Several studies have evaluated the subcellular compartmentalization of
taurine (TAU) and its cellular and molecular mechanisms of action. Meanwhile, it has
been found that TAU is largely uptaken by mitochondria. TAU could improve
mitochondrial function by incorporating it into the basic mitochondrial structures and
protein synthesis (e.g., mainly mitochondrial electron transport chain components).
Several other mechanisms, including the enhancement of mitochondrial calcium
sequestration, regulation of mitochondria-mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS)
formation, prevention of mitochondria-mediated cell death, and mitochondrial pH
buffering, are also involved in the mitochondrial function regulatory properties of
TAU. Therefore, TAU has been used against a wide range of pathologies, including
mitochondrial injury. In the current chapter, a review of the approved molecular
mechanism for the effects of TAU on mitochondria is provided. Then, the applications
of TAU on a wide range of complications linked with mitochondrial impairment are
discussed. The data collected here could give a better insight into the application of
TAU as a therapeutic agent against a wide range of human diseases.
Keywords: Amino acid, Bioenergetics, Energy metabolism, Mitochondrial cytopathies, Mitochondrial disease, Mitochondrial impairment.
