Fig. 1

Schematic diagram demonstrating routes of mitochondrial transfer from RECs to recipient cells. A TNTs are membranous tubules that extend from the plasma membrane and measure 50–1500 nm in diameter. It is the most well-known route for mitochondrial transfer between cells. B Connexin 43 (CX43) is a gap junction protein that regulates a cell connection channel and facilitates organelle exchange or cell migration. CX43 is an essential regulator of mitochondrial transfer. C Another pathway for mitochondrial transfer has been observed as microvesicles generated by blebbing the cellular plasma membrane. D Cell fusion, possible route for mitochondrial transfer. E Without carriers, free mitochondria can be extruded or internalized, suggesting a plausible mechanism for intercellular mitochondrial transfer. Make figure by Figdraw