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The signal that directs newly synthesized mitochondrial β-barrel proteins from the cytosol to the organelle is poorly defined. The findings of this study demonstrate that, rather than a linear sequence, the structural information in four β-strands is sufficient for the mitochondria to recognize and assemble β-barrel protein.

Background:The signal that ensures the specific targeting of ␤-barrel proteins to either mitochondria or chloroplasts is ill-defined. Results: Chloroplast ␤-barrel proteins can be assembled in vitro into the mitochondrial outer membrane. Conclusion: The mitochondrial import machinery can recognize and process chloroplast ␤-barrel proteins as substrates. Significance: Dedicated targeting factors had to evolve in plant cells to prevent mis-sorting of chloroplast ␤-barrel proteins to mitochondria.