The uptake of calcium by mitochondria has a central role in cell physiology, and an imbalance can trigger cell death. Now the first protein that is localized to the mitochondrion and is specifically required for calcium uptake has been identified. This protein, mitochondrial calcium uptake 1 (MICU1), represents the founding member of a set of proteins required for high-capacity calcium uptake. Its discovery should aid in the full molecular characterization of the mitochondrial calcium uptake pathways.
- Fabiana Perocchi
- Vishal M. Gohil
- Vamsi K. Mootha