Mechanisms of the Mitochondrial Unfolded Protein Response in Caenorhabditis elegans and Mammals and Its Roles in Striated Muscles.

Abstract

Throughout the course of evolution, organisms and cells have evolved a suite of mechanisms to manage persistent stimuli, thereby preserving cellular and organismal homeostasis. Upon detecting stress signals, cells activate a transcriptional response termed the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPR^mt). This response is crucial for maintaining protein homeostasis, facilitating mitochondrial function recovery, promoting cell survival, and ultimately influencing lifespan. Striated muscles play a pivotal role in oxygen supply, movement, and metabolism. The aging of these muscles can lead to heart failure, arrhythmias, and sarcopenia, significantly impacting quality of life and lifespan. Given the intimate connection between UPR^mt and striated muscle aging, UPR^mt emerges as a potential therapeutic target for mitigating the effects of striated muscle aging. In this review, we delve into the role of UPR^mt in striated muscle aging, drawing upon the extant molecular regulatory mechanisms of UPR^mt. This exploration may enhance our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of striated muscle aging and aid in the identification of potential drug targets.