Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Using Live Cell STED Imaging to Visualize Mitochondrial Inner Membrane Ultrastructure in Neuronal Cell Models
Published on: June 30, 2023
Alzheimer's disease: a lesson from mitochondrial dysfunction
Paula I Moreira1, Maria S Santos, Catarina R Oliveira
1Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
Abstract:
Extensive literature exists supporting a role for mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative damage in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Mitochondria are a major source of intracellular reactive oxygen species and are particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress. This review discusses evidence supporting the notion that mitochondrial dysfunction is intimately associated with Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis. Furthermore, the potential connection between mitochondrial dysfunction/oxidative stress and autophagy in Alzheimer's disease is also discussed. As a result of insufficient digestion of oxidatively damaged macromolecules and organelles by autophagy, neurons progressively accumulate lipofuscin (biological garbage) that could exacerbate neuronal dysfunction. The knowledge that mitochondrial dysfunction has a preponderant role in several pathological conditions instigated the development of mitochondrial antioxidant therapies. Mitochondria-targeted antioxidant treatments are briefly discussed in this review.
Related Concept Videos
Mitochondria
Mitochondrial Membranes
Mitochondrial Membranes
Alzheimer Disease l: Introduction
Dementia l: Introduction
Alzheimer's Disease: Overview
The clinical diagnosis of AD hinges on the presence of memory and other cognitive impairments. Biomarkers, such as changes in Aβ and tau...

