mRNA localization to the mitochondrial surface allows the efficient translocation inside the organelle of a nuclear recoded ATP6 protein

CRISPR/Cas9-mediated base editors and their prospects for mitochondrial genome engineering

Base editors are a type of double-stranded break (DSB)-free gene editing technology that has opened up new possibilities for precise manipulation of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). This includes cytosine and adenosine base editors and more recently guanosine base editors. Because of having low off-target and indel rates, there is a growing interest in developing and evolving this research field. Here, we provide a detailed update on DNA base editors. While base editing has widely been used for nuclear genome engineering, the growing interest in applying this technology to mitochondrial DNA has been faced with several challenges. While Cas9 protein has been shown to enter mitochondria, use of smaller Cas proteins, such as Cas12a, has higher import efficiency. However, sgRNA transfer into mitochondria is the most challenging step. sgRNA structure and ratio of Cas protein to sgRNA are both important factors for efficient sgRNA entry into mitochondria. In conclusion, while there are still several challenges to be addressed, ongoing research in this field holds the potential for new treatments and therapies for mitochondrial disorders.

Variants in Human ATP Synthase Mitochondrial Genes: Biochemical Dysfunctions, Associated Diseases, and Therapies

Mitochondrial ATP synthase (Complex V) catalyzes the last step of oxidative phosphorylation and provides most of the energy (ATP) required by human cells. The mitochondrial genes MT-ATP6 and MT-ATP8 encode two subunits of the multi-subunit Complex V. Since the discovery of the first MT-ATP6 variant in the year 1990 as the cause of Neuropathy, Ataxia, and Retinitis Pigmentosa (NARP) syndrome, a large and continuously increasing number of inborn variants in the MT-ATP6 and MT-ATP8 genes have been identified as pathogenic. Variants in these genes correlate with various clinical phenotypes, which include several neurodegenerative and multisystemic disorders. In the present review, we report the pathogenic variants in mitochondrial ATP synthase genes and highlight the molecular mechanisms underlying ATP synthase deficiency that promote biochemical dysfunctions. We discuss the possible structural changes induced by the most common variants found in patients by considering the recent cryo-electron microscopy structure of human ATP synthase. Finally, we provide the state-of-the-art of all therapeutic proposals reported in the literature, including drug interventions targeting mitochondrial dysfunctions, allotopic gene expression- and nuclease-based strategies, and discuss their potential translation into clinical trials.

Mitochondrial transport of catalytic RNAs and targeting of the organellar transcriptome in human cells

Mutations in the small genome present in mitochondria often result in severe pathologies. Different genetic strategies have been explored, aiming to rescue such mutations. A number of these strategies were based on the capacity of human mitochondria to import RNAs from the cytosol and designed to repress the replication of the mutated genomes or to provide the organelles with wild-type versions of mutant transcripts. However, the mutant RNAs present in mitochondria turned out to be an obstacle to therapy and little attention has been devoted so far to their elimination. Here, we present the development of a strategy to knockdown mitochondrial RNAs in human cells using the transfer RNA-like structure of Brome mosaic virus or Tobacco mosaic virus as a shuttle to drive trans-cleaving ribozymes into the organelles in human cell lines. We obtained a specific knockdown of the targeted mitochondrial ATP6 mRNA, followed by a deep drop in ATP6 protein and a functional impairment of the oxidative phosphorylation chain. Our strategy provides a powerful approach to eliminate mutant organellar transcripts and to analyse the control and communication of the human organellar genetic system.

A high-resolution transcriptomic and spatial atlas of cell types in the whole mouse brain

The mammalian brain consists of millions to billions of cells that are organized into many cell types with specific spatial distribution patterns and structural and functional properties1-3. Here we report a comprehensive and high-resolution transcriptomic and spatial cell-type atlas for the whole adult mouse brain. The cell-type atlas was created by combining a single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) dataset of around 7 million cells profiled (approximately 4.0 million cells passing quality control), and a spatial transcriptomic dataset of approximately 4.3 million cells using multiplexed error-robust fluorescence in situ hybridization (MERFISH). The atlas is hierarchically organized into 4 nested levels of classification: 34 classes, 338 subclasses, 1,201 supertypes and 5,322 clusters. We present an online platform, Allen Brain Cell Atlas, to visualize the mouse whole-brain cell-type atlas along with the single-cell RNA-sequencing and MERFISH datasets. We systematically analysed the neuronal and non-neuronal cell types across the brain and identified a high degree of correspondence between transcriptomic identity and spatial specificity for each cell type. The results reveal unique features of cell-type organization in different brain regions-in particular, a dichotomy between the dorsal and ventral parts of the brain. The dorsal part contains relatively fewer yet highly divergent neuronal types, whereas the ventral part contains more numerous neuronal types that are more closely related to each other. Our study also uncovered extraordinary diversity and heterogeneity in neurotransmitter and neuropeptide expression and co-expression patterns in different cell types. Finally, we found that transcription factors are major determinants of cell-type classification and identified a combinatorial transcription factor code that defines cell types across all parts of the brain. The whole mouse brain transcriptomic and spatial cell-type atlas establishes a benchmark reference atlas and a foundational resource for integrative investigations of cellular and circuit function, development and evolution of the mammalian brain.

The constraints of allotopic expression

Allotopic expression is the functional transfer of an organellar gene to the nucleus, followed by synthesis of the gene product in the cytosol and import into the appropriate organellar sub compartment. Here, we focus on mitochondrial genes encoding OXPHOS subunits that were naturally transferred to the nucleus, and critically review experimental evidence that claim their allotopic expression. We emphasize aspects that may have been overlooked before, i.e., when modifying a mitochondrial gene for allotopic expression━besides adapting the codon usage and including sequences encoding mitochondrial targeting signals━three additional constraints should be considered: (i) the average apparent free energy of membrane insertion (μΔGapp) of the transmembrane stretches (TMS) in proteins earmarked for the inner mitochondrial membrane, (ii) the final, functional topology attained by each membrane-bound OXPHOS subunit; and (iii) the defined mechanism by which the protein translocator TIM23 sorts cytosol-synthesized precursors. The mechanistic constraints imposed by TIM23 dictate the operation of two pathways through which alpha-helices in TMS are sorted, that eventually determine the final topology of membrane proteins. We used the biological hydrophobicity scale to assign an average apparent free energy of membrane insertion (μΔGapp) and a "traffic light" color code to all TMS of OXPHOS membrane proteins, thereby predicting which are more likely to be internalized into mitochondria if allotopically produced. We propose that the design of proteins for allotopic expression must make allowance for μΔGapp maximization of highly hydrophobic TMS in polypeptides whose corresponding genes have not been transferred to the nucleus in some organisms.

