Optic Atrophy 1: The Conductor of Cellular Harmony and Age-Related Pathologies.

As the population aging, the prevalence of age-related diseases is also rising. Mitochondrial malfunction is one of the hallmarks of aging, and optic atrophy type 1 (OPA1), a protein found in the inner membrane (IM) of mitochondrial, is essential to this process. OPA1 regulates the fusion of IM and cristae structure, hence maintaining cellular energy metabolism and function. Its abnormalities may impair the multiple functions of tissues and are also closely related to various diseases. OPA1 is highly expressed in metabolically active organs, such as the brain, skeletal muscle, and heart, ensuring the normal metabolism and function of these organs. This review summarizes the physiological functions of OPA1 in these organs, along with the effect of aberrant OPA1 expression on aging related disorders. By deeply studying the mechanisms of OPA1's function in these diseases, we might achieve a more profound comprehension of the pathological processes of age-related diseases and explore potential therapeutic strategies.