Work

Essential oil extracted from Hirami lemon (Citrus reticulata var. depressa) agricultural waste promotes mitochondrial biogenesis in C2C12 skeletal muscle cells

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: With increasing awareness of the circular economy, extracting valuable components from agricultural waste offers opportunities to create high-value products. Citrus reticulata var. depressa (CD), endemic to Taiwan, produces sour fruits mainly for juice, leaving significant peel waste. In this study, we extract essential oil (CDEO) from CD peels and examines its effects on skeletal muscle energy metabolism. ATP measurements and mitochondrial staining show that CDEO enhances ATP content, mitochondrial membrane potential, and mass in C 2 C 12 cells. RT-PCR and Western blot analyses indicate that CDEO activates the p-AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway and upregulates Nrf1, Nrf2, and TFAM expression. Among the identified constituents, γ -terpinene was found to be the major bioactive compound, capable of promoting ATP production and mitochondrial biogenesis. Future studies should further investigate mitochondrial function and evaluate its anti-fatigue potential using in vivo models.

Source: NFS Journal

DOI: 10.1016/j.nfs.2025.100232

Authors: Chung-Hsuan Wang, Ying-Hao Yeo, Chia-Hsin Lin, Mo-rong Xu, Sheng-Yang Wang

Institutions: National Chung Hsing University, Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center, Academia Sinica, Academia Sinica

Language: English

Topic: Adipose Tissue and Metabolism

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Affordable and clean energy, Zero hunger, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,800