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Perspectives

Regulation of Mitochondrial Morphological Dynamics During Apoptosis by Bcl-2 family proteins: A Key in Bak?

Craig Brooks and Zheng Dong

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Early during apoptosis, the mitochondrial network collapses into short punctate fragments. The seemingly morphological change, called mitochondrial fragmentation, contributes to mitochondrial injury. Mitochondrial morphology is dictated by two opposing processes, fission and fusion. It is unclear how the fission-fusion balance is tilted during apoptosis, resulting in mitochondrial fragmentation. Emerging evidence has now suggested a regulation of mitochondrial morphological dynamics by Bcl-2 family proteins. In this regulation, Bak appears to be a key. Through interaction with mitofusins, Bak may block mitochondrial fusion to induce fragmentation. By this function, Bak may collaborate with Bax to permeabilize mitochondrial outer membrane, leading to the release of apoptogenic factors.

Authors

Craig Brooks

Medical College of Georgia and Veterans Affairs Medical Center; Augusta, GA

Zheng Dong

Medical College of Georgia and Veterans Affairs Medical Center; Augusta, GA

Purchase article for $19

Subscribe to this journal for $129/year