It is known that metabolism drives cell fate and can influence whole organism physiology. In pathological conditions such as genetic diseases, malnutrition and even infections, the bioenergetic status of the cell can impact the homeostasis of the entire body, leading to physiological impairment or even a disease tolerance. Mitochondria are the bioenergetic core of the cell and orchestrate many cell events, from energy production to oxidative stress, driving cells to survive or die.
In children, diseases that directly or indirectly affect mitochondrial function can compromise normal development and can affect life quality and expectancy. The diagnosis of metabolic-related diseases can be difficult due to its complexity and wide spectrum of symptoms.
The goal of this Research Topic is to explore the most relevant aspects of metabolic involvement in pediatrics diseases including their epidemiological, physiological, and biochemical characteristics. Current and potential diagnosis and pharmacological strategies will be discussed.
A correct diagnosis of metabolic-related diseases in early stages can be critical to ameliorate or even control the pathology in children. Aspects such as prevention and treatment should also be addressed, as well as the monitoring of overall children's clinical improvement. Altogether, the discussion might shed light on the understanding of the bioenergetic profile in pediatric diseases, reflecting on long-lasting positive effects on childhood.
The call is to include in this Research Topic original research articles, reviews and meta-analyses, among other article types, on:
- Bioenergetics and pathologies
- How to manage oxidative stress, energy production and cell fate in children’s pathologies
- Pediatric diseases with metabolic involvement
- Diagnostic strategies: Who, when and how?
- Current and potential therapeutic strategies
- Strategies to monitor the child's clinical improvement
- Forms of prevention
Keywords: Metabolic-related diseases, Mitochondria, Pathophysiology, Molecular Mechanisms, Prophylaxis and diagnosis, Therapeutic strategies, Clinical monitoring, Child wellbeing and development, Life expectancy
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
