Speaker: Katie Drerup, University of Wisconsin, Madison, associate professor in the Department of Integrative Biology

Title: "Regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis in neurons"

Abstract: Neurons are highly dependent on mitochondria to function and survive. To maintain a healthy mitochondrial population, mitochondria must be continuously replenished through the process of mitochondrial biogenesis. Mitochondrial biogenesis requires communication between mitochondria and the nucleus through mechanisms which are largely unknown. This communication is complicated in neurons by the spatial separation of mitochondria from the nucleus in this large cell type. Using genetics, in vivo imaging, and transcriptomics in zebrafish, we have identified a critical role for mitochondrial transport in regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis in neurons. Eliminating mitochondrial return to the cell body from the distal axon specifically disrupts biogenesis by downregulating upstream transcriptional programs. Together, our results demonstrate essential communication between axonal mitochondria and the nucleus for regulation of mitochondrial population size throughout the expanse of the neuron.

Host: Maura McGrail, genetics, development and cell biology professor and GDCB associate chair for research