Modulation of mitochondrial DNA copy number: therapeutic potential of phytochemicals and plant extracts—a comprehensive review

Archives of Pharmacal Research 2026 Open access

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Authors: Maria Rosaria Perri, Annamaria Cerantonio, Maria Grazia Cipriani, Ida Manna, Anna Aureli, Beatrice Marziani, Francesco Andreozzi, Gaia Chiara Mannino, Elettra Mancuso, Carolina Averta, Giancarlo Antonio Statti, Luigi Citrigno
+1 more Davide Mainieri
DOI: 10.1007/s12272-026-01620-1
Cited by: 1
References: 138

Abstract

Mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNA-CN) is a critical marker of mitochondrial health and plays a key role in cellular bioenergetics. Alterations in mtDNA-CN have been associated with aging, metabolic disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. Recent studies have revealed that various plant-derived extracts, as well as the secondary metabolites they produce, known as phytochemicals, can modulate mtDNA-CN through mechanisms including the regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis, oxidative stress, and mtDNA repair. This review examines plant-derived extracts and phytochemical compounds from a wide range of plant species- including Ginkgo biloba, Crocus sativus, Curcumin and many others- able to modulate mtDNA dynamics, scavenging oxygen free radicals and improving antioxidant defense systems.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Saffron Plant Research Studies Ginkgo biloba and Cashew Applications Mitochondrial Function and Pathology

Publication details

Journal / source
Archives of Pharmacal Research
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
49
Issue
5
Pages
666–690
Publication date
1 May 2026
Language
EN