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Updated: Apr 15, 2026

In Vitro and In Vivo Detection of Mitophagy in Human Cells, C. Elegans, and Mice
Published on: November 22, 2017
Molecular mechanisms of mitochondrial autophagy/mitophagy in the heart
Toshiro Saito1, Junichi Sadoshima2
1From the Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark.
Abstract:
Mitochondrial quality is a crucial determinant of cell viability, and mitochondrial autophagy plays a central role in this control mechanism. Based on studies in yeast, numerous investigations of this process have been conducted, and the framework of mammalian mitochondrial autophagy is progressively appearing. However, many enigmas about the molecular mechanisms involved remain unsolved. Furthermore, the pathological significance of mitochondrial autophagy in the heart remains largely unclear. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of mitochondrial autophagy in mammals with reference to that in yeast. Regarding the process in yeast, some points of uncertainty have arisen. We also summarize recent advances in the research of autophagy and mitochondrial autophagy in the heart. This article is a part of a review series on Autophagy in Health and Disease.
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