The Emerging Role of Mitophagy in Kidney Diseases.

Mitochondria fulfill the high metabolic energy demands of the kidney and are regularly exposed to oxidative stress causing mitochondrial damage. The selective removal of damaged and dysfunctional mitochondria through a process known as mitophagy is essential in maintaining cellular homeostasis and physiological function. Mitochondrial quality control by mitophagy is particularly crucial for an organ such as the kidney, which is rich in mitochondria. The role of mitophagy in the pathogenesis of kidney diseases has lately gained significant attention. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the implications of mitophagy during pathological conditions of the kidney, including acute and chronic kidney diseases.