Topic: Mitochondrial Quality Control and Metabolism in Cardiovascular Diseases

The heart is a highly energy-demanding organ that relies on a continuous and robust supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), primarily generated by mitochondria. Emerging evidence indicates that maintaining healthy mitochondria through mitochondrial quality control mechanisms is fundamental to cardiac homeostasis and long-term functional integrity. These quality control systems form a complex network of surveillance mechanisms, including mitochondrial dynamics, biogenesis, and the selective degradation of damaged organelles via mitophagy. During aging or in response to pathological stresses such as pressure overload and ischemic injury, these mitochondrial quality control systems are often compromised. The resulting accumulation of dysfunctional mitochondria triggers profound metabolic and structural remodeling, characterized by impaired substrate utilization and excessive reactive oxygen species production, which collectively drive pathological remodeling and cardiomyocyte death. 

This Special Issue seeks to explore the intricate molecular intersections between mitochondrial homeostasis and metabolic flexibility in the heart. We invite original research and comprehensive reviews that elucidate novel regulators of mitochondrial homeostasis, clarify the impact of mitochondrial dynamics or canonical/non-canonical mitophagy on cardiac metabolism, and present innovative therapeutic strategies designed to restore mitochondrial integrity. By integrating basic mechanistic insights with preclinical models, this issue aims to highlight targetable pathways that can mitigate the progression of age-related cardiovascular diseases.

Mitochondrial quality control, mitochondrial dynamics, mitophagy, alternative mitophagy, oxidative stress, metabolic remodeling, cardiovascular aging, cardiac hypertrophy