How Aging Affects Mitochondria in Brain Cells

Of all your internal organs, your brain requires the most energy. As you age, your mitochondrial genes drive energy production to become less active, therefore leaving your brain susceptible disease.

STORY AT-A-GLANCE

• Mitochondria are the powerhouses of your cells, producing a majority of the energy generated in your body. They also coordinate apoptosis, or programmed cell death — an important process that ensures the death of malfunctioning cells that might otherwise turn into cancer

• Your brain, being the most energy-dependent organ, is particularly …