Regulation of Mitochondrial Function by Bioactive Sphingolipids

Sphingolipids such as ceramide, sphingosine and sphingosine 1-phosphate [S1P] are key regulators of various cellular functions. Sphingolipids mediates of cell-stress responses and regulate mitochondrial function. Ceramide and its metabolites play an important role in the development and progression of mitochondria related disorders. Ceramide functions as an important second messenger in apoptosis signaling and is generated by de novo synthesis, sphingomyelin hydrolysis, or recycling of sphingolipids. S1P, a potent signaling sphingolipid exerts myriads of pathophysiological function, including lymphocyte trafficking, angiogenesis, vascular development and inflammation. This review is focused on the role of signaling sphingolipids, such as S1P, sphingosine, and ceramide-1 phosphate on mitochondrial function, particularly mitochondrial respiratory function, apoptosis and calcium homeostasis. Further, we discuss the role of sphingolipids in mitochondrial diseases and targeting them for drug development. This review article is a part of special issue on Mitochondria: Implications in human health and disease.