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Updated: Jan 17, 2026

Author Spotlight: Decoding Mitochondrial Aging
Published on: June 30, 2023
Molecular mechanisms by which mitochondrial dysfunction drives neuromuscular junction degeneration in amyotrophic
Xie Yipeng1, Wang Guiqian2, Zhu Qiaochu3
1School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China.
Background:
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder marked by progressive degeneration of motor neurons and early deterioration of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs). Increasing evidence indicates that mitochondrial dysfunction plays a pivotal role in driving NMJ degeneration in ALS.
Objective:
This review aims to comprehensively summarize the molecular mechanisms by which mitochondrial defects contribute to NMJ instability, with a particular focus on bioenergetics, calcium homeostasis, oxidative stress, and impaired mitochondrial biogenesis.
Conclusion:
Mitochondrial dysfunction is a core driver of NMJ degeneration in ALS. Targeting mitochondrial biogenesis and metabolism-particularly through the PGC-1α pathway-represents a promising strategy to preserve NMJ integrity and slow disease progression.
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