How Cell Stress and Energy Problems Interact in Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Possible Treatments

Endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial dysfunction are key pathogenic drivers in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

• Chronic endoplasmic reticulum stress impairs the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier and activates inflammatory pathways, leading to cell death.
• Mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with excessive production of reactive oxygen species and energy failure, disrupting intestinal homeostasis.
• Mitochondria-endoplasmic reticulum contacts (MERCs) serve as platforms for signaling, coordinating calcium transfer and redox signaling.
• An imbalance in calcium homeostasis and oxidative stress is linked to the pathogenesis of IBD.
• Defective autophagy and the unfolded protein response are connected through the interplay between endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial dysfunction.

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