Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 22, 2026

Visualizing Mitophagy with Fluorescent Dyes for Mitochondria and Lysosome
Published on: November 30, 2022
Mechanisms of mitophagy: putting the powerhouse into the doghouse
Abstract:
Since entering our cells in an endosymbiotic event one billion years ago, mitochondria have shaped roles for themselves in metabolism, inflammation, calcium storage, migration, and cell death. Given this critical role in cellular homeostasis it is essential that they function correctly. Equally critical is the ability of a cell to remove damaged or superfluous mitochondria to avoid potential deleterious effects. In this review we will discuss the various mechanisms of mitochondrial clearance, with a particular focus on Parkin/PINK1-mediated mitophagy, discuss the impact of altered mitophagy in ageing and disease, and finally consider potential therapeutic benefits of targeting mitophagy.
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