Gene editing improves endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondrial contacts and unfolded protein response in Friedreich's ataxia iPSC-derived neurons

Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is a multisystemic, autosomal recessive disorder caused by homozygous GAA expansion mutation in the first intron of frataxin (FXN) gene. FXN is a mitochondrial protein critical for iron-sulfur cluster biosynthesis and deficiency impairs mitochondrial electron transport chain functions and iron homeostasis within the organelle. Currently, there is no effective treatment for FRDA. We have previously demonstrated that single infusion of wild-type hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) resulted in prevention of neurologic and cardiac complications of FRDA in YG8R mice, and rescue was mediated by FXN transfer from tissue engrafted, HSPC-derived microglia/macrophages to diseased neurons/myocytes. For a future clinical translation, we developed an autologous stem cell transplantation approach using CRISPR/Cas9 for the excision of the GAA repeats in FRDA patients' CD34+ HSPCs; this strategy leading to increased FXN expression and improved mitochondrial functions. The aim of the current study is to validate the efficiency and safety of our gene editing approach in a disease-relevant model. We generated a cohort of FRDA patient-derived iPSCs and isogenic lines that were gene edited with our CRISPR/Cas9 approach. iPSC derived FRDA neurons displayed characteristic apoptotic and mitochondrial phenotype of the disease, such as non-homogenous microtubule staining in neurites, increased caspase-3 expression, mitochondrial superoxide levels, mitochondrial fragmentation, and partial degradation of the cristae compared to healthy controls. These defects were fully prevented in the gene edited neurons. RNASeq analysis of FRDA and gene edited neurons demonstrated striking improvement in gene clusters associated with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in the isogenic lines. Gene edited neurons demonstrated improved ER-calcium release, normalization of ER stress response gene, XBP-1, and significantly increased ER-mitochondrial contacts that are critical for functional homeostasis of both organelles, as compared to FRDA neurons. Ultrastructural analysis for these contact sites displayed severe ER structural damage in FRDA neurons, that was undetected in gene edited neurons. Taken together, these results represent a novel finding for disease pathogenesis showing dramatic ER structural damage in FRDA, validate the efficacy profile of our FXN gene editing approach in a disease relevant model, and support our approach as an effective strategy for therapeutic intervention for Friedreich's ataxia.

Disruption of mitochondrial unfolded protein response results in telomere shortening in mouse oocytes and somatic cells

Caseinolytic peptidase P (CLPP) plays a central role in mitochondrial unfolded protein response (mtUPR) by promoting the breakdown of misfolded proteins and setting in motion a cascade of reactions to re-establish protein homeostasis. Global germline deletion of Clpp in mice results in female infertility and accelerated follicular depletion. Telomeres are tandem repeats of 5'-TTAGGG-3' sequences found at the ends of the chromosomes. Telomeres are essential for maintaining chromosome stability during somatic cell division and their shortening is associated with cellular senescence and aging. In this study, we asked whether the infertility and ovarian aging phenotype caused by global germline deletion of Clpp is associated with somatic aging, and tested telomere length in tissues of young and aging mice. We found that impaired mtUPR caused by the lack of CLPP is associated with accelerated telomere shortening in both oocytes and somatic cells of aging mice. In addition, expression of several genes that maintain telomere integrity was decreased, and double-strand DNA breaks were increased in telomeric regions. Our results highlight how impaired mtUPR can affect telomere integrity and demonstrate a link between loss of mitochondrial protein hemostasis, infertility, and somatic aging.

Investigating the Role of 17-Beta Estradiol in the Regulation of the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) in Pancreatic Beta Cells

