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Mitophagy pathways in health and disease
Samuel A Killackey1, Dana J Philpott2, Stephen E Girardin1,2
1Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
The Journal of Cell Biology
|September 14, 2020
Summary
Mitophagy, the selective removal of damaged mitochondria, is crucial for cell health. Dysfunctional mitophagy is linked to diseases like cardiovascular and neurodegenerative conditions, highlighting its therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Physiology
Background:
- Mitophagy is an evolutionarily conserved autophagic process for clearing damaged mitochondria.
- It plays a vital role in maintaining mitochondrial network health and cellular homeostasis.
- Recent research has elucidated complex, overlapping pathways regulating mitophagy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in understanding mitophagy, from initiation to lysosomal degradation.
- To outline key mitophagic receptors and triggers, focusing on physiological cues.
- To explore the role of mitophagy in maintaining organ and system homeostasis and its link to diseases.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive review of recent scientific literature on mitophagy.
- Analysis of studies detailing mitophagic receptors, triggers, and regulatory pathways.
- Examination of the physiological and pathological implications of mitophagy.
Main Results:
- Identified numerous receptors and triggers involved in basal and physiologically relevant mitophagy.
- Demonstrated how mitophagy maintains mitochondrial homeostasis at organ and system levels.
- Highlighted the association between disrupted mitophagy and diseases such as cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Conclusions:
- Mitophagy is essential for cellular and organismal health, maintaining mitochondrial quality control.
- Dysregulation of mitophagy contributes to a wide range of pathologies.
- Modulating mitophagy presents promising therapeutic avenues for various diseases.
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