Exercise-mediated mitochondrial quality control remodeling in aging

Multisystem functional decline and an increased risk of chronic diseases are common among aging traits. 

These systemic changes are associated with progressive dysregulation of the mitochondrial quality control (MQC) network and involves mitochondrial biogenesis, dynamic remodeling, selective autophagy (mitophagy), proteostasis maintenance, and coordinated mitochondrial–organelle communication.

Thus, in aging, MQC compromise leads to  bioenergetic decline, chronic low-grade inflammation, and metabolic imbalance.

Regular exercise remodels MQC structure and function by integrating signaling axes such as AMPK, SIRT1, and p38 MAPK, thereby promoting coordinated mitochondrial renewal and partially reversing aging-associated mitochondrial dysfunction.

The researchers in this review discuss how different exercise modalities regulate mitochondrial dynamics, autophagic flux, proteostasis, and mitochondrial turnover.

The authors also discuss limitations and challenges in clinical translation,  future research directions regarding dose–response relationships, multimodal exercise prescriptions, personalized strategies.

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/cell-and-developmental-biology/articles/10.3389/fcell.2026.1792645/full

https://sciencemission.com/exercise-mediated-mitochondrial-quality-control