Mitochondria-Associated Endoplasmic Reticulum Membranes in Cardiovascular Diseases.

Peng Gao,Zhencheng Yan,Zhiming Zhu

doi:10.3389/fcell.2020.604240

Abstract

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria are physically connected to form dedicated structural domains known as mitochondria-associated ER membranes (MAMs), which participate in fundamental biological processes, including lipid and calcium (Ca2+) homeostasis, mitochondrial dynamics and other related cellular behaviors such as autophagy, ER stress, inflammation and apoptosis. Many studies have proved the importance of MAMs in maintaining the normal function of both organelles, and the abnormal amount, structure or function of MAMs is related to the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases. Here, we review the knowledge regarding the components of MAMs according to their different functions and the specific roles of MAMs in cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology, focusing on some highly prevalent cardiovascular diseases, including ischemia-reperfusion, diabetic cardiomyopathy, heart failure, pulmonary arterial hypertension and systemic vascular diseases. Finally, we summarize the possible mechanisms of MAM in cardiovascular diseases and put forward some obstacles in the understanding of MAM function we may encounter.

Highlights

As the main energy-producing organelles in eukaryotic cells, mitochondria are very important in maintaining the metabolism and function of cells, especially those with high energy demand, such as continuously contracting cardiomyocytes
As mitochondria-associated ER membrane (MAM) connects two important organelles, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria, the formation, structure and function of MAM display significant regulatory roles in cellular behaviors associated with ER and mitochondria
This review summarizes the function and mechanism of MAM in regulating cell behavior, and its importance in cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology from three aspects

Summary

Introduction

As the main energy-producing organelles in eukaryotic cells, mitochondria are very important in maintaining the metabolism and function of cells, especially those with high energy demand, such as continuously contracting cardiomyocytes. Through MAMs, Ca2+ is transferred directly from the ER to mitochondria and controls key mitochondrial functions, such as apoptosis and energy generation (Giorgi et al, 2018).

Results

Conclusion