Chimera protein alters protein production inside living cell mitochondria

Researchers have developed a new technique using a "chimera" protein fragment to alter protein production within mitochondria of living cells, a breakthrough published in Science. This allows for the study of mitochondrial function. The chimera, designed with a "zip code," penetrates the mitochondrial membrane and blocks the production of specific proteins. This enables scientists to study how cells respond to disruptions in energy production, which is crucial for understanding diseases. This new technology could lead to insights into mitochondrial diseases, which affect energy production and can cause serious health problems. The research opens new avenues for developing potential therapies targeting these diseases.