Mitochondrial homeostasis in cancer: Functions and targeted therapies

Abstract

The dysregulation of mitochondrial homeostasis in tumor cells plays a significant role in tumorigenesis and progression. Mitochondria within tumor cells exhibit extensive mutations, proliferation, and fragmentation to accommodate heightened metabolic and energy requirements. This disruption of mitochondrial homeostasis is intricately linked to tumor cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, energy metabolism, and redox balance. Disrupting the homeostasis of mitochondria in tumor cells has emerged as a novel approach in the clinical management of tumors, with mitochondria-targeted pharmaceuticals showing promise as a potential breakthrough in tumor therapy. This review outlines recent advancements in the understanding of mitochondrial homeostatic dysregulation in oncology and discusses the potential of targeting oncogenic mitochondria as a novel therapeutic avenue for the treatment of tumors.

Keywords: Mitochondria; Mitochondrial dynamics; Mitostasis; Targeted therapies; Tumor.