Effects of metformin on mitochondrial function of leukocytes from polycystic ovary syndrome patients with insulin resistance.

Objective: Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction are implicated in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The present study assesses the effect of metformin treatment on mitochondrial function in polymorphonuclear cells from PCOS subjects. Additionally, we evaluate endocrine parameters and levels of interleukin 6 (IL6) and tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα).

Altered mitochondrial function and oxidative stress in leukocytes of anorexia nervosa patients.

Context: Anorexia nervosa is a common illness among adolescents and is characterised by oxidative stress.

Objective: The effects of anorexia on mitochondrial function and redox state in leukocytes from anorexic subjects were evaluated.

Design And Setting: A multi-centre, cross-sectional case-control study was performed.

Mitochondria-targeted antioxidants as a therapeutic strategy for protecting endothelium in cardiovascular diseases.

Endothelial dysfunction involving dysfunctional mitochondria precedes the development of cardiovascular diseases. This impairment results from an increase in reactive oxygen species, which leads to oxidative stress and a reduced bioavailability of nitric oxide. It has been demonstrated that oxidative stress and alterations in glucose and lipid homeostasis (e.

The pivotal role of nitric oxide: effects on the nervous and immune systems.

Nitric oxide (NO) has an important role in physiological and pathological processes in general, and in particular plays a homeostatic role in the nervous and immune systems. The many different physiological functions of NO include those of a mediator of blood vessel dilation, neurotransmitter, neuromodulator and inductor of mitochondrial biogenesis. In addition, NO can transform into highly reactive and harmful molecules producing an impairment of the DNA, lipids or proteins, and thus altering their function.

Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress in insulin resistance.

Evidence is mounting of the involvement of mitochondrial dysfunction in insulin resistance, diabetes and associated complications. This review aims to provide an overview of the effects of insulin resistance on mitochondrial function in several tissues. We consider the pathogenesis of insulin resistance from a mitochondrial perspective and contemplate potential beneficial effects of strategies aimed at modulating mitochondrial function in insulin resistance, including insulin and insulin-sensitizing drugs, antioxidants, and selectively targeting antioxidants to mitochondria.