Science Quickly Do Mitochondria Talk to Each Other? A New Look at the Cell’s Powerhouse
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May 21, 2025 Martin Picard, an Associate Professor at Columbia University and expert in mitochondrial psychobiology, joins Rachel Feltman to explore the intricate world of mitochondria. They discuss groundbreaking research suggesting mitochondria communicate with each other, impacting metabolism and mental health. Picard highlights the link between mitochondrial dysfunction and mental health disorders, suggesting dietary changes like the ketogenic diet may enhance energy flow. The conversation reveals how these powerhouses play a crucial role beyond mere energy production, inviting a fresh perspective on cellular interactions.
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Mitochondria as Energy Transformers
- Mitochondria transform energy from food and oxygen into a usable electrical charge inside cells.
- They act like tiny batteries powering everything from gene activation to cellular movement and aging.
Mitochondria Communicate Physically
- Mitochondria physically communicate by aligning their internal structures called cristae across organelles.
- This suggests mitochondria are not independent units but form social collectives inside cells.
Possible Electromagnetic Biology
- If mitochondria generate electromagnetic fields for communication, biology may rely on non-molecular information transfer.
- This challenges the dominant molecular deterministic model and opens new views on biological organization.