James Cavin

Communications Specialist, Texas A&M University Department of Biomedical Engineering

Thanks to funding from the NIH and DOD, researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a method to rejuvenate old and damaged human cells by replacing their mitochondria. The method uses stem cells and microscopic “nano flower” shaped particles: when exposed to the nano flowers, the stem cells generate three or four times as many mitochondria. When placed next to aged or injured cells, the boosted stem cells share their extra mitochondria with their injured neighbors.

With new mitochondria, the previously damaged cells regained energy production and function. The rejuvenated cells showed restored energy levels and resisted cell death, even after exposure to damaging agents such as chemotherapy drugs.

Mitochondrial decline is linked to aging, heart disease and neurodegenerative disorders. Enhancing the body's natural ability to replace worn-out mitochondria could fight all of them. The story has been picked up by national news outlets like The Washington Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/science/2025/12/08/aging-stem-cells-longevity-mitochondria/