Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Mitochondrial Bioenergetics Are Related To Vascular Endothelial Function In Young And Older Adults
Our bodies are incredibly complex, and even tiny components can offer big clues about our overall health. Recent research has shed light on the connection between the energy factories within our immune cells and the health of our blood vessels. These immune cells, called peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), circulate throughout our bloodstream. Inside these cells are mitochondria, often referred to as the “powerhouses” of the cell, responsible for generating the energy needed for various cellular processes. The study explored how the energy production of these immune cell mitochondria changes as we age and, crucially, how these changes relate to the function of our vascular endothelium—the inner lining of our blood vessels that plays a vital role in blood flow and overall cardiovascular health. The findings indicate that there is a relationship between the bioenergetics (energy production) of mitochondria in PBMCs and the health of our blood vessels, regardless of age. This suggests that the way these immune cells produce energy could serve as an indicator of vascular health and potentially offer insights into the aging process of our cardiovascular system.
Source: link to paper