Neural Regeneration Research ›› 2026, Vol. 21 ›› Issue (2): 598-611.doi: 10.4103/NRR.NRR-D-24-00668

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Role of mitophagy in spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury

Yanni Duan1, 2, 3, #, Fengguang Yang1, 2, 3, #, Yibao Zhang1, 2, 3, Mingtao Zhang1, 2, 3, Yujun Shi1, 2, 3, Yun Lang1, 2, 3, Hongli Sun1, 2, 3, Xin Wang1, 2, 3, Hongyun Jin1, 2, 3, Xuewen Kang1, 2, 3, *   

  1. 1 Department of Orthopedics, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China;  2 The Second Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China;  3 Orthopaedics Key Laboratory of Gansu Province, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China
  • Online:2026-02-15 Published:2025-05-22
  • Contact: Xuewen Kang, PhD, ery_kangxw@lzu.edu.cn.
  • Supported by:
    This work was supported by Cuiying Scientific and Technological Innovation Program of Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Nos. CY2023-QN-B18 (to YD), 2020QN-16 (to YZ); the Natural Science Foundation of Gansu Province, No. 22JR11RA082 (to YZ); and Key R&D Plan of Gansu Provincial Department of Science and Technology-Social Development Projects, No. 23YFFA0043 (to XK).

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Abstract: Spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury, a severe form of spinal cord damage, can lead to sensory and motor dysfunction. This injury often occurs after traumatic events, spinal cord surgeries, or thoracoabdominal aortic surgeries. The unpredictable nature of this condition, combined with limited treatment options, poses a significant burden on patients, their families, and society. Spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury leads to reduced neuronal regenerative capacity and complex pathological processes. In contrast, mitophagy is crucial for degrading damaged mitochondria, thereby supporting neuronal metabolism and energy supply. However, while moderate mitophagy can be beneficial in the context of spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury, excessive mitophagy may be detrimental. Therefore, this review aims to investigate the potential mechanisms and regulators of mitophagy involved in the pathological processes of spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of recent advancements in mitophagy related to spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury and clarify its potential clinical applications.

Key words: BNIP3, BNIP3L/NIX, FUNDC1, mechanism, mitochondria, mitophagy, modulators, Parkin, PINK1, spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury