Longevity & AgingNanocomposite Therapy Targets Muscle Loss at the Mitochondrial Level
Researchers engineered a muscle-targeted nanocomposite called BP-PEG-MOTS-c (BM) to combat age-related sarcopenia. The therapy pairs the mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c with antioxidant black phosphorus nanosheets, creating a dual-action agent that restores mitochondrial health while aggressively scavenging reactive oxygen species. In both cell cultures and aged mouse models, BM reduced muscle loss and dysfunction, normalized mitochondrial activity, and lowered lipid peroxidation. Mechanistically, the treatment activated the PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 pathway and suppressed ROS/p38 MAPK signaling—pathways central to antioxidant defense and mitochondrial stability. The nanocomposite showed strong biocompatibility, outperforming conventional drug delivery systems in safety assessments.
