Mitochondria play a critical role in initiating both apoptotic and necrotic cell death. A major
player in this process is the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP), a non-
specific pore, permeant to any molecule of< 1.5 kDa, that opens in the inner mitochondrial
membrane under conditions of elevated matrix [Ca2+], especially when this is accompanied
by oxidative stress and depleted adenine nucleotides. Opening of the MPTP causes
massive swelling of mitochondria, rupture of the outer membrane and release of …