This review provides a selective history of how studies of mitochondrial cation transport (K+, Na+, Ca2+) developed in relation to the major themes of research in bioenergetics. It then covers in some detail specific transport pathways for these cations, and it introduces and discusses open problems about their nature and physiological function, particularly in relation to volume regulation and Ca2+homeostasis. The review should provide the basic elements needed to understand both earlier mitochondrial literature and current problems associated with mitochondrial transport of cations and hopefully will foster new interest in the molecular definition of mitochondrial cation channels and exchangers as well as their roles in cell physiology.

http://agrino.org/skalifourta/Mitochondrial%20Transport%20of%20Cations-%20Channels,%20Exchangers,%20and%20Permeability%20Transition.pdf

Mitochondrial Transport of Cations: Channels, Exchangers, and Permeability Transition

The purification, cloning, and expression of a novel luteinizing hormone-induced mitochondrial protein in MA-10 mouse Leydig tumor cells. Characterization of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR).

The hypothesis advanced in this article requires further validation. Undoubtedly it will require modification as our knowledge of biochemical control increases. Nevertheless, it should prove useful in focusing attention on the apparent similarity in the response of a large number of specific cell types to particular stimuli. Emphasis has been placed on a few common and apparently key elements in these responses. It is recognized that other factors are undoubtedly involved. Specifically, the changes in membrane potentials indicate the likelihood of widespread changes in the properties of the cell membrane, for example, changes in Na(+) and K(+) transport and distribution. These aspects of cellular responses may eventually prove to be of equal or greater importance than those common aspects of the system already identified.

Cell Communication, Calcium Ion, and Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate

Cyclic AMP (adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate or cyclic adenylate) has now been established as a second messenger mediating many of the effects of a variety of hormones. Several of the metabolic effects mediated by cyclic AMP are discussed, and it is suggested that certain other ("functional" or "mechanical") hormonal effects may be similarly mediated. In particular, the evidence presented supports the hypothesis that the positive inotropic response to the catecholamines is mediated by cyclic AMP. Although knowledge of the biological role of cyclic AMP has not been widely applied clinically, sufficient knowledge has now accumulated to make research in this area desirable.

Some Aspects of the Biological Role of Adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (Cyclic AMP)

Adenyl Cyclase I. DISTRIBUTION, PREPARATION, AND PROPERTIES

http://www.jbc.org/content/234/6/1421.full.pdf

Robert C. Haynes

Papers

Influence of adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate on corticoid production by rat adrenal glands.

The activation of adrenal phosphorylase by the adrenocorticotropic hormone.

Studies on the mechanism of action of the adrenocorticotropic hormone

Control of Hepatic Mitochondrial CO2 Fixation by Glucagon, Epinephrine, and Cortisol

The fixation of carbon dioxide by rat liver mitochondria and its relation to gluconeogenesis.