Optimized allotopic expression of mitochondrial ND6 transgene restored complex I and apoptosis deficiencies caused by LHON-linked ND6 14484T > C mutation

BACKGROUND

Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a maternally inherited eye disease due to mutations in mitochondrial DNA. However, there is no effective treatment for this disease. LHON-linked ND6 14484T > C (p.M64V) mutation caused complex I deficiency, diminished ATP production, increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), elevated apoptosis, and impaired mitophagy. Here, we investigated if the allotopic expression of human mitochondrial ND6 transgene corrected the mitochondrial dysfunctions due to LHON-associated m.14484T > C mutation.

METHODS

Nucleus-versions of ND6 was generated by changing 6 non-universal codons with universal codons and added to mitochondrial targeting sequence of COX8. Stable transfectants were generated by transferring human ND6 cDNA expressed in a pCDH-puro vector into mutant cybrids carrying the m.14484T > C mutation and control cybrids. The effect of allotopic expression of ND6 on oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) was evaluated using Blue Native gel electrophoresis and extracellular flux analyzer. Assessment of ROS production in cell lines was performed by flow cytometry with MitoSOX Red reagent. Analyses for apoptosis and mitophagy were undertaken via flow cytometry, TUNEL and immunofluorescence assays.

RESULTS

The transfer of human ND6 into the cybrids carrying the m.14484T > C mutation raised the levels of ND6, ND1 and ND4L but did not change the levels of other mitochondrial proteins. The overexpression of ND6 led to 20~23% increases in the assembly and activity of complex I, and ~ 53% and ~ 33% increases in the levels of mitochondrial ATP and ΔΨm in the mutant cybrids bearing m.14484T > C mutation. Furthermore, mutant cybrids with overexpression of ND6 exhibited marked reductions in the levels of mitochondrial ROS. Strikingly, ND6 overexpression markedly inhibited the apoptosis process and restored impaired mitophagy in the cells carrying m.14484T > C mutation. However, overexpression of ND6 did not affect the ND6 level and mitochondrial functions in the wild-type cybrids, indicating that this ND6 level appeared to be the maximum threshold level to maintain the normal cell function.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated that allotopic expression of nucleus-versions of ND6 restored complex I, apoptosis and mitophagy deficiencies caused by the m.14484T > C mutation. The restoration of m.14484T > C mutation-induced mitochondrial dysfunctions by overexpression of ND6 is a step toward therapeutic interventions for LHON and mitochondrial diseases.

Glaucoma-associated Optineurin mutations increase transmitophagy in a vertebrate optic nerve

We previously described a process referred to as transmitophagy where mitochondria shed by retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons are transferred to and degraded by surrounding astrocytes in the optic nerve head of mice. Since the mitophagy receptor Optineurin (OPTN) is one of few large-effect glaucoma genes and axonal damage occurs at the optic nerve head in glaucoma, here we explored whether OPTN mutations perturb transmitophagy. Live-imaging of Xenopus laevis optic nerves revealed that diverse human mutant but not wildtype OPTN increase stationary mitochondria and mitophagy machinery and their colocalization within, and in the case of the glaucoma-associated OPTN mutations also outside of, RGC axons. These extra-axonal mitochondria are degraded by astrocytes. Our studies support the view that in RGC axons under baseline conditions there are low levels of mitophagy, but that glaucoma-associated perturbations in OPTN result in increased axonal mitophagy involving the shedding and astrocytic degradation of the mitochondria.

A high-resolution transcriptomic and spatial atlas of cell types in the whole mouse brain

The mammalian brain is composed of millions to billions of cells that are organized into numerous cell types with specific spatial distribution patterns and structural and functional properties. An essential step towards understanding brain function is to obtain a parts list, i.e., a catalog of cell types, of the brain. Here, we report a comprehensive and high-resolution transcriptomic and spatial cell type atlas for the whole adult mouse brain. The cell type atlas was created based on the combination of two single-cell-level, whole-brain-scale datasets: a single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) dataset of ~7 million cells profiled, and a spatially resolved transcriptomic dataset of ~4.3 million cells using MERFISH. The atlas is hierarchically organized into five nested levels of classification: 7 divisions, 32 classes, 306 subclasses, 1,045 supertypes and 5,200 clusters. We systematically analyzed the neuronal, non-neuronal, and immature neuronal cell types across the brain and identified a high degree of correspondence between transcriptomic identity and spatial specificity for each cell type. The results reveal unique features of cell type organization in different brain regions, in particular, a dichotomy between the dorsal and ventral parts of the brain: the dorsal part contains relatively fewer yet highly divergent neuronal types, whereas the ventral part contains more numerous neuronal types that are more closely related to each other. We also systematically characterized cell-type specific expression of neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, and transcription factors. The study uncovered extraordinary diversity and heterogeneity in neurotransmitter and neuropeptide expression and co-expression patterns in different cell types across the brain, suggesting they mediate a myriad of modes of intercellular communications. Finally, we found that transcription factors are major determinants of cell type classification in the adult mouse brain and identified a combinatorial transcription factor code that defines cell types across all parts of the brain. The whole-mouse-brain transcriptomic and spatial cell type atlas establishes a benchmark reference atlas and a foundational resource for deep and integrative investigations of cell type and circuit function, development, and evolution of the mammalian brain.

Current advances in gene therapy of mitochondrial diseases

Mitochondrial diseases (MD) are a heterogeneous group of multisystem disorders involving metabolic errors. MD are characterized by extremely heterogeneous symptoms, ranging from organ-specific to multisystem dysfunction with different clinical courses. Most primary MD are autosomal recessive but maternal inheritance (from mtDNA), autosomal dominant, and X-linked inheritance is also known. Mitochondria are unique energy-generating cellular organelles designed to survive and contain their own unique genetic coding material, a circular mtDNA fragment of approximately 16,000 base pairs. The mitochondrial genetic system incorporates closely interacting bi-genomic factors encoded by the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes. Understanding the dynamics of mitochondrial genetics supporting mitochondrial biogenesis is especially important for the development of strategies for the treatment of rare and difficult-to-diagnose diseases. Gene therapy is one of the methods for correcting mitochondrial disorders.

