Mitophagy Introduction
Mitophagy is a selective form of autophagy. It eliminates damaged or superfluous mitochondria, maintaining cellular health and homeostasis. It's essential for cellular quality control and energy regulation.
Mitophagy Regulatory Proteins
PINK1 and Parkin proteins orchestrate mitophagy. PINK1 accumulates on faulty mitochondria, recruiting Parkin to label them for degradation. This process prevents neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's.
Mitochondrial Damage Signals
Mitochondrial damage triggers mitophagy. Signals include loss of membrane potential, oxidative stress, and protein misfolding. These signals are crucial for PINK1 stabilization on the mitochondrial surface.
Mitophagy and Longevity
Effective mitophagy is linked to increased lifespan. It eliminates defective mitochondria that would otherwise generate harmful reactive oxygen species, contributing to the aging process.
Mitophagy in Disease Prevention
Beyond neurodegeneration, mitophagy prevents cardiac dysfunction, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. Dysfunctional mitophagy may play a role in the progression of these diseases.Unexpected Mitophagy Benefit
Mitophagy also aids in immunity by eliminating damaged mitochondria, which can otherwise trigger harmful inflammation and immune response.
Which proteins orchestrate mitophagy?
PINK1 and Parkin
PINK1 and P53
PINK1 and mTOR
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