Authors
Homberg B, Rehling P, Cruz-Zaragoza LD
Journal
Trends in Cell Biology
Citation
Trends Cell Biol. 2023 Feb 28:S0962-8924(23)00020-X.
Abstract
Most mitochondrial proteins are synthesized in the cytosol and transported into mitochondria by protein translocases. Yet, mitochondria contain their own genome and gene expression system, which generates proteins that are inserted in the inner membrane by the oxidase assembly (OXA) insertase. OXA contributes to targeting proteins from both genetic origins. Recent data provides insights into how OXA cooperates with the mitochondrial ribosome during synthesis of mitochondrial-encoded proteins. A picture of OXA emerges in which it coordinates insertion of OXPHOS core subunits and their assembly into protein complexes but also participates in the biogenesis of select imported proteins. These functions position the OXA as a multifunctional protein insertase that facilitates protein transport, assembly, and stability at the inner membrane.
Keywords: mitochondria; oxidase assembly; oxidative phosphorylation; protein translocation; ribosomes.