Mechanisms determining morphology and dynamics of the mitochondrial inner membrane

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Mitochondria adopt a characteristic ultrastructure. They are surrounded by a double membrane and the inner membrane folds into invaginations that are called cristae. The structure of both mitochondrial membranes is furthermore influenced by recurring fusion and fission events. In this project, we plan to study the molecular mechanisms that determine the dynamics and morphology of the mitochondrial inner membrane in yeast. Some components that play central roles in these processes have already been identified. Important examples are the MICOS complex, the F1FO-ATP synthase, and the GTPase Mgm1. However, a complete picture of all the factors that help to maintain mitochondrial ultrastructure is still missing. Furthermore, it is currently unknown whether also higher eukaryotes possess a separate machinery for the division of the inner membrane, as it is the case in some protists and algae. Our preliminary results indicate that the inner membrane can be divided in the absence of outer membrane dynamics in yeast. We plan to employ a combination of genome-wide genetic screens and light and electron microscopy to identify the components that are involved in this process. Furthermore, we propose to use a novel high throughput electron microscopy screen to systematically identify genes that are required for mitochondrial ultrastructure maintenance. We are confident that the planned experiments will substantially contribute to our understanding of the mechanisms that determine the morphology and dynamics of the mitochondrial inner membrane.