Clinical Bioenergetics: Understanding the Interplay Between Energy Metabolism and Human Health

Mitochondrial energy deficits have emerged as a critical factor in various clinical conditions, including inherited metabolic disorders, intoxications, cardiometabolic diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer [1,2,3,4]. Clinical bioenergetics is an innovative discipline dedicated to understanding the functional dynamics of energy metabolism and its utilization in living organisms, including humans [5]. This field examines the biochemical processes underlying ATP production and mitochondrial function, explores the role of oxidative stress, and investigates how disruptions in these pathways contribute to a wide range of medical conditions. Additionally, clinical bioenergetics evaluates potential therapeutic interventions—such as dietary strategies, exercise, pharmacological agents, and supplements like creatine, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide precursors, L-carnitine, and coenzyme Q10—that aim to optimize energy production and enhance patient outcomes [6,7,8,9]. By integrating knowledge from biochemistry, physiology, and clinical medicine, clinical bioenergetics seeks to translate insights from basic research into practical applications for diagnosing, managing, and preventing diseases related to energy metabolism.

Despite its vast potential, the field of clinical bioenergetics faces several challenges that must be addressed to facilitate progress in the field. One of the primary obstacles is the inherent complexity of the energy metabolism and its regulation. Mitochondrial function is influenced by numerous factors, including genetics, age, diet, and environmental exposures [10], which complicates the identification of universal therapeutic approaches. Furthermore, many current strategies targeting bioenergetics are still in their infancy, with limited clinical evidence to support their widespread application [11]. The need for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the long-term safety and efficacy of these interventions in diverse patient populations is imperative. Another significant challenge lies in developing reliable biomarkers for assessing mitochondrial function and bioenergetic health [12]. While some biomarkers, such as lactate levels and the mitochondrial DNA copy number, have been proposed, a pressing need for more accurate and accessible tools to evaluate bioenergetic status in clinical settings remains. Advances in omics technologies—including genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics—are poised to play a crucial role in identifying new bioenergetic targets and personalizing therapies based on individual metabolic profiles [13]. Precision medicine approaches that consider the unique bioenergetic needs of each patient could revolutionize the treatment of diseases related to energy metabolism. Finally, the field lacks a distinctive forum that can transparently present and facilitate discussions on critical issues related to the intricate interplay between energy metabolism and human health.

Despite the publication of approximately 40,000 studies on this topic since 2010, no specialized journal has yet focused on the clinical aspects of impaired bioenergetics. To fill this gap, Clinical Bioenergetics has been established as a dedicated research journal aimed at promoting both translational and clinical bioenergetics. Our journal seeks to cover recent advancements in understanding the etiology and pathophysiology of inherited and acquired energy-deprived disorders in clinical medicine. It will also emphasize novel methodologies for identifying cellular bioenergetic deficiencies and assess the safety and efficacy of emerging management strategies aimed at addressing impaired bioenergetics in clinical contexts.

Clinical Bioenergetics encompasses all facets of bioenergetics within the human life sciences and biomedicine, particularly emphasizing the translational implications of impaired bioenergetics. The journal prioritizes research that is both clinically significant and scientifically impactful, with direct relevance to human health. Areas of interest include, but are not limited to, the following: biochemical research methods; biochemistry and molecular biology; cardiac and cardiovascular systems; cell biology; clinical and medicinal chemistry; clinical neurology; endocrinology and metabolism; food science and technology; geriatrics and gerontology; general and internal medicine; experimental and research medicine; multidisciplinary sciences; neurosciences; nutrition and dietetics; pediatrics; pharmacology and pharmacy; physiology; and toxicology.

Clinical Bioenergetics represents a promising platform for this vital area of research, bridging the gap between basic science and clinical practice. By deepening our understanding of the fundamental mechanisms of energy metabolism and how they are disrupted in disease, researchers and clinicians can develop new strategies to improve health outcomes. Our journal serves as an excellent forum for exchanging ideas and disseminating exciting novel findings. To facilitate this, Clinical Bioenergetics welcomes a wide array of article types, including original research papers, review articles, rapid communications, research letters, correspondence, case reports, and special category manuscripts. Whether through dietary interventions, pharmacological agents, or supplements, modulating bioenergetics offers exciting opportunities to address some of the most pressing health challenges of our time. As the field continues to evolve, it holds the potential to transform the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of conditions, from metabolic and cardiovascular diseases to neurodegenerative disorders and cancer.

In conclusion, I extend a warm welcome to all current and prospective members of the Editorial Board and invite professionals from both academia and industry to join us in advancing and shaping this exciting new journal. Together, we can foster the growth of the promising field of clinical and applied bioenergetics.