The role of the mitochondrion in smooth muscle cell fate choices of proliferation versus apoptosis during vascular and cardiovascular diseases

Clark, J.F. and Kranc, K.R. (1999) The role of the mitochondrion in smooth muscle cell fate choices of proliferation versus apoptosis during vascular and cardiovascular diseases. Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Targets, 3(4), pp. 513-525. (doi: 10.1517/14728222.3.4.513)

Abstract

The role of the mitochondrion in cellular metabolism has, in recent years, become more pronounced beyond its traditional role of the energy supplier in the cell. Now the mitochondrion is known to have the duties of biosynthesis, and is involved in programmed cell death (apoptosis). There are pathophysiological incidences where the cell is stressed and must make a choice between survival (including proliferating) and apoptosis. It is unknown how the cell chooses between these two fates, but the mitochondrion may play a role in at least the series of steps leading to apoptosis or proliferation. In this paper it is proposed that the mitochondria may be a lynchpin through which this decision is made. It is suggested that the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) originating from the mitochondrion may produce the signalling molecules which drive the cell down either a proliferative pathway or one of programmed cell death. These peroxidised molecules may alter the phosphatase/kinase activities in the cell, determine the cell fate and play a central role in the pathogenesis of several vascular pathologies. If so, the mitochondrion may be the key in producing the signalling molecules necessary for dictating cell fate choice.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Kranc, Professor Kamil
• Authors: Clark, J.F., and Kranc, K.R.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cancer Sciences
• Journal Name: Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Targets
• ISSN: 1472-8222