Mitophagy in the Pathogenesis of Obesity-Associated Cardiovascular Diseases: New Mechanistic and Therapeutic Insights

Mitophagy, a crucial mechanism for maintaining mitochondrial quality, involves the selective removal of damaged and potentially harmful mitochondria through autophagy. Despite its importance, the detailed mechanisms of mitophagy in the heart remain elusive. This review aims to explore the intricacies and therapeutic implications of mitophagy, particularly in the context of obesity, shedding light on its role in preserving cardiac function and cellular homeostasis. This review delves into three main mitophagy pathways: PINK1-PRKN, BNIP3/NIX and FUNDC1-mediated mitophagy. Additionally, this study analyze how obesity affects mitochondrial dynamics and subsequently contributes to cardiac dysfunction. Furthermore, current study discusses potential therapeutic strategies targeting mitophagy to mitigate cardiovascular diseases, hoping to offer new insights into potential therapeutic strategies.