Mitochondria as secretory organelles and therapeutic cargos

Mitochondria have been primarily considered intracellular organelles that are responsible for generating energy for cell survival. However, accumulating evidence suggests that mitochondria are secreted into the extracellular space under physiological and pathological conditions, and these secreted mitochondria play diverse roles by regulating metabolism, the immune response, or the differentiation/maturation in target cells. Furthermore, increasing amount of research shows the therapeutic effects of local or systemic administration of mitochondria in various disease models. These findings have led to growing interest in exploring mitochondria as potential therapeutic agents. Here, we discuss the emerging roles of mitochondria as extracellularly secreted organelles to shed light on their functions beyond energy production. Additionally, we provide information on therapeutic outcomes of mitochondrial transplantation in animal models of diseases and an update on ongoing clinical trials, underscoring the potential of using mitochondria as a novel therapeutic intervention. Mitochondrial transplants: a novel approach to disease treatment Mitochondria, known as the powerhouses of cells, are crucial for maintaining cellular balance. However, the methods by which cells release mitochondria into the extracellular space and how recipient cells utilize these mitochondria are still not fully understood. This study, by Joonho Suh and Yun-Sil Lee at Seoul National University in South Korea, explores the process of mitochondrial secretion and its potential therapeutic applications. The researchers reviewed the current understanding of mitochondrial secretion, focusing on the release of mitochondria as an entire organelle. They discovered that cells can secrete mitochondria via various methods, and these extracellular mitochondria can be absorbed by recipient cells to boost their functions. The study also emphasized the potential of using mitochondrial transplantation as a therapeutic strategy in various diseases. The authors concluded that understanding the methods of mitochondrial secretion and transfer could lead to new therapeutic strategies. This summary was initially drafted using artificial intelligence, then revised and fact-checked by the author.