Mito2i

🧫Bridging the gap between in vitro and in vivo models🐁 A way forward to clinical translation of mitochondrial transplantation in acute disease states Mitochondrial transplantation and transfer are being explored as therapeutic options in acute and chronic diseases to restore cellular function in injured tissues. To limit potential immune responses and rejection of donor mitochondria, current clinical applications have focused on delivery of autologous mitochondria. The authors convened a Mitochondrial Transplant Convergent Working Group (CWG), to explore three key issues that limit clinical translation: (1) storage of mitochondria, (2) biomaterials to enhance mitochondrial uptake, and (3) dynamic models to mimic the complex recipient tissue environment. In this review, they present a summary of CWG conclusions related to these three issues and provide an overview of pre-clinical studies aimed at building a more robust toolkit for translational trials. Read the article here: https://lnkd.in/g3bJT8XP

🎗️On National Cancer Wellness Awareness Day, we are highlighting a project that has the potential to personalize breast cancer treatment, enhancing efficacy and minimizing side effects. Robert Screaton and his team hope that by moving away from the traditional trial-and-error approach, the physical and emotional needs of cancer patients can be better prioritized. 🩺 Learn more about MITO2i's funded projects at https://lnkd.in/gF9KAebs #cancerresearch #cancerawareness #personalizedmedicine

✨Dr. Mikaela Gabriel is a Mi'kmaq (Crow Clan) researcher who has found her place in academia through her dedication to Indigenous health and well-being. Dr. Gabriel's research focuses on promoting positive cultural identity, strength, and healing through traditional knowledge and cultural support. She explores how connections with traditional knowledge and Elders can support mental health across life transitions, such as homelessness and employment changes. Her clinical work employs Indigenous cultural approaches to mental health and trauma-centered, narrative therapeutic strategies. As a postdoctoral researcher at the Waakebiness-Bryce Institute for Indigenous Health, Dr. Gabriel became a key member of the newly launched Indigenous Research Network (IRN). The IRN, part of the University of Toronto’s Institutional Strategic Initiatives, aims to build and nurture a global research network linking academic researchers and Indigenous communities. Its mission is guided by the principle of “nothing about us without us,” ensuring that research is ethical and beneficial, empowering Indigenous peoples. Learn more about the IRN here: https://irn.utoronto.ca/ MITO2i is proud to work alongside Dr. Gabriel and other Indigenous researchers, students, and community members as we drive innovation in mitochondrial health forward. 🧪🔬🩺 #nationalindigenouspeoplesday #indigenoushealth #community medicine

🌟Scholar Spotlight!🌟 Slaghinaya is one of this year's MITO Innovation Scholars who received the MITO2i Graduate Student Scholarship for her project, "Investigating Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 4 Alpha as a Central Regulator of Kidney Graft Repair". This project aims to determine whether the novel HNF4A agonist, N-trans caffeoyltyramine (NCT), can protect kidneys from ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) by preserving mitochondrial function and proximal tubular cell viability. Building on previous findings that normothermic ex vivo kidney perfusion (NEVKP) helps preserve mitochondrial protein expression and metabolism, the study hypothesizes that NCT will improve kidney injury outcomes in both in vitro and in vivo models. Learn more about our innovation scholars by visiting our website! https://lnkd.in/gSbTs2S5 #mitochondria #healthresearch #organtransplant #innovation

On April 25th, MITO2i celebrated the MITO Innovation Scholars in Mitochondrial Health and Medicine. During the ceremony, scholars were presented with a distinguished enamel Thomas Zachos Pin, recognizing their unwavering dedication and outstanding leadership in the field of mitochondrial research. The award ceremony was not only a celebration of individual achievements but also a testament to the collective efforts of the mitochondrial research community. Attendees had the opportunity to reflect on past accomplishments, celebrate current successes, and inspire future generations of researchers to continue pushing the boundaries of mitochondrial science. We extend our sincerest congratulations to all the award recipients and heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and supported the MITO2i Award Ceremony 2024! Check out some more highlights here: https://lnkd.in/gkGSG2Qn

🧠In honor of World Schizophrenia Day, we're excited to spotlight a groundbreaking project exploring the genetic and mitochondrial underpinnings of psychiatric illnesses like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Aleksandra's research is investigating the FXR1 gene's role in mitochondrial function, potentially unlocking new insights into the biological mechanisms driving these disorders. By delving into these molecular interactions, this project could pave the way for novel therapeutic approaches, offering hope and better understanding for those affected by schizophrenia and related disorders. Learn more by visiting https://lnkd.in/gsZk3sQU #WorldSchizophreniaDay #MentalHealthAwareness #ScientificResearch #MitochondrialHealth #CRISPR #BipolarDisorder #SchizophreniaResearch

We are thrilled to announce that the MITO2i 4th Annual Research Symposium 2024 was a resounding success! Held on April 25th, this year's symposium marked our first hybrid event, blending in-person attendance with virtual participation to accommodate a diverse audience from around the globe. The symposium brought together leading experts, researchers, and scholars in the field of mitochondrial health and medicine for a day of insightful presentations, engaging discussions, and valuable networking opportunities. Attendees had the opportunity to delve into cutting-edge research, explore innovative approaches, and exchange ideas on the latest advancements in mitochondrial science. Throughout the event, attendees enjoyed a diverse range of topics, including personalized medicine, therapeutic nutrition, and translational research. Amy Ripka, CEO and Founder of Lucy Therapeutics, was one of many speakers who shared groundbreaking insights into the world of research and mitochondrial health. To listen to her full talk, and others featured at our annual research symposium, visit https://lnkd.in/geXCiv4t A special thanks to our sponsors, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Baszucki Group, Metabolic Mind, Lucy Therapeutics, and the Ontario Brain Institute!

🔬 Research Highlight 👩🔬 Members of our MITO Network have published new research in Nature Cardiovascular Research, titled "Primitive macrophages induce sarcomeric maturation and functional enhancement of developing human cardiac microtissues via efferocytic pathways". This study sheds light on the crucial role of yolk sac macrophages in shaping the embryonic heart. Using human embryonic stem cells, researchers differentiated primitive LYVE1+ macrophages, which were then integrated into cardiac microtissues composed of cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts. The results? Enhanced contractile force, improved relaxation kinetics, and increased sarcomeric protein maturation in the microtissues. This groundbreaking work not only deepens our understanding of human heart development but also highlights the importance of macrophages in optimizing early cardiac tissue function. By elucidating the mechanisms behind macrophage-mediated enhancement of cardiac microtissues, this study paves the way for future advancements in heart disease research and regenerative medicine. This project was funded in part by MITO2i and the Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research. 🫀🔬🧫 Read the full article to explore the intricate interplay between macrophages and developing cardiac tissue: https://lnkd.in/d29MSZ8t #Research #Cardiology #HeartDevelopment #RegenerativeMedicine

Christopher Perry will be joining us on Monday May 6th at 2-4pm to host our latest Mitochondrial Technology Training Session! There's still time to register for this online workshop, during which we will be learning all about plate-based assessments of respiration, methodology, and its applications in mitochondrial research. Don't miss out! Register Here: https://lnkd.in/gA4aKRRK

📢Interested in learning more about the role of mitochondria in transplant, therapeutics, nutrition, brain, cardiovascular, and renal health? Registration for online participation at our research symposium next week is still open! Don't miss out on this opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of mitochondrial health.! 🧠🫀🫁🔬🧪🧫 Register on our website now! https://lnkd.in/geXCiv4t #Mitochondria #ResearchSymposium #HealthScience