Mitochondria-targeted natural products with potential for the treatment of mitochondria-related diseases

Mitochondria are indispensable organelles that serve as the powerhouses of cells, playing a crucial role in maintaining cellular energy homeostasis. Consequently, mitochondrial dysfunction is recognized as a key pathogenic factor in a wide range of common diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, metabolic syndromes and cancers. Due to their multitarget properties and favorable safety profiles, natural products have shown significant potential for regulating key mitochondrial biological processes, including mitobiogenesis, mitophagy, mitochondrial dynamics (fusion and fission), oxidative phosphorylation, and mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. Therefore, they have become an important resource for mitochondria-targeted therapy. Despite significant progress in mechanistic studies in vitro, translating these findings into clinical applications remains a major challenge. This translational gap is primarily due to unfavorable pharmaceutical properties, such as low bioavailability, poor targeted delivery, and rapid metabolic clearance. Additionally, the precise mechanisms governing mitochondria remain to be fully elucidated. In this review, we systematically summarize the specific mitochondrial pathological phenotypes in various diseases and provide a comprehensive overview of natural products that correspond to these phenotypes, along with their mechanisms of action. We also analyze common challenges associated with the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of these products. By bridging the gap between basic research and clinical application, this review aims to accelerate the development of novel therapeutic strategies for mitochondria-related diseases.