Topic: Mitochondrial Bioenergetics in Metabolic Diseases

Mitochondria are ubiquitous intracellular organelles found in almost all eukaryotes and involved in various aspects of cellular life, with a primary role in energy production. They transform nutrients and oxygen into chemical energy, powering a multitude of cellular functions. While mitochondrial aerobic glycolysis generates the majority of cellular ATP, its byproducts also exert wide-ranging influences on cellular health and longevity. Mitochondrial biogenesis occurs in response to oxidative stimuli, increased cellular energy requirements, and hormones in certain mitochondrial diseases. The indispensable involvement of mitochondria permeates numerous aspects of cellular metabolism, including the processing of diverse substrates such as glucose, lipids, and amino acids. Metabolic diseases refer to a series of metabolic disturbances including obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, often accompanied by complications such as thrombosis, inflammation, cardiovascular disease, and NAFLD. The current evidence base suggests that aberrations in mitochondrial biogenesis, lipid metabolism, and OXPHOS contribute to the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases.

In this Special Issue, we aim to elucidate the mechanisms underlying alterations in mitochondrial bioenergetics, metabolism, redox homeostasis, mitochondria-ER crosstalk, mitochondria function, and mitophagy. Our goal is to provide a rational basis for developing strategies and therapeutic interventions targeting mitochondrial-related metabolic diseases. The original scientific papers and review articles addressing the involvement of mitochondria in metabolic diseases fall within the scope of this issue and are warmly welcomed.

31 Jan 2025