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Assessment of Open Probability of the Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore in the Setting of Coenzyme Q Excess
Published on: June 1, 2022
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The Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore and ATP Synthase
Gisela Beutner1, Kambiz N Alavian2, Elizabeth A Jonas3
1Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Ave., Box 631, Rochester, 14642, NY, USA.
Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology
|September 4, 2016
Summary
The ATP synthase, crucial for energy production, may also form the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP). This PTP opening is linked to both cell death and physiological signaling.
Area of Science:
- Mitochondrial biology
- Cellular respiration
- Biochemistry
Background:
- ATP synthase is central to ATP generation via oxidative phosphorylation.
- The electron transport chain (ETC) oxidizes NADH and FADH2.
- Recent research suggests ATP synthase's role in forming the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP).
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a model of PTP formation within the ATP synthase.
- To review the dual role of ATP synthase in energy production and cell death.
- To discuss the physiological implications of PTP opening.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on ATP synthase and PTP.
- Model presentation of PTP location within ATP synthase structure.
- Discussion of PTP's role in cell signaling and programmed cell death.
Main Results:
- A model is proposed where PTP resides in the c-subunit ring of ATP synthase's F0 subunit.
- PTP opening, once linked to cell death, may have physiological roles.
- PTP transient opening regulates mitochondrial signaling and is observed in embryonic hearts.
Conclusions:
- ATP synthase plays a paradoxical role, central to both ATP generation and cell death.
- The PTP's location within ATP synthase links energy metabolism to cell fate.
- Understanding PTP dynamics is key to comprehending mitochondrial function and dysfunction.
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