Site-specific CRISPR-based mitochondrial DNA manipulation is limited by gRNA import

Achieving CRISPR Cas9-based manipulation of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) has been a long-standing goal and would be of great relevance for disease modeling and for clinical applications. In this project, we aimed to deliver Cas9 into the mitochondria of human cells and analyzed Cas9-induced mtDNA cleavage and measured the resulting mtDNA depletion with multiplexed qPCR. In initial experiments, we found that measuring subtle effects on mtDNA copy numbers is challenging because of high biological variability, and detected no significant Cas9-caused mtDNA degradation. To overcome the challenge of being able to detect Cas9 activity on mtDNA, we delivered cytosine base editor Cas9-BE3 to mitochondria and measured its effect (C →  T mutations) on mtDNA. Unlike regular Cas9-cutting, this leaves a permanent mark on mtDNA that can be detected with amplicon sequencing, even if the efficiency is low. We detected low levels of C → T mutations in cells that were exposed to mitochondrially targeted Cas9-BE3, but, surprisingly, these occurred regardless of whether a guide RNA (gRNA) specific to the targeted site, or non-targeting gRNA was used. This unspecific off-target activity shows that Cas9-BE3 can technically edit mtDNA, but also strongly indicates that gRNA import to mitochondria was not successful. Going forward mitochondria-targeted Cas9 base editors will be a useful tool for validating successful gRNA delivery to mitochondria without the ambiguity of approaches that rely on quantifying mtDNA copy numbers.

Mitochondrial DNA replication and repair defects: Clinical phenotypes and therapeutic interventions

Mitochondria is a unique cellular organelle involved in multiple cellular processes and is critical for maintaining cellular homeostasis. This semi-autonomous organelle contains its circular genome - mtDNA (mitochondrial DNA), that undergoes continuous cycles of replication and repair to maintain the mitochondrial genome integrity. The majority of the mitochondrial genes, including mitochondrial replisome and repair genes, are nuclear-encoded. Although the repair machinery of mitochondria is quite efficient, the mitochondrial genome is highly susceptible to oxidative damage and other types of exogenous and endogenous agent-induced DNA damage, due to the absence of protective histones and their proximity to the main ROS production sites. Mutations in replication and repair genes of mitochondria can result in mtDNA depletion and deletions subsequently leading to mitochondrial genome instability. The combined action of mutations and deletions can result in compromised mitochondrial genome maintenance and lead to various mitochondrial disorders. Here, we review the mechanism of mitochondrial DNA replication and repair process, key proteins involved, and their altered function in mitochondrial disorders. The focus of this review will be on the key genes of mitochondrial DNA replication and repair machinery and the clinical phenotypes associated with mutations in these genes.

Transcriptome-scale methods for uncovering subcellular RNA localization mechanisms

Across a variety of systems, thousands of RNAs are localized to specific subcellular locations. However, for the vast majority of these RNAs, the mechanisms that underlie their transport are unknown. Historically, these mechanisms were uncovered for a single transcript at a time by laboriously testing the ability of RNA fragments to direct transcript localization. Recently developed methods profile the content of subcellular transcriptomes using high-throughput sequencing, allowing the analysis of the localization of thousands of transcripts at once. By identifying commonalities shared among multiple localized transcripts, these methods have the potential to rapidly expand our understanding of RNA localization mechanisms.

Peptides vs. Polymers: Searching for the Most Efficient Delivery System for Mitochondrial Gene Therapy

Together with the nucleus, the mitochondrion has its own genome. Mutations in mitochondrial DNA are responsible for a variety of disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. Current therapeutic approaches are not effective. In this sense, mitochondrial gene therapy emerges as a valuable and promising therapeutic tool. To accomplish this goal, the design/development of a mitochondrial-specific gene delivery system is imperative. In this work, we explored the ability of novel polymer- and peptide-based systems for mitochondrial targeting, gene delivery, and protein expression, performing a comparison between them to reveal the most adequate system for mitochondrial gene therapy. Therefore, we synthesized a novel mitochondria-targeting polymer (polyethylenimine–dequalinium) to load and complex a mitochondrial-gene-based plasmid. The polymeric complexes exhibited physicochemical properties and cytotoxic profiles dependent on the nitrogen-to-phosphate-group ratio (N/P). A fluorescence confocal microscopy study revealed the mitochondrial targeting specificity of polymeric complexes. Moreover, transfection mediated by polymer and peptide delivery systems led to gene expression in mitochondria. Additionally, the mitochondrial protein was produced. A comparative study between polymeric and peptide/plasmid DNA complexes showed the great capacity of peptides to complex pDNA at lower N/P ratios, forming smaller particles bearing a positive charge, with repercussions on their capacity for cellular transfection, mitochondria targeting and, ultimately, gene delivery and protein expression. This report is a significant contribution to the implementation of mitochondrial gene therapy, instigating further research on the development of peptide-based delivery systems towards clinical translation.

The Mitochondrial Genome in Aging and Disease and the Future of Mitochondrial Therapeutics

Mitochondria are intracellular organelles that utilize nutrients to generate energy in the form of ATP by oxidative phosphorylation. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in humans is a 16,569 base pair double-stranded circular DNA that encodes for 13 vital proteins of the electron transport chain. Our understanding of the mitochondrial genome’s transcription, translation, and maintenance is still emerging, and human pathologies caused by mtDNA dysfunction are widely observed. Additionally, a correlation between declining mitochondrial DNA quality and copy number with organelle dysfunction in aging is well-documented in the literature. Despite tremendous advancements in nuclear gene-editing technologies and their value in translational avenues, our ability to edit mitochondrial DNA is still limited. In this review, we discuss the current therapeutic landscape in addressing the various pathologies that result from mtDNA mutations. We further evaluate existing gene therapy efforts, particularly allotopic expression and its potential to become an indispensable tool for restoring mitochondrial health in disease and aging.

