Submitochondrial Calpains in Pathophysiological Consequences

Abstract

It has now been well established that different mitochondrial compartments contain varieties of calpains. The expression levels of these calpains are tissue and cell type specific. Although, mitochondrial compartments contain different types of calpains, the precise location within mitochondria and their functions remain imprecise. The aim of the present review is to confer information concerning the localization of calpains in different mitochondrial compartments affiliated with their function, particularly in pathophysiological conditions. For instance, mitochondrial μ-calpain is located within the inner membrane, intermembrane space, and mitochondrial matrix depending on cell types. μ-Calpain activity facilitates cleavage of apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) within inner membrane and intermembrane space, while the activated μ-calpain within matrix is associated with cleavage of complex I subunits and metabolic enzymes. Understandably, inhibition of the μ-calpain could be a potential strategy to ameliorate ischemia–reperfusion-associated injuries.