The Pathophysiological Significance of Mitochondrial Ejection from Cells

Mitochondria have beneficial effects on cells by producing ATP and contributing to various biosynthetic procedures. On the other hand, dysfunctional mitochondria have detrimental effects on cells by inducing cellular damage, inflammation, and causing apoptosis in response to various stimuli. Therefore, a series of mitochondrial quality control pathways are required for the physiological state of cells to be maintained. Recent research has provided solid evidence to support that mitochondria are ejected from cells for transcellular degradation or transferred to other cells as metabolic support or regulatory messengers. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the regulation of mitochondrial transmigration across the plasma membranes and discuss the functional significance of this unexpected phenomenon, with an additional focus on the impact on the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. We also provide some perspective concerning the unrevealed mechanisms underlying mitochondrial ejection as well as existing problems and challenges concerning the therapeutic application of mitochondrial ejection.

Automated summary

Mitochondria play beneficial and detrimental roles in cells, depending on their functions. The maintenance of cellular physiological state requires a series of mitochondrial quality control pathways. Recent studies have shown that mitochondria can be ejected from cells for degradation or transferred to other cells for metabolic support or signaling regulation. This review summarizes the current understanding of the regulation of mitochondrial transmigration across plasma membranes and discusses its functional significance, particularly in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. The unrevealed mechanisms underlying mitochondrial ejection and challenges in therapeutic applications are also addressed.