Diabetes mellitus is clinically defined by chronic hyperglycemia. Sex differences in the presentation and outcome of diabetes exist with premenopausal women having a reduced risk of developing diabetes, relative to men, or women after menopause. Accumulating evidence shows a protective role of estrogens, specifically 17-beta estradiol, in the maintenance of pancreatic beta cell health; however, the mechanisms underlying this protection are still unknown. To elucidate these potential mechanisms, we used a pancreatic beta cell line (BTC6) and a mouse model of hyperglycemia-induced atherosclerosis, the ApoE-/-:Ins2+/Akita mouse, exhibiting sexual dimorphism in glucose regulation. In this study we hypothesize that 17-beta estradiol protects pancreatic beta cells by modulating the unfolded protein response (UPR) in response to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. We observed that ovariectomized female and male ApoE-/-:Ins2+/Akita mice show significantly increased expression of apoptotic UPR markers. Sham operated female and ovariectomized female ApoE-/-:Ins2+/Akita mice supplemented with exogenous 17-beta estradiol increased the expression of adaptive UPR markers compared to non-supplemented ovariectomized female ApoE-/-:Ins2+/Akita mice. These findings were consistent to what was observed in cultured BTC6 cells, suggesting that 17-beta estradiol may protect pancreatic beta cells by repressing the apoptotic UPR and enhancing the adaptive UPR activation in response to pancreatic ER stress.

Activation of XBP1s attenuates disease severity in models of proteotoxic Charcot-Marie-Tooth type 1B

Mutations in myelin protein zero (MPZ) are generally associated with Charcot-Marie-Tooth type 1B (CMT1B) disease, one of the most common forms of demyelinating neuropathy. Pathogenesis of some MPZ mutants, such as S63del and R98C, involves the misfolding and retention of MPZ in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of myelinating Schwann cells. To cope with proteotoxic ER-stress, Schwann cells mount an unfolded protein response (UPR) characterized by activation of the PERK, ATF6 and IRE1α/XBP1 pathways. Previous results showed that targeting the PERK UPR pathway mitigates neuropathy in mouse models of CMT1B; however, the contributions of other UPR pathways in disease pathogenesis remains poorly understood. Here, we probe the importance of the IRE1α/XBP1 signalling during normal myelination and in CMT1B. In response to ER stress, IRE1α is activated to stimulate the non-canonical splicing of Xbp1 mRNA to generate spliced Xbp1 (Xbp1s). This results in the increased expression of the adaptive transcription factor XBP1s, which regulates the expression of genes involved in diverse pathways including ER proteostasis. We generated mouse models where Xbp1 is deleted specifically in Schwann cells, preventing XBP1s activation in these cells. We observed that Xbp1 is dispensable for normal developmental myelination, myelin maintenance and remyelination after injury. However, Xbp1 deletion dramatically worsens the hypomyelination and the electrophysiological and locomotor parameters observed in young and adult CMT1B neuropathic animals. RNAseq analysis suggested that XBP1s exerts its adaptive function in CMT1B mouse models in large part via the induction of ER proteostasis genes. Accordingly, the exacerbation of the neuropathy in Xbp1 deficient mice was accompanied by upregulation of ER-stress pathways and of IRE1-mediated RIDD signaling in Schwann cells, suggesting that the activation of XBP1s via IRE1 plays a critical role in limiting mutant protein toxicity and that this toxicity cannot be compensated by other stress responses. Schwann cell specific overexpression of XBP1s partially re-established Schwann cell proteostasis and attenuated CMT1B severity in both the S63del and R98C mouse models. In addition, the selective, pharmacologic activation of IRE1α/XBP1 signaling ameliorated myelination in S63del dorsal root ganglia explants. Collectively, these data show that XBP1 has an essential adaptive role in different models of proteotoxic CMT1B neuropathy and suggest that activation of the IRE1α/XBP1 pathway may represent a therapeutic avenue in CMT1B and possibly for other neuropathies characterized by UPR activation.

Endoplasmic reticulum stress regulators exhibit different prognostic, therapeutic and immune landscapes in pancreatic adenocarcinoma

Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and unfolded protein response are the critical processes of tumour biology. However, the roles of ERS regulatory genes in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) remain elusive. A novel ERS-related risk signature was constructed using the Lasso regression analysis. Its prognostic value, immune effect, metabolic influence, mutational feature and therapeutic correlation were comprehensively analysed through multiple bioinformatic approaches. The biofunctions of KDELR3 and YWHAZ in pancreatic cancer (PC) cells were also investigated through colony formation, Transwell assays, flow cytometric detection and a xenograft model. The upstream miRNA regulatory mechanism of KDELR3 was predicted and validated. ERS risk score was identified as an independent prognostic factor and could improve traditional prognostic model. Meanwhile, it was closely associated with metabolic reprogramming and tumour immune. High ERS risk enhanced glycolysis process and nucleotide metabolism, but was unfavourable for anti-tumour immune response. Moreover, ERS risk score could act as a potential biomarker for predicting the efficacy of ICBs. Overexpression of KDELR3 and YWHAZ stimulated the proliferation, migration and invasion of SW1990 and BxPC-3 cells. Silencing KDELR3 suppressed tumour growth in a xenograft model. miR-137 could weaken the malignant potentials of PC cells through inhibiting KDELR3 (5'-AGCAAUAA-3'). ERS risk score greatly contributed to PAAD clinical assessment. KDELR3 and YWHAZ possessed cancer-promoting capacities, showing promise as a novel treatment target.

Adapting the endoplasmic reticulum proteostasis rescues epilepsy-associated NMDA receptor variants

The GRIN genes encoding N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) subunits are remarkably intolerant to variation. Many pathogenic NMDAR variants result in their protein misfolding, inefficient assembly, reduced surface expression, and impaired function on neuronal membrane, causing neurological disorders including epilepsy and intellectual disability. Here, we investigated the proteostasis maintenance of NMDARs containing epilepsy-associated variations in the GluN2A subunit, including M705V and A727T. In the transfected HEK293T cells, we showed that the two variants were targeted to the proteasome for degradation and had reduced functional surface expression. We demonstrated that the application of BIX, a known small molecule activator of an HSP70 family chaperone BiP (binding immunoglobulin protein) in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), dose-dependently enhanced the functional surface expression of the M705V and A727T variants in HEK293T cells. Moreover, BIX (10 μM) increased the surface protein levels of the M705V variant in human iPSC-derived neurons. We revealed that BIX promoted folding, inhibited degradation, and enhanced anterograde trafficking of the M705V variant by modest activation of the IRE1 pathway of the unfolded protein response. Our results suggest that adapting the ER proteostasis network restores the folding, trafficking, and function of pathogenic NMDAR variants, representing a potential treatment for neurological disorders resulting from NMDAR dysfunction.

The effect of HYPE knock-out on the AMPylome of human OSU-CLL leukemia cells

In humans, AMPylation of cellular proteins is carried out by Huntingtin yeast-interacting protein E (HYPE), activated under conditions of endoplasmic reticulum stress, such as in cancer cells. Extracts of the human chronic lymphocytic leukemia cell line, OSU-CLL, were fractionated using immuno-precipitation with antibodies against adenosine-phosphate and then AMP-Tyr. The proteins isolated were modified with AMP, the 'AMPylome.' AMP-labelled peptides isolated from HYPE wild-type (WT) and HYPE knock-out (KO) cells were identified using tandem mass spectrometry. A total of 213 proteins were identified from WT cell extracts, while only 23 of these were pulled down from KO cells, consistent with the presence of another AMPylator, besides HYPE. The KO cells were more sensitive to fludarabine nucleoside (2-FaraA) than WT cells. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis of the AMPylated proteins identified in WT cells clustered actin binding proteins of the cytoskeleton, and proteins of the RHO GTPase pathway that would jointly stimulate cell proliferation.

Pentapeptide PYRAE triggers ER stress-mediated apoptosis of breast cancer cells in mice by targeting RHBDF1-BiP interaction

Reinforced cellular responses to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress are caused by a variety of pathological conditions including cancers. Human rhomboid family-1 protein (RHBDF1), a multiple transmembrane protein located mainly on the ER, has been shown to promote cancer development, while the binding immunoglobulin protein (BiP) is a key regulator of cellular unfolded protein response (UPR) for the maintenance of ER protein homeostasis. In this study, we investigated the role of RHBDF1 in maintaining ER protein homeostasis in breast cancer cells. We showed that deleting or silencing RHBDF1 in breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 caused marked aggregation of unfolded proteins in proximity to the ER. We demonstrated that RHBDF1 directly interacted with BiP, and this interaction had a stabilizing effect on the BiP protein. Based on the primary structural motifs of RHBDF1 involved in BiP binding, we found a pentapeptide (PE5) targeted BiP and inhibited BiP ATPase activity. SPR assay revealed a binding affinity of PE5 toward BiP (Kd = 57.7 μM). PE5 (50, 100, 200 μM) dose-dependently promoted ER protein aggregation and ER stress-mediated cell apoptosis in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. In mouse 4T1 breast cancer xenograft model, injection of PE5 (10 mg/kg, s.c., every 2 days for 2 weeks) significantly inhibited the tumor growth with markedly increased ER stress and apoptosis-related proteins in tumor tissues. Our results suggest that the ability of RHBDF1 to maintain BiP protein stability is critical to ER protein homeostasis in breast cancer cells, and that the pentapeptide PE5 may serve as a scaffold for the development of a new class of anti-BiP inhibitors.

