A shape shifting organelle: unusual mitochondrial phenotype determined with three-dimensional electron microscopy reconstruction.

Abstract

Mitochondria, the powerhouses of the cell, are dynamic organelles that constantly move and change their size and morphology to meet energetic demands of the cell (Wai and Langer, 2016). Recent studies demonstrated that energy production is dependent on the ability of mitochondria to undergo cycles of fission and fusion collectively termed “mitochondrial dynamics” (Youle and van der Bliek, 2012). Fidelity of mitochondrial dynamics is especially important in neuronal cells where mitochondria traverse distances over one meter long to deliver energy to the distant parts of the cell for proper synaptic development, maintenance, and activity, and ultimately neuronal survival. Excessive mitochondrial fission has been associated with multiple neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease (AD) (Reddy et al., 2011). Based on these studies, modulation of mitochondrial dynamics has been considered as novel therapeutic approach that could be beneficial for multiple human conditions (Reddy, 2014).