Mitochondria play a vital role in maintaining cellular energy homeostasis, regulating apoptosis, and controlling redox signaling. Dysfunction of mitochondria has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various brain diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, stroke, and psychiatric illnesses. This review paper provides a comprehensive overview of the intricate relationship between mitochondria and brain disease, focusing on the underlying pathological mechanisms and exploring potential therapeutic opportunities. The review covers key topics such as mitochondrial DNA mutations, impaired oxidative phosphorylation, mitochondrial dynamics, calcium dysregulation, and reactive oxygen species generation in the context of brain disease. Additionally, it discusses emerging strategies targeting mitochondrial dysfunction, including mitochondrial protective agents, metabolic modulators, and gene therapy approaches. By critically analysing the existing literature and recent advancements, this review aims to enhance our understanding of the multifaceted role of mitochondria in brain disease and shed light on novel therapeutic interventions.

The dietary practices of athletes play a crucial role in shaping their body composition, influencing sports performance, training adaptations, and overall health. However, despite the widely acknowledged significance of dietary intake in athletic success, there exists a gap in our understanding of the intricate relationships between nutrition, body composition, and performance. Furthermore, emerging evidence suggests that many athletes fail to adopt optimal nutritional practices, which can impede their potential achievements. In response, this Special Issue seeks to gather research papers that delve into athletes’ dietary practices and their potential impacts on body composition and sports performance. Additionally, studies focusing on interventions aimed at optimizing dietary habits are encouraged. This paper outlines the key aspects and points that will be developed in the ensuing articles of this Special Issue.

Introduction: This study explores the gender differences in psychological stress perception and autonomic modulation among teachers. Methods: Utilizing heart rate variability (HRV) as a measure of autonomic function and a suite of validated psychological tests, the study examines the discrepancies in stress, anxiety, burnout, and personality traits between male and female educators. Results: Results indicate that despite higher reported levels of stress and anxiety, women demonstrate a higher HRV, suggesting a stronger parasympathetic response. Discussion: These findings highlight the complex interplay between psychological stressors and physiological responses, emphasizing the need for gender-specific interventions in stress management within the educational sector. Implications for enhancing educators’ well-being and performance through tailored strategies are discussed.

Background: Regular physical activity plays a crucial role in modulating cellular metabolism and mitigating the progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Multiple Sclerosis. Objective: The objective of this review is to evaluate the molecular mechanisms by which exercise influences cellular metabolism, with a focus on its potential as a therapeutic intervention for neurological disorders. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed scientific articles, with a focus on the period between 2015 and 2024, to analyze the effects of exercise on mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, and metabolic health. Results: The findings indicate that exercise promotes mitochondrial biogenesis, enhances oxidative phosphorylation, and reduces reactive oxygen species, contributing to improved energy production and cellular resilience. These metabolic adaptations are associated with delayed disease progression and reduced symptoms in patients with neurodegenerative conditions. Additionally, integrating exercise with nutritional strategies may further enhance therapeutic outcomes by addressing metabolic disturbances comprehensively. Conclusions: This review concludes that personalized exercise protocols should be developed to optimize metabolic benefits for patients with neurological diseases, while future research should focus on biomarker development for individualized treatment approaches. These findings highlight the importance of non-pharmacological interventions in managing neurodegenerative diseases.

Ultra-endurance races are one of the most physically and psychologically demanding sports, depending performance on several elements. The aims of the present study were (i) to analyze differences in selected psychophysiological parameters between finisher and non-finisher ultra-endurance mountain athletes, and (ii) to analyze modifications in psychophysiological parameters before and after an ultra-endurance mountain event. Selected psychophysiological variables were assessed in 46 finishers and 24 non-finishers in two over 100 km ultra-endurance races were examined. We found how an ultra-endurance mountain race produced dehydration, a decrease in systolic blood pressure, weight and leg strength muscle values, as well as an increase in heart rate and rate of perceived exertion values. Finishers presented lower systolic blood pressure, weight, body mass index, half marathon time and fluid intake before competition day compared to non-finishers. In addition, body mass index, pre-race hydration, and performance in lower distance races were predictors of performance in these ultra-endurance mountain races.