Mini review on the structure and supramolecular assembly of VDAC

Abstract

The Voltage Dependent Anion Channel (VDAC) is the most abundant protein in the outer membrane of mitochondria. This strategic localization puts it at the heart of a great number of phenomena. Its recent implication in apoptosis is an example of the major importance of this protein and has created a surge of interest in VDAC. There is no atomic-resolution structure allowing a better understanding of the function of VDAC, so alternative techniques to X-ray diffraction have been used to study VDAC. Here we discuss structural models from folding predictions and review data acquired by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) imaging that allowed to observe VDAC's structure and supramolecular organization in the mitochondrial outer membrane.

Mitochondrial Ion Channels/Transporters as Sensors and Regulators of Cellular Redox Signaling

“…These redox release channels include mPTP (see Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore and Redox Signaling section) and IMAC (see IMAC and Redox Signaling section). Voltagedependent anion channels (VDAC) are redox-sensitive channels that are located at the OMM and regulate OMM permeability (see VDAC and Redox Signaling section) (64). O 2 -can trigger VDAC-dependent OMM permeabilization, which subsequently activates apoptotic cascades (99).…”

“…VDAC is the most abundant protein in the OMM, and it serves as the primary route of entry and exit for metabolites and ions across the OMM [see review (64)]. VDAC controls the diffusion of O 2 -from the IMS to the cytosol (69).…”

NanoUPLC/MSE proteomic analysis reveals modulation on left ventricle proteome from hypertensive rats after exercise training

“…4D), where its protein specie was also shown to be reduced in myocardial infarcted rats submitted to exercise training [34]. This protein is increased in LV in aged rats [101], with a given role in apoptosis [102], where there is a correlation between VACD2 down-regulation and improved cardiac function. Our data indicate that VDAC3 and VACD2 respond similarly to exercise stimuli, which indicates their regulatory effect in pathologic affected cardiomyocytes.…”

Atomic Force Microscopy: A Versatile Tool for Studying Cell Morphology, Adhesion and Mechanics

“…Alternatively, membraneous compartments can be isolated from suspended cells and immobilized on glass or mica support for AFM scanning. Examples include nuclear pore complexes from Xenopus eggs, 73 voltagedependent ion channels from mitochondrial membranes 30 or the purification of functional gap junction domains from HeLa cells. 55 …”