Within cellular structures, compartmentalization is the concept of spatial segregation of macromolecules, metabolites, and biochemical pathways. Therefore, this concept bridges organellar structure and function. Mitochondria are morphologically complex, partitioned into several subcompartments by a topologically elaborate two-membrane system. They are also dynamically polymorphic, undergoing morphogenesis events with an extent and frequency that is only now being appreciated. Thus, mitochondrial compartmentalization is something that must be considered both spatially and temporally. Here, we review new developments in how mitochondrial structure is established and regulated, the factors that underpin the distribution of lipids and proteins, and how they spatially demarcate locations of myriad mitochondrial processes. Consistent with its pre-eminence, disturbed mitochondrial compartmentalization contributes to the dysfunction associated with heritable and aging-related diseases.

在细胞结构中，区室化是大分子、代谢物和生化途径的空间分离的概念。因此，这个概念连接了细胞器的结构和功能。线粒体形态复杂，被拓扑复杂的两膜系统划分为几个子区室。它们也是动态多态性的，以一定程度和频率经历形态发生事件，直到现在才被人们认识到。因此，线粒体区室化必须在空间和时间上考虑。在这里，我们回顾了线粒体结构如何建立和调节、支持脂质和蛋白质分布的因素以及它们如何在空间上划分无数线粒体过程的位置的新进展。与其卓越的地位相一致，线粒体区室化的紊乱会导致与遗传性和衰老相关疾病相关的功能障碍。