Mitochondria protect against an Intracellular Pathogen by Restricting Access to Folate

Dr. Lena Pernas and researchers discovered how our cells harness mitochondrial metabolism to restrict access of the intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii to the essential B vitamin folate. Mitochondria, which are the powerhouse of the cell, compete with this invading parasite for nutrients needed to thrive. Their research revealed that mitochondria help protect our cells from the effects of this parasite by activating a stress response system in the body, particularly a key player called ATF4. This process helps our cells fight back against the infection.