Neuroscience: Mitochondrial Function in Neurons and Glia

This Topical Collection (TC) is a part of Molecular Biology Reports’ dedicated Neuroscience section. The aim of this TC is to understand the pivotal role of mitochondria in regulating cellular function and homeostasis in both neurons and glial cells within the nervous system. Mitochondria play critical roles in energy production, calcium buffering, redox signaling, and apoptosis, all of which are essential for neuronal and glial health and function. This Collection aims to consider the molecular mechanisms underlying mitochondrial function in neurons and glia and explore their implications for neurobiology and neurodegenerative diseases. Key areas of investigation within this Collection include:

• Mitochondrial dynamics: The regulation of mitochondrial fusion, fission, and transport in neurons and glia, and their impact on cellular function and plasticity.

• Bioenergetics: The role of mitochondria in ATP production, metabolic substrate utilization, and oxidative phosphorylation in supporting neuronal and glial energy demands.

• Calcium homeostasis: The contribution of mitochondria to intracellular calcium signaling, buffering, and neuronal excitability, as well as their role in calcium-mediated cell death pathways.

• Redox signaling: The involvement of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant defense mechanisms in regulating neuronal and glial redox homeostasis and signaling.

• Mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegeneration: How alterations in mitochondrial function contribute to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and exploring potential therapeutic strategies targeting mitochondrial dysfunction.

• Glial-neuronal interactions: The bidirectional communication between glial cells and neurons mediated by mitochondria and its implications for neuronal function, synaptic transmission, and neuroinflammation.

By addressing these critical research areas, this Topical Collection aims to advance our understanding of the role of mitochondrial function in neuronal and glial physiology and pathology, with implications for neurobiology and the development of novel therapeutic interventions for neurodegenerative diseases. It invites original research articles, reviews, and perspectives to stimulate interdisciplinary dialogue and innovation in molecular biology within the context of neurobiology and mitochondrial biology.