Post-translational modification of mitochondria as a novel mode of regulation

Abstract

Mitochondria not only form the metabolic hub, but also are crucial players in many cellular pathways, like apoptosis and innate immune response, putting the organelle in a central position in controlling cellular function and fate. As novel and powerful regulators of mitochondrial processes and hence mitochondrial-controlled pathways, post-translational modifications (PTMs) have emerged in the last years. In this review, we will summarize the current state of knowledge on PTMs occurring in mammalian mitochondria with a focus on phosphorylation, acetylation, succinylation and ubiquitination. We will highlight their regulatory role in metabolism, autophagy and apoptosis as well as communicating element to cellular stress response pathways such as the immune response. Finally, we will discuss open questions in this exciting research area and point out how mitochondrial PTMs might impact age-associated pathologies.

Keywords: Acetylation; Apoptosis; Immune response; Mitochondrial metabolism; Mitochondrial posttranslational modifications; Phosphorylation; Succinylation; Ubiquitination.