Exogenous LEA proteins expression enhances cold tolerance in mammalian cells by reducing oxidative stress.

ABSTRACT: Understanding the molecular mechanisms that confer cold resistance in mammalian cells might be relevant for advancing medical applications. This study aimed to exploit the protective function of Late Embryogenesis Abundant (LEA) proteins, known to provide resistance to low temperatures in extremophiles and plants, by their exogenous expression in mammalian cells, and compare their effects with the well characterized antioxidant, vitamin E.Remarkably, the expression of LEA proteins in mammalian cells exerted cold-protective effect similar to Vitamin E. LEA proteins preserved cell viability during cold stress and ensured a normal metabolic activity after warming. Their protective action was due to the mitigation of cold-induced mitochondrial stress and the overproduction of reactive oxygen s

SUBMITTER: Lo Sterzo M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11772582 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature