Mitochondrial membrane scaffolds as central nodes of intracellular Ca2+ signaling (A20)

• Subject Area: Biochemistry
• Term: from 2017 to 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 157660137

Mitochondria regulate intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis and depend on Ca2+ uptake for optimal bioenergetic performance. We study the role of the mitochondrial contact site and cristae organizing system (MICOS), a major determinant of mitochondrial membrane architecture, for Ca2+ handling. Based on our finding that MICOS is required for correct positioning of Ca2+ transporters within mitochondria, we propose that MICOS and its interacting partners, like SLC25A46, act as central coordinators of mitochondrial membrane protein sorting to safeguard efficient Ca2+ cycling.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 894: Ca2+-Signalling: Molecular Mechanisms and Integrative Functions
• Applicant Institution: Universität des Saarlandes
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Martin van der Laan