USC Scientists Identify Tiny Mitochondrial Proteins as Molecular Messengers Linking Mediterranean Diet to Longevity

USC researchers find the Mediterranean diet increases humanin and SHMOOSE microproteins, offering new protection against heart disease and dementia.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 24, 2026, 4:50 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from University of Southern California

Source received: University of Southern California - Mediterranean Diet and Mitochondrial Microproteins. Ready to edit.

HEADLINE

USC Scientists Identify Tiny Mitochondrial Proteins as Molecular Messengers Linking Mediterranean Diet to Longevity

SUMMARY

A breakthrough study from the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology suggests that the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet are driven by microproteins called humanin and SHMOOSE. These mitochondria-derived peptides appear to translate nutritional intake into cellular protection, reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of neurodegeneration and heart disease.

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