Resolving mitochondrial cristae: introducing a new model into the fold

Abstract

The many functions of mitochondria—the powerhouses of our cells—are intimately linked with their ultrastructure and network morphology. In this issue, Stephan et al (2020) apply a tour de force of microscopic techniques to examine the contributions of specific mitochondrial proteins to crista architecture. A recent study uncovers the hierarchy of MICOS components in the biogenesis and maintenance of mitochondrial cristae in human cells.