Wednesday 05/16/2012: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Health Sciences Campus
Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute
Herklotz Seminar Room
Mitochondria are dynamic organelles that fuse, divide, and move. Human genetic studies indicate that these processes are important for normal functioning of tissues, particularly neurons. Mutations in Mfn2 cause peripheral neuropathy (Charcot-Marie-Tooth 2A), and mutations in OPA1 cause eye disease (dominant optic atrophy). Mouse knockout studies focused on the mitofusins Mfn1 and Mfn2 have shown that mitochondrial fusion is important for organellar function. I will discuss mouse studies that reveal the physiological functions of mitochondrial dynamics. In addition, I will discuss how new mouse models can be combined with imaging approaches to understand the role of mitochondrial dynamics in neurodegeneration.<br><br>Hosted by: <a href="http://www.usc.edu/schools/medicine/research/institutes/zni/faculty/profile.php?fid=127">Karen Chang </a>
