Abstract: Abstract: Mitochondrion as the energy metabolism center of cells, meet the high energy demand of heart through oxidative phosphorylation. Cardiac activities such as myocardial contraction and intracellular homeostasis are powered by mitochondrial ATP. The integrity and proper function of mitochondria are fundament of cardiac physiological activities. The mitochondrial dysfunction characterized by abnormal respiratory chain function and ATP synthesis deletion is involved in the development of many cardiovascular diseases. In the early stage of diseases, the mitochondrial quality control, the prevention of mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress have become a new therapeutic target to reduce cardiac damage and improve cardiac function in cardiovascular diseases. This paper reviews the mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction in cardiovascular diseases and the related novel therapeutic strategies.

Key words: mitochondria, reactive oxygen species, cardiovascular diseases, mitochondrial dysfunction