The role of mitochondrial dynamics in mtDNA maintenance

The dynamic nature of mitochondria, which can fuse, divide and move throughout the cell, allows these critical organelles to adapt their function in response to cellular demands, and is also important for regulating mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). While it is established that impairments in mitochondrial fusion and fission impact the mitochondrial genome and can lead to mtDNA depletion, abnormal nucleoid organization or accumulation of deletions, it is not entirely clear how or why remodeling mitochondrial network morphology affects mtDNA. Here, we focus on recent advances in our understanding of how mitochondrial dynamics contribute to the regulation of mtDNA and discuss links to human disease.

Automated summary

Mitochondria are dynamic organelles that can change their function according to cellular demands. Research has shown that impairments in mitochondrial fusion and fission can impact mtDNA, but the exact relationship between remodeling mitochondrial network morphology and mtDNA remains unclear. Further studies are needed to understand this relationship and its implications for human diseases.