"Bacterial Protein: A Key to Human Cell Health, Study Finds"
Researchers have discovered a bacterial protein, called mitochondrial coxiella effector F (MceF), released by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii, which can improve mitochondrial function and keep human cells healthy even when heavily burdened by bacteria. The protein interacts with an antioxidant enzyme in the mitochondria, promoting an anti-oxidizing effect that prevents cell damage and death. This finding could lead to new treatments for diseases related to mitochondrial dysfunction, such as cancer and auto-immune disorders.