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Updated: May 26, 2026

Using Live Cell STED Imaging to Visualize Mitochondrial Inner Membrane Ultrastructure in Neuronal Cell Models
Published on: June 30, 2023
Neurodegeneration as a consequence of failed mitochondrial maintenance
Mariusz Karbowski1, Albert Neutzner
1Center for Biomedical Engineering and Technology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA. mkarbowski@umaryland.edu
Abstract:
Maintaining the functional integrity of mitochondria is pivotal for cellular survival. It appears that neuronal homeostasis depends on high-fidelity mitochondria, in particular. Consequently, mitochondrial dysfunction is a fundamental problem associated with a significant number of neurological diseases, including Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and various peripheral neuropathies, as well as the normal aging process. To ensure optimal mitochondrial function, diverse, evolutionarily conserved mitochondrial quality control mechanisms are in place, including the scavenging of toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) and degradation of damaged mitochondrial proteins, but also turnover of whole organelles. In this review we will discuss various mitochondria-associated conditions, focusing on the role of protein turnover in mitochondrial maintenance with special emphasis on neurodegenerative disorders.
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