Acetylation in Mitochondria Dynamics and Neurodegeneration

Mitochondria are a unique intracellular organelle due to their evolutionary origin and multifunctional role in overall cellular physiology and pathophysiology. To meet the specific spatial metabolic demands within the cell, mitochondria are actively moving, dividing, or fusing. This process of mitochondrial dynamics is fine-tuned by a specific group of proteins and their complex post-translational modifications. In this review, we discuss the mitochondrial dynamics regulatory enzymes, their adaptor proteins, and the effect of acetylation on the activity of fusion and fission machinery as a ubiquitous response to metabolic stresses. Further, we discuss the role of intracellular cytoskeleton structures and their post-translational modifications in the modulation of mitochondrial fusion and fission. Finally, we review the role of mitochondrial dynamics dysregulation in the pathophysiology of acute brain injury and the treatment strategies based on modulation of NAD(+)-dependent deacetylation.

Automated summary

Mitochondria are unique organelles that play multifunctional roles in cellular physiology and pathophysiology, with their dynamics regulated by specific proteins and post-translational modifications. The interplay between these regulatory mechanisms and intracellular cytoskeleton structures influences mitochondrial fusion and fission, contributing to physiological and pathological processes. Further understanding of this regulation may provide insights for potential therapeutic strategies in conditions like acute brain injury.