Roles of mitochondrial complexes in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Metabolic disorders
• Mitochondrial biology

Background:

• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing metabolic disorder.
• Mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in NAFLD pathogenesis.
• The precise role of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes (I-V) in NAFLD is unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize findings on mitochondrial respiratory chain complex alterations in NAFLD.
• To address the knowledge gap regarding specific complex contributions to NAFLD progression.
• To clarify divergent results reported in existing literature.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of in vivo and in vitro studies.
• Evaluation of changes in mitochondrial complexes I-V.
• Analysis of studies investigating mitochondrial respiration and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production.

Main Results:

• NAFLD is generally associated with reduced mitochondrial complex activity, impaired respiration, and increased ROS.
• Some studies reported enhanced complex activity and respiration, indicating context-dependent adaptations.
• Significant heterogeneity exists in reported alterations across different NAFLD models.

Conclusions:

• Mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes exhibit dynamic changes during NAFLD progression.
• Understanding these complex alterations is crucial for developing targeted NAFLD therapies.
• Mitochondrial complexes represent promising therapeutic targets for NAFLD intervention.