Mitochondrial interaction with the endosomal compartment in endocytosis and mitochondrial transfer

Mitochondria are essential organelles required for cellular processes ranging from energy production to cellular differentiation. To perform these functions, mitochondria physically and functionally interact with other organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and endosomes. While the role of ER-mitochondria contact sites is well established, the interaction between mitochondria and endosomes has only recently been reported. These interactions are involved in lipid and ion transfer and potentially play a crucial role in mitochondria quality control and the release of mitochondrial components within extracellular vesicles. Here, we will discuss the current view of mitochondria-endosome interaction, both physically and functionally. •Mitochondria physically and functionally interact with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and endosomes.•These interactions are emerging as part of a larger array of intracellular transport mechanisms.•Mitochondria-endosomes interactions regulate metabolism, quality control mechanisms and innate immunity.•Mitochondrial proteins are exported in extracellular vesicle as quality control mechanism and/or for cell-cell communication.