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Mitochondrial dynamics in depression: friend or foe?
Oluwagbenga M Adu1, Edem E Edem2, Chidubem F Emereonye1
1Cardio/Endo-metabolic and Microbiome Research Unit, Department of Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria.
Metabolic Brain Disease
|May 23, 2026
Summary
Mitochondrial dysfunction is increasingly linked to depression. This review explores how changes in mitochondria
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience and cellular biology
- Psychiatry and mental health
Background:
- Depression pathophysiology involves complex factors beyond neurotransmitter imbalances.
- Emerging evidence highlights the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in depressive disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the bidirectional relationship between mitochondrial dynamics and depression.
- To synthesize findings on mitochondrial alterations in depressed individuals.
- To evaluate therapeutic strategies targeting mitochondrial dynamics for depression.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of preclinical and clinical studies.
- Synthesis of research on mitochondrial morphology, dynamics, and mitophagy.
- Evaluation of therapeutic interventions.
Main Results:
- Alterations in mitochondrial morphology and dynamics are observed in depression.
- These mitochondrial changes can play both adaptive and maladaptive roles.
- Conventional antidepressants, lifestyle changes, and targeted compounds show potential.
Conclusions:
- Mitochondrial dynamics are critically involved in depression.
- Understanding this relationship offers new therapeutic avenues.
- Mitochondria-targeted therapies may improve depression treatment.
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