Resveratrol attenuates mitochondrial dysfunction in the liver of intrauterine growth retarded suckling piglets by improving mitochondrial biogenesis and redox status.

SCOPE: Emerging evidence has identified mitochondrial biogenesis and oxidative phosphorylation as potential targets for the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome. This study investigated the effect of resveratrol (RSV) on hepatic mitochondrial function in intrauterine growth-retarded (IUGR) suckling piglets.

METHODS AND RESULTS: Seven normal birth weight (NBW) and fourteen IUGR neonatal male piglets were selected. Piglets were fed control diets supplemented with 0 (NBW-CON), 0 (IUGR-CON), and 1.0 (IUGR-RSV) g RSV per kg of milk dry matter from 7 to 21 days of age (n = 7), respectively. Mitochondrial function, swelling, and redox status in the liver were assessed. Compared with NBW, IUGR impaired hepatic mitochondrial biogenesis and energy homeostasis of the control piglets. IUGR control piglets showed overproduction of superoxide radicals, increased concentration of malondialdehyde, and marked swelling in the mitochondria. RSV improved mitochondrial DNA content, ATP production, and fatty acid oxidation in the liver of IUGR piglets, along with an increased activity of sirtuin 1. RSV inhibited mitochondrial superoxide anion accumulation, increased complex III and manganese superoxide dismutase activities, and ameliorated mitochondrial swelling and lipid peroxidation in the IUGR piglets.

CONCLUSION: RSV may have beneficial effects in improving hepatic mitochondrial function and redox status in the IUGR piglets.