Mitochondria directly interact with the nuclear pore complex

Mitochondria directly interact with the nuclear pore complex via VDAC1–RANBP2 binding to sustain nuclear ATP levels, according to research published online in Nature on June 10, 2026. This interaction was identified as a critical pathway for maintaining the energy supply within the nucleus. The study details how the voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1) on the mitochondrial outer membrane forms a physical link with Ran-binding protein 2 (RANBP2) located on the cytoplasmic filaments of the nuclear pore complex. This direct tethering facilitates the transfer of ATP from mitochondria to the nucleus, a process previously not fully understood. Researchers utilized advanced imaging techniques and biochemical assays to confirm this physical and functional connection. The findings suggest that this mitochondrial-nuclear pore complex crosstalk is essential for cellular homeostasis and gene expression, as nuclear ATP levels are crucial for processes like DNA replication and transcription. Disruptions in this pathway could have significant implications for cellular health and disease.