Molecular identity and functional properties of the mitochondrial Na+/Ca2+ exchanger

J Biol Chem. 2012 Sep 14;287(38):31650-7. doi: 10.1074/jbc.R112.355867. Epub 2012 Jul 20.

Abstract

The mitochondrial membrane potential that powers the generation of ATP also facilitates mitochondrial Ca(2+) shuttling. This process is fundamental to a wide range of cellular activities, as it regulates ATP production, shapes cytosolic and endoplasmic recticulum Ca(2+) signaling, and determines cell fate. Mitochondrial Ca(2+) transport is mediated primarily by two major transporters: a Ca(2+) uniporter that mediates Ca(2+) uptake and a Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger that subsequently extrudes mitochondrial Ca(2+). In this minireview, we focus on the specific role of the mitochondrial Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger and describe its ion exchange mechanism, regulation by ions, and putative partner proteins. We discuss the recent molecular identification of the mitochondrial exchanger and how its activity is linked to physiological and pathophysiological processes.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenosine Triphosphate / chemistry
  • Animals
  • Calcium / chemistry
  • Calcium Signaling
  • Cell Lineage
  • Cell Membrane / metabolism
  • Cytosol / metabolism
  • Endoplasmic Reticulum / metabolism
  • HEK293 Cells
  • Humans
  • Ions / chemistry
  • Kinetics
  • Mice
  • Mitochondria / metabolism*
  • Models, Biological
  • Rats
  • Sodium / chemistry
  • Sodium-Calcium Exchanger / chemistry*
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Ions
  • Sodium-Calcium Exchanger
  • Adenosine Triphosphate
  • Sodium
  • Calcium