Mitochondria at the interface between neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation

Abstract

Mitochondria are essential organelles for the maintenance of neuronal integrity, based on their manifold functions in regulating cellular metabolism and coordinating cell death and viability pathways. Accordingly, mitochondrial damage, dysfunction, or ineffective mitochondrial quality control is associated with neurological disorders and can occur as a cause or consequence of neurodegenerative diseases. Recent research revealed that mitochondria play a central role in orchestrating both innate and adaptive immune responses, thereby providing a link between neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory processes. Here we summarize new insights into the complex interplay between mitochondria, innate immunity and neurodegeneration.

Keywords: Inflammasome; Innate immunity; Mitochondria; Neurodegeneration; Neuroinflammation; cGAS/STING.