Research
Mixed
Mitochondrial dysfunction and the subsequent release of mitochondrial DAMPs (such as mtDNA and ROS) drive chronic sterile inflammation (inflammaging), which accelerates aging and age-related pathologies.
Focus on maintaining mitochondrial quality control through regular physical activity and healthy metabolic function rather than relying solely on antioxidant supplements. Mitochondrial health supports immune regulation, which is critical for healthy aging.
GoodSupportsHIGH confidence
There is increasing evidence that mitochondria might play an important role in the inflammaging phenotype... Putative mitochondrial DAMPs include the release of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)... and unique lipid species such as cardiolipin... This level of circulating mtDNA appears sufficient to elicit augmented cytokine production from cultured monocytes.
Why this rating
Based on a comprehensive review of preclinical models, human observational data, and clinical trials (CANTOS), though direct causal proof in humans is still evolving.
Source
The role of mitochondria in aging
Ji Yong Jang et al. · Journal of Clinical Investigation · 2018
DOI 10.1172/jci120842
narrative_reviewCited 360×
Read the paper DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10
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