Could the Propionic Acid Treatment in Combination with Metformin be Safe for the Small Intestine of Diabetic Rats?

BACKGROUND

Effects of propionic acid (PA) on the cellular and molecular processes in the small intestine under type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress remain incompletely studied.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to assess the state of unfolded protein response (UPR) system in the small intestine of diabetic rats and to explore PA's influence on metformin treatment.

METHODS

Male Wistar rats were divided into 1) control and 2) T2DM groups, and groups receiving (14 days, orally) 3) metformin (60 mg/kg), 4) PA (60 mg/kg), and 5) PA+metformin. Western blotting, RT-PCR, and transmission electron microscopy were performed.

RESULTS

We found that T2DM induced elevation of ER intermembrane space and UPR overactivation based on increased GRP78, ATF6 and PERK levels in small intestine. Metformin treatment led to a further UPR activation. PA supplementation partially restored enterocytes functioning via normalization of ATF6 and PERK content, while IRE1 level reached the maximum value, compared to all groups. The most pronounced effect of adaptation to the T2DMinduced ER stress was observed after combined metformin and PA action. In particular, decreased ER intermembrane space in enterocytes was detected compared to separate metformin and PA administration, which was accompanied by restored GRP78, PERK and IRE1 levels.

CONCLUSION

Our study proves the safety of additional therapy with propionic acid in combination with metformin for the functional state of small intestine. Due to its ability to modulate UPR signaling, PA may be considered a safe and perspective candidate for supportive therapy in T2DM, especially for neuroprotection.

Navigating the landscape of mitochondrial-ER communication in health and disease

Intracellular organelle communication enables the maintenance of tissue homeostasis and health through synchronized adaptive processes triggered by environmental cues. Mitochondrial-Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) communication sustains cellular fitness by adjusting protein synthesis and degradation, and metabolite and protein trafficking through organelle membranes. Mitochondrial-ER communication is bidirectional and requires that the ER-components of the Integrated Stress Response signal to mitochondria upon activation and, likewise, mitochondria signal to the ER under conditions of metabolite and protein overload to maintain proper functionality and ensure cellular survival. Declines in the mitochondrial-ER communication occur upon ageing and correlate with the onset of a myriad of heterogeneous age-related diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, cancer, or neurodegenerative pathologies. Thus, the exploration of the molecular mechanisms of mitochondrial-ER signaling and regulation will provide insights into the most fundamental cellular adaptive processes with important therapeutical opportunities. In this review, we will discuss the pathways and mechanisms of mitochondrial-ER communication at the mitochondrial-ER interface and their implications in health and disease.

Phospholipids and Cholesterol Determine Molecular Mechanisms of Cytotoxicity of α-Synuclein Oligomers and Fibrils

Progressive loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, hypothalamus, and thalamus is a hallmark of Parkinson's disease. Neuronal death is linked to the abrupt aggregation of α-synuclein (α-Syn), a small membrane protein that regulates cell vesicle trafficking. α-Syn aggregation rate, as well as the secondary structure and toxicity of α-Syn fibrils, could be uniquely altered by lipids. However, molecular mechanisms that determine such a remarkable difference in the toxicity of α-Syn fibrils formed in the presence of lipids remain unclear. In this study, we used a set of molecular assays to determine the molecular mechanism by which α-Syn fibrils formed in the presence of phosphatidylcholine (PC), cardiolipin (CL), and cholesterol (Cho) exert cell toxicity. We found that rat dopaminergic cells exposed to α-Syn fibrils formed in the presence of different lipids exert drastically different magnitudes and dynamics of unfolded protein response (UPR) in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria (MT). Specifically, α-Syn:CL were found to cause the strongest, whereas α-Syn fibrils formed in the absence of lipids had the lowest magnitude of the UPR cell response. We also found the opposite dynamics of the ER- and MT-UPR responses in rat dopaminergic cells exposed to protein aggregates. These results could suggest that facing severe ER stress, dopaminergic cells suppress MT-UPR response, enabling the maximal ATP production to restore their normal physiological function. These findings help to better understand complex mechanisms of cell toxicity of amyloid aggregates and ultimately find neuroprotective drug candidates that will be able to suppress the spread of Parkinson's disease.

