Cellular mechanisms and functional consequences of mitochondrial morphology regulation

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Mitochondria are structures inside cells which provide energy for all cellular functions. These organelles have been called "semi-autonomous" in that they have their own DNA, they fuse, divide and have surprising mobility within cells.  The significance of these dynamic events is unknown.  While the current proposal focuses on mitochondrial fusion, related techniques will be employed to extend these studies to examine the reciprocal event, mitochondrial fission.  The long term goals of this research program are to identify the machinery of mitochondrial fission and fusion and to elucidate the functional roles of these dynamic changes in mammalian cells.Using fluorescently labeled mitochondria, fusion can be observed directly within living cells employing fluorescence microscopy.  Using this technique we will endeavor to answer the question: What are the cellular cues and participants in mitochondrial fusion?  In addition, we will examine the impact of mitochondrial fusion upon mitochondrial function and cell physiology; how do changes in mitochondria morphology affect mitochondrial function?  What are the cellular consequences of mitochondria fusion?  Pursuing the answers to the above questions will yield clues as to how and why mitochondria fuse, and foster a greater understanding of the role of mitochondria in cells.