Effects of lipids on mitochondrial functions
Mårtensson CU, Doan KN, Becker T.
Biochim Biophys Acta. online article
Mitochondria are surrounded by two membranes. The phospholipids composition of both membranes is vital for several mitochondrial protein machineries involved in central processes like protein transport, oxidative phosphorylation, mitochondrial dynamics and membrane architecture. Studies of last few years revealed specific effects of depletion of individual phospholipids on protein machineries. Particularly, the negatively charged cardiolipin was extensively studied, while the understanding of the role of other phospholipids for mitochondrial functions and architecture is limited. Nevertheless, the summarized findings revealed that phospholipids not only form the hydrophobic core of the mitochondrial membranes but also provide a specific environment for optimal function of mitochondrial proteins.
