Mini-brains reveal how mitochondrial mutations affect brain cells

Researchers at the University of Bergen have used advanced stem cell technology to develop mini-brains, also called brain organoids, that can mimic disease processes caused by mitochondrial failure. This could open new avenues for treating serious brain diseases such as epilepsy.

Mitochondria are crucial for supplying the brain with energy. When mitochondrial function fails, this can lead to serious disorders in the brain, which require a lot of energy to function.

Using mini-brains, a research team led by Kristina Xiao Liang at the Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, has been able to study how genetic mutations in mitochondria affect brain cells and other cell types. Their work is published in the journal Advanced Science.

“The mini-brains give us a unique opportunity to understand disease mechanisms at the cellular level and test potential treatments. This is a significant step towards developing new therapies for diseases like severe epilepsy,” says Liang.

In addition, the research can contribute to a better understanding of other brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. The mini-brains offer a valuable model for exploring complex disease processes and testing treatment strategies in a realistic but controlled environment.

“These diseases often involve mitochondrial dysfunction that can be studied in the mini-brains. They allow researchers to study disease progression in real time, test personalized therapies, and identify new drug targets. While they are still under development, they have shown that we can increase our understanding and treatment of these conditions, potentially revolutionizing the field,” says Liang.