Mechanisms of Mitochondrial Transfer Through TNTs: From Organelle Dynamics to Cellular Crosstalk
Zamberlan M., Semenzato M.
Narrative Review, published in Int J Mol Sci (2025) — summary generated from the PubMed abstract.
Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.
- Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
- Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
- Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
- Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
- Emerging · Emerging topic under active research
This page is generated from the PubMed record. The Thai description is an automated summary of bibliographic fields and the abstract, not a full translation, and is not medical advice.
- Study type
- Narrative Review
- Journal
- Int J Mol Sci (2025)
- Reported sample size
- —
- Source database
- Europe PMC
- PMID
- 41226616
- PMCID
- PMC12607586
- DOI
- 10.3390/ijms262110581
- Citations
- 14
Abstract (original English)
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are dynamic, actin-based intercellular structures that facilitate the transfer of organelles, including mitochondria, between cells. Unlike other protrusive structures such as filopodia and cytonemes, TNTs exhibit structural heterogeneity and functional versatility, enabling both short- and long-range cargo transport. This review explores the mechanisms underlying mitochondrial transfer via TNTs, with a particular focus on cytoskeletal dynamics and the role of key regulatory proteins such as Miro1, GFAP, MICAL2PV, CD38, Connexin 43, M-Sec, thymosin β4, and Talin 2. Miro1 emerges as a central mediator of mitochondrial trafficking, linking organelle motility to cellular stress responses and tissue repair. We delve into the translational implications of TNTs-mediated mitochondrial exchange in regenerative medicine and oncology, highlighting its potential to restore bioenergetics, mitigate oxidative stress, and reprogram cellular states. Despite growing interest, critical gaps remain in understanding the molecular determinants of TNT formation, the quality and fate of transferred mitochondria, and the optimal sources for mitochondrial isolation. Addressing these questions will be essential for harnessing TNTs and mitochondrial transplantation as therapeutic tools.
What this study does not prove
- • This study does not prove SVF is an approved treatment or a replacement for standard care.
- • This is a narrative review: it collects no new patient data and does not systematically appraise evidence quality.
Evidence level
Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.
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