Neuroglobin and mitochondria: The impact on neurodegenerative diseases

Dysfunctional mitochondria have severe consequences on cell functions including Reactive Oxygen Specie (ROS) generation, alteration of mitochondrial signaling, Ca²⁺ buffering, and activation of apoptotic pathway. These dysfunctions are closely linked with degenerative diseases including neurodegeneration. The discovery of neuroglobin (NGB) as an endogenous neuroprotective protein, which effects seem to depend on its mitochondrial localization, could drive new therapeutic strategies against aged-related neurodegenerative diseases. Indeed, high levels of NGB are active against several brain injuries, including neurodegeneration, hypoxia, ischemia, toxicity, and nutrient deprivation opening a new scenario in the comprehension of the relationship between neural pathologies and mitochondrial homeostasis. In this review, we provide the current understanding of the role of mitochondria in neurodegeneration and discuss structural and functional connection between NGB and mitochondria with the purpose of defining a novel mitochondrial-based neuroprotective mechanism(s).