Investigation of mitochondria-associated proteins in the ageing process

In the past century it has become apparent that many countries in the developed World are encountering a demographic shift towards an older population. With an intrinsic human desire to live for as long as possible we have pushed sanitation and medical advances with a result of much increased life expectancy. This brings many advantages but also we now have increased numbers of people affected by diseases that are more common with advancing age. Many of these diseases which include cancers, neurodegeneration, sarcopenia and metabolic syndrome have a complex aetiology and are thought to be affected by triggers that are experience through life. At a cellular level there is interest in how affected parts of the body control energy making processes. The mitochondrial organelle has a significant part to play in cellular energetics and other processes such as B oxidation of lipids, processes seen to be altered in ageing and associated disease. This project focusses on the role of the mitochondria in ageing.

Aims
The project aims to interrogate mitochondria associated proteins that have previously been shown to be regulated by the ageing process, by applying different lifecourse pressures. The models used will be the fruit fly and the nematode worm in addition to cell cultures. Major interests are the effects of reduced oxygen (hypoxia) and exercise upon the mitochondria and particularly on the levels/activity of the mitochondrial proteins we have previously identified.

Objectives
To measure the 'plasticity' of the mitochondrial proteome and it's particular response to life long pressures including sub-optimal oxygenation and acute versus chronic exercise.