Targeting Mitochondrial Dynamics and Dysfunction in the Spectrum of Lung Diseases

Mitochondrial structural and functional alterations have been linked to patho-genesis and disease progression across a spectrum of chronic and acute lung diseases. With substantial and diverse energy requirements, the metabolically active lungs sup-port essential functions such as gas exchange, mucociliary clearance, and immune de-fense. This review focuses on the critical role of mitochondrial mechanisms and their subsequent dysfunction in the pathogenesis and progression of several debilitating lung pathologies. Specifically, we will explore how changes in mitochondrial dynamics (fusion and fission), bioenergetics, quality control mechanisms such as mitophagy, and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) contribute to the cellular and molecu-lar foundations of various lung diseases. These pathologies include asthma, which is often manageable; chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), which cause progressive decline; and acute respiratory dis-tress syndrome (ARDS) and lung cancer, which can be immediately life-threatening. This review highlights the growing understanding of mitochondrial dysfunction as a central factor in the development and progression of lung diseases. It focuses on how disruptions in mitochondrial homeostasis contribute to disease pathogenesis and the potential implications of mitochondria-targeted therapeutic approaches to improve patient outcomes.