Abstract: Voltage-dependent anion channels (VDACs), which are located at the mitochondrial outer membrane, playing an important role in the regulation of mitochondrial energy metabolism and mitochondria- mediated apoptotic events, are considered as potential targets for tumor therapy. Studies have indicated that neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) generally lead to mitochondrial dysfunction. During this process, VDAC1, changing in expression, interacting with disease-related molecules, was involved in the occurrence and development of diseases. This review summarizes the characteristics and physiological functions of VDAC1, common important structural units and its role in apoptosis. The focus is on the research progress of VDAC1 in AD, as well as the effects in learning and memory related functions by modulating VDAC1 expression or function.