JAPAN AEROSPACE EXPLORATION AGENCY

Gravity Activates Mitochondrial Translation: Space Station Study Reveals Molecular Pathway Linking Mechanical Forces to Cellular Energy Production

- Experiments aboard the International Space Station show that microgravity drastically reduces mitochondrial translation, the process by which mitochondria synthesize proteins essential for ATP production. - Researchers identified a signaling pathway from cell adhesion through FAK, PAK1, RAC1, BAD, and Bcl2 family proteins that transmits mechanical force information to mitochondrial translation. - The study found that weakened cell adhesion under microgravity leads to malonylation of the mitochondrial translation machinery, further suppressing protein synthesis. - Findings may contribute to drug discovery targeting mitochondrial translation for aging, muscle atrophy, and long-term space travel-related health challenges.