Mitochondrial targeted nanomaterials for alleviating inflammation

Abstract

Inflammatory reactions are closely relevant to infectious ailments, autoimmune maladies, cardiovascular afflictions and neurological disorders. As a pivotal organelle crucial for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis, mitochondria influence inflammation significantly. However, owing to mitochondria's unique architecture and characteristics, achieving effective regulation of mitochondria is a challenge. Fortunately, with the progress in nanomaterials within recent years, scientists have achieved effective mitochondrial regulation to ameliorate inflammation. Therefore, we provide a timely overview for summarizing and prospecting this direction. First, we highlight how the imbalance of mitochondrial quality and mitochondrial function can aggravate inflammation. Second, we list different nanomaterials for targeting mitochondria. Third, we summarize various strategies for alleviating inflammation based on mitochondria-targeted nanomaterials. Finally, we explore the current challenges and future opportunities for mitochondria-targeted nanomaterials. This review aims to provide new possibilities for harnessing mitochondria-targeted nanomaterials towards inflammation-related disorders.