Mitochondria regulate cardiac contraction through ATP-dependent and independent mechanisms

Free Radic Res. 2018 Dec;52(11-12):1256-1265. doi: 10.1080/10715762.2018.1453137. Epub 2018 Apr 3.

Abstract

The multipurpose organelle mitochondria play an essential role(s) in controlling cardiac muscle contraction. Mitochondria, not only function as the powerhouses and the energy source of myocytes but also modulate intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis, the production of intermediary metabolites/reactive oxygen species (ROS), and other cellular processes. Those molecular events can substantially influence myocardial contraction. Mitochondrial dysfunction is usually associated with cardiac remodelling, and is the causal factor of heart contraction defects in many cases. The manipulation of mitochondria or mitochondria-relevant pathways appears to be a promising therapeutic approach to treat the diseases.

Keywords: Cardiomyocyte; contractility; free radical; metabolism; mitochondria.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenosine Triphosphate / metabolism*
  • Animals
  • Calcium / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Mitochondria / metabolism*
  • Myocardial Contraction*
  • Reactive Oxygen Species / metabolism

Substances

  • Reactive Oxygen Species
  • Adenosine Triphosphate
  • Calcium