title: The 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO): a new perspective in mitochondrial biology.
abstract: In mammals, mitochondria are central in maintaining normal cell function and dissecting the pathways that govern their physiology and pathology is therefore of utmost importance. For a long time, the science world has acknowledged the Translocator Protein (TSPO), an intriguing molecule that, through its position and association with biological processes, stands as one of the hidden regulatory pathways in mitochondrial homeostasis. Here we aim to review the literature and highlight what links TSPO to mitochondrial homeostasis in order to delineate its contribution in the functioning and malfunctioning of this critical organelle. In detail, we will discuss: 1) TSPO localization and interplay with controlling phenomena of mitochondria (e.g. mPTP); 2) TSPO interaction with the prominent mitochondrial player VDAC; consider evidence on how TSPO relates to 3) mitochondrial energy production; 4) Ca2+ signalling and 5) the generation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) before finally describing 6) its part in apoptotic cell death. In essence, we hope to demonstrate the intimate involvement TSPO has in the regulation of mitochondrial homeostasis and muster attention towards this molecule, which is equally central for both cellular and mitochondrial biology.
authors.affiliation: Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Royal College Street, NW1 0TU, London, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Gatliff
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Campanella
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D017209:Apoptosis; D020013:Calcium Signaling; D004734:Energy Metabolism; D006706:Homeostasis; D006801:Humans; D008928:Mitochondria / Q000378:metabolism*; D033681:Mitochondrial Membrane Transport Proteins / Q000378:metabolism; D000083162:Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore; D017382:Reactive Oxygen Species / Q000378:metabolism; D018079:Receptors, GABA / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D050994:Voltage-Dependent Anion Channels / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D033681:Mitochondrial Membrane Transport Proteins; D000083162:Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore; D017382:Reactive Oxygen Species; D018079:Receptors, GABA; C499229:TSPO protein, human; D050994:Voltage-Dependent Anion Channels