Ceramides and mitochondrial homeostasis.

ABSTRACT

Lipotoxicity arises from the accumulation of lipid intermediates in non-adipose tissue, precipitating cellular dysfunction and death. Ceramide, a toxic byproduct of excessive free fatty acids, has been widely recognized as a primary contributor to lipotoxicity, mediating various cellular processes such as apoptosis, differentiation, senescence, migration, and adhesion. As the hub of lipid metabolism, the excessive accumulation of ceramides inevitably imposes stress on the mitochondria, leading to the disruption of mitochondrial homeostasis, which is typified by adequate ATP production, regulated oxidative stress, an optimal quantity of mitochondria, and controlled mitochondrial quality. Consequently, this review aims to collate current knowledge and facts regarding the involvement of ceramides in mitochondrial energy metabolism and quality control, thereby providing insights for future research.