Metabolism; mitochondria and uncoupling

Just a final couple of aspects of Nick Lane's ideas about mitochondria, diet and aging before I finally leave them alone. There are some factors which he suggests might be associated with longevity.

The first is high numbers of mitochondria per unit basal metabolism. This is the approach taken by birds and bats (which live far longer than similar sized non flight mammals). The metabolic rate needed for flight is such that resting metabolic rate can be met by the copious mitochondria running at tickover. This is effective at supplying energy without free radical leakage, especially with factor two taken on board. I don't think we'll ever get near to bird numbers of mitochondria, but upping the numbers doesn't seem like a bad idea. How about a few ketones to help?

The second is uncoupling proteins. These allow the hydrogen ion gradient in the mitochondria to be dissipated as heat. This in turn allows through flow of electrons down the electron transport chain, even if there are buckets of unused ATP hanging around. Through flow without obstruction means minimal sewer leakage, less free radicals, less apoptosis...

From this abstract, note that:

"Fatty acids are known to enhance mitochondrial uncoupling protein (UCP) activity"

No mention of glucose doing this! The point of the paper is that ketones do exactly the same thing. I don't see the need for frank ketonuria, but I do like to have ketones on tap for whenever they might be needed!

Peter