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Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Assessment of Open Probability of the Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore in the Setting of Coenzyme Q Excess
Published on: June 1, 2022
A CaPful of mechanisms regulating the mitochondrial permeability transition
Fabio Di Lisa1, Paolo Bernardi
1Department of Biomedical Sciences and CNR Institute of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Padova, Italy. dilisa@bio.unipd.it
Abstract:
Despite the lack of its molecular identification, the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP) is a fascinating subject because of its important role in cell death. This holds especially true for cardiovascular diseases and in particular for ischemia-reperfusion injury, where research on PTP inhibition has been successfully translated from bench to clinical evidence of cardioprotection. In addition, recent reports extend the relevance of PTP to heart failure and atherosclerosis. This review summarizes the major factors involved in PTP control with specific emphasis on cardiovascular pathophysiology, and highlights recent findings on the pivotal role of inorganic phosphate as a mediator of the inhibitory effects of cyclosporin A and cyclophilin D ablation.
Insights
The mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP) is crucial in cell death, particularly in cardiovascular diseases. Inorganic phosphate mediates PTP inhibition, offering cardioprotection in ischemia-reperfusion injury and heart failure.
Area of Science:
- Mitochondrial biology
- Cardiovascular pathophysiology
- Cell death mechanisms
Background:
- The mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP) is implicated in cell death pathways.
- PTP inhibition has shown clinical evidence of cardioprotection, especially in ischemia-reperfusion injury.
- Emerging research links PTP to heart failure and atherosclerosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review factors controlling PTP.
- To emphasize PTP's role in cardiovascular pathophysiology.
- To highlight inorganic phosphate's role in PTP inhibition.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of PTP research.
- Analysis of PTP control mechanisms.
- Focus on cardiovascular implications.
Main Results:
- Inorganic phosphate is a key mediator of PTP inhibition.
- Cyclosporin A and cyclophilin D ablation effects are phosphate-dependent.
- PTP modulation is relevant for cardiovascular diseases.
Conclusions:
- PTP remains a critical target for cardiovascular disease treatment.
- Inorganic phosphate is a significant factor in PTP-mediated cardioprotection.
- Further research into PTP modulation may yield novel therapeutic strategies.
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