Dissecting the Role of Mitochondria in the Pathophysiology of Type-2 Diabetes and Obesity:Novel Concepts and Challenges

摘要

Extensive evidence from animal and clinical studies indicates an intimate connection between mitochondrial dysfunction and metabolic pathologies such as obesity and type-2 diabetes. In recent years, the traditional view of the mitochondria as being just the powerhouse of the cell has greatly evolved. It is currently appreciated that this organelle is critical for a wide-range of biological functions and that it also plays a fundamental role as a signaling platform. Given the biological relevance of these less-studied mitochondrial functions and the bulk of information accumulated on this matter during the last decade, it is not surprising the renewed and growing interest on this organelle and the exploration of potential links with metabolic conditions. Thus, the goal of this Thematic Issue of Current Diabetes Reviews is to provide a comprehensive update on novel concepts in mitochondrial biology in the context of obesity and type-2 diabetes.