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Updated: Apr 15, 2026
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Evaluating the Role of Mitochondrial Function in Cancer-related Fatigue
Published on: May 17, 2018
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Nutrition, Cell Signalling, Mitochondrial Function, and Chronic Non-Communicable Disease
1McKenzie Clinic, Sunshine Coast 4556, Australia.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|April 14, 2026
Summary
Cellular homeostasis relies on balancing nutrient intake with energy needs to maintain cell health. Disruptions in this balance, particularly mitochondrial dysfunction, can lead to chronic diseases and impact epigenetic expression.
Area of Science:
- Cellular Biology
- Metabolism
- Nutrition Science
Background:
- Cellular homeostasis balances anabolic and catabolic processes, requiring nutrient-derived energy for signaling.
- Cellular health depends on matching energy input with requirements, allowing for nutrient abundance and scarcity cycles.
- Imbalances, such as overfuelling mitochondria, cause oxidative stress, epigenetic alterations, and can trigger inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the influence of nutrition on key cellular homeostasis pathways.
- To explore the role of mitochondria in energy production and cell signaling.
- To connect cellular dysfunction to chronic non-communicable diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on nutrition's impact on cellular processes.
- Analysis of nutrient sensing, autophagy, insulin signaling, and apoptosis.
- Examination of mitochondrial function's role in cellular and organismal health.
Main Results:
- Mitochondrial function is pivotal for energy production and cell signaling.
- Disrupted cellular signaling underlies associations between chronic diseases like cancer and diabetes.
- Nutrient sensing, autophagy, insulin signaling, and apoptosis are key to maintaining cellular homeostasis.
Conclusions:
- Nutrition significantly influences mitochondrial function and cellular homeostasis pathways.
- Maintaining cellular balance is crucial for preventing chronic diseases.
- Mitochondrial health is fundamental to both cellular and organismal well-being.
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