An average American consumes 22 teaspoons of sugar per day, more than three times as much for women than for men.While it is well-known that sugar overconsumption can lead to Type 2 diabetes, and other diseases, the precise mechanisms by which too much sugar can set the stage for metabolic disease at cellular levels have not been established.A team of scientists from Van Andel Institute has discovered that excess sugar can cause cells to lose efficiency, or mitochondria, as a result.Cell Reports published today its findings. They provide a new model that allows us to examine the first metabolic events that could contribute to diabetes development.Ning Wu, Ph.D. assistant professor at Van Andel Institute, and co-author of the study, stated that sugar is essential for survival. We found that excess glucose in cells is directly related to sugar intake. This affects lipid composition and the integrity of mitochondria. This results in a loss of optimal functioning.Wu and her collaborators demonstrated using their new model that excess glucose decreases the concentrations of polyunsaturated fat acids (PUFAs), in the mitochondrial membrane, and makes mitochondria less efficient. PUFAs play a vital role in maintaining mitochondrial function as well as mediating many other biological processes, including inflammation, blood pressure, and cell communication.Instead, excess glucose is converted into a different form fatty acid which isn't as efficient and flexible as PUFAs. This alters the lipid composition and causes mitochondria to be stressed, which can lead to damage and a decrease in performance.Wu and her colleagues were capable of reverse this negative effect by feeding their mice models a low sugar ketogenic diet. This suggests that reducing glucose, restoring normal membrane cholesterol composition, and supporting healthy mitochondrial integrity support healthy mitochondrial function. Excessive consumption of carbohydrates can reduce the benefits of PUFA supplements.Wu explained that although we might not notice the change in mitochondrial performance immediately, our bodies do. If the lipid balance is disturbed for too long, it can cause subtle changes such as fatigue. Although our study doesn't offer any medical advice, it illuminates the early stages and offers insights that could help shape future prevention or therapeutic efforts.Althea N. Wildhart, Brejnev Mhire, Ph.D. Ben Johnson, Ph.D. Zachary B. Madaj M.S. Emily Wolfrum MPH, Vanessa Wegert and J. Andrew Pospisilik Ph.D. of VAI; and Xianlin Han Ph.D. of the Sam and Ann Barshop Institute of Longevity and Ageing Studies and Department of Medicine at UT Health San Antonio.Van Andel Institute and the National Institute of General Medical Sciences of National Institutes of Health received support under grant no. R01GM120129 (Wu); National Institute on Aging of National Institutes of Health under contract no. RF1AH061872 - Han