Coupling axonal mRNA transport and local translation to organelle maintenance and function

Neuronal homeostasis requires the transport of various organelles to distal compartments and defects in this process lead to neurological disorders. Although several mechanisms for the delivery of organelles to axons and dendrites have been elucidated, exactly how this process is orchestrated is not well-understood. In this review, we discuss the recent literature supporting a novel paradigm - the co-shuttling of mRNAs with different membrane-bound organelles. This model postulates that the tethering of ribonucleoprotein complexes to endolysosomes and mitochondria allows for the spatiotemporal coupling of organelle transport and the delivery of transcripts to axons. Subcellular translation of these "hitchhiking" transcripts may thus provide a proximal source of proteins required for the maintenance and function of organelles in axons.

The mitochondrial genome of the grape powdery mildew pathogen Erysiphe necator is intron rich and exhibits a distinct gene organization

Powdery mildews are notorious fungal plant pathogens but only limited information exists on their genomes. Here we present the mitochondrial genome of the grape powdery mildew fungus Erysiphe necator and a high-quality mitochondrial gene annotation generated through cloning and Sanger sequencing of full-length cDNA clones. The E. necator mitochondrial genome consists of a circular DNA sequence of 188,577 bp that harbors a core set of 14 protein-coding genes that are typically present in fungal mitochondrial genomes, along with genes encoding the small and large ribosomal subunits, a ribosomal protein S3, and 25 mitochondrial-encoded transfer RNAs (mt-tRNAs). Interestingly, it also exhibits a distinct gene organization with atypical bicistronic-like expression of the nad4L/nad5 and atp6/nad3 gene pairs, and contains a large number of 70 introns, making it one of the richest in introns mitochondrial genomes among fungi. Sixty-four intronic ORFs were also found, most of which encoded homing endonucleases of the LAGLIDADG or GIY-YIG families. Further comparative analysis of five E. necator isolates revealed 203 polymorphic sites, but only five were located within exons of the core mitochondrial genes. These results provide insights into the organization of mitochondrial genomes of powdery mildews and represent valuable resources for population genetic and evolutionary studies.

From cytosol to mitochondria: the beginning of a protein journey

Mitochondrial protein import is one of the key processes during mitochondrial biogenesis that involves a series of events necessary for recognition and delivery of nucleus-encoded/cytosol-synthesized mitochondrial proteins into the organelle. The past research efforts have mainly unraveled how membrane translocases ensure the correct protein sorting within the different mitochondrial subcompartments. However, early steps of recognition and delivery remain relatively uncharacterized. In this review, we discuss our current understanding about the signals on mitochondrial proteins, as well as in the mRNAs encoding them, which with the help of cytosolic chaperones and membrane receptors support protein targeting to the organelle in order to avoid improper localization. In addition, we discuss recent findings that illustrate how mistargeting of mitochondrial proteins triggers stress responses, aiming to restore cellular homeostasis.

Validation of a mitochondrial RNA therapeutic strategy using fibroblasts from a Leigh syndrome patient with a mutation in the mitochondrial ND3 gene

We report on the validation of a mitochondrial gene therapeutic strategy using fibroblasts from a Leigh syndrome patient by the mitochondrial delivery of therapeutic mRNA. The treatment involves delivering normal ND3 protein-encoding mRNA as a therapeutic RNA to mitochondria of the fibroblasts from a patient with a T10158C mutation in the mtDNA coding the ND3 protein, a component of the mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I. The treatment involved the use of a liposome-based carrier (a MITO-Porter) for delivering therapeutic RNA to mitochondria via membrane fusion. The results confirmed that the mitochondrial transfection of therapeutic RNA by the MITO-Porter system resulted in a decrease in the levels of mutant RNA in mitochondria of diseased cells based on reverse transcription quantitative PCR. An evaluation of mitochondrial respiratory activity by respirometry also showed that transfection using the MITO-Porter resulted in an increase in maximal mitochondrial respiratory activity in the diseased cells.

Has retinal gene therapy come of age? From bench to bedside and back to bench

Retinal gene therapy has advanced considerably in the past three decades. Initial efforts have been devoted to comprehensively explore and optimize the transduction abilities of gene delivery vectors, define the appropriate intraocular administration routes and obtain evidence of efficacy in animal models of inherited retinal diseases (IRDs). Successful translation in clinical trials of the initial promising proof-of-concept studies led to the important milestone of the first approved product for retinal gene therapy in both US and Europe. The unprecedented clinical development observed during the last decade in the field is however highlighting new challenges that will need to be overcome to bring gene therapy to fruition to a larger patient population within and beyond the realm of IRDs.

Localization elements and zip codes in the intracellular transport and localization of messenger RNAs in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Intracellular trafficking and localization of mRNAs provide a mechanism of regulation of expression of genes with excellent spatial control. mRNA localization followed by localized translation appears to be a mechanism of targeted protein sorting to a specific cell-compartment, which is linked to the establishment of cell polarity, cell asymmetry, embryonic axis determination, and neuronal plasticity in metazoans. However, the complexity of the mechanism and the components of mRNA localization in higher organisms prompted the use of the unicellular organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a simplified model organism to study this vital process. Current knowledge indicates that a variety of mRNAs are asymmetrically and selectively localized to the tip of the bud of the daughter cells, to the vicinity of endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, and nucleus in this organism, which are connected to diverse cellular processes. Interestingly, specific cis-acting RNA localization elements (LEs) or RNA zip codes play a crucial role in the localization and trafficking of these localized mRNAs by providing critical binding sites for the specific RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). In this review, we present a comprehensive account of mRNA localization in S. cerevisiae, various types of localization elements influencing the mRNA localization, and the RBPs, which bind to these LEs to implement a number of vital physiological processes. Finally, we emphasize the significance of this process by highlighting their connection to several neuropathological disorders and cancers. This article is categorized under: RNA Export and Localization > RNA Localization.

