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Mitochondrial dysfunction refers to impaired mitochondrial structure or function that reduces the cells’ ability to efficiently produce energy and maintain cellular homeostasis. Mitochondria are essential for ATP production and are also involved in processes such as oxidative stress regulation, cellular signaling, and apoptosis. When mitochondrial function is disrupted, excessive reactive oxygen species, impaired energy metabolism, and altered cellular signaling may occur. In nutritional psychology, mitochondrial dysfunction is of interest because mitochondrial processes interact with inflammation, oxidative stress, brain function, and mental health. Research has identified mitochondrial dysfunction as one of several biological pathways potentially involved in psychiatric and neurodegenerative conditions, although much of the evidence and many proposed nutritional interventions remain under investigation.
Author and reviewer
Editorial responsibilityReferences and further reading
- Rey F, Ottolenghi S, Zuccotti GV, Samaja M, Carelli S. Mitochondrial dysfunctions in neurodegenerative diseases: role in disease pathogenesis, strategies for analysis and therapeutic prospects. CNS & Neurological Disorders - Drug Targets. 2022;17(4):754-758. doi:10.4103/1673-5374.322430. View source
- Menke A. Mitochondrial dysfunction in psychiatric disorders. Schizophrenia Research. 2022. doi:10.1016/j.schres.2022.08.027. View source
How to cite this entry
Encyclopedia of Nutritional Psychology. (2026). Mitochondrial Dysfunction. The Center for Nutritional Psychology.
https://www.nutritional-psychology.org/encyclopedia/mitochondrial-dysfunction/Know a term that belongs in the Encyclopedia?
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