Regulation of cardiac fibroblast cell death by unfolded protein response signaling

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a tightly regulated organelle that requires specific environmental properties to efficiently carry out its function as a major site of protein synthesis and folding. Embedded in the ER membrane, ER stress sensors inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1), protein kinase R (PKR)-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), and activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6) serve as a sensitive quality control system collectively known as the unfolded protein response (UPR). In response to an accumulation of misfolded proteins, the UPR signals for protective mechanisms to cope with the cellular stress. Under prolonged unstable conditions and an inability to regain homeostasis, the UPR can shift from its original adaptive response to mechanisms leading to UPR-induced apoptosis. These UPR signaling pathways have been implicated as an important feature in the development of cardiac fibrosis, but identifying effective treatments has been difficult. Therefore, the apoptotic mechanisms of UPR signaling in cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) are important to our understanding of chronic fibrosis in the heart. Here, we summarize the maladaptive side of the UPR, activated downstream pathways associated with cell death, and agents that have been used to modify UPR-induced apoptosis in CFs.

Mechanisms Governing Oligodendrocyte Viability in Multiple Sclerosis and Its Animal Models

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS), which is triggered by an autoimmune assault targeting oligodendrocytes and myelin. Recent research indicates that the demise of oligodendrocytes due to an autoimmune attack contributes significantly to the pathogenesis of MS and its animal model experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). A key challenge in MS research lies in comprehending the mechanisms governing oligodendrocyte viability and devising therapeutic approaches to enhance oligodendrocyte survival. Here, we provide an overview of recent findings that highlight the contributions of oligodendrocyte death to the development of MS and EAE and summarize the current literature on the mechanisms governing oligodendrocyte viability in these diseases.

Evaluation of the LDN-0060609 PERK Inhibitor as a Selective Treatment for Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: An In Vitro Study on Human Retinal Astrocytes

The term glaucoma encompasses various neurodegenerative eye disorders, among which the most common is primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). Recently, the essential role of human retinal astrocytes (HRA) in glaucoma progression has been placed in the spotlight. It has been found that placing the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) under stress and activating PERK leads to apoptosis of HRA cells, which inhibits their neuroprotective effect in the course of glaucoma. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the small-molecule PERK inhibitor LDN-0060609 in countering ER stress conditions induced in HRA cells in vitro. The activity of LDN-0060609 was studied in terms of protein and mRNA expression, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, caspase-3 level and cell cycle progression. LDN-0060609 at 25 μM proved to be a potent inhibitor of the major PERK substrate, p-eIF2α (49% inhibition). The compound markedly decreased the expression of pro-apoptotic ER stress-related genes (ATF4, DDIT3, BAX and Bcl-2). Treatment with LDN-0060609 significantly increased cell viability, decreased genotoxicity and caspase-3 levels, and restored cell cycle distribution in HRA cells with activated ER stress conditions. These findings indicate that the small-molecule PERK inhibitor LDN-0060609 can potentially be developed into a novel anti-glaucoma agent.

Unfolded Protein Response Signaling in Hepatic Stem Cell Activation in Liver Fibrosis

Frequent exposure to various external and internal adverse forces (stresses) disrupts cell protein homeostasis through endoplasmic reticulum (ER) capacity saturation. This process leads to the unfolded protein response (UPR), which aims to re-establish/maintain optimal cellular equilibrium. This complex mechanism is involved in the pathogenesis of various disorders, such as metabolic syndrome, fibrotic diseases, neurodegeneration, and cancer, by altering cellular metabolic changes integral to activating the hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). The development of hepatic fibrosis is one of the consequences of UPR activation. Therefore, novel therapies that target the UPR pathway effectively and specifically are being studied. This article covers the involvement of the UPR signaling pathway in cellular damage in liver fibrosis. Investigating the pathogenic pathways related to the ER/UPR stress axis that contribute to liver fibrosis can help to guide future drug therapy approaches.

