Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel Develops MitoCatch for Mitochondrial Disease Treatment
Scientists at the Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), led by Botond Roska, have developed a new technology called MitoCatch. This system is designed to deliver healthy mitochondria directly to cells that are most affected by diseases involving mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondria are essential for energy production in cells, and their dysfunction is linked to various diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson's, optic nerve degeneration, and certain heart failures. MitoCatch uses engineered protein binders to guide mitochondria to the correct cells, ensuring efficient and targeted delivery. The technology has shown promise in experiments, successfully delivering mitochondria to neurons and other cell types, improving cell survival and function.