Linking mitochondria function to mobility: the ATP synthase as a molecular bridge
Scientific-Disciplinary Group
06/MEDS-04 - Pathology
Description
This project investigates how Calcium signaling regulates mitochondrial transport, a process that enables mitochondria to reposition within cells according to local energy demands. The study focuses on the permeability transition pore (PTP), a Calcium-activated mitochondrial channel that is increasingly believed to be formed by ATP synthase. The central hypothesis is that transient channel openings (“flickering”) modulate mitochondrial matrix Calcium homeostasis and serve as a signal to select mitochondria for transport. To test this, the candidate will characterize channel flickering by monitoring mitochondrial membrane potential with TMRM in genetically modified HeLa cells, assess mitochondrial Calcium dynamics using the mito-GCaMP6f probe, and analyze mitochondrial trafficking through imaging approaches while modulating channel activity with pharmacological and genetic tools.
Job posting website
Number of positions
1
Funding body
Università degli Studi di Padova
How to apply
View the original posting on the MUR website: Go to MUR website