Drp1 widely, yet heterogeneously distributes in mice central nervous system

Abstract

Objectives: Drp1 is wildly expressed and plays a role in inducing mitochondrial fission process. It is confirmed that many diseases are associated with Drp1 and mitochondria. However, since the exact Drp1 is not specifically distributed, it is hard to determine the impact of anti-Drp1 molecules on human body and where the Drp1 inhibitor functions. Methods: We visualized distribution of Drp1 in different brain regions, and explicated the relationship between Drp1 and mitochondria. GAD67-GFP knock-in mice were utilized to detect the expression patterns of Drp1 on the GABAergic neurons. And we further analyzed Drp1 expression in human malignant glioma tissue. Results: Drp1 widely but heterogeneously distributed in central nervous system. Further observation indicated that Drp1 was highly and heterogeneously expressed in inhibitory neurons. Under transmission electron microscope, Drp1 distribution in dendrites was higher than other areas in neurons and only a small amount of Drp1 was located on mitochondria. In human malignant glioma, Drp1 fluorescence intensity increased from grade I-III, while grade IV showed the descending trend. Conclusion: In this study, we observed Drp1 widely yet heterogeneously distributed in central nervous system. Drp1 heterogeneous distribution may be related with the occurrence and development of neurologic disease. We hope that the relationship between Drp1 and mitochondria may give the therapeutic guidance.