Metabolic control of mitochondrial biogenesis through the PGC-1 family regulatory network

The PGC-1 family of regulated coactivators, consisting of PGC-1 alpha, PGC-1 beta and PRC, plays a central role in a regulatory network governing the transcriptional control of mitochondrial biogenesis and respiratory function. These coactivators target multiple transcription factors including NRF-1. NRF-2 and the orphan nuclear hormone receptor, ERR alpha, among others. In addition, they themselves are the targets of coactivator and co-repressor complexes that regulate gene expression through chromatin remodeling. The expression of PGC-1 family members is modulated by extracellular signals controlling metabolism, differentiation or cell growth and in some cases their activities are known to be regulated by post-translational modification by the energy sensors, AMPK and SIRT1. Recent gene knockout and silencing studies of many members of the PGC-1 network have revealed phenotypes of wide ranging severity suggestive of complex compensatory interactions or broadly integrative functions that are not exclusive to mitochondrial biogenesis. The results point to a central role for the PGC-1 family in integrating mitochondrial biogenesis and energy production with many diverse cellular functions. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Mitochondria and Cardioprotection. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.