Mitochondrial DNA as DAMP in critical conditions

The focus of the researchers’ attention today includes the recently discovered role of mitochondria in the immune response. Increasing evidence shows that mitochondrial DNA, in retaining some of their characteristics of the ancient α-proteobacteria’s genome, is a potent immune stimulus for inflammatory reactions. Systemic inflammatory response is a frequent complication in surgical interventions and various traumas, and its development cannot be explained using common conceptions. This review provides information on the current understanding of the development of inflammation mediated by mtDNA, including systemic inflammatory response, and on the mechanisms regulating mitochondrial homeostasis and mtDNA release in various pathological conditions.