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In Vitro and In Vivo Detection of Mitophagy in Human Cells, C. Elegans, and Mice
Published on: November 22, 2017
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Protocols for assessing mitophagy in neuronal cell lines and primary neurons
1Department of Pharmacology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, NV, 89557.
Neuromethods
|June 13, 2017
Summary
Assessing mitophagy, the degradation of mitochondria, in neurons is challenging. This chapter details methods and guidelines for accurately measuring mitophagy and mitophagic flux in neuronal cells.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Neuroscience
- Mitochondrial Biology
Background:
- Mitochondria are vital organelles for neuronal function, requiring constant renewal through mitophagy and biogenesis.
- Quantifying mitophagy in neurons presents unique challenges due to mitochondrial localization in dynamic neurites.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of mitophagy in neurons.
- To present validated fluorescence- and biochemistry-based techniques for assessing mitophagy in neuronal cells.
- To offer guidelines for interpreting mitophagy and mitophagic flux in neurons.
Main Methods:
- Review of established fluorescence- and biochemistry-based techniques.
- Guidelines for interpreting mitophagy and mitophagic flux.
- Identification of common pitfalls and solutions.
Main Results:
- A curated list of validated techniques for mitophagy assessment in neurons.
- Comprehensive guidelines for interpreting mitophagy and mitophagic flux data.
- Practical advice for overcoming technical challenges in mitophagy studies.
Conclusions:
- Accurate assessment of mitophagy in neurons is crucial for understanding neuronal health.
- This chapter provides essential tools and guidance for researchers studying neuronal mitophagy.
- Addressing technical challenges will advance the field of neuronal mitophagy research.
