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Inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction: A vicious circle in neurodegenerative disorders?
Jack van Horssen1, Pauline van Schaik1, Maarten Witte1
1Dept. of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Neuroscience Letters
|July 3, 2017
Summary
Inflammation impairs mitochondrial metabolism, leading to neurological diseases. Defective mitochondria also amplify inflammation, creating a harmful cycle.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction are key factors in neurological diseases.
- Activated immune cells release mediators that disrupt cellular energy production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of how inflammatory mediators affect mitochondrial metabolism.
- To discuss the role of damaged mitochondria in perpetuating inflammation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of experimental evidence.
- Analysis of signaling cascades triggered by inflammatory mediators.
- Examination of mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy.
Main Results:
- Cytokines like tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibit ATP production and increase reactive oxygen species.
- Mitochondrial damage can lead to cell death and release inflammatory signals.
- Failure in mitophagy exacerbates inflammation.
Conclusions:
- Inflammatory mediators significantly impair mitochondrial function.
- Dysfunctional mitochondria contribute to and worsen inflammatory responses in neurological conditions.
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