Cooperation and regulation of mitochondrial preprotein translocation networks

PD Dr. Nils Wiedemann (Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Freiburg)

Several mitochondrial preprotein translocation machineries mediate import, sorting and assembly of nuclear encoded preproteins destined to the organelle. Three translocases are located in the outer (TOM, SAM and MIM) and inner (TIM23, TIM22, OXA) mitochondrial membrane respectively. In addition, the MIA-machinery is located in the intermembrane space. Recent studies revealed that the protein translocation machineries do not function autonomously but are embedded in networks of dynamic interactions with each other and with further protein complexes, like respiratory chain complexes, the ER-mitochondria encounter structure (ERMES) or the mitochondrial contact site and cristae organizing system (MICOS). In this project we aim to uncover novel principles how the mitochondrial protein translocase subunits cooperate to mediate protein translocation and regulation of the dynamic protein complex interaction network.