Dear Colleagues,

Research on mitochondria has progressively unveiled that these organelles are not only the major source of cell ATP, but they are also involved in several crucial processes as regulation of the overall redox state through reactive oxygen species (ROS), apoptosis, Ca²⁺ storage and handling, waste disposal and metabolites biosynthesis. Mitochondria partake also in signaling pathways that, through sensing alterations in genome damage level or in nutrients and energy availability, regulate cell metabolism. Such metabolic tuning up can be pursued also by means of the fine regulation of mitochondrial homeostasis obtained by balancing biogenesis, dynamics, and mitophagy. The disclosure of the multiple roles performed by mitochondria has proceeded in parallel with the discovery of the complex interplay connecting such functions and of its relevance in modulating health conditions and the aging process of the whole organism. Furthermore, the mitochondrial interplay has been shown to be highly dynamic and sensitive to different external stimuli as nutritional regimens, lifestyle habits, and medicine administrations are able to affect cell homeostasis and energy production. The dissection of the molecular mechanisms underlying such a wide range of genetic, nutritional, pharmacological, and lifestyle interventions has proceeded at a fast pace also because of their potentiality to extend longevity as well as to promote human health. The possibility to understand and to influence, at the molecular level, the multifaceted mitochondrial responses has inspired the utilization of multiple experimental systems and approaches, leading to a constantly growing, huge amount of data.

This Special Issue about “Interventions affecting the mitochondrial control of longevity and health” aims to provide, from a molecular standpoint, a broad and updated overview of present models and future strategies that might assist in deepening the knowledge of such an intricate issue. Contributions by experts of the field in the form of research papers and critical reviews are called for.

Prof. Dr. Angela Maria Serena Lezza
Prof. Dr. Vito Pesce
Prof. Dr. Guglielmina Chimienti
Guest Editors

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