The research team’s previous research linked weakness in the diaphragm to dysfunction in the cell’s mitochondria—the cell’s source of energy generation—and the production of reactive oxygen species. “This results in oxidative damage to diaphragm proteins, leading to increased breakdown of proteins in the diaphragm and wasting (atrophy) of the fibers in the diaphragm,” said Ashley Smuder, PhD, lead author on the study.“The goal of this study was to determine the effects of mechanical ventilation-induced activation of the autophagy/lysosomal system on ventilator-induced diaphragm mitochondrial dysfunction,” Smuder said. “Our results demonstrate that inhibiting autophagy during mechanical ventilation can reduce mitochondrial dysfunction and prevent diaphragm atrophy and contractile dysfunction.”
Smuder, of the University of Florida, presented “Increased autophagy is required for mechanical ventilation-induced diaphragm mitochondrial dysfunction” during a poster session on Thursday, Sept. 10, at the Westin Tampa Harbour Island.
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