A big jump in our understanding --Mitochondrial energetics and synapses

​Val's Take/Conjecture

• ​Mitochondrial Dysfunction is an aspect of many illnesses and diseases.
• It is probably most profoundly seen in Neuro-Degenerative Diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

​Neuro-Developmental and Psychiatric Disorders often come with Microglial Dysregulation and various levels of Mitochondrial Dysfunction.

The book chapter to the right not only references Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder, but also Diabetes and Obesity.​

• If you look at the widespread nature of weight issues in the society, one could certainly conclude we need to eat better and exercise more --- and we do.
• But some people may need a KETO DIET high in fat --- at least according to the Metabolic Mind folks.
• Further, DEVELOPMENTAL ISSUES IN UTERO appear to play a role in a large number of issues and diseases experienced later in the lifespan.
  • ​Further, Researchers are identifying  these DEVELOPMENTAL ISSUES as the "PROXIMATE CAUSE" of issues and disease later in the lifespan.

Developmental Origins of Health & Disease & Lifestyle Choices

The Developmental Origins of Health & Disease, Mitochondrial Bioenergetics, and Executive Functioning Issues have so many ramifications for Treatment and Public Policy.

​When it comes to people who are Justice-Involved with Neuro-Developmental and/or Psychiatric Disorders, treatment and programs need to address Mitochondrial Bioenergetics and Executive Functioning Issues.

Coming to Terms with the Criminal Justice System as the Disability Provider of Last resort

Neuronal Synaptic Communication and Mitochondrial Energetics in Human Health and Disease (2025)

​Abstract

​The human brain is an energetically costly organ, consuming 20-25% of all biochemical energy produced in the body, despite comprising only 2-3% of total body mass.

Most energy in the brain is consumed to support synaptic neurotransmission, which is the primary means of neuron-to-neuron communication between.

This energy is in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and within neural cells, nearly all ATP is produced by mitochondria via the process of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS).

To ensure that ATP is readily available, mitochondria are trafficked to areas of greater energy use, such as neuronal synapses.

The balance between energetic supply and synaptic communication is essential for proper brain functioning.

This chapter begins with a brief introduction to key features of neuronal synapses and mitochondrial energy production in the cerebral cortex.

Next, the tight and bidirectional coupling of neuronal synaptic activity and mitochondrial OXPHOS is examined from functional, ultrastructural, and molecular perspectives.

​The effects of brain and non-brain organ system perturbations on synaptic-mitochondrial coupling are then examined within the context of (1) primary brain disorders, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and (2) primary peripheral disorders, such as diabetes and obesity.

​Finally, a discussion of potential intervention strategies that may restore neural communication and mitochondrial bioenergetics, within the framework of the brain-body connection, is provided.