Abstract
Mitochondria-derived peptides (MDPs) are small peptides hidden in the mitochondrial DNA, maintaining mitochondrial function and protecting cells under different stresses. Currently, three types of MDPs have been identified: Humanin, MOTS-c and SHLP1-6. MDPs have demonstrated anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory activities, reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress-protecting properties both in vitro and in vivo. Recent research suggests that MDPs have a significant cardioprotective role, affecting CVDs (cardiovascular diseases) development and progression. CVDs are the leading cause of death globally; this term combines disorders of the blood vessels and heart. In this review, we focus on the recent progress in understanding the relationships between MDPs and the main cardiovascular risk factors (atherosclerosis, insulin resistance, hyperlipidaemia and ageing). We also will discuss the therapeutic application of MDPs, modified and synthetic MDPs, and their potential as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Highlights
Mitochondria-derived peptides (MDPs) are a class of recently identified peptides, which are found within other known mitochondrial genes and encoded by small ORFs
We focus on the role of on MDPs as crucial peptides, modulating and regulating mitochondrial function and involved in pathological changes in CVD via different molecular mechanisms
Identified mitochondrial-derived peptides are hidden in mitochondria genes and closely associated with human mitochondria metabolism as well as neurodegenerative and age-related diseases
Summary
MDPs are a class of recently identified peptides, which are found within other known mitochondrial genes and encoded by small ORFs (open reading frames). After HN, two other types of MDPs were discovered: MOTS-c (mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rDNA type-c) [3] and SHLP (small Humanin-like peptide, 1 to 6) [4]. MDPs are released into the body via paracrine and endocrine pathways and have diverse functions as cytoprotective agents, such as maintaining cell viability and mitochondrial function under stress, are involved in cellular metabolism and cell survival and act in response to inflammation and OS (oxidative stress) [5]. We focus on the role of on MDPs as crucial peptides, modulating and regulating mitochondrial function and involved in pathological changes in CVD via different molecular mechanisms. Further understanding the role of MDPs in various signalling pathways related to CVD would improve its medical significance and therapeutic potential. We will provide the known functions of these MDPs
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