Biophysical Society Conference | Tahoe 2024

Molecular Biophysics of Membranes

Poster Abstracts

33-POS Board 9 HUMAN MRS2 IS A CALCIUM-REGULATED NON-SELECTIVE CATION CHANNEL IN MITOCHONDRIA Ming-Feng Tsai 1,2 ; Yung-Chi Tu 2 1 University of Colorado Anschutz, Physiology and Biophysics, Aurora, CO, USA 2 University of Virginia, Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, Charlottesville, VA, USA The human Mitochondrial RNA Splicing 2 protein (MRS2) has been implicated in Mg 2+ transport across mitochondrial inner membranes, thus playing an important role in Mg 2+ homeostasis critical for mitochondrial integrity and function. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying its fundamental channel properties such as ion selectivity and regulation remain unclear. Here, we present structural and functional investigation of MRS2. Cryo-electron microscopy structures in various ionic conditions reveal a pentameric channel architecture and the molecular basis of ion permeation and potential regulation mechanisms. Electrophysiological analyses demonstrate that MRS2 is a Ca 2+ -regulated, non-selective channel permeable to Mg 2+ , Ca 2+ , Na + and K + , which contrasts with its prokaryotic ortholog, CorA, operating as a Mg 2+ -gated Mg 2+ channel. Moreover, a conserved arginine ring within the pore of MRS2 functions to restrict cation movements, thus preventing the channel from collapsing the proton motive force that drives mitochondrial ATP synthesis. Together, our results provide a molecular framework for further understanding MRS2 in mitochondrial function and disease.

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