Mitochondrial energetics and fusion: role of the forkhead protein FOXC2

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

This research aims to substantially advance the understanding of energy conversion processes within cells of the body. Energy conversion processes in cells is far from perfect - though the mechanisms are very poorly understood. For example, it is known that the conversion of energy in the form of glucose to the 'universal energy currency of cells', adenosine triphosphate, is inefficient due to a process called mitochondrial proton leak. The mechanisms underlying proton leak are not well understood, but proton leak may account for up to 50% of the resting energy metabolism in muscle. Mitochondria are indeed the 'power-houses' of cells, responsible for a wide range of metabolic processes, including ATP synthesis. Over the last decade, it has been convincingly demonstrated that mitochondria are not the static oblong-shaped structures depicted in many textbooks. In fact, they are constantly undergoing fusion and fission cycles. Recent evidence suggests that mitochondrial structure impacts efficiency. Also affected is the production of free radicals/ reactive oxygen species. The proposed research will specifically examine the effects of mitochondrial fusion on efficiency and oxidative stress. Implications thus extend to obesity and aging.