The Extracellular Matrix Integrates Mitochondrial Homeostasis
A recent study by Zhang et al. (2024) published in Cell explores a novel connection between the extracellular matrix (ECM) and mitochondrial function. The research demonstrates that ECM remodeling influences mitochondrial homeostasis through an evolutionarily conserved signaling pathway, involving TGF-β activation and mitochondrial stress responses.
Key Findings:
- ECM degradation triggers mitochondrial changes: The breakdown of hyaluronan, a major ECM component, induces mitochondrial fission and stress responses, including the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRMT).
- TGF-β signaling mediates ECM-mitochondria communication: ECM remodeling activates TGF-β signaling, which influences mitochondrial morphology and function.
- Mitochondrial stress enhances immune defense: This ECM-mitochondria pathway plays a role in pathogen defense, suggesting an ancient immune response mechanism that links ECM damage to mitochondrial stress.
- Evolutionary conservation: The study confirms that this pathway is conserved across species, from mammals to C. elegans, reinforcing its fundamental biological importance.
Implications:
This study suggests that ECM integrity is crucial not only for structural support but also for cellular signaling and immune responses. Understanding this ECM-mitochondria crosstalk could open new avenues for research in aging, immune function, and disease treatment.
Image Credit: Hanlin Zhang et al, Journal Cell, Volume 187, Issue 16, 2024
