Pyk2, a new MAMs modulator in hippocampal neurons

Pyk2 is a non-receptor tyrosine kinase highly enriched in forebrain neurons,whose activity is controlled through calcium-dependent mechanisms. In this research article, the authors examine the role of Pyk2 at Mitochondria-Associated Membranes (MAMs). MAMs are dynamic platforms that tether the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria, and that are involved in many signaling pathways, including lipids and calcium homeostasis, apoptosis, mitochondrial function and autophagy. To study the function of this protein at MAMs, Pyk2 knockout mice (pyk2 -/-) were used for in vivo and in vitro studies. This work shows that Pyk2 -/- hippocampal neurons are characterized by higher levels of ER-mitochondria contacts and defective calcium homeostasis, altered mitochondrial dynamics and morphology, suggesting that Pyk2 could participate in the control of MAMs function.