Mitochondrial Function in Bacterial Infection and Disease is an emerging field of research that has garnered significant attention due to its implications in the pathogenesis of human diseases. Mitochondria, known for their pivotal role in regulating cell death pathways, are also involved in energy generation, fatty acid biosynthesis, calcium storage, and immune regulation. These diverse functions make mitochondria a prime target for bacterial pathogens, which can manipulate mitochondrial dynamics to enhance their survival or evade host immunity. The perturbation of mitochondrial functions can significantly influence the onset and progression of bacterial infections. Notably, pathogens such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis and the ESKAPE group (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species) are responsible for millions of deaths globally and are increasingly resistant to antibiotics. Despite the critical role of mitochondria in host-pathogen interactions, there remains a substantial gap in understanding the molecular mechanisms involved, which is essential for developing future therapeutic strategies.

This research topic aims to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying host-pathogen interactions with a focus on mitochondrial functions. By investigating the role of mitochondria in bacterial pathogenesis, the research seeks to address existing knowledge gaps in microbiology and lay the groundwork for innovative treatment and diagnostic approaches. Key objectives include elucidating the crosstalk between mitochondria and bacterial pathogens, understanding mitochondrial signaling pathways in host defense, and examining how bacterial infections alter mitochondrial dynamics. This research will contribute to a deeper understanding of bacterial disease pathogenesis and inform the development of novel therapeutic interventions.

To gather further insights into the intricate relationship between mitochondria and bacterial infections, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Recent advances in mitochondrial biology in bacterial pathogenesis
- The crosstalk between Mycobacterium tuberculosis and mitochondria
- ESKAPE pathogens' role in modulating mitochondrial functions
- Mitochondrial signaling in host-pathogen interaction
- Mitochondrial dynamics and infection
- Involvement of mitochondria in bacterial infectious disease.

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Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology

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