Journal Article Review Epublish 13 citations
PubMed: 40394666 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-025-02237-5
From powerhouse to modulator: regulating immune system responses through intracellular mitochondrial transfer.
Cell Commun Signal 23(1):232
Authors: Mostafa Changaei, Zahra Azimzadeh Tabrizi, Mozhdeh Karimi, Seyed Adnan Kashfi, Tina Koochaki Chahardeh, Seyed Mahmoud Hashemi, Sara Soudi
Affiliations
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Basic Sciences, Biology and Health, Faculty of Interdisciplinary Sciences and Technologies, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract
Mitochondria are traditionally known as the cells' powerhouses; however, their roles go far beyond energy suppliers. They are involved in intracellular signaling and thus play a crucial role in shaping cells' destiny and functionality, including immune cells. Mitochondria can be actively exchanged between immune and non-immune cells via mechanisms such as nanotubes and extracellular vesicles. The mitochondria transfer from immune cells to different cells is associated with physiological and pathological processes, including inflammatory disorders, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer. On the other hand, mitochondrial transfer from mesenchymal stem cells, bone marrow-derived stem cells, and adipocytes to immune cells significantly affects their functions. Mitochondrial transfer can prevent exhaustion/senescence in immune cells through intracellular signaling pathways and metabolic reprogramming. Thus, it is emerging as a promising therapeutic strategy for immune system diseases, especially those involving inflammation and autoimmune components. Transferring healthy mitochondria into damaged or dysfunctional cells can restore mitochondrial function, which is crucial for cellular energy production, immune regulation, and inflammation control. Also, mitochondrial transfer may enhance the potential of current therapeutic immune cell-based therapies such as CAR-T cell therapy.
MeSH
Cells, Microscopy, Electron, Scanning Transmission, Mitochondria, Stem Cells, Cell Communication, Immune System, Therapeutics