What is it about?
Mitochondrial fusion is important for cell survival. In this paper, we have reconstituted the fusion process mediated by mitochondrial protein Mitofusin 2 (Mfn2) in artificial lipid membranes. Using ultrafast video-microscopy we have been able to track in detail the dynamics of the fusion process and identify the Mfn2-dependent fusion pathway.
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Why is it important?
From our experiments we have identified the molecular conditions necessary to complete the process. This includes a) the lipid-to-protein ratio and b) the essential lipid molecular species. Furthermore, we visualize how Mfn2 interacts with lipid bilayers to achieve membrane fusion. Deciphering the biophysical basis of Mfn2-mediated membrane fusion is important to better understand the physiology of mitochondrial dynamics and their associated diseases.
Perspectives
From the beginning my lab faced a very challenging project. However, all co-authors offered their best version to exceptionally resolve all difficulties encountered at different steps. As a result, we have strengthened our both collaborative and personal connections. I also hope that the experimental tools developed here can be useful to other research groups interested in this exciting topic.
Ivan Lopez-Montero
Universidad Complutense de Madrid
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Mfn2-dependent fusion pathway of PE-enriched micron-sized vesicles, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, July 2024, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,
DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2313609121.
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