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Drp1 and the cytoskeleton: mechanistic nexus in mitochondrial division

Jason A Mears1,2,3, Rajesh Ramachandran4,3

  • 1Department of Pharmacology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106.

Current Opinion in Physiology
|November 21, 2022
PubMed

Insights

The cytoskeleton, including actin and microtubules, works with dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) to regulate mitochondrial division. This interaction guides Drp1

Area of Science:

  • Cell Biology
  • Mitochondrial Dynamics
  • Cytoskeletal Regulation

Background:

  • Dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) is crucial for mitochondrial division (MD).
  • Cytoskeletal elements like F-actin, microtubules, and septins are found at MD sites.
  • The precise roles and cooperation of these cytoskeletal elements in MD are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current understanding of Drp1-cytoskeleton interactions in mitochondrial division.
  • To highlight recent advancements in the field.
  • To propose a potential role for the cytoskeleton as a diffusion barrier in MD.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing research on Drp1 and cytoskeletal interactions.
  • Analysis of emergent data on the functional roles of F-actin, microtubules, and septins in MD.
  • Focus on mechanoenzymatic membrane remodeling processes.

Main Results:

  • The cytoskeleton acts as a combinatorial modulator, mediator, and effector in MD.
  • Cytoskeletal elements prime and channel Drp1 activity.
  • Evidence suggests a 'diffusion barrier' function for the cytoskeleton during MD.

Conclusions:

  • Drp1-cytoskeleton interactions are essential for regulating mitochondrial division.
  • The cytoskeleton plays multifaceted roles in guiding Drp1-mediated membrane remodeling.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the cooperative mechanisms and diffusion barrier role.
Keywords:
Drp1Mitochondriaactinfissionmicrotubulesseptins

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