Role of the Mitochondria in Human Aging and Disease

Mitochondria are membrane-bound cell organelles, which are considered to be key factors involved in the aging process. They are involved in energy production by oxidative phosphorylation. They also play a significant role in maintaining calcium balance, intracellular homeostasis, and the metabolism and inter-conversion of dietary substrates. They play a crucial function in signaling their metabolic state to the nucleus and other cells. Mitochondria possess a protein synthetic apparatus and can self-replicate. These apparatuses can be easily disrupted in aging and disease. Mitochondria are continuously involved in the processes of fission and fusion, which is essential for the proper functioning of cells. Mitochondria play an important metabolic role in all organ systems; therefore, they are specifically influenced by diseases which contribute in the process of aging. This book unravels the recent studies related to the role of the mitochondria in human aging and disease. It provides the readers with a thorough understanding of the subject.