Codon optimization is an essential parameter for the efficient allotopic expression of mtDNA genes

Mutations in mitochondrial DNA can be inherited or occur de novo leading to several debilitating myopathies with no curative option and few or no effective treatments. Allotopic expression of recoded mitochondrial genes from the nucleus has potential as a gene therapy strategy for such conditions, however progress in this field has been hampered by technical challenges. Here we employed codon optimization as a tool to re-engineer the protein-coding genes of the human mitochondrial genome for robust, efficient expression from the nucleus. All 13 codon-optimized constructs exhibited substantially higher protein expression than minimally-recoded genes when expressed transiently, and steady-state mRNA levels for optimized gene constructs were 5-180 fold enriched over recoded versions in stably-selected wildtype cells. Eight of thirteen mitochondria-encoded oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos) proteins maintained protein expression following stable selection, with mitochondrial localization of expression products. We also assessed the utility of this strategy in rescuing mitochondrial disease cell models and found the rescue capacity of allotopic expression constructs to be gene specific. Allotopic expression of codon optimized ATP8 in disease models could restore protein levels and respiratory function, however, rescue of the pathogenic phenotype for another gene, ND1 was only partially successful. These results imply that though codon-optimization alone is not sufficient for functional allotopic expression of most mitochondrial genes, it is an essential consideration in their design.

EAE-induced upregulation of mitochondrial MnSOD is associated with increases of mitochondrial SGK1 and Tom20 protein in the mouse kidney cortex

Our previous demonstration that severe experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) increases MnSOD protein abundance in the mouse kidney cortex led this study to elucidate the underlying mechanism with monensin-treated HEK293 cells as a model. Severe EAE increases mitochondrial protein abundance of SGK1 kinase and Tom20, a critical subunit of mitochondrial translocase in the renal cortex. In HEK293 cells, catalase inhibits monensin-induced increases of mitochondrial SGK1 and Tom20 protein levels. Further, GSK650394, a specific inhibitor of SGK1 reduces monensin-induced increase of mitochondrial protein abundance of Tom20 and MnSOD. Finally, RNAi of Tom20 reduces the effect of monensin on MnSOD. MnSOD and Tom20 physically associate with each other. In conclusion, in HEK293 cells, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species increase protein abundance of mitochondrial SGK1, which leads to a rise of mitochondrial Tom20, resulting in importing MnSOD protein into the mitochondria. This could be a mechanism by which severe EAE up-regulates mitochondrial MnSOD in the kidney cortex.

Allotopic expression of mitochondrial genes: Basic strategy and progress

Allotopic expression of mitochondrial genes is a deliberate functional relocation of mitochondrial genes into the nucleus followed by import of the gene-encoded polypeptide from the cytoplasm into the mitochondria. For successful allotopic expression of a mitochondrial gene, several key aspects must be considered. These include the different codon dictionary used by the mitochondrial and nuclear genomes, different codon preferences between mitochondrial and nuclear-cytosolic translation systems, and the provision of an import signal to ensure that the newly translated protein in the cytosol is successfully imported into mitochondria. The allotopic expression strategy was first developed in yeast, a useful model organism for studying human and other eukaryotic cells. Currently, a number of mitochondrial genes have been successfully recoded and nuclearly expressed in yeast and human cells. In addition to its use in evolutionary and molecular biology studies, the allotopic expression strategy has been developed as a potential approach to treat mitochondrial genetic disorders. Substantial progress has been recently achieved, and the development of this technique for therapy of the mitochondrial disease Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) has entered phase III clinical trials. However, a number of challenges remain to be overcome to accelerate the successful application of this technique. These include improvement of nuclear gene expression, import into mitochondria, processing, and functional integration of the allotopically expressed polypeptides into mitochondrial protein complexes. This review discusses the current basic strategy, progress, challenges, and prospects of the allotopic expression strategy for mitochondrial genes.

The PINK1 kinase-driven ubiquitin ligase Parkin promotes mitochondrial protein import through the presequence pathway in living cells

Most of over a thousand mitochondrial proteins are encoded by nuclear genes and must be imported from the cytosol. Little is known about the cytosolic events regulating mitochondrial protein import, partly due to the lack of appropriate tools for its assessment in living cells. We engineered an inducible biosensor for monitoring the main presequence-mediated import pathway with a quantitative, luminescence-based readout. This tool was used to explore the regulation of mitochondrial import by the PINK1 kinase-driven Parkin ubiquitin ligase, which is dysfunctional in autosomal recessive Parkinson's disease. We show that mitochondrial import was stimulated by Parkin, but not by disease-causing Parkin variants. This effect was dependent on Parkin activation by PINK1 and accompanied by an increase in the abundance of K11 ubiquitin chains on mitochondria and by ubiquitylation of subunits of the translocase of outer mitochondrial membrane. Mitochondrial import efficiency was abnormally low in cells from patients with PINK1- and PARK2-linked Parkinson's disease and was restored by phosphomimetic ubiquitin in cells with residual Parkin activity. Altogether, these findings uncover a role of ubiquitylation in mitochondrial import regulation and suggest that loss of this regulatory loop may underlie the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease, providing novel opportunities for therapeutic intervention.

Classical and emerging techniques to identify and quantify localized RNAs

In essentially every cell, proteins are asymmetrically distributed according to their function. For many genes, this protein sorting problem is solved by transporting RNA molecules encoding the protein, rather than the protein itself, to the desired subcellular location. The protein is then translated on-site to immediately produce a correctly localized protein. This strategy is widely used as thousands of RNAs localize to distinct locations across diverse cell types and species. One of the fundamental challenges to study this process is the determination of the subcellular spatial distribution of any given RNA. The number of tools available for the study of RNA localization, from classical and state-of-the-art methods for the visualization of individual RNA molecules within cells to the profiling of localized transcriptomes, is rapidly growing. These include imaging-based approaches, a variety of biochemical and mechanical fractionation techniques, and proximity-labeling methods. These procedures allow for both the detailed study of the molecular requirements for the localization of individual RNA molecules and computational studies of RNA transport on a genomic scale. Together, they have the ability to allow insight into the regulatory principles that govern the localization of diverse RNAs. These new techniques provide the framework for integrating our knowledge of the regulation of RNA localization with that of other posttranscriptional processes. This article is categorized under: RNA Export and Localization > RNA Localization RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Interactions: Functional Implications RNA Methods > RNA Analyses in Cells.

