The Energetics of Cognitive Performmance: Regulation of Neuronal Adenosine Triphosphate Production

Mitochondria are the power houses of the cell and, as such, regulate many physiological parameters such as power, endurance and cognition. Increasing mitochondrial performance would increase these parameters. To date, approaches to increasing mitochondrial function are limited. Most approaches involve increasing the concentration of metabolites necessary for proper mitochondrial function, such as creatine. We have developed a recombinant protein, (rhTFAM or recombinant human Transcription Factor A Mitochondrial) based on the mitochondrial transcription factor, that rapidly and robustly increases mitochondrial function in living animals including endurance and motor coordination by over two fold in three weeks. Brain, heart and muscle mitochondrial activity and ATP are increased significantly (ranging over 35-300%). RhTFAM is safe even after monthly dosing over a 10 month period in mice and reduces oxidative stress. We are applying for Army funding to test effects of rhTFAM on physical and cognitive performance in mice in SBIR Phase I studies with the intent to accelerate the clinical development of rhTFAM as a mitochondrial therapeutic capable of optimizing ATP production in Phase II studies.