Mitochondrial morphogenesis

Mitochondrial function relies on the complex mitochondrial shape, membrane ultrastructure, and dynamics. Abnormalities in these aspects lead to organelle dysfunction and, ultimately, cell death. Our work focuses on the molecular mechanisms of mitochondrial membrane architectural organization and the factors involved in regulating mitochondrial shape and dynamics. We employ a wide array of cell biology, advanced proteomics, biochemistry/biophysics, and structural biology methods to identify and characterize novel proteins critical for mitochondrial morphogenesis and dynamics. Our goal is to address the underlying molecular mechanisms and their functional links to mitochondrial diseases. Additionally, our lab is interested in elucidating how proteins sculpt divergent membrane structures in cells and how signal lipids regulate protein functions, particularly how membrane morphogenesis is linked to central cellular processes.