Les cardiolipides, des phospholipides clés pour la fonction mitochondriale. Relation avec les apports lipidiques et la physiopathologie

Cardiolipin (CL) is a dimeric phospholipid located exclusively in the mitochondrial membrane and plays a key role in several processes of mitochondrial bioenergetics, as well as in mitochondrial membrane stability and dynamics. Due to its richness in polyunsaturated fatty acids (especially linoleic acid), CL is susceptible to attack by free radicals produced by mitochondria. The oxidation of CL has consequences for the functioning of the mitochondria, particularly oxidative phosphorylation and ATP production. Furthermore, diets more or less rich in fat can alter the lipid composition of the mitochondrial membrane, including the content of CL and its fatty acids composition, and such changes may subsequently impair the functioning of the mitochondria. In addition, high-fat diets are associated with hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance, two major public health problems. The purpose of this article is to review current knowledge on the role of CL in nutritional pathologies related to lipid overload.