Replenishing Mitochondria Significantly Reduces Chronic Nerve Pain, Research Shows

Replenishing mitochondria significantly reduces chronic nerve pain, research shows

For millions living with nerve pain, even a light touch can feel unbearable. Scientists have long suspected that damaged nerve cells falter because their energy factories known as mitochondria don't function properly.

'Mitochondrial transfer' into nerves could relieve chronic pain, early study hints

A new study reveals that nerve cells receive periodic infusions of mitochondria from neighboring cells — and this may point to a new way of treating nerve pain.

Mitochondrial transfer from glia to neurons protects against peripheral neuropathy

Primary sensory neurons in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) have long axons and a high demand for mitochondria, and mitochondrial dysfunction has been implicated in peripheral neuropathy after diabetes and chemotherapy1,2. However, the mechanisms by which primary sensory neurons maintain their mitochondrial supply remain unclear. Satellite glial cells (SGCs) in DRG encircle sensory neurons and regulate neuronal activity and pain3. Here we show that SGC…