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Mitochondrial Network Dynamics in Aging: Cellular Mechanisms, Intercellular Communication, and Their Impact on Tissue
Luminita Labusca1,2, Teodor Stefan Gheorghevici2, Bogdan Puha2,3
1National Institute of Research and Development in Technical Physics, 700050 Iasi, Romania.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|May 4, 2026
Summary
Aging disrupts mitochondrial networks, impacting cellular resilience and tissue function. Restoring mitochondrial connectivity through interventions like exercise may counteract age-related decline.
Area of Science:
- Mitochondrial biology
- Aging research
- Cellular homeostasis
Background:
- Mitochondria are dynamic networks crucial for cellular homeostasis.
- Aging alters mitochondrial dynamics, affecting tissue adaptation and function.
- Mitochondrial network integrity is vital for organismal health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review how aging disrupts mitochondrial network integrity.
- To explore the role of mitochondrial dynamics in aging across key tissues.
- To discuss mitochondrial connectivity as a descriptor of aging and resilience.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review synthesizing current evidence.
- Focus on cardiac, skeletal, and nervous systems.
- Integration of molecular, cellular, and tissue-level insights.
Main Results:
- Aging impairs mitochondrial network integrity via altered dynamics, transport, mitophagy, and mtDNA stability.
- Disrupted mitochondrial networks propagate across tissues, reducing energetic flexibility and resilience.
- Loss of mitochondrial network coherence, not just molecular damage, characterizes aging.
Conclusions:
- Mitochondrial network connectivity is a key determinant of cellular resilience during aging.
- Interventions like exercise and caloric restriction can restore mitochondrial network organization.
- Mitochondrial dynamics represent a modifiable target for aging interventions.
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