Work

The Caenorhabditis elegans mitochondrial electron transport chain: its role in adaptation, longevity, and biotechnology

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: In Caenorhabditis elegans ( C. elegans ) the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) exhibits remarkable functional plasticity. This review summarizes the composition, regulation, and adaptive roles of complexes I-V. Depending on oxygen availability, the ETC uses either ubiquinone (UQ) or rhodoquinone (RQ), an ancestral strategy for hypoxia or high hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) conditions. Mild ETC impairments can extend lifespan through redox signaling, mitohormesis, and activation of the mitochondrial unfolded protein response. These processes likely represent conserved mechanisms of bioenergetic adaptation and longevity. Moreover, C. elegans server as a translational model for human mitochondrial diseases and for screening mitochondrial or antiparasitic compounds.

Source: Experimental Cell Research

DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2026.115026

Authors: Estefani Yaquelin Hernández-Cruz, Salvador Uribe-Carvajal

Institution: Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

Language: English

Topic: Mitochondrial Function and Pathology

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,270