Project:	Quality control of mitochondria
Disciplines:	Biology, Bioengineering
Mentor:	David Chan, Professor of Biology, (BBE), dchan@caltech.edu, Phone: x2670
Mentor URL:	https://chanlab.caltech.edu  (opens in new window)
Background:	Mitochondria are essential organelles that generate energy for cells through oxidative phosphorylation. A typical cell can have hundreds of mitochondria, and the function of this population of mitochondria must be maintained. A major mechanism that maintains mitochondrial function is mitophagy, the selective degradation of defective mitochondria by autophagy. We have identified a new mitophagy pathway, and this project involves understanding its molecular mechanism.
Description:	We are interested in understanding how defective mitochondria are selectively recognized and tagged in the cell. The student will use cell biological techniques to identify how quality-sensing molecules recognize defective mitochondria.
References:	https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2468867322001304
Student Requirements:	Basic molecular and cell biology
Programs:	This AO can be done under the following programs:   Program    Available To        Amgen Scholars    Non-Caltech students only   Click on a program name for program info and application requirements.