Mitochondria are the powerhouses of immunity

Evanna L. Mills, Beth Kelly, Luke A.J. O'Neill

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Recent evidence indicates that mitochondria lie at the heart of immunity. Mitochondrial DNA acts as a danger-associated molecular pattern (DAMP), and the mitochondrial outer membrane is a platform for signaling molecules such as MAVS in RIG-I signaling, and for the NLRP3 inflammasome. Mitochondrial biogenesis, fusion and fission have roles in aspects of immune-cell activation. Most important, Krebs cycle intermediates such as succinate, fumarate and citrate engage in processes related to immunity and inflammation, in both innate and adaptive immune cells. These discoveries are revealing mitochondrial targets that could potentially be exploited for therapeutic gain in inflammation and cancer.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)488-498
Number of pages11
JournalNature Immunology
Volume18
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 18 2017
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Immunology and Allergy
  • Immunology

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