Determining the shape and cellular distribution of mitochondria: The integration of multiple activities

Both mitochondrial and cellular function are influenced by the overall structure and position of mitochondria within cells. Proper mitochondrial structure and position are achieved through the concerted actions of multiple activities. These include mitochondrial dynamics, motility and tethering. Mitochondrial dynamics and motility facilitate transport of the organelle, while tethering pathways serve to stably position mitochondria at specific cellular sites. Recent studies have advanced our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the activities that shape and position the mitochondrial network and have identified the ER as an active participant in many of these activities.