SPATA18 is a key regulator of mitochondrial quality control that mediates the repair or degradation of damaged mitochondria through multiple mechanisms 1234. The protein promotes mitochondrial protein degradation by facilitating the accumulation of lysosomal hydrolases in the mitochondrial matrix and mediates mitophagy through the formation of vacuole-like structures that engulf unhealthy mitochondria 1234. SPATA18 functions through physical interactions with BNIP3 and BNIP3L/NIX at the mitochondrial outer membrane to regulate pore opening for lysosomal protein translocation 3. Additionally, SPATA18 binds cardiolipin and may form molecular condensates within mitochondria to compartmentalize cardiolipin metabolism 5. The gene is a transcriptional target of p53 and p63, linking it to DNA damage responses 6. DNA damage induces mitophagy through a SPATA18-dependent pathway that maintains mitochondrial function and supports DNA repair 7. Clinically, SPATA18 expression serves as a favorable prognostic marker in colorectal cancer and clear cell renal cell carcinoma 89. Loss of SPATA18 function contributes to cancer progression by suppressing mitophagy and promoting cell invasion 10.