Membrane-Associated RNA-Binding Proteins Orchestrate Organelle-Coupled Translation

Proteins are positioned and act at defined subcellular locations. This is particularly important in eukaryotic cells that deliver proteins to membrane-bound organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), mitochondria, or endosomes. It is axiomatic that organelle targeting depends mainly on polypeptide signals. However, recent results demonstrate that targeting elements within the encoding transcripts are essential for efficient protein localisation. Key readers of these elements are membrane-associated RNA-binding proteins (memRBPs) that orchestrate organelle-coupled translation. The translation products then either cross the membrane for organelle entry or hitchhike on organelle surfaces for complex assembly and co-transport. Understanding the interaction of protein- and RNA-based targeting signals is essential to decipher the molecular basis for mutant phenotypes in disease.

Emerging therapies for mitochondrial diseases

For the vast majority of patients with mitochondrial diseases, only supportive and symptomatic therapies are available. However, in the last decade, due to extraordinary advances in defining the causes and pathomechanisms of these diverse disorders, new therapies are being developed in the laboratory and are entering human clinical trials. In this review, we highlight the current use of dietary supplement and exercise therapies as well as emerging therapies that may be broadly applicable across multiple mitochondrial diseases or tailored for specific disorders. Examples of non-tailored therapeutic targets include: activation of mitochondrial biogenesis, regulation of mitophagy and mitochondrial dynamics, bypass of biochemical defects, mitochondrial replacement therapy, and hypoxia. In contrast, tailored therapies are: scavenging of toxic compounds, deoxynucleoside and deoxynucleotide treatments, cell replacement therapies, gene therapy, shifting mitochondrial DNA mutation heteroplasmy, and stabilization of mutant mitochondrial transfer RNAs.

Spatially Restricting Bioorthogonal Nucleoside Biosynthesis Enables Selective Metabolic Labeling of the Mitochondrial Transcriptome

The cellular RNA pool in animals arises from two separate genomes stored in the nucleus and multiple mitochondria. Chemical methods to track nascent RNA synthesis are unable to distinguish between these two with stringency. Herein, we report that spatially restricting bioorthogonal nucleoside biosynthesis enables, for the first time, selective metabolic labeling of the RNA transcribed in the mitochondria. We envision that this approach could open the door for heretofore-impossible analyses of mitochondrial RNA. Beyond our results revealed herein, our approach provides a roadmap for researchers to begin to design strategies to examine biomolecules within subcellular compartments.

Gene therapy for the mitochondrial genome: Purging mutations, pacifying ailments

In the recent years, the reported cases of mitochondrial disorders have reached a colossal number. These disorders spawn a sundry of pathological conditions, which lead to pernicious symptoms and even fatality. Due to the unpredictable etiologies, mitochondrial diseases are putatively referred to as "mystondria" (mysterious diseases of mitochondria). Although present-day research has greatly improved our understanding of mitochondrial disorders, effective therapeutic interventions are still at the precursory stage. The conundrum becomes further complicated because these pathologies might occur due to either mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations or due to mutations in the nuclear DNA (nDNA), or both. While correcting nDNA mutations by using gene therapy (replacement of defective genes by delivering wild-type (WT) ones into the host cell, or silencing a dominant mutant allele that is pathogenic) has emerged as a promising strategy to address some mitochondrial diseases, the complications in correcting the defects of mtDNA in order to renovate mitochondrial functions have remained a steep challenge. In this review, we focus specifically on the selective gene therapy strategies that have demonstrated prospects in targeting the pathological mutations in the mitochondrial genome, thereby treating mitochondrial ailments.

Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy: A Mitochondrial Disease Unique in Many Ways

Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) was the first mitochondrial disease to be identified as being caused by mutations in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). This disease has been studied extensively in the past two decades, particularly in Brazilian, Chinese and European populations; and many primary mutations have been reported. However, the disease is enigmatic with many unique features, and there still are several important questions to be resolved. The incomplete penetrance, the male-biased disease expression and the prevalence in young adults all defy a proper explanation. It has been reported that the development of LHON is affected by the interaction between mtDNA mutations, mtDNA haplogroup background, nuclear genes, environmental factors and epigenetics. Furthermore, with the help of new animal models for LHON that have been created in recent years, we are continuing to learn more about the mechanism of this disease. The stage has now been reached at which there is a good understanding of both the genetic basis of the disease and its epidemiology, but just how the blindness that follows from the death of cells in the optic nerve can be prevented remains to be a pharmacological challenge. In this chapter, we summarize the progress that has been made in various recent studies on LHON, focusing on the molecular pathogenic mechanisms, clinical features, biochemical effects, the pharmacology and its treatment.

Genome-wide analysis of mRNAs associated with mouse peroxisomes

Background

RNA is often targeted to be localized to the specific subcellular compartments. Specific localization of mRNA is believed to be an important mechanism for targeting their protein products to the locations, where their function is required.

Results

In this study we performed the genome wide transcriptome analysis of peroxisome preparations from the mouse liver using microarrays. We demonstrate that RNA is absent inside peroxisomes, however it is associated at their exterior via the noncovalent contacts with the membrane proteins. We detect enrichment of specific sets of transcripts in two preparations of peroxisomes, purified with different degrees of stringency. Importantly, among these were mRNAs encoding bona fide peroxisomal proteins, such as peroxins and peroxisomal matrix enzymes involved in beta-oxidation of fatty acids and bile acid biosynthesis. The top-most enriched mRNA, whose association with peroxisomes we confirm microscopically was Hmgcs1, encoding 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthase, a crucial enzyme of cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. We observed significant representation of mRNAs encoding mitochondrial and secreted proteins in the peroxisomal fractions.

Conclusions

This is a pioneer genome-wide study of localization of mRNAs to peroxisomes that provides foundation for more detailed dissection of mechanisms of RNA targeting to subcellular compartments.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-016-3330-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Localized translation near the mitochondrial outer membrane: An update

Local synthesis of proteins near their activity site has been demonstrated in many biological systems, and has diverse contributions to cellular functions. Studies in recent years have revealed that hundreds of mitochondria-destined proteins are synthesized by cytosolic ribosomes near the mitochondrial outer membrane, indicating that localized translation also occurs at this cellular locus. Furthermore, in the last year central factors that are involved in this process were identified in yeast, Drosophila, and human cells. Herein we review the experimental evidence for localized translation on the cytosolic side of the mitochondrial outer membrane; in addition, we describe the factors that are involved in this process and discuss the conservation of this mechanism among various species. We also describe the relationship between localized translation and import into the mitochondria and suggest avenues of study that look beyond cotranslational import. Finally we discuss future challenges in characterizing the mechanisms for localized translation and its physiological significance.

