Cell Biology

Whitehead Institute Member Jonathan Weissman and colleagues used large-scale systematic genetic screens to identify the molecules and pathways that populate the mitochondrial surface with important and diverse signaling proteins. They deciphered the logic by which the cell ensures the proper delivery of these proteins. These findings may have important implications for understanding the impact on health and disease when these processes go awry.

A new study reveals that the protein MTCH2, which is essential in a variety of cellular processes, is responsible for shuttling various other proteins into the membrane of mitochondria. The finding could have implications for cancer treatments and provides insight into a variety of MTCH2-linked conditions.

Learn about a molecule that can take the place of oxygen in the electron transport chain; a key protein that helps sea star embryos establish polarity early in development; and a new approach to cataloguing cells' many DNA repair mechanisms. Our latest research highlights video features work from the labs of Iain Cheeseman and Jonathan Weissman.