Mitochondrial Ion channels in metabolic disease

Abstract

Mitochondria are small organelles that reside in most eukaryotic cells and are responsible for cellular energy production. They are also involved in other cellular signaling pathways including cell apoptosis. Mitochondria are composed of two phospholipid bilayers: the outer mitochondrial membrane and the inner mitochondrial membrane; and two aqueous spaces: the intermembrane space and the matrix. Like the plasma membrane, many ion channels are located in the mitochondrial membranes and play a critical role in mitochondrial functions. Increasing evidence suggests that the dysregulation of mitochondrial ion channels is implicated in the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases. In this chapter, we review the role of mitochondrial ion channels in metabolic disease.