Mitochondrial genome variations and functional characterization in Han Chinese families with schizophrenia

The relationship between mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variants and schizophrenia has been strongly debated. To test whether mtDNA variants are involved in schizophrenia in Han Chinese patients, we sequenced the entire mitochondrial genomes of probands from 11 families with a family history and maternal inheritance pattern of schizophrenia. Besides the haplogroup-specific variants, we found 11 nonsynonymous private variants, one rRNA variant, and one tRNA variant in 5 of 11 probands. Among the nonsynonymous private variants, mutations m.15395 A>G and m.8536 A>G were predicted to be deleterious after web-based searches and in silico program affiliated analysis. Functional characterization further supported the potential pathogenicity of the two variants m.15395 A>G and m.8536 A>G to cause mitochondrial dysfunction at the cellular level. Our results showed that mtDNA variants were actively involved in schizophrenia in some families with maternal inheritance of this disease.

The similarity between N-terminal targeting signals for protein import into different organelles and its evolutionary relevance

The proper distribution of proteins between the cytosol and various membrane-bound compartments is crucial for the functionality of eukaryotic cells. This requires the cooperation between protein transport machineries that translocate diverse proteins from the cytosol into these compartments and targeting signal(s) encoded within the primary sequence of these proteins that define their cellular destination. The mechanisms exerting protein translocation differ remarkably between the compartments, but the predominant targeting signals for mitochondria, chloroplasts and the ER share the N-terminal position, an α-helical structural element and the removal from the core protein by intraorganellar cleavage. Interestingly, similar properties have been described for the peroxisomal targeting signal type 2 mediating the import of a fraction of soluble peroxisomal proteins, whereas other peroxisomal matrix proteins encode the type 1 targeting signal residing at the extreme C-terminus. The structural similarity of N-terminal targeting signals poses a challenge to the specificity of protein transport, but allows the generation of ambiguous targeting signals that mediate dual targeting of proteins into different compartments. Dual targeting might represent an advantage for adaptation processes that involve a redistribution of proteins, because it circumvents the hierarchy of targeting signals. Thus, the co-existence of two equally functional import pathways into peroxisomes might reflect a balance between evolutionary constant and flexible transport routes.

Mitochondrial DNA Haplogroup A Decreases the Risk of Drug Addiction but Conversely Increases the Risk of HIV-1 Infection in Chinese Addicts

Drug addiction is one of the most serious social problems in the world today and addicts are always at a high risk of acquiring HIV infection. Mitochondrial impairment has been reported in both drug addicts and in HIV patients undergoing treatment. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplogroup could affect the risk of drug addiction and HIV-1 infection in Chinese. We analyzed mtDNA sequence variations of 577 Chinese intravenous drug addicts (289 with HIV-1 infection and 288 without) and compared with 2 control populations (n = 362 and n = 850). We quantified the viral load in HIV-1-infected patients with and without haplogroup A status and investigated the potential effect of haplogroup A defining variants m.4824A > G and m.8794C > T on the cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels by using an allotopic expression assay. mtDNA haplogroup A had a protective effect against drug addiction but appeared to confer an increased risk of HIV infection in addicts. HIV-1-infected addicts with haplogroup A had a trend for a higher viral load, although the mean viral load was similar between carriers of haplogroup A and those with other haplogroup. Hela cells overexpressing allele m.8794 T showed significantly decreased ROS levels as compared to cells with the allele m.8794C (P = 0.03). Our results suggested that mtDNA haplogroup A might protect against drug addiction but increase the risk of HIV-1 infection. The contradictory role of haplogroup A might be caused by an alteration in mitochondrial function due to a particular mtDNA ancestral variant.

Emerging concepts in the therapy of mitochondrial disease

Mitochondrial disorders are an important group of genetic conditions characterized by impaired oxidative phosphorylation. Mitochondrial disorders come with an impressive variability of symptoms, organ involvement, and clinical course, which considerably impact the quality of life and quite often shorten the lifespan expectancy. Although the last 20 years have witnessed an exponential increase in understanding the genetic and biochemical mechanisms leading to disease, this has not resulted in the development of effective therapeutic approaches, amenable of improving clinical course and outcome of these conditions to any significant extent. Therapeutic options for mitochondrial diseases still remain focused on supportive interventions aimed at relieving complications. However, new therapeutic strategies have recently been emerging, some of which have shown potential efficacy at the pre-clinical level. This review will present the state of the art on experimental therapy for mitochondrial disorders.

Nuclear expression of mitochondrial ND4 leads to the protein assembling in complex I and prevents optic atrophy and visual loss

Leber hereditary optic neuropathy is due to mitochondrial DNA mutations; in ~70% of all cases, a point mutation in the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4, ND4, gene leads to central vision loss. We optimized allotopic expression (nuclear transcription of a gene that is normally transcribed inside the mitochondria) aimed at designing a gene therapy for ND4; its coding sequence was associated with the cis-acting elements of the human COX10 mRNA to allow the efficient mitochondrial delivery of the protein. After ocular administration to adult rats of a recombinant adeno-associated viral vector containing the human ND4 gene, we demonstrated that: (i) the sustained expression of human ND4 did not lead to harmful effects, instead the human protein is efficiently imported inside the mitochondria and assembled in respiratory chain complex I; (ii) the presence of the human protein in the experimental model of Leber hereditary optic neuropathy significantly prevents retinal ganglion cell degeneration and preserves both complex I function in optic nerves and visual function. Hence, the use of optimized allotopic expression is relevant for treating mitochondrial disorders due to mutations in the organelle genome.

Vector platforms for gene therapy of inherited retinopathies

Inherited retinopathies (IR) are common untreatable blinding conditions. Most of them are inherited as monogenic disorders, due to mutations in genes expressed in retinal photoreceptors (PR) and in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). The retina's compatibility with gene transfer has made transduction of different retinal cell layers in small and large animal models via viral and non-viral vectors possible. The ongoing identification of novel viruses as well as modifications of existing ones based either on rational design or directed evolution have generated vector variants with improved transduction properties. Dozens of promising proofs of concept have been obtained in IR animal models with both viral and non-viral vectors, and some of them have been relayed to clinical trials. To date, recombinant vectors based on the adeno-associated virus (AAV) represent the most promising tool for retinal gene therapy, given their ability to efficiently deliver therapeutic genes to both PR and RPE and their excellent safety and efficacy profiles in humans. However, AAVs' limited cargo capacity has prevented application of the viral vector to treatments requiring transfer of genes with a coding sequence larger than 5 kb. Vectors with larger capacity, i.e. nanoparticles, adenoviral and lentiviral vectors are being exploited for gene transfer to the retina in animal models and, more recently, in humans. This review focuses on the available platforms for retinal gene therapy to fight inherited blindness, highlights their main strengths and examines the efforts to overcome some of their limitations.

