The network between mitochondia is in a constant state of flux, with organelles fusing and separating in response to cellular metabolic demands. Disturbances to mitochondrial fusion and fission have been observed in several human diseases, and in this Review, Florence Burté and colleagues discuss how the mitochondrial network might play a crucial part in neurodegeneration. The authors focus on major protein mediators of mitochondrial dynamics, including optic atrophy protein and the mitofusins, and trace the involvement of mitochondrial dynamics in autosomal dominant optic atrophy, Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease and other disorders.
- Florence Burté
- Valerio Carelli
- Patrick Yu-Wai-Man