Glucocorticoids rescue cell surface trafficking of R451C Neuroligin3 and enhance synapse formation

Neuroligins are synaptic cell adhesion proteins with a role in synaptic function, implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders. The autism spectrum disorder-associated substitution Arg451Cys (R451C) in NLGN3 promotes a partial misfolding of the extracellular domain of the protein leading to retention in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the induction of the unfolded protein response (UPR). The reduced trafficking of R451C NLGN3 to the cell surface leads to altered synaptic function and social behavior. A screening in HEK-293 cells overexpressing NLGN3 of 2662 compounds (FDA-approved small molecule drug library), led to the identification of several glucocorticoids such as alclometasone dipropionate, desonide, prednisolone sodium phosphate, and dexamethasone (DEX), with the ability to favor the exit of full-length R451C NLGN3 from the ER. DEX improved the stability of R451C NLGN3 and trafficking to the cell surface, reduced the activation of the UPR, and increased the formation of artificial synapses between HEK-293 and hippocampal primary neurons. The effect of DEX was validated on a novel model system represented by neural stem progenitor cells and differentiated neurons derived from the R451C NLGN3 knock-in mouse, expressing the endogenous protein. This work shows a potential rescue strategy for an autism-linked mutation affecting cell surface trafficking of a synaptic protein.

Autophagy-related mechanisms for treatment of multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a type of hematological cancer that occurs when B cells become malignant. Various drugs such as proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulators, and compounds that cause DNA damage can be used in the treatment of MM. Autophagy, a type 2 cell death mechanism, plays a crucial role in determining the fate of B cells, either promoting their survival or inducing cell death. Therefore, autophagy can either facilitate the progression or hinder the treatment of MM disease. In this review, autophagy mechanisms that may be effective in MM cells were covered and evaluated within the contexts of unfolded protein response (UPR), bone marrow microenvironment (BMME), drug resistance, hypoxia, DNA repair and transcriptional regulation, and apoptosis. The genes that are effective in each mechanism and research efforts on this subject were discussed in detail. Signaling pathways targeted by new drugs to benefit from autophagy in MM disease were covered. The efficacy of drugs that regulate autophagy in MM was examined, and clinical trials on this subject were included. Consequently, among the autophagy mechanisms that are effective in MM, the most suitable ones to be used in the treatment were expressed. The importance of 3D models and microfluidic systems for the discovery of new drugs for autophagy and personalized treatment was emphasized. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of MM disease, encompassing autophagy mechanisms, drugs, clinical studies, and further studies.

miRNA-378 Is Downregulated by XBP1 and Inhibits Growth and Migration of Luminal Breast Cancer Cells

X-box binding protein 1 (XBP1) is a transcription factor that plays a crucial role in the unfolded protein response (UPR), a cellular stress response pathway involved in maintaining protein homeostasis in the endoplasmic reticulum (EnR). While the role of XBP1 in UPR is well-characterised, emerging evidence suggests its involvement in endocrine resistance in breast cancer. The transcriptional activity of spliced XBP1 (XBP1s) is a major component of its biological effects, but the targets of XBP1s in estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer are not well understood. Here, we show that the expression of miR-378 and PPARGC1B (host gene of miR-378) is downregulated during UPR. Using chemical and genetic methods, we show that XBP1s is necessary and sufficient for the downregulation of miR-378 and PPARGC1B. Our results show that overexpression of miR-378 significantly suppressed cell growth, colony formation, and migration of ER-positive breast cancer cells. Further, we found that expression of miR-378 sensitised the cells to UPR-induced cell death and anti-estrogens. The expression of miR-378 and PPARGC1B was downregulated in breast cancer, and higher expression of miR-378 is associated with better outcomes in ER-positive breast cancer. We found that miR-378 upregulates the expression of several genes that regulate type I interferon signalling. Analysis of separate cohorts of breast cancer patients showed that a gene signature derived from miR-378 upregulated genes showed a strong association with improved overall and recurrence-free survival in breast cancer. Our results suggest a growth-suppressive role for miR-378 in ER-positive breast cancer where downregulation of miR-378 by XBP1 contributes to endocrine resistance in ER-positive breast cancer.

