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Review
. 2025 Mar;43(3):e70066.
doi: 10.1002/cbf.70066.

The Mechanisms and Implications of Cardiolipin in the Regulation of Cell Death

Zhou-Zhou Li  1   2 , Han-Xi Xiao  1   2 , Jian-Jie Hu  1   2 , Wei Xie  1   2 , Zu-Xiu Wang  3 , Yong-Ping Pan  1   2 , Xu-Huan Li  1   2 , Xue-Feng Yu  1   2
Affiliations
Review

The Mechanisms and Implications of Cardiolipin in the Regulation of Cell Death

Zhou-Zhou Li et al. Cell Biochem Funct. 2025 Mar.

Abstract

Cardiolipin (CL), an exclusive phospholipid, is predominantly found within the confines of the inner mitochondrial membrane, playing an indispensable role in the sustenance of mitochondrial operations and the regulation of cellular energy metabolism. The influence of CL on the pathways of cell death has garnered significant interest in recent scholarly discourse. This review delves into the multifaceted roles of CL across various modes of cell demise, encompassing apoptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, necrosis, and necroptosis. The discussion extends to the examination of CL's implications in a clinical context, particularly concerning cardiovascular maladies, neurological degeneration, and oncological conditions. Through an integrative analysis of contemporary research findings, the aim is to elucidate the intricate dynamics of CL's involvement in cell death phenomena. While acknowledging the inherent limitations and the hurdles faced by current research endeavors, the therapeutic potential of CL as a modulator of cell death pathways is nonetheless encouraging. Forthcoming investigations must surmount these obstacles, thereby uncovering the nuanced mechanisms and impacts of CL in the realm of cell death and associated pathologies, potentially paving the way for innovative clinical intervention strategies.

Keywords: apoptosis; autophagy; cardiolipin; ferroptosis; necroptosis; necrosis; pyroptosis.

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