The interplay of neuronal mitochondrial dynamics and bioenergetics: Implications for Parkinson's disease

The dynamic properties of mitochondria (mitochondrial fission, fusion, transport biogenesis and degradation) are critical for neuronal function and health, and dysregulation of mitochondrial dynamics has been increasingly linked to the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). Mitochondrial dynamics and bioenergetics are interconnected, and this is of particular importance in neurons, which have a unique bioenergetic profile due to their energetic dependence on mitochondria and specialized, compartmentalized energetic needs. In this review, we summarize the interplay of mitochondrial dynamics and bioenergetics, and its particular relevance for neurodegeneration. Evidence linking dysregulation of mitochondrial dynamics to PD is presented from both toxin and genetic models, including newly emerging details of how PD-relevant genes FTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) and Parkin regulate fission, fusion, mitophagy and transport. Finally, we discuss how neuronal bioenergetics may impact PD-relevant regulation of mitochondrial dynamics, and possible implications for understanding the role of mitochondria1 dynamics in PD. (C) 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.