Martin Picard: Mitochondrial Psychobiology, Neuroplasticity, Stress, and Brain Health

Mitochondria are best known as the powerplants within cells. But recent research is revealing that mitochondria play fundamental roles in regulating the structure and function of neuronal networks and the behaviors that those networks control. Martin Picard directs the Mitochondrial Psychobiology Group at Columbia University. In this episode I talk with Dr. Picard about: the biogenesis and movement of mitochondria within cells, the disposal of damaged mitochondria, the diversity of mitochondria within and amongst neurons in the brain, how this diversity contributes to neuroplasticity, and how aberrancies in mitochondria are involved in mental and neurodegenerative disorders. We also talk about how ‘bad’ and ‘good’ stress affect mitochondria.
LINKS:
Reviews on Mitochondrial Diversity and Psychobiology:
file:///Users/markmattson/Downloads/s42255-023-00783-1%20(1).pdf
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...
Mitochondrial Diversity and Anxiety:
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...
Human Brain Map of Mitochondrial Diversity:
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...

[@rishiskumar.360]

Great conversation between two of my favorite neuroscientists, Dr. Mattson and Dr. Picard. Lots of learning moments including that we are warm-blooded due to mitochondria, free intact mitochondria are in the saliva and blood, and glia are most affected by psychosocial experiences. Profound that mitochondria might have been the reason lungs and cardiovascular systems evolved to bring oxygen to them. Thank you both! 🧠

[@mathew9851]

Looking forward to listening to this conversation!

[@tracy-shizhang2598]

Super interesting and intriguing topic! Thank you!

[@anandpbgupta]

Just finished listening. Fascinating conversation. It will be good to know specifics of how to maintain and improve brain mitochondrial health.

[@LeahBensonTherapyTampa]

Martin Picard is the man! Love how he explains mitochondria.

[@iowkeatsendymion]

Very interesting! I am a long-distance runner interested in learning and practising how exercise and intermittent fasting greatly benefit health. Thank you Mark for inviting so many great scientists to this podcast. Very inspiring !! From my simple association, the MHI is a bit like the VO2Max, an index that shows people's fitness levels.

[@eugeniebreida1583]

Yet another fascinating view into cutting edge research, and another humble bright-light sharing with us. Godspeed!

[@studentaccount4354]

🎉Yay! Amazing topic. 😊TYVM