Regulation of peroxisomal trafficking and distribution.

Peroxisomes are organelles that perform a wide range of essential metabolic processes. To ensure that peroxisomes are optimally positioned in the cell, they must be transported by both long- and short-range trafficking events in response to cellular needs. Here, we review our current understanding of the mechanisms by which the cytoskeleton and organelle contact sites alter peroxisomal distribution.

Peroxisomal fission is modulated by the mitochondrial Rho-GTPases, Miro1 and Miro2.

Peroxisomes are essential for a number of cellular functions, including reactive oxygen species metabolism, fatty acid β-oxidation and lipid synthesis. To ensure optimal functionality, peroxisomal size, shape and number must be dynamically maintained; however, many aspects of how this is regulated remain poorly characterised. Here, we show that the localisation of Miro1 and Miro2-outer mitochondrial membrane proteins essential for mitochondrial trafficking-to peroxisomes is not required for basal peroxisomal distribution and long-range trafficking, but rather for the maintenance of peroxisomal size and morphology through peroxisomal fission.