Import of transcription factor MTF1 into the yeast mitochondria takes place through an unusual pathway

We report studies of the import into mitochondria of MTF1, a nucleus-encoded factor that markedly stimulates the specific transcription of mitochondrial DNA. Unlike most of the mitochondrial precursor proteins studied so far, import of MTF1 does not appear to require a receptor on the outer membrane, membrane potential across the inner membrane, or ATP hydrolysis. Its import is not affected by low temperature. It lacks a cleavable presequence but translocates across the inner membrane through its amino terminus; its sorting is independent of hsp60. Our results indicate an unusual and distinct import pathway for MTF1 into the yeast mitochondria.