Mitochondrial Dynamics in Mammals

Abstract

This chapter discusses the role of mitochondria dynamics in mammalian mitochondrial morphology, mitochondrial function, disease, embryogenesis, and apoptosis. It defines mitochondria as static, kidney bean-shaped organelles that have the mundane chore of providing energy for the cell. The mitochondrial population is, in fact, dynamic, and the hundreds of mitochondria in a cell can have a range of morphologies, including small spheres, long tubules, and interconnected tubules. This morphological plasticity is based on the ability of mitochondria to undergo both organellar fusion and fission. The chapter reviews the current molecular understanding of mitochondrial fusion and fission. Several observations indicate that mitochondrial dynamics plays a significant role in vertebrate cells. The time-lapse observations of mammalian cells reveal frequent and constant cycles of mitochondrial fusion and fission. The identification of molecules involved in the fusion and fission pathways has allowed an assessment of their relative roles in controlling mitochondrial morphology. The chapter also discusses the importance of mitochondrial dynamics in human physiology.

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