The cell, a functional unit of life, is composed of a number of organelles, including mitochondria. These organelles are often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell because they are responsible for the generation of most of the cell's energy. However, the function of mitochondria is not limited to the production of energy; they also communicate with the rest of the cell using chemical signals. These signals are crucial for various cell processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation (when a cell changes into a specialized type) and even cell death. However, the precise mechanisms by which these signals work remain to be fully elucidated.
This research project aims to unravel the mystery of these mitochondrial signals by studying single-celled parasites called Trypanosoma brucei and Trypanosoma congolense. These parasites are excellent models because they have a unique life cycle with distinct stages of development, each associated with significant changes in the activity of their single mitochondrion.This simplified system makes it easier to study the intricate signalling processes.
The present study investigates how changes in the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) – molecules produced as a byproduct of energy production – from the mitochondria influence the parasites' development and transformation from one life stage to another. To this end, advanced techniques such as genetic engineering, next-generation biosensors, imaging, and redox proteomics are utilised to:
1. Determine precisely how much ROS is needed to trigger developmental changes and if particular types of ROS are more influential than others.
2. Identify the source of the signals: Determine which parts of the mitochondria produce these important signalling ROS molecules.
3. Uncover the signalling pathways: Determine which molecules inside the cell receive the ROS signals and how these signals trigger the changes in cell development.
4. Identify key genes: Utilising genetic screens, identify the genes that are indispensable for the generation and response to ROS signals.
By comprehending the intricacies of mitochondrial communication with the rest of the cell, this research has the potential to enhance our understanding of a wide array of biological processes and human diseases where mitochondrial dysfunction is a contributing factor.
