PgmNr Z650: Actr10, a component of the dynactin complex, regulates retrograde mitochondrial transport in axons.

Authors:
C. Drerup; A. Nechiporuk


Institutes
Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR.


Abstract:

Mitochondrial transport in axons is imperative to mitochondrial health as well as the formation, stability and function of neural circuits. How mitochondria attach uniquely to the motor protein complexes necessary for their unidirectional movement is largely unknown. Using forward genetics, in vivo transport analyses, and biochemistry, we identified Actr10, a member of the dynactin complex, as a critical regulator of mitochondrial retrograde transport. Loss of Actr10 leads to mitochondrial accumulation in axon terminals due to failed attachment of this organelle to the dynein-dynactin complex. Anterograde mitochondrial transport and the localization and transport of dynein and other cargos in actr10 mutants is unaffected. Biochemical and genetic interaction studies revealed the dynamin-like protein Drp1 as a partner for Actr10 in the retrograde transport of mitochondria in axons. Together, this work identifies Actr10 as the first specific regulator of mitochondrial attachment to the retrograde motor complex and enhances our understanding of the intricate cellular mechanisms required for the proper localization of this organelle in axons.



ZFIN Genetics Index
1. actr10
2. drp1