Screening for Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Toxicity

Mitochondrial damage compromises ATP production and consequentially cellular viability. Given the central role that mitochondria play in regulating cellular function, drugs that undermine mitochondrial function frequently elicit toxic effects. In contrast, mitochondrial biogenesis increases cell vitality and is being pursued as a strategy to combat age-related diseases. Thus, there is growing interest in identifying agents that induce biogenesis.