Mitochondrial DNA haplogroup B5 confers genetic susceptibility to Alzheimer's disease in Han Chinese

Mitochondrial dysfunction has been widely reported in psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases. We aimed to investigate the association between matrilineal structures of Han Chinese populations and Alzheimer's disease (AD) by a 2-stage case-control study: A total of 341 AD patients and 435 normal individuals from Southwest China were analyzed for mitochondrial DNA sequence variations and were classified into respective haplogroups. A total of 371 AD patients and 470 normal individuals from East China, as validation samples, were genotyped for the variants defining the risk haplogroup. Haplogroup B5 had a significantly higher frequency in AD patients (7.33%) than in control subjects (3.68%) from Southwest China, and we found a similar pattern of higher frequency of B5 in patients in the case-control sample from East China. In the combined population, association of haplogroup B5 with AD risk was strengthened (p = 0.02; odds ratio = 1.74; 95% confidence interval = 1.10-2.76). In lymphoblastoid cell lines belonging to haplogroup B5a, we observed significantly increased reactive oxygen species and decreased mitochondrial mass. Hela cells with stable expression of the MT-ATP6 gene with B5-defining variant m.8584G>A also showed a significantly decreased mitochondrial function. Taken together, our results indicated that haplogroup B5 conferred genetic susceptibility to AD in Han Chinese, and this effect was most likely mediated by ancient variant m.8584G>A. The predisposing effect of B5 to AD is consistent with the ancestral-susceptibility model of complex diseases.

Differential targeting of VDAC3 mRNA isoforms influences mitochondria morphology

Intracellular targeting of mRNAs has recently emerged as a prevalent mechanism to control protein localization. For mitochondria, a cotranslational model of protein import is now proposed in parallel to the conventional posttranslational model, and mitochondrial targeting of mRNAs has been demonstrated in various organisms. Voltage-dependent anion channels (VDACs) are the most abundant proteins in the outer mitochondrial membrane and the major transport pathway for numerous metabolites. Four nucleus-encoded VDACs have been identified in Arabidopsis thaliana. Alternative cleavage and polyadenylation generate two VDAC3 mRNA isoforms differing by their 3' UTR. By using quantitative RT-PCR and in vivo mRNA visualization approaches, the two mRNA variants were shown differentially associated with mitochondria. The longest mRNA presents a 3' extension named alternative UTR (aUTR) that is necessary and sufficient to target VDAC3 mRNA to the mitochondrial surface. Moreover, aUTR is sufficient for the mitochondrial targeting of a reporter transcript, and can be used as a tool to target an unrelated mRNA to the mitochondrial surface. Finally, VDAC3-aUTR mRNA variant impacts mitochondria morphology and size, demonstrating the role of mRNA targeting in mitochondria biogenesis.

Gene therapy for mitochondrial diseases: Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy as the first candidate for a clinical trial

Mitochondrial disorders cannot be ignored anymore in most medical disciplines; indeed their minimum estimated prevalence is superior to 1 in 5000 births. Despite the progress made in the last 25 years on the identification of gene mutations causing mitochondrial pathologies, only slow progress was made towards their effective treatments. Ocular involvement is a frequent feature in mitochondrial diseases and corresponds to severe and irreversible visual handicap due to retinal neuron loss and optic atrophy. Interestingly, three clinical trials for Leber Congenital Amaurosis due to RPE65 mutations are ongoing since 2007. Overall, the feasibility and safety of ocular Adeno-Associated Virus delivery in adult and younger patients and consistent visual function improvements have been demonstrated. The success of gene-replacement therapy for RPE65 opens the way for the development of similar approaches for a broad range of eye disorders, including those with mitochondrial etiology such as Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON).

The Arabidopsis Cytosolic Ribosomal Proteome: From form to Function

The cytosolic ribosomal proteome of Arabidopsis thaliana has been studied intensively by a range of proteomics approaches and is now one of the most well characterized eukaryotic ribosomal proteomes. Plant cytosolic ribosomes are distinguished from other eukaryotic ribosomes by unique proteins, unique post-translational modifications and an abundance of ribosomal proteins for which multiple divergent paralogs are expressed and incorporated. Study of the A. thaliana ribosome has now progressed well beyond a simple cataloging of protein parts and is focused strongly on elucidating the functions of specific ribosomal proteins, their paralogous isoforms and covalent modifications. This review summarises current knowledge concerning the Arabidopsis cytosolic ribosomal proteome and highlights potentially fruitful areas of future research in this fast moving and important area.

Strategies for engineered negligible senescence

In this viewpoint, we describe the strategies for engineered negligible senescence (SENS) concept--a simple and appealing model for the design of therapeutic interventions able to meaningfully and persistently reverse the deleterious effects of aging. We go on to outline how current or foreseeable biotechnologies could feasibly be employed to repair every currently identified category of pathogenic damage that accumulates over a human lifespan. Then, briefly, we explain why this goal is not only ethically sound, but can in fact be considered to verge on an ethical obligation. Finally, we review recent progress in some key areas of the SENS platform, including proof-of-concept research sponsored by the SENS Foundation, a charity based in California.

Targeting nucleic acids into mitochondria: progress and prospects

Given the essential functions of these organelles in cell homeostasis, their involvement in incurable diseases and their potential in biotechnological applications, genetic transformation of mitochondria has been a long pursued goal that has only been reached in a couple of unicellular organisms. The challenge led scientists to explore a wealth of different strategies for mitochondrial delivery of DNA or RNA in living cells. These are the subject of the present review. Targeting DNA into the organelles currently shows promise but remarkably a number of alternative approaches based on RNA trafficking were also established and will bring as well major contributions.