Pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites, can interfere with cellular respiration. They may hijack host cell machinery to replicate, leading to cellular damage and impaired energy production. For instance, the SARS-CoV-2 virus, responsible for COVID-19, has been shown to affect mitochondrial function, a key component of cellular respiration. Epidemiological studies focus on identifying these mechanisms to develop targeted treatments and preventive measures.
