Wang W, Fang HQ, Groom L, Cheng A, Zhang WR, Liu J, Wang XH, Li KT, Han PD, Zheng M, Yin JH, Wang W, Mattson M, Kao JPY, Lakatta EG, Sheu SS, Ouyang KF, Chen J, Dirksen RT, Cheng HP*, Superoxide flashes in single mitochondria. CELL, 134, 279-290, 2008.

Abstract In quiescent cells, mitochondria are the primary source of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are generated by leakiness of the electron transport chain (ETC). High levels of ROS can trigger cell death, whereas lower levels drive diverse and important cellular functions. We show here by employing a newly developed mitochondrial matrix-targeted superoxide indicator, that individual mitochondria undergo spontaneous bursts of superoxide generation, termed "superoxide flashes." Superoxide flashes occur randomly in space and time, exhibit all-or-none properties, and provide a vital source of superoxide production across many different cell types. Individual flashes are triggered by transient openings of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore stimulating superoxide production......