Natural Compounds and Mitochondrial Function

Abstract

Approximately 1.6 billion years ago during evolution, a mortal eukaryotic host cell engulfed and permanently confined the immortal prokaryotic purple non-sulphur bacteria via endosymbiosis, and such union resulted in the creation of the energy-producing organelle known as mitochondria. It is popularly designated as the powerhouse of the cell and organelle in-charge for orchestrating several activities such as oxidation of fatty acids, energy production, cell death, cell cycle regulation and intracellular homeostasis. Mitochondria contain their own genome and synthesize some specific proteins and mitochondrial tRNA, while they entail several proteins expressed from nuclear DNA. Substrate utilization and subsequently ATP production through oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) are prime functions of mitochondria and vital for performing numerous metabolic reactions within cells. Moreover, they also manage the excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) from exerting a detrimental impact. The growing body of evidence over the past couple of decades dispelled ambiguity and demystified the link between health and mitochondrial functions. Compromised mitochondrial function, referred to as mitochondrial dysfunction due to reduced mitochondrial membrane potential and respiratory aptitude in accordance with the mitochondrial number along with elevated ROS, may lead to several deleterious impacts on the cell and ultimately to the body. Thus, designing preventive measures against mitochondrial dysfunction remains indispensable. Herein, we discuss the role and mechanism of action of different small natural compounds that act as potent rescuing or restorative agents in relation to mitochondrial dysfunction by increasing biogenesis and oxidative phosphorylation, maintaining membrane potential and reducing ROS.