Advances in Research on the Mechanism of Mitophagy in Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction in the Elderly
GAO Ning, WANG Xijun* , HUANG Gang, ZHAO Siqi
Mitophagy is a selective form of autophagy that plays a crucial role in maintaining cellular homeostasis by eliminating damaged or dysfunctional mitochondria. POCD (postoperative cognitive dysfunc tion) is a prevalent neurological complication observed in elderly patients undergoing anesthesia and surgical procedures. Given the rising prevalence of POCD in the elderly population, it is imperative to investigate its underlying pathophysiology and develop efficacious therapeutic strategies. Current studies suggest that dys regulation of mitophagy-related signaling pathways significantly contributes to the development and occurrence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction. Accordingly, this manuscript delineates the physiological mechanisms and roles of mitochondrial autophagy, collating the influences of the PINK1/Parkin, mtDNA/cGAS/STING, and PKR/STAT3 signaling pathways on the modulation of mitochondrial autophagy function and their involvement in the emergence of postoperative cognitive impairment. This provides a theoretical framework for the prophylaxis and therapeutic strategies targeting postoperative cognitive dysfunction through the perspective of mitochondrial autophagy.
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