Mitochondrial Mechanisms of Neuronal Injury
Abstract
This project is investigating the contribution of mitochondria to neuronal injury. Our previous studies have shown that glutamate mediated injury to neurons requires mitochondrial calcium accumulation. However, we know little about the magnitude of the mitochondrial calcium load that causes injury, or the mechanisms that link calcium to neuronal death. In this project we have now established a method for estimating calcium content in neuronal mitochondria following glutamate stimulation. We have also begun to investigate the mechanisms that regulate the production of reactive oxygen species in order to understand the effects of calcium on this process. Additional studies are investigating other aspects of mitochondrial function in relation to neuronal injury. We are characterizing a novel phenomenon of spontaneous mitochondrial depolarization in neurons to understand its involvement in neuronal injury. We are also investigating the properties of cytochrome c release in relation to apoptosis, which may be an important regulator of mitochondrial function.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA384789
Entities
People
- Ian J. Reynolds
- Teresa G. Hastings
Organizations
- University of Pittsburgh