A protein located in the mitochondria —the “energy centers” of the cells— could be decisive in understanding how and why we age.
The discovery by Japanese researchers was published by the journal Aging Cell in 2025 suggests that changes in the activity of this protein directly influence aging. Since it affects the way cells produce and manage the energy necessary to function properly over time.
The study focused on COX7RP, a mitochondrial protein involved in the regulation of cellular energy. The mitochondria They play a fundamental role in the life of cells since they transform nutrients into usable energy.
However, with aging, this process becomes less efficient, causing progressive deterioration of tissues and organs.
The scientists observed that when this protein functions optimally, the mitochondria maintain more stable energy productioneven in aged organisms.
On the other hand, when its activity decreases, it promotes a lower regeneration capacity, an increase in oxidative stress and a greater vulnerability to age-related diseases. Classic signs of cellular aging.
This finding not only reinforces the idea that aging is closely linked to cellular energybut also identifies a concrete mechanism on which intervention could be made in the future.
How protein influences the aging process
One of the most relevant points of the work is that the protein does not act in isolation. It is part of a complex network of cellular signals that They regulate metabolism and stress response.
As you go agingthese signals tend to become uncoordinated, generating a vicious cycle of cellular damage.
The researchers detected that by enhancing the function of this protein in experimental models carried out with mice, it was achieved improve energy efficiency of cells and reduce biological markers associated with aging.
This suggests that it is not just about living longer, but about maintaining a better quality of life during old age.
In addition, the finding provides an explanation for why some people age more healthily than others, even with similar lifestyles. Differences in the regulation of mitochondrial proteins could be one of the hidden keys behind these variations.
