Mitochondrial Dysfunction: A Basic Mechanism in Inflammation-Related Non-Communicable Diseases and Therapeutic Opportunities

Figure 3

The mitochondrial matrix hosts the mitochondrial metabolic pathways (TAC cycle, β-oxidation, and haem synthesis), and the inner membrane contains the electron transport chain complexes and ATP synthase. Exchange carriers such as the malate-aspartate shuttle are also essential. Under caloric restriction, the mitochondrion achieves the highest efficiency, and high caloric intake produces dysfunction and a consequent increase in apoptosis, which promotes metabolic syndrome and age-related diseases.