Effect of Mitochondrial Transfer via Centrifugation on Insulin Resistance in C2C12 Cells

Background: Insulin resistance is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. Whether mitochondrial transfer using the centrifugation method has a beneficial effect on insulin resistance in muscles has not been reported yet. This study aimed to investigate the effect of mitochondrial transfer via centrifugation on insulin resistance in C2C12 cells. Methods: Insulin resistance was induced in C2C12 cells using palmitate. Healthy mitochondria from C2C12 cells were transferred into insulin-resistant C2C12 cells using the centrifugation method. Glucose uptake was evaluated to confirm the effect of mitochondrial transfer on insulin resistance. Whether mitochondrial dysfunction was improved was assessed based on changes of mitochondrial contents and function. Results: Healthy mitochondria were transferred into C2C12 cells using the centrifugation method. Mitochondrial transfer improved 2-deoxy glucose uptake in palmitate-treated C2C12 cells. It enhanced mitochondrial function by restoring adenosine triphosphate synthesis. Mitochondrial transfer increased the relative level of mitochondrial DNA copy number. Conclusions: Mitochondrial transfer via centrifugation improved insulin resistance in C2C12 cells.