Schematic diagram shows the contribution of mitochondrial retrograde transportation to ischemia-reperfusion–induced mitophagy and its neuroprotection. Ischemia-reperfusion increased axonal mitochondrial retrograde transportation specifically, and axonal mitochondria underwent autophagic clearance in neuronal soma. Facilitated retrograde transportation promoted ischemia-reperfusion–induced mitophagy and further neuronal survival. Conversely, inhibition of axonal mitochondrial mobility compromised mitophagy and aggravated ischemic injury.