Mitochondria are no longer just seen as the “powerhouses” of cells, but also play a crucial role in our immune defense against germs. Recent research by scientists has revealed that these small organelles can sense bacterial activity and help neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, trap and kill them.
The discovery was made by studying how mitochondria interact with the immune system during infection. Researchers found that mitochondria can detect a specific bacterial byproduct called lactate and use it to trigger the formation of sticky web-like structures called NETs, which trap and neutralize invading microbes.
In people with autoimmune diseases such as lupus, dysfunctional mitochondria can lead to weakened immune defenses, making them more susceptible to infections. This is because mitochondria play a key role in balancing immune responses, helping neutrophils mount an effective attack on bacteria when they are working correctly.
The findings have significant implications for the treatment of infections and highlight the importance of mitochondrial function in our overall health. By understanding how mitochondria interact with the immune system, researchers hope to develop new treatments that modulate immune responses more precisely, reducing collateral damage while preserving antimicrobial defenses.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/health/immune-system/mitochondria-arent-only-the-powerhouses-of-cells-they-also-battle-germs