Mitochondrial Imbalance in Down Syndrome: A Driver of Accelerated Brain Aging?

Mitochondrial dysfunction linked to Down syndrome is characterized by energy metabolism disruption and increased oxidative stress.

• Down syndrome is caused by having an extra copy of chromosome 21, which is associated with neurodevelopmental challenges and early-onset Alzheimer's disease.
• Mitochondrial imbalance in Down syndrome is marked by disrupted energy production, heightened oxidative stress, and impaired cellular maintenance processes.
• These mitochondrial abnormalities contribute to increased vulnerability of neurons, leading to cognitive decline and neurodegeneration.
• The review examines how genes located on chromosome 21 may influence mitochondrial dysfunction in individuals with Down syndrome.
• Interactions between mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and cellular aging processes may accelerate Alzheimer's-like brain aging in this population.
• Emerging therapies aimed at targeting mitochondrial pathways could potentially reduce neurodegeneration and improve health outcomes in individuals with Down syndrome.

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