Decoding the Enigma: Translation Termination in Human Mitochondria

Hum Mol Genet. 2024 May 22;33(R1):R42-R46. doi: 10.1093/hmg/ddae032.

Abstract

Mitochondrial translation is a complex process responsible for the synthesis of essential proteins involved in oxidative phosphorylation, a fundamental pathway for cellular energy production. Central to this process is the termination phase, where dedicated factors play a pivotal role in ensuring accurate and timely protein production. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of translation termination in human mitochondria, emphasizing structural features and molecular functions of two mitochondrial termination factors mtRF1 and mtRF1a.

Keywords: Mitochondrial translation; mitochondrial translation termination factors; mitoribosomes.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Mitochondria* / genetics
  • Mitochondria* / metabolism
  • Mitochondrial Proteins* / genetics
  • Mitochondrial Proteins* / metabolism
  • Oxidative Phosphorylation
  • Peptide Chain Termination, Translational*
  • Peptide Termination Factors / genetics
  • Peptide Termination Factors / metabolism
  • Protein Biosynthesis*

Substances

  • Mitochondrial Proteins
  • Peptide Termination Factors