Discovery of mitochondrial protein opens path to therapeutic advances for heart and Alzheimer's disease

Calcium transport into and out of mitochondria -- the powerhouses of cells -- is central to cellular energy production and cell death. To maintain the balance of calcium within these powerhouses, cells rely on a protein known as the mitochondrial sodium-calcium exchanger, or NCLX. Now, in new research, scientists have discovered a novel regulator of NCLX activity, a protein called TMEM65, which helps move calcium out of mitochondria, protecting against harmful calcium overload.

Discovery of mitochondrial protein opens path to therapeutic advances for heart and Alzheimer's disease
Calcium transport into and out of mitochondria -- the powerhouses of cells -- is central to cellular energy production and cell death. To maintain the balance of calcium within these powerhouses, cells rely on a protein known as the mitochondrial sodium-calcium exchanger, or NCLX. Now, in new research, scientists have discovered a novel regulator of NCLX activity, a protein called TMEM65, which helps move calcium out of mitochondria, protecting against harmful calcium overload.