Crosstalk between mitochondrial and lipid biogenesis

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Thomas Becker
• Subject Area: Biochemistry
• Term: from 2015 to 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 269424439

Mitochondria fulfil various essential functions for cell viability. The biosynthesis and import of a large variety of proteins and lipids are crucial for mitochondrial biogenesis and functions. The vast majority of mitochondrial proteins are synthesized as precursors on cytosolic ribosomes. Dedicated protein translocases of both mitochondrial membranes transport precursor proteins into the mitochondrial subcompartments. Mitochondrial phospholipids are of dual origin. Some phospholipids such as cardiolipin are synthesized within mitochondria. However, the majority of phospholipids is produced in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and imported into mitochondria via organelle contact sites. We have shown that the individual phospholipids differentially affect function and stability of mitochondrial protein translocases. Our findings reveal that lipid and protein biogenesis have to be tightly coordinated, however, the mechanisms are unknown. Excitingly, we found a molecular connections between mitochondrial outer membrane protein translocases, phospholipid biosynthesis and organelle contact sites. The goal of this project is to unravel the mechanisms that coordinate mitochondrial protein and lipid biogenesis. We will analyse the role of the molecular link between protein translocases and phospholipid biosynthesis in protein insertion into the mitochondrial outer membrane. Furthermore, we will study the physiological role of connecting protein transport and organelle contact sites for protein and lipid transport. This project will deliver novel insights how protein-protein interactions adjust mitochondrial protein and lipid biogenesis to meet physiological demands.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants