Lipid-Protein Interplay in Mitochondrial Morphogenesis: Unraveling Membrane Dynamics

Mitochondrial morphogenesis is a rapidly advancing area of research within cell biology, capturing the complexity of how these organelles change their shape, organization, and interactions to meet cellular demands. Dynamics of mitochondrial membranes are governed by a precise and coordinated interplay between specialized lipids, such as cardiolipin, and membrane-remodeling proteins including DRP1, OPA1, mitofusins, and the MICOS complex. Current research reveals that this relationship is fundamental to maintaining mitochondrial structure and function, influencing processes like membrane fusion and fission, cristae formation, and the establishment of contacts with other organelles. Recent studies have underscored the significance of lipid remodeling and protein-lipid interactions in fine-tuning mitochondrial architecture, but important questions remain about the molecular mechanisms and biophysical principles that underpin these dynamic changes. Structural and functional disruptions in these lipid-protein interactions are linked to a broad range of diseases, highlighting the urgency for deeper exploration.This Research Topic aims to comprehensively disentangle the molecular, biophysical, and physiological mechanisms by which lipids and proteins cooperatively shape mitochondrial membranes and their internal structures. The main objectives are to identify how specific lipid species and metabolic pathways regulate membrane behavior, unravel the mechanistic actions of membrane-shaping proteins, and elucidate how dysfunctional lipid-protein interactions contribute to mitochondrial diseases. The collection seeks to answer critical questions, such as: How do lipid compositions dictate membrane curvature and resilience? What regulatory circuits couple lipid metabolism and protein assembly during morphogenetic transitions? Can therapeutic modulation of these interactions restore normal mitochondrial function in disease models?To provide further insights into mitochondrial membrane dynamics and their relevance to health and disease, this Research Topic welcomes original and interdisciplinary contributions within clearly defined boundaries—focusing on the molecular and cellular level of lipid-protein interplay and its impacts on mitochondrial structure and activity. We encourage the submission of work addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:- The influence of cardiolipin remodeling and lipid phase behavior on mitochondrial membrane curvature and fission/fusion processes- Mechanisms by which DRP1, OPA1, mitofusins, MICOS, and related proteins recognize and respond to local lipid environments- The role of organelle contact sites in lipid trafficking, signaling, and mitochondrial division- Structural determinants of cristae architecture and their effects on bioenergetics under physiological and pathological conditions- Multiscale imaging and modeling approaches to capture membrane dynamics in living cells and in vitro systems- Pathogenic disruptions of lipid-protein crosstalk and possible therapeutic interventions to restore mitochondrial morphologyIn addition to original research articles, we also welcome methods papers, reviews, mini-reviews, perspectives, hypotheses, and brief reports that introduce new concepts, techniques, or models integral to advancing our understanding of mitochondrial morphogenesis. By facilitating collaboration across disciplines such as biophysics, structural biology, lipidomics, cell biology, and computational modeling, this Research Topic aims to synthesize emerging knowledge and foster innovative strategies to unravel the principles underlying mitochondrial membrane dynamics.Topic Editor Dr. Genevieve Sparagna serves as a consultant for Stealth Biotherapeutics. All other Topic Editors declare no competing interests with regards to the Research Topic subject. Topic editors: Halil Aydin, Genevieve Sparagna Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/76146/lipid-protein-interplay-in-mitochondrial-morphogenesis-unraveling-membrane-dynamics