OPA1‐dependent cristae modulation is essential for cellular adaptation to metabolic demand

OPA1‐dependent cristae modulation is essential for cellular adaptation to metabolic demand

It is well-established that cristae, the organized invaginations of the mitochondrial inner membrane, remodel themselves upon induction of cell death. In this study, the authors also show that substantial remodelling occurs in response to altered energetic conditions of the cell. These changes are mediated by the protein OPA-1, which is also associated with fusion of the mitochondrial network, but independent of the activity described here. The authors propose that OPA-1 can sense the presence of fuel substrates, which oligomerizes during cell starvation and tightens the cristae. These ultrastructural changes are associated with increased ATP-synthase assembly, and increased efficiency/capacity of energy production.