The metabolism and function of phospholipids in Mitochondria

Abstract

Mitochondria are important organelles of eukaryotic cells and involved in a variety of cellular processes including oxidative phosphorylation for generating ATP, apoptosis, steroid synthesis, and signal transduction. Mitochondrion contains double membranes, which are mainly composed of phospholipids. Although mitochondria can synthesize some of phospholipids, most of phospholipids are biosynthesized in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). ER-mitochondria contacts are required for the transfer of some phospholipids, which are critical for mitochondrial phospholipids metabolism, membrane organization and functions. In this review, we will focus on the synthesis, metabolism and function of mitochondrial phospholipids and the role of mitochondria in lipid metabolism. Additionally, we will discuss the connection between mitochondrial phospholipids disorder and human diseases.