In their recent Nature paper, Ayupov and colleagues demonstrated targeted mitochondrial transplantation as a strategy to restore mitochondrial function and promote neuronal survival in models of mitochondrial dysfunction. The technology they developed, MitoCatch, enables the selective delivery of functional mitochondria to defined target cell populations and provides a framework to study mitochondrial uptake, integration, quality control, and downstream effects in disease-relevant neuronal systems. In a new Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology “Tools of the Trade” article, published on 9 June 2026, Temurkhan Ayupov further outlines the conceptual and technical basis of MitoCatch, highlighting its potential to address key limitations in mitochondrial transplantation, including delivery efficiency, cell-type specificity, and mechanistic tractability.

The group will build on this technology to develop targeted mitochondrial transfer as a therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases and blinding optic neuropathies, including Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy and glaucoma. In parallel, the group will use MitoCatch to study mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy directly within neurons of the human retina and brain, with the aim of identifying new therapeutic targets to improve mitochondrial function.

Temurkhan Ayupov’s research has recently been recognized with the Brain Diseases Award from the UZH Foundation, the 2026 RetinAward, and was featured in Forbes Kazakhstan’s “30 Under 30” list.

IOB warmly congratulates Temurkhan Ayupov on his appointment as Group Leader and welcomes the establishment of the Mitochondrial Biology and Therapy Group.