Mitochondrial specialization and signaling shape neuronal function
Abstract
Neurons are specialized cells designed to process information and transmit it, often across long distances. In many neurons, the axonal volume far exceeds the somato-dendritic volume, creating a need for long-range transport and local polarization mechanisms. In addition, action potential firing and restoration of ionic gradients, as well as dynamic changes in synaptic plasticity, further increase the energetic demands of neurons. In this review, we highlight the roles mitochondria play in vertebrate neuronal biology and how mitochondrial functionality is tuned to support the unique demands of neurons. We cover the influence of mitochondrial positioning, ATP generation and Ca 2+ buffering on neuronal function, and explore the role of mitochondria in neurotransmitter metabolism and local protein translation.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Mitochondrial Function and Pathology
Adipose Tissue and Metabolism
Cell death mechanisms and regulation
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Trends in Neurosciences
- Publisher
- Elsevier BV
- Volume
- 49
- Issue
- 2
- Pages
- 141–154
- Publication date
- 1 February 2026
- Language
- EN