Abstract
Asymmetric divisions of vertebrate neural progenitors are critical for generating neurons while preserving the stem cell pool, ensuring proper central nervous system development. It was previously shown that the remodeling of mitochondrial activity in daughter cells influences neural fates. In this study, we demonstrate that unequal mitotic distribution of mitochondria themselves plays a decisive role in triggering this differentiation process. Using live imaging to monitor mitochondrial segregation and track cell fates within embryonic neural tissue, we show that daughter cells inheriting fewer mitochondria consistently differentiate into neurons, whereas those receiving more mitochondria retain their progenitor status. Furthermore, experimental manipulation of mitochondrial inheritance during mitosis was sufficient to drive premature neuronal differentiation. Our findings establish a direct causal link between mitochondrial inheritance and the asymmetric fate of sister cells in vivo, highlighting a key mechanism in neural development.
Competing Interest Statement
The authors have declared no competing interest.
