ER tubules mark sites of mitochondrial division

Jonathan R. Friedman, Laura L. Lackner, Matthew West, Jared R. DiBenedetto, Jodi Nunnari, Gia K. Voeltz

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1435 Scopus citations

Abstract

Mitochondrial structure and distribution are regulated by division and fusion events. Mitochondrial division is regulated by Dnm1/Drp1, a dynamin-related protein that forms helices around mitochondria to mediate fission. Little is known about what determines sites of mitochondrial fission within the mitochondrial network. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria exhibit tightly coupled dynamics and have extensive contacts. We tested whether ER plays a role in mitochondrial division. We found that mitochondrial division occurred at positions where ER tubules contacted mitochondria and mediated constriction before Drp1 recruitment. Thus, ER tubules may play an active role in defining the position of mitochondrial division sites.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)358-362
Number of pages5
JournalScience
Volume334
Issue number6054
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 21 2011
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General

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