Background
Forms a channel through the mitochondrial outer membrane and also the plasma membrane. The channel at the outer mitochondrial membrane allows diffusion of small hydrophilic molecules; in the plasma membrane it is involved in cell volume regulation and apoptosis. It adopts an open conformation at low or zero membrane potential and a closed conformation at potentials above 30-40 mV. The open state has a weak anion selectivity whereas the closed state is cation-selective.Binds various signaling molecules, including the sphingolipid ceramide, the phospholipid phosphatidylcholine, and the sterol cholesterol.In depolarized mitochondria, acts downstream of PRKN and PINK1 to promote mitophagy or prevent apoptosis; polyubiquitination by PRKN promotes mitophagy, while monoubiquitination by PRKN decreases mitochondrial calcium influx which ultimately inhibits apoptosis .
Cellular location
Membrane, Mitochondrion, Mitochondrion outer membrane