Pharmacologic activation of a compensatory integrated stress response kinase promotes mitochondrial remodeling in PERK-deficient cells

The integrated stress response (ISR) comprises the eIF2α kinases PERK, GCN2, HRI, and PKR, which induce translational and transcriptional signaling in response to diverse insults. Deficiencies in PERK signaling lead to mitochondrial dysfunction and contribute to the pathogenesis of numerous diseases. We define the potential for pharmacologic activation of compensatory eIF2α kinases to rescue ISR signaling and promote mitochondrial adaptation in PERK-deficient cells. We show that the HRI activator BtdCPU and GCN2 activator halofuginone promote ISR signaling and rescue ER stress sensitivity in PERK-deficient cells. However, BtdCPU induces mitochondrial depolarization, leading to mitochondrial fragmentation and activation of the OMA1-DELE1-HRI signaling axis. In contrast, halofuginone promotes mitochondrial elongation and adaptive mitochondrial respiration, mimicking regulation induced by PERK. This shows halofuginone can compensate for deficiencies in PERK signaling and promote adaptive mitochondrial remodeling, highlighting the potential for pharmacologic ISR activation to mitigate mitochondrial dysfunction and motivating the pursuit of highly selective ISR activators.

Single-cell RNA-sequencing of PBMCs from SAVI patients reveals disease-associated monocytes with elevated integrated stress response

Gain-of-function mutations in stimulator of interferon gene 1 (STING1) result in STING-associated vasculopathy with onset in infancy (SAVI), a severe autoinflammatory disease. Although elevated type I interferon (IFN) production is thought to be the leading cause of the symptoms observed in patients, STING can induce a set of pathways, which have roles in the onset and severity of SAVI and remain to be elucidated. To this end, we performed a multi-omics comparative analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and plasma from SAVI patients and healthy controls, combined with a dataset of healthy PBMCs treated with IFN-β. Our data reveal a subset of disease-associated monocyte, expressing elevated CCL3, CCL4, and IL-6, as well as a strong integrated stress response, which we suggest is the result of direct PERK activation by STING. Cell-to-cell communication inference indicates that these monocytes lead to T cell early activation, resulting in their senescence and apoptosis. Last, we propose a transcriptomic signature of STING activation, independent of type I IFN response.

Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Its Impact on Adipogenesis: Molecular Mechanisms Implicated

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress plays a pivotal role in adipogenesis, which encompasses the differentiation of adipocytes and lipid accumulation. Sustained ER stress has the potential to disrupt the signaling of the unfolded protein response (UPR), thereby influencing adipogenesis. This comprehensive review illuminates the molecular mechanisms that underpin the interplay between ER stress and adipogenesis. We delve into the dysregulation of UPR pathways, namely, IRE1-XBP1, PERK and ATF6 in relation to adipocyte differentiation, lipid metabolism, and tissue inflammation. Moreover, we scrutinize how ER stress impacts key adipogenic transcription factors such as proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and CCAAT-enhancer-binding proteins (C/EBPs) along with their interaction with other signaling pathways. The cellular ramifications include alterations in lipid metabolism, dysregulation of adipokines, and aged adipose tissue inflammation. We also discuss the potential roles the molecular chaperones cyclophilin A and cyclophilin B play in adipogenesis. By shedding light on the intricate relationship between ER stress and adipogenesis, this review paves the way for devising innovative therapeutic interventions.

