The essential functions of mitochondrial dynamics in immune cells

Cell Mol Immunol. 2020 Jul;17(7):712-721. doi: 10.1038/s41423-020-0480-1. Epub 2020 Jun 10.

Abstract

Mitochondria are highly mobile organelles due to fission, fusion, transport, and mitophagy, and these processes are known as mitochondrial dynamics. Mitochondrial dynamics play an important role in energy production, cell division, cell differentiation, and cell death. In the past decade, numerous studies have revealed the importance of mitochondrial metabolism in immunity, and mitochondrial dynamics are essential for immune responses mediated by various cell types. In this review, we mainly discuss the role of mitochondrial dynamics in activation, differentiation, cytokine production, and the activity of related pathways in immune cells, particularly T cells, B cells, and other cells involved in the innate immune response.

Keywords: B cell; Innate immune cell; Metabolism; Mitochondrial dynamics; T cell.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Autophagy
  • Dendritic Cells / immunology
  • Humans
  • Lymphocytes / immunology*
  • Macrophages / immunology
  • Mitochondrial Dynamics / immunology*
  • Models, Biological