Sirt3-Mediated Mitochondrial Reprogramming: Emerging Therapeutic Paradigms In Peripheral Neuropathy And Neuropathic Pain

Research indicates that a protein called SIRT3, which is important for healthy cell powerhouses, plays a significant role in the development of nerve damage and pain, and boosting its activity could offer new treatment approaches.

Our bodies’ cells rely on tiny powerhouses called mitochondria to function correctly. When these powerhouses don’t work properly, it can lead to serious health issues, including nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy) and persistent nerve pain (neuropathic pain). A key protein, Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3), acts like a manager for these cellular powerhouses, ensuring they maintain balance and perform essential tasks such as energy production, managing harmful byproducts (like reactive oxygen species), and repairing damage. Recent findings suggest that when SIRT3 levels or activity are low, mitochondrial dysfunction worsens, contributing to the onset and progression of nerve damage and pain. Conversely, increasing SIRT3’s presence or boosting its activity has been shown to improve the health of these cellular powerhouses, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress (damage from unstable molecules), and ultimately alleviate symptoms of nerve pain. This understanding opens up exciting possibilities for developing new treatments that target SIRT3 to restore mitochondrial health and provide relief for those suffering from these debilitating conditions.

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Source: link to paper