An update on Mitochondrial Dynamics in Cancer: Mechanisms, Functions and Future Therapeutic Opportunities

Abstract

Mitochondria are essential for the energy metabolism, regulation of apoptosis, and signalling of cells.  The double-membrane mitochondria and its dynamic morphology are essential sites for adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis, citric acid cycle, and fatty acid oxidation and other metabolic pathways. Mitochondrial dynamics pertains to the evolving processes of fission, fusion, mitophagy, and transport, which are essential for proper signal transduction and metabolic functioning within a cell. A disruption in the dynamics can result in atypical cellular outcomes and a variety of human illnesses. In cancerous cells, mitochondria have a different structure and function compared to normal cells and play a significant role in metabolic reconfiguration. Various proteins and changes in membranes are characteristics of cancer. This review seeks to offer a detailed overview of these mechanisms by introducing fundamental dynamics, metabolic processes, and signaling pathways in mitochondria, particularly concerning Cancer.Understanding these mechanisms and signalling mechanisms will provide deeper insights into their role in cancer and treatment. Mitochondrial dynamics in cancer therapeutics is gaining momentum due to several advantages. In summary, mitochondrial dynamics offer an interesting cell-biology model to study the intricate mechanisms in normal and cancer cells thus aiding discovery of therapeutic molecules.