The Haves and Have-Nots: The Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore across Species

The demonstration that F1FO (F)-ATP synthase and adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT) can form Ca2+-activated, high-conductance channels in the inner membrane of mitochondria from a variety eukaryotes led to renewed interest permeability transition (PT), increase mediated by PT pore (PTP). is Ca2+-dependent mitochondrial whose function underlying molecular mechanisms have challenged scientists for last 70 years. Although most our knowledge about PTP comes studies mammals, recent data obtained other species highlighted substantial differences could be perhaps attributed specific features F-ATP and/or ANT. Strikingly, anoxia salt-tolerant brine shrimp Artemia franciscana does not undergo spite its ability take up store Ca2+ mitochondria, anoxia-resistant Drosophila melanogaster displays low-conductance, selective Ca2+-induced release channel rather than PTP. In provides mechanism cytochrome c proapoptotic proteins mediates various forms cell death. this review, we cover (or lack thereof) yeast, melanogaster, Caenorhabditis elegans, discuss presence intrinsic pathway apoptosis We hope exercise may help elucidate function(s) possible role evolution inspire further tests define nature.