Organized by:

Paolo Bernardi, University of Padova

Michela Carraro, University of Padova

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Mitochondria are widely recognized as the powerhouse of the cell, being the site of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and serving as central regulators of intracellular Ca²⁺ homeostasis, a master second messenger in numerous cellular processes. Beyond ATP production and Ca²⁺ signaling, mitochondria play a key role in determining cell fate by integrating survival and death pathways. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of mitochondrial physiology and biology is an essential prerequisite for research studies in this context. This course will provide PhD students with a broad conceptual framework and hands-on experimental insights into mitochondrial function. Topics will span from the structure and activity of individual components of the OXPHOS to their coordinated function in mitochondrial respiration and ATP production. Particular emphasis will be placed on mitochondrial Ca²⁺ handling, including the molecular mechanisms underlying Ca²⁺ influx and efflux pathways, and the impact of Ca²⁺ signaling on mitochondrial function/dysfunction. The course will further explore the role of mitochondria in cell death, with a special focus on mitochondrial damage in pathological conditions driven by Ca²⁺ overload and the activation of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP). Multiple experimental strategies to assess PTP opening and mitochondrial integrity will be discussed and demonstrated. By integrating conceptual lectures with experimental approaches and benefiting from the participation of leading international experts, this course will equip participants with a robust foundation and a unique skill set, serving as a pivotal starting point for a career in mitochondrial research.

2026 FACULTY ROSTER

Paolo Bernardi, University of Padova    

Ambre Bertholet, University of California, Los Angeles    

Michela Carraro, University of Padova    

Quan Chen, Nankai University    

Erika Fernandez-Vizarra, University of Zaragoza    

Christoph Gerle, RIKEN SPring-8 Center    

Kaori Ishikawa, University of Tsukuba    

Elizabeth Murphy, National Institutes of Health    

Luca Scorrano, University of Padova    

Carlo Viscomi, University of Padova    

And more...

2026 PRICING (INCLUDING TUITION, BOARD AND LODGING): 1200 USD / 8500 CNY

No payment is due until the selection decisions are made, but any applicant requiring financial support (i.e. stipends) should make that request in written form during the online application. The admissions process is need-blind, your financial situation will not be considered before admission decisions are made.