Mitochondrial dysfunction and potential anticancer therapy

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Cell Biology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Mitochondrial dysfunction (MDF) is implicated in diverse pathologies, including neurological, cardiovascular, and metabolic disorders.
• MDF is observed in cancer and cancer predisposition syndromes linked to DNA damage response (DDR) defects.
• Recent findings show MDF in eukaryotic cells after antibiotic treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent studies on MDF in pathological conditions.
• To emphasize the effects of various antibiotic classes on mitochondria.
• To explore the role of autophagy/mitophagy in MDF and the potential of repurposing antibiotics as anticancer drugs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on mitochondrial dysfunction.
• Analysis of research on the impact of antibiotics on mitochondrial function.
• Examination of the role of autophagy and mitophagy in mitochondrial dysfunction.

Main Results:

• Mitochondrial dysfunction is a common factor in various diseases and cancer.
• Antibiotics can induce mitochondrial dysfunction in eukaryotic cells.
• Autophagy/mitophagy plays a significant role in managing mitochondrial health and dysfunction.

Conclusions:

• Mitochondrial dysfunction is a critical factor in numerous diseases and cancer.
• Antibiotics can induce mitochondrial dysfunction, suggesting a dual role.
• Repurposing antibiotics for anticancer therapies, considering their impact on mitochondria and mitophagy, warrants further investigation.