Ground control to major TOM: mitochondria–nucleus communication. (4th July 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Eisenberg‐Bord, Michal; Schuldiner, Maya
• Is Part Of: FEBS journal. Volume 284:Number 2(2017)
• Page Start: 196
• Page End: 210
• Publication Date: 2016-07-04
• Subjects: communication -- dual targeting -- mitochondria -- nucleus -- signaling pathways; Biochemistry -- Periodicals; Molecular biology -- Periodicals; Pathology, Molecular -- Periodicals; 572
• DOI: 10.1111/febs.13778
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1742-464X

Abstract

Abstract : Mitochondria have crucial functions in the cell, including ATP generation, iron‐sulfur cluster biogenesis, nucleotide biosynthesis, and amino acid metabolism. All of these functions require tight regulation on mitochondrial activity and homeostasis. As mitochondria biogenesis is controlled by the nucleus and almost all mitochondrial proteins are encoded by nuclear genes, a tight communication network between mitochondria and the nucleus has evolved, which includes signaling cascades, proteins which are dual‐localized to the two compartments, and sensing of mitochondrial products by nuclear proteins. All of these enable a crosstalk between mitochondria and the nucleus that allows the 'ground control' to get information on mitochondria's status. Such information facilitates the creation of a cellular balance of mitochondrial status with energetic needs. This communication also allows a transcriptional response in case mitochondrial function is impaired aimed to restore mitochondrial homeostasis. As mitochondrial dysfunction is related to a growing number of genetic diseases as well as neurodegenerative conditions and aging, elucidating the mechanisms governing the mitochondrial/nuclear communication should progress a better understanding of mitochondrial dysfunctions. Abstract : Mitochondria biogenesis is controlled by the nucleus and almost all mitochondrial proteins are encoded by nuclear genes. To this end, a tight communication network between mitochondria and the nucleus must exist. This review summarizes ways by which mitochondria communicate with the nucleus that include signaling cascades, proteins which are dual‐localized to the two compartments, and sensing of mitochondrial products by nuclear proteins. We also discuss how and why this communication is essential for maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis.