Mitochondrial Signaling and Regulation

Abstract

Mitochondria are ubiquitous organelles that control adenosine triphosphate production, host metabolic pathways, and determine cell fate. Its initial recognized feature is being an energy source, but additional functions have been found over time. It supplies the energy requirements of all cells through oxidative phosphorylation. Additionally, it contributes to cell death apart from these roles. Cell death has been morphologically defined in three types: apoptosis, autophagic cell death, and necrosis. Apoptosis is characterized by a decrease in cell volume, reduced size of the nucleus (pyknosis), and fragmentation (karyorrhexis). Autophagic cell death takes place when the cell forms many vesicles without affecting the nucleus, ultimately leading to its digestion. Necrosis is identified by cell enlargement and the breaking of the plasma membrane, along with the absence of chromatin condensation and disruption of organelle structure.</p