Characteristics of Mitochondrial Transformation into Human Cells

• DOI: 10.1038/srep26057
• Publication Date: 2016-05-17T09:29:50Z
• Authors: E. E. Kesner; A. Saada-Reich; H. Lorberboum-Galski
• Keywords: Pinocytosis

Abstract Mitochondria can be incorporated into mammalian cells by simple co-incubation of isolated mitochondria with cells, without the need transfection reagents or any other type intervention. This phenomenon was termed mitochondrial transformation and although it discovered in 1982, currently little is known regarding its mechanism(s). Here we demonstrate that transformed recipient very quickly co-localize endogenous mitochondria. The interact directly which engulf cellular extensions a way, may suggest involvement macropinocytosis macropinocytosis-like mechanisms transformation. Indeed, inhibitors but not clathrin-mediated endocytosis inhibition-treatments, blocks integrity outer membrane proteins essential for cells; distinguish from similar particles transform only intact Mitochondrial blocked presence heparan sulfate molecules pentosan polysulfate heparin, indicate crucial proteoglycans process.