Mitophagy: Basic Mechanism and Potential Role in Kidney Diseases

Background: Mitochondria play fundamental roles in cellular metabolism, signaling, and viability. Disruption of mitochondria not only leads to dysfunction of the organelles but also activates mechanisms of cell injury and death, contributing to the pathogenesis of various diseases. Summary: Removal of damaged mitochondria is therefore crucial for cellular homeostasis and survival. Mitophagy, the selective elimination of mitochondria via autophagy, is an important mechanism of mitochondrial quality control in physiological and pathological conditions. Defects in mitophagy have been implicated in a variety of human disorders, including both acute and chronic kidney diseases. However, the role and regulatory mechanisms of mitophagy in kidney cells and tissues remain largely unknown. Key Message: This review provides updated information on mitophagy and suggests a potential role of mitophagy in renal pathophysiology. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel Received: January 25, 2015 Accepted after revision: March 3, 2015 Published online: April 24, 2015 Zheng Dong, PhD Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center and Georgia Regents University 1459 Laney Walker Blvd, Augusta, GA 30912 (USA) E-Mail zdong @ gru.edu © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel 2296–9381/15/0011–0071$39.50/0