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Mitochondrial Substrate Switching

Meaning

Mitochondrial Substrate Switching is the dynamic, adaptive capacity of the cell’s mitochondria to efficiently and rapidly transition between utilizing different primary energy sources—predominantly glucose (derived from carbohydrates) and fatty acids (derived from fats)—to generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP). A high degree of substrate switching, also clinically referred to as metabolic flexibility, is a measurable hallmark of robust metabolic health and physiological resilience, indicating a well-functioning cellular energy infrastructure. Conversely, impaired switching is a key and early feature of insulin resistance and the onset of metabolic syndrome.