Mitochondrial bioenergetics and redox dysfunctions in hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis

Author(s)

Oliveira, Helena C. F. ^[1] ; Vercesi, Anibal E. ^[2]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Estadual Campinas, Biol Inst, Dept Struct & Funct Biol, Campinas, SP - Brazil

^[2] Univ Estadual Campinas, Fac Med Sci, Dept Clin Pathol, Campinas, SP - Brazil

• Document type: Review article
• Source: MOLECULAR ASPECTS OF MEDICINE; v. 71, FEB 2020.
• Web of Science Citations: 0

Abstract

In the first part of this review, we summarize basic mitochondrial bioenergetics concepts showing that mitochondria are critical regulators of cell life and death. Until a few decades ago, mitochondria were considered to play essential roles only in respiration, ATP formation, non-shivering thermogenesis and a variety of metabolic pathways. However, the concept presented by Peter Mitchell regarding coupling between electron flow and ATP synthesis through the intermediary of a H+ electrochemical potential leads to the recognition that the proton-motive force also regulates a series of relevant cell signalling processes, such as superoxide generation, redox balance and Ca2+ handling. Alterations in these processes lead to cell death and disease states. In the second part of this review, we discuss the role of mitochondrial dysfunctions in the specific context of hypercholesterolemia-induced atherosclerosis. We provide a literature analysis that indicates a decisive role of mitochondrial redox dysfunction in the development of atherosclerosis and discuss the underlying molecular mechanisms. Finally, we highlight the potential mitochondrial-targeted therapeutic strategies that are relevant for atherosclerosis. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 17/17728-8 - Mitochondrial function and dysfunction: implications for aging and associated diseases
• Grantee: Aníbal Eugênio Vercesi
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants