autophagy, supporting longevity.
