Effects of anesthetics on mitochondrial quality control: mechanisms and clinical implications

Abstract Focus on the implications of common perioperative drugs for mitochondrial quality control and their subsequent impact on the overall physiological condition has been increasing. This review discusses the effects of perioperative drugs, such as intravenous and inhaled anesthetics, analgesics, local anesthetics on mitochondrial quality and their underlying mechanisms. These drugs influence mitochondrial properties, including morphology, dynamics, energy metabolism, and protein expression, thereby affecting the clinical outcomes of patients undergoing surgery. Such effects can be either protective or detrimental and are contingent upon multiple variables such as the specific drug used, dosage, application timing, and the patient's overall health status. Recognizing the effects of these perioperative drugs on mitochondrial quality control is crucial to selecting safer anesthetic protocols, reducing postoperative complications, enhancing postoperative recovery, and gaining insights into the development of innovative treatment methodologies and optimization of perioperative care.