Mitochondrial import receptors for precursor proteins

The specific targeting of precursor proteins synthesized in the cytosol to various cell organelles is a central aspect of intracellular protein traffic. Several hundred different proteins are imported from the cytosol into the mitochondria. Recent studies have identified the mitochondrial outer membrane proteins MOM19, MOM72, MOM38 (approximately ISP42) and p32 which have a role in initial steps of protein import. The first three components are present in a multi-subunit complex that catalyses recognition and membrane insertion of precursor proteins.