The interplay between mitochondria and autophagy and its role in the aging process

Mitochondria are highly dynamic organelles which play a central role in cellular homeostasis. Mitochondrial dysfunction leads to life-threatening disorders and accelerates the aging process. Surprisingly, on the other hand, a mild reduction of mitochondria functionality can have pro-longevity effects in organisms spanning from yeast to mammals. Autophagy is a fundamental cellular housekeeping process that needs to be finely regulated for proper cell and organism survival, as underlined by the fact that both its over- and its defective activation have been associated with diseases and accelerated aging. A reciprocal interplay exists between mitochondria and autophagy, which is needed to constantly adjust cellular energy metabolism in different pathophysiological conditions. Here we review general features of mitochondrial function and autophagy with particular focus on their crosstalk and its possible implication in the aging process.