Mitochondrial Modulators: The Defender

Mitochondria are widely considered the power hub of the cell because of their pivotal roles in energy metabolism and oxidative phosphorylation. However, beyond the production of ATP, which is the major source of chemical energy supply in eukaryotes, mitochondria are also central to calcium homeostasis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) balance, and cell apoptosis. The mitochondria also perform crucial multifaceted roles in biosynthetic pathways, serving as an important source of building blocks for the biosynthesis of fatty acid, cholesterol, amino acid, glucose, and heme. Since mitochondria play multiple vital roles in the cell, it is not surprising that disruption of mitochondrial function has been linked to a myriad of diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and metabolic disorders. In this review, we discuss the key physiological and pathological functions of mitochondria and present bioactive compounds with protective effects on the mitochondria and their mechanisms of action. We highlight promising compounds and existing difficulties limiting the therapeutic use of these compounds and potential solutions. We also provide insights and perspectives into future research windows on mitochondrial modulators.

Automated summary

Mitochondria are essential for energy metabolism and play key roles in calcium homeostasis, ROS balance, cell apoptosis, and biosynthetic pathways. Disruption of mitochondrial function is associated with various diseases. This review discusses the physiological and pathological functions of mitochondria, as well as bioactive compounds that protect mitochondria and their mechanisms of action. The article provides insights into promising compounds, challenges in therapeutic use, and future research directions on mitochondrial modulators.