Therapeutic role of nutraceuticals in mitochondrial disorders

Mitochondria are the main organelles responsible for generating cellular energy. The common symptom of mitochondrial disorders is extreme fatigue. The lowered mitochondrial activity owing to lack of chemical transmembrane capacity, changes in the electron transport chain’s function, the maintenance of the inner mitochondrial membrane’s electrical and decrease in essential metabolites transport to the mitochondria. The change in mitochondrial activity is brought about by the reduction of adenosine-5′-triphosphate (ATP) and oxidative phosphorylation. The mitochondrial activity needs regular replacement of natural phytochemicals and supplementations that help to maintain the energy level. The efficacy of oral alternative nutrients like reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH), alpha-lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10, alpha-lipoic acid carnitine, membrane phospholipids, and other supplements was evaluated in clinical studies and were found effective against mitochondrial disorders. Combinations of these supplements can substantially alleviate weakness and other symptoms associated with mitochondrial disorders in patients. The frequent intake of these nutrients can also help to reduce the onset of various neurological disorders along with mitochondrial dysfunction. These results have significant effects on the welfare of both the civilian and military communities.