The Role of Mitochondrial-Derived Vesicles in Peroxisome biogenesis
Summary
Mitochondria are dynamic organelles that continuously undergo fission and fusion, thereby altering their morphology and intracellular localization in response to cellular and extracellular environments. Their metabolic and other functions are coordinately regulated in concert with other organelles, interacting not only through direct contact but also via vesicular transport. Mitochondria release vesicles known as mitochondrial-derived vesicles (MDVs), which are transported to other organelles such as lysosomes and peroxisomes or are secreted as extracellular vesicles. Similar to many bacteria, the ancestral alpha-proteobacteria—progenitors of mitochondria—also release vesicles, suggesting that MDVs represent an evolutionarily conserved aspect of mitochondrial membrane dynamics. However, the composition of MDVs, including proteins and lipids, and their specific characteristics are poorly understood. Dr. Sugiura and his colleagues have discovered that, during peroxisome de novo synthesis, peroxisomal precursor vesicles—a type of MDV released from mitochondria—mature into functional peroxisomes. While peroxisomes and mitochondria are central to intracellular metabolism and share various functions and regulatory factors, the significance and underlying molecular mechanisms of their crosstalk remain unclear. They hypothesize that MDVs in the peroxisome de novo synthesis pathway serve as key mediators linking these two organelles and are currently investigating the cargoes and regulatory mechanisms. In this presentation, Dr. Sugiura will discuss the role and biological significance of MDVs in peroxisome de novo synthesis.
About Dr. Ayumu Sugiura
Dr. Ayumu Sugiura is originally from Japan. His academic background is rooted in biochemistry and cell biology. To date, his research has primarily centered on the dynamics and quality control mechanisms of mitochondria. Currently, he is particularly interested in investigating the diversity and evolutionary aspects of organelles, with a special focus on mitochondria.