Allelic effects on uromodulin aggregates drive autosomal dominant tubulointerstitial kidney disease

Missense mutations in the uromodulin (UMOD) gene cause autosomal dominant tubulointerstitial kidney disease (ADTKD), one of the most common monogenic kidney diseases. The unknown impact of the allelic and gene dosage effects and fate of mutant uromodulin leaves open the gap between postulated gain-of-function mutations, end-organ damage and disease progression in ADTKD. Based on two prevalent missense UMOD mutations with divergent disease progression, we generated UmodC171Y and UmodR186S knock-in mice that showed strong allelic and gene dosage effects on uromodulin aggregates and activation of ER stress and unfolded protein and immune responses, leading to variable kidney damage. Deletion of the wild-type Umod allele in heterozygous UmodR186S mice increased the formation of uromodulin aggregates and ER stress. Studies in kidney tubular cells confirmed differences in uromodulin aggregates, with activation of mutation-specific quality control and clearance mechanisms. Enhancement of autophagy by starvation and mTORC1 inhibition decreased uromodulin aggregates. These studies substantiate the role of toxic aggregates as driving progression of ADTKD-UMOD, relevant for therapeutic strategies to improve clearance of mutant uromodulin.

Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Protect Endothelial Cells from Hypoxic Injury by Suppressing Terminal UPR In Vivo and In Vitro

Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) have been used as a therapeutic intervention for peripheral artery disease (PAD) in clinical trials. To further explore the therapeutic mechanism of these mesenchymal multipotent stromal/stem cells in PAD, this study was designed to test the effect of xenogeneic ASCs extracted from human adipose tissue on hypoxic endothelial cells (ECs) and terminal unfolded protein response (UPR) in vitro and in an atherosclerosis-prone apolipoprotein E-deficient mice (ApoE-/- mice) hindlimb ischemia model in vivo. ASCs were added to Cobalt (II) chloride-treated ECs; then, metabolic activity, cell migration, and tube formation were evaluated. Fluorescence-based sensors were used to assess dynamic changes in Ca2+ levels in the cytosolic- and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) as well as changes in reactive oxygen species. Western blotting was used to observe the UPR pathway. To simulate an acute-on-chronic model of PAD, ApoE-/- mice were subjected to a double ligation of the femoral artery (DLFA). An assessment of functional recovery after DFLA was conducted, as well as histology of gastrocnemius. Hypoxia caused ER stress in ECs, but ASCs reduced it, thereby promoting cell survival. Treatment with ASCs ameliorated the effects of ischemia on muscle tissue in the ApoE-/- mice hindlimb ischemia model. Animals showed less muscle necrosis, less inflammation, and lower levels of muscle enzymes after ASC injection. In vitro and in vivo results revealed that all ER stress sensors (BIP, ATF6, CHOP, and XBP1) were activated. We also observed that the expression of these proteins was reduced in the ASCs treatment group. ASCs effectively alleviated endothelial dysfunction under hypoxic conditions by strengthening ATF6 and initiating a transcriptional program to restore ER homeostasis. In general, our data suggest that ASCs may be a meaningful treatment option for patients with PAD who do not have traditional revascularization options.

Increased activity of IRE1 improves the clinical presentation of EAE

Activation of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress sensor inositol-requiring enzyme-1α (IRE1α) contributes to neuronal development and is known to induce neuronal remodeling in vitro and in vivo. On the contrary, excessive IRE1 activity is often detrimental and may contribute to neurodegeneration. To determine the consequences of increased activation of IRE1α, we used a mouse model expressing a C148S variant of IRE1α with increased and sustained activation. Surprisingly, the mutation did not affect the differentiation of highly secretory antibody-producing cells but exhibited a beneficial effect in a mouse model of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Although mechanical allodynia was unaffected, significant improvement in motor function was found in IRE1C148S mice with EAE relative to wild type (WT) mice. Coincident with this improvement, there was reduced microgliosis in the spinal cord of IRE1C148S mice, with reduced expression of proinflammatory cytokine genes. This was accompanied by reduced axonal degeneration and enhanced 2',3'-cyclic nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase (CNPase) levels, suggesting improved myelin integrity. Interestingly, while the IRE1C148S mutation is expressed in all cells, the reduction in proinflammatory cytokines and in the microglial activation marker ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule (IBA1), along with preservation of phagocytic gene expression, all point to microglia as the cell type contributing to the clinical improvement in IRE1C148S animals. Our data suggest that sustained increase in IRE1α activity can be beneficial in vivo, and that this protection is cell type and context dependent. Considering the overwhelming but conflicting evidence for the role of ER stress in neurological diseases, a better understanding of the function of ER stress sensors in physiological contexts is clearly needed.