Mitochondrial dynamics in neurological diseases: a narrative review

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The mitochondrion is a crucial organelle for aerobic respiration and energy metabolism. It undergoes dynamic changes, including changes in its shape, function, and distribution through fission, fusion, and movement. Under normal conditions, mitochondrial dynamics are in homeostasis. However, once the balance is upset, the nervous system, which has high metabolic demands, will most likely be affected. Recent studies have shown that the imbalance of mitochondrial dynamics is involved in the occurrence and development of various neurological diseases. However, whether the regulation of mitochondrial dynamics can be used to treat neurological diseases is still unclear. We aimed to comprehensively analyze mitochondrial dynamics regulation and its potential role in the treatment of neurological diseases. METHODS: A comprehensive literature review was carried out to understand the mechanisms and applications of mitochondrial dynamics in neurological diseases based on the literature available in PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. KEY CONTENT AND FINDINGS: This review discusses the molecular mechanisms related to mitochondrial dynamics and expounds upon the role of mitochondrial dynamics in the occurrence and development of neurodegenerative diseases, epilepsy, cerebrovascular disease, and brain tumors. Several clinically tested drugs with fewer side effects have been shown to improve the mitochondrial dynamics and nervous system function in neurological diseases. CONCLUSIONS: Disorders of mitochondrial dynamics can cause various neurological diseases. Elucidation of mechanisms and applications involved in mitochondrial dynamics will inform the development of new therapeutic targets and strategies for neurological diseases. Dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1), as a highly relevant molecular for mitochondrial dynamics, might be a potential target for treating neurological diseases in the future.