Brain Ponderings podcast with Mark Mattson
Bioenergetics and Brain Health 2: Mitochondrial Dynamics, Biogenesis, Disposal, and Signaling
Nov 11, 2024
Dive into the fascinating world of mitochondria and their crucial role in brain function! Discover how these energy powerhouses are distributed within neurons, and learn about their processes of division, fusion, and disposal. The podcast highlights the significant impact of physical exercise and intermittent fasting on mitochondrial health and resilience against neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, explore the interplay of neurotransmitters and calcium dynamics, and how metabolic switching enhances brain energy through ketones.
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Quick takeaways
- Mitochondrial dynamics, including their transport and interactions with calcium, are essential for optimizing energy efficiency in neuronal networks.
- Mitophagy is crucial for maintaining healthy mitochondrial populations in neurons, preventing neurodegenerative diseases through the selective removal of dysfunctional mitochondria.
Deep dives
Mitochondrial Dynamics in Neurons
Mitochondria play a critical role in providing ATP to neurons, especially during heightened periods of synaptic activity. The strategic localization of mitochondria near synapses is essential to meet the increased energy demands of neurotransmission. Mitochondria are dynamically transported within neurons via microtubules, with motor proteins like kinesin and dynein facilitating both anterograde and retrograde transport. Calcium influx also influences mitochondrial positioning at active synapses, demonstrating the importance of mitochondrial dynamics in neurochemical signaling.
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