Mitochondrial dynamics

Mitochondrial dynamics refers to the collective processes of mitochondrial fission, fusion, transport (motility), and mitophagy that dynamically remodel mitochondrial shape, size, quantity, and function in response to cellular needs and stresses. These processes are essential for energy production, maintenance of mitochondrial DNA integrity, cellular homeostasis, and the regulation of cell fate decisions such as apoptosis. They are orchestrated by a conserved set of large GTPases (notably DRP1, MFN1, MFN2, and OPA1), as well as adaptor proteins (such as FIS1, MFF) and mitophagy factors (notably PINK1, PRKN/Parkin). Dysfunction in mitochondrial dynamics is implicated in a wide range of diseases, especially neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and metabolic disorders, primarily due to disruptions in energy homeostasis and cell survival pathways. The processes themselves are not direct drug targets, but the regulatory proteins involved constitute an area of considerable therapeutic interest. In summary, "Mitochondrial dynamics" is not a single drug target but describes a fundamental cell biological process involving several molecular targets. Key components (“druggable” targets) of mitochondrial dynamics include DRP1, MFN1, MFN2, OPA1, FIS1, PINK1, PRKN, etc., and those should be entered separately for target-based information.