'Mitochondrial transfer' into nerves could relieve chronic pain, early study hints

Researchers discovered that satellite glial cells wrap around nerve roots and transfer mitochondria to neighboring nerve cells through tiny tubes, helping maintain the nerves' energy supply for proper function. When this mitochondrial transfer process breaks down due to conditions like diabetes or chemotherapy, nerves become energy-depleted and malfunction, causing chronic pain that could potentially be treated by injecting fresh mitochondria directly into damaged nerves.