The Dual Role of Mitochondria in Infection: Sentinels of Immunity and Targets of Pathogen Manipulation

Traditionally, referred to as the “Powerhouse of the Eukaryotic Cell”, mitochondria are essential for host defense in addition to producing ATP. Through processes like mitochondrial antiviral signaling (MAVS), the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the modification of inflammatory pathways, they respond to bacterial, fungal, viral, and parasitic infections while coordinating immune signaling, controlling cell death, and detecting pathogens. Pathogens, on the other hand, have developed ways to interfere with or harm mitochondrial function, which results in oxidative stress, cell death, altered metabolism, and compromised immune signaling. This type of mitochondrial dysfunction impairs the removal of infections and is linked to tissue damage, chronic inflammation, and long-term health issues. The dual roles of mitochondria in infection are highlighted in this review, which looks at both their defense mechanisms and the ways in which pathogens use them to increase their chances of survival.