The alternative oxidase reconfigures the larval mitochondrial electron transport system to accelerate growth and development in <i>Drosophila melanogaster</i>.

ABSTRACT: The alternative oxidase (AOX) is naturally present in the mitochondrial electron transfer system (ETS) of many organisms but absent in vertebrates and most insects. AOX oxidizes coenzyme Q and reduces O₂ in H₂O, partially replacing the ETS cytochrome c segment and alleviating the oxidative stress caused by ETS overload. As successfully demonstrated in animal models, AOX shows potential in mitigating mitochondrial diseases. However, its non-proton-pumping nature may uncouple mitochondria, leading to excessive heat generation and interference with normal metabolism and physiology. Here we show that AOX from the tunicate Ciona intestinalis accelerates development of Drosophila melanogaster, elevating larval biomass accumulation (primarily due to increased f

SUBMITTER: Garcia GS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11870600 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature