Chapter 18: Anthracyclines and mitochondria

Abstract

Aging is a degenerative process that is associated with progressive accumulation of deleterious changes with time, reduction of physiological function and increase in the chance of disease and death. Studies in several species reveal a wide spectrum of alterations in mitochondria and mitochon- drial DNA (mtDNA) with aging, including (1) increased disorganization of mitochondrial structure, (2) decline in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) function, (3) accumulation of mtDNA mutation, (4) increased mitochondrial production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and (5) increased extent of oxidative damage to DNA, proteins, and lipids. In this chapter, we outline the common alterations in mitochondria of the aging tissues and recent advances in understanding the role of mitochondrial H 2 mination. In addition, we discuss the effect of caloric restriction on age-associated mitochondrial changes and its role in longevity. Taking these fi ndings together, we suggest that decline in mitochon- drial energy metabolism, enhanced mitochondrial oxidative stress, and accumulation of mtDNA mutations are important contributors to human aging.