Assessing Multiple Features of Mitochondrial Function

摘要

Alterations of energy metabolism are key features of insulin resistance, diabetes, and diabetes-related complications. However, the role of mitochondria-the cell's power plants-in abnormal metabolism is less certain. Mitochondria are responsible for oxidative phosphorylation, which couples substrate oxidation to synthesize ATP. Essentially, the reduction of dinucleotides enables electrons to transfer via the electron transport system across the inner mitochondrial membrane. Energy released from electron transfer is used for proton transport into the matrix, thereby establishing an electrochemical proton gradient (Δψ) (1). Mitochondrial function involves various features, each of which can be examined by different methods. The use of different approaches to assess mitochondrial function, coupled with imprecise terminology regarding "mitochondrial dysfunction" can lead to confusing data interpretation.