Mitochondrial Theory of Aging

The mitochondrial theory of aging proposes that accumulated mitochondrial damage is a primary cause of aging. Mitochondria produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) as a byproduct of ATP generation. Over time, ROS damages mitochondrial DNA (which lacks histones and has limited repair capacity), cardiolipin (the lipid that maintains cristae structure), and electron transport chain complexes. This creates a vicious cycle: damaged mitochondria produce more ROS, which causes more damage. The Midas Protocol addresses mitochondrial aging with: SS-31 (binds cardiolipin to stabilize cristae and restore ETC efficiency), NAD+ (electron carrier for Complex I, substrate for SIRT3 which governs mitochondrial protein quality), and Humanin (mitochondrial-derived cytoprotective peptide that activates STAT3 survival signaling).

The Midas Approach

The Midas Longevity Protocol doesn't address mitochondrial theory of aging in isolation — it targets this pathway alongside 9 other aging mechanisms simultaneously. This multi-pathway approach reflects the scientific consensus that aging is not a single process but a network of interconnected pathways (Lopez-Otin et al., Cell 2023, "Hallmarks of Aging").

Learn more: 12 Hallmarks of Aging & How Midas Maps to Each