Standardized mitochondrial analysis gives new insights into mitochondrial dynamics and OPA1 function

Mitochondria form dynamic tubular networks through processes of fission and fusion. Defect in mitochondrial dynamics lead to various pathologies, including several common and some rare neurodegenerative disorders. OPA1 and MFN2 are two key players in mitochondrial fusion associated with Autosomal Dominant Optic Atrophy and Charcot Marie Tooth neuropathy type 2A respectively. We used micropatterned coverslips to standardize the visualization of mitochondrial distribution in skin fibroblasts. In fibroblasts from affected patients, mutations in the OPA1 and MFN2 genes were found to affect the volume and cellular distribution of mitochondria. In G1/S cell cycle phase, mitochondria emerging from the microtubule organizing centre may be crucial to mitochondrial biogenesis since it appeared to be protected against mitochondrial fragmentation induced by OPA1 mutations. The standardized quantitative analysis of the mitochondrial network and the description of mitochondrial subcellular distribution should lead to better diagnostic criteria for mitochondrial diseases and yield new insights into mitochondrial dysfunction in disease and aging.

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► Cell size and shape are essential factors governing mitochondrial organization.
► Standardization of mitochondrial distribution in skin fibroblasts.
► The volume of the mitochondrial network is closely adapted to that of the cell.
► Microtubule organizing centre contributes to overall distribution of mitochondria.
► Mutations in OPA1 gene affect total mitochondrial volume and subcellular distribution.