Structural and functional features of mitochondria in neurons and gliocytes of various cerebral regions of laboratory rodents

Abstract

This review considers modern data on the morphology and functions of mitochondria in the neurons and glial cells in various brain structures of laboratory rodents. We discuss the main aspects of intracellular and regional heterogeneity of neuronal mitochondria. The functional differences between mitochondria in different cerebral regions are highlighted. We analyze the structural and functional features of mitochondria in brain gliocytes as well as their role in maintaining glioneuronal interactions. The article presents the latest information on the possibilities of intercellular transportation of mitochondria as a new neuroprotective mechanism illustrated on the functioning of astrocyte-neuron networks. Understanding the structural and functional features of mitochondria in different brain areas may help identify pharmacological targets and develop new strategies for mitochondrial disease management. Keywords: mitochondria, neurons, gliocytes, glio-neuronal interaction