Ex vivo evaluation of the effects of a white grape juice extract on lymphocytic mitochondrial functions

Abstract

The physio-pathological role of mitochondria in aging and age-related diseases has stimulated the search for compounds able to promote mitochondrial functionality. Our study was designed to evaluate the effect of a white grape juice extract (WGJe) on mitochondrial activity, in an ex vivo experimental model consisting of activated lymphocytes obtained from a younger age group and an older age group of subjects. WGJe steadily decreased the lymphocytic mitochondrial mass in the older subjects, without a relevant effect in their younger counterpart, and significantly enhanced Δψm in both groups investigated. Finally, WGJe reduced the endogenous mitochondrial production of H₂O₂ in all subjects. The results support the potential use of WGJe to improve mitochondrial functionality, thus maintaining human health and slowing down aging.

Graphical Abstract

Keywords:

• Grape juice
• mitochondrial function
• lymphocytes
• aging
• resveratrol

Acknowledgements

Research was supported by grants from Sicily Region (PO FESR Sicilia 2007/2013, project “MEPRA,” N. 133 of Linea d’Intervento 4.1.1.1, CUP G73F11000050004).

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.