Peripheral blood mononuclear cell mitochondrial bioenergetics are related to vascular endothelial function in young and older adults

American Journal of Physiology-Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology 2026 Open access

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Authors: S. Tony Wolf, James F. Bangle, William E. Jennings, Georgia R. Albino, Melissa Gorejena, Briana L Clary, Junwon Heo, Jarrod A. Call
DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00262.2025
Cited by: 1
References: 52

Abstract

The use of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) is increasingly common in cardiovascular research. However, relatively little is known regarding potential age-related changes in PBMC mitochondrial bioenergetics and oxidative stress, or whether age-related changes are related to endothelial (dys)function. We demonstrate altered mitochondrial bioenergetics (oxygen consumption rates and membrane potential) and antioxidant buffering capacity in PBMCs from older compared with young adults. We additionally demonstrate associations between mitochondrial bioenergetics and endothelial function (brachial-artery flow-mediated dilation).

Fields of Study & Subjects

Mitochondrial Function and Pathology Nitric Oxide and Endothelin Effects Adipose Tissue and Metabolism

Publication details

Journal / source
American Journal of Physiology-Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology
Publisher
American Physiological Society
Volume
330
Issue
3
Pages
R274–R282
Publication date
28 January 2026
Language
EN