Mitochondrial Dysfunction: A Basic Mechanism in Inflammation-Related Non-Communicable Diseases and Therapeutic Opportunities
Figure 8
Activation of AMPK in macrophages promotes the switch from a proinflammatory to an anti-inflammatory phenotype by inducing a shift from glycolysis towards mitochondrial oxidative metabolism. In obesity, there may be a shift towards proinflammatory states, whereas in dietary restriction the balance may shift towards anti-inflammatory phenotypes through the activation of AMPK (a). The activation of AMPK implies the inhibition of mTOR, and several compounds are known to regulate this pathway (b). The inhibition of mTOR extends lifespan in model organisms and confers protection against a growing list of age-related pathologies. Several characterised inhibitors are already clinically approved, and others are under development.
