Modulating lysosomal pH: a molecular and nanoscale materials design perspective.
Jialiu Zeng1,2, Orian S Shirihai3,4, Mark W Grinstaff1,4,5
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215.
Journal of Life Sciences (Westlake Village, Calif.)
|January 6, 2021
Summary
Lysosomes maintain cell health through acidity and enzymes, but impaired lysosomal pH drives diseases. This review explores modulating lysosomal pH for new therapeutic strategies.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
- Pathology
Background:
- Lysosomes are vital organelles regulating cellular processes and homeostasis via an acidic environment (pH 4.5-5.0) and hydrolytic enzymes.
- Dysfunctional lysosomal acidification is implicated in the pathogenesis of major diseases, including neurodegeneration, cancer, metabolic disorders, and infections.
- Targeting lysosomal pH presents a promising therapeutic avenue, yet effective modulation strategies are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the critical role of lysosomal pH in various disease states.
- To discuss current and emerging strategies for modulating lysosomal acidification.
- To explore molecular and nanoscale agents for therapeutic intervention targeting lysosomal pH.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on lysosomal function and disease pathogenesis.
- Analysis of existing and proposed methods for lysosomal pH modulation.
- Discussion of therapeutic design strategies for targeting lysosomal acidification.
Main Results:
- Lysosomal acidification is a key factor in cellular homeostasis and disease development.
- Various diseases are linked to impaired lysosomal pH, highlighting its therapeutic potential.
- Novel molecular and nanoscale agents offer potential for targeted lysosomal pH modulation.
Conclusions:
- Modulating lysosomal pH is a viable therapeutic strategy for a range of diseases.
- Further research into targeted agents is needed to develop effective treatments.
- Understanding lysosomal acidification mechanisms is crucial for advancing therapeutic interventions.
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