Figure 4.

Potential model of mitochondrial clearance via mitophagy. Under normal cellular conditions, Miro directs microtubule‐based transport via kinesin and dynein. Note that Miro is also pre‐bound to Parkin. (1) Mitochondrial damage (e.g., membrane depolarization) occurs. (2) Following damage, LRRK2 is activated and phosphorylates Miro. (3) Once phosphorylated by LRRK2, PINK1 phosphorylates Miro in addition to Parkin. (4) Parkin ubiquitinates Miro. (5) Mitophagy clears damaged mitochondria. Note that mutations to LRRK2, PINK1, and Parkin (denoted “*”) in addition to α‐synuclein accumulation likely inhibits this process to prevent mitochondrial clearance