Deficient mitophagy pathways in sickle cell disease

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is characterised by chronic haemolysis and oxidative stress. Herein, we investigated 30 SCD patients found 40% with elevated mitochondria levels (SS-mito+ ) in their mature red blood cells, while 60% exhibit similar compared to the AA group (SS-mito- ). The SS-mito+ are higher reticulocytosis total bilirubin levels, lower foetal haemoglobin, non-functional mitochondria. Interestingly, demonstrated decreased of mitophagy inducers, PINK1 NIX, HSP90 chaperone cells. Our results highlighted for first time an abnormal retention linked mitophagy-related proteins.