Prof. Shana Kelley, University of Toronto

Accessing the Powerhouse of the Mammalian Cell with Mitochondria-Penetrating Peptides

School of Chemistry & Biochemistry Special Seminar

The mitochondria of human cells play a central role in the life and death of the cell due to the diverse processes and proteins, such as energy production and cell death regulators, that it houses. The role of mitochondria in cancer progression and tumorigenesis has been widely acknowledged.  A major challenge to the study of mitochondrial processes and the development of mito-targeted therapies is presented by the impermeability of the innermost mitochondrial membrane and its highly negative membrane potential, which exclude most exogenous molecules from the organelle. We have developed a new class of peptide-based mitochondria-targeting vectors that can deliver various cargos to this previously impenetrable organelle.  We have used these vectors to understand the chemical requirements for mitochondrial entry, to study oxidative stress in the organelle, and to deliver several different therapeutics.  Insights into the unique features of this organelle gained from the use of these peptides will be presented.

For more information contact Prof. Christoph Fahrni (404-385-4432).

Prof. Kelley's web site