2024 April ; 49(4): 346–360. doi:10.1016/j.tibs.2024.01.011. | Brenita C. Jenkins, Kit Neikirk, Prasanna Katti, Steven M. Claypool, Annet Kirabo, Melanie R. McReynolds, Antentor Hinton Jr.
The article explores the dynamic nature of mitochondria and their various shapes, including donut-shaped mitochondria, megamitochondria (MGs), and nanotunnels. These shapes are influenced by factors such as tissue type, disease states, and cellular stress. The review highlights the importance of mitochondrial morphology in regulating cellular functions such as energy production, calcium signaling, and apoptosis. It discusses the role of fusion and fission events, organelle interactions, and the MICOS complex in shaping mitochondrial structure. The article also examines the potential therapeutic benefits of regulating mitochondrial morphology to manage diseases related to mitochondrial dysfunction. Advanced microscopy techniques, such as 3D MINFLUX nanoscopy and cryo-ET, are highlighted for their ability to improve understanding of mitochondrial structure and dynamics. The authors emphasize the need for further research to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the formation and function of different mitochondrial shapes and their implications in disease states.The article explores the dynamic nature of mitochondria and their various shapes, including donut-shaped mitochondria, megamitochondria (MGs), and nanotunnels. These shapes are influenced by factors such as tissue type, disease states, and cellular stress. The review highlights the importance of mitochondrial morphology in regulating cellular functions such as energy production, calcium signaling, and apoptosis. It discusses the role of fusion and fission events, organelle interactions, and the MICOS complex in shaping mitochondrial structure. The article also examines the potential therapeutic benefits of regulating mitochondrial morphology to manage diseases related to mitochondrial dysfunction. Advanced microscopy techniques, such as 3D MINFLUX nanoscopy and cryo-ET, are highlighted for their ability to improve understanding of mitochondrial structure and dynamics. The authors emphasize the need for further research to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the formation and function of different mitochondrial shapes and their implications in disease states.