Researchers coat mitochondria with engineered materials to preserve energy production
A joint team from IRCCS Fondazione Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta and Politecnico di Milano successfully applied a new coating to mitochondria while maintaining their function.
Study combines biology and engineering expertise
The research merged mitochondrial biology knowledge from Dr. Valeria Tiranti at FINCB with chemical engineering skills from Pierangelo Metrangolo at Politecnico di Milano. This collaboration took place within the BraiNs joint laboratory, which was inaugurated in 2023. The findings were published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society.
Metal-organic frameworks protect cellular energy units
Scientists utilized metal-organic frameworks to create a protective layer around these vital cell structures. These specific materials are recognized for their versatility and were highlighted by the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Applying this coating proved complex but did not compromise the mitochondria's ability to generate energy.
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