Mitochondria as a Cellular Hub in Infection and Inflammation
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Updated: Oct 13, 2025
Real-Time Measurement of the Mitochondrial Bioenergetic Profile of Neutrophils
Published on: June 2, 2023
Pauline Andrieux1, Christophe Chevillard1, Edecio Cunha-Neto2,3
1Inserm, INSERM, UMR_1090, Aix Marseille Université, TAGC Theories and Approaches of Genomic Complexity, Institut MarMaRa, 13288 Marseille, France.
Abstract:
Mitochondria are the energy center of the cell. They are found in the cell cytoplasm as dynamic networks where they adapt energy production based on the cell's needs. They are also at the center of the proinflammatory response and have essential roles in the response against pathogenic infections. Mitochondria are a major site for production of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS; or free radicals), which are essential to fight infection. However, excessive and uncontrolled production can become deleterious to the cell, leading to mitochondrial and tissue damage. Pathogens exploit the role of mitochondria during infection by affecting the oxidative phosphorylation mechanism (OXPHOS), mitochondrial network and disrupting the communication between the nucleus and the mitochondria. The role of mitochondria in these biological processes makes these organelle good targets for the development of therapeutic strategies. In this review, we presented a summary of the endosymbiotic origin of mitochondria and their involvement in the pathogen response, as well as the potential promising mitochondrial targets for the fight against infectious diseases and chronic inflammatory diseases.
Insights
Mitochondria, crucial for cellular energy and immunity, are key targets in fighting infections. Understanding their role in inflammation and pathogen response can lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
- Mitochondrial Biology
Background:
- Mitochondria are central to cellular energy production and immune responses.
- They generate Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) vital for fighting pathogens but can cause damage if overproduced.
- Pathogens disrupt mitochondrial function, impacting cellular communication and energy metabolism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the endosymbiotic origins of mitochondria.
- To summarize mitochondria's role in pathogen response and inflammation.
- To highlight promising mitochondrial targets for treating infectious and inflammatory diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of mitochondrial functions in infection and inflammation.
- Analysis of pathogen interactions with mitochondrial processes.
- Identification of therapeutic targets within mitochondria.
Main Results:
- Mitochondria's dual role in host defense and pathogen manipulation is detailed.
- Disruption of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and communication pathways by pathogens is discussed.
- The potential of targeting mitochondrial dynamics and ROS production for therapeutic benefit is explored.
Conclusions:
- Mitochondria are critical players in host-pathogen interactions and inflammatory diseases.
- Targeting mitochondrial functions offers a promising avenue for developing novel therapeutics.
- Further research into mitochondrial biology can unlock new treatments for infectious and chronic inflammatory conditions.
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