'Spider-like' mitochondrial structure initiates cell-wide stress response

Often referred to as the "powerhouses of the cell," mitochondria are well known for their role as energy suppliers, but these organelles are also critical for maintaining our overall health. Mitochondrial stress is associated with aging and age-related diseases, including neurodegeneration, but there has been a limited understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind this mitochondrial stress signaling. Now, a study by Scripps Research scientists has revealed an important step in this process.