CREB activation induced by mitochondrial dysfunction is a new signaling pathway that impairs cell proliferation

Multi-faceted regulation of CREB family transcription factors

cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) is a ubiquitously expressed nuclear transcription factor, which can be constitutively activated regardless of external stimuli or be inducibly activated by external factors such as stressors, hormones, neurotransmitters, and growth factors. However, CREB controls diverse biological processes including cell growth, differentiation, proliferation, survival, apoptosis in a cell-type-specific manner. The diverse functions of CREB appear to be due to CREB-mediated differential gene expression that depends on cAMP response elements and multi-faceted regulation of CREB activity. Indeed, the transcriptional activity of CREB is controlled at several levels including alternative splicing, post-translational modification, dimerization, specific transcriptional co-activators, non-coding small RNAs, and epigenetic regulation. In this review, we present versatile regulatory modes of CREB family transcription factors and discuss their functional consequences.

The crosstalk between mitochondrial quality control and metal-dependent cell death

Mitochondria are the centers of energy and material metabolism, and they also serve as the storage and dispatch hubs of metal ions. Damage to mitochondrial structure and function can cause abnormal levels and distribution of metal ions, leading to cell dysfunction and even death. For a long time, mitochondrial quality control pathways such as mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy have been considered to inhibit metal-induced cell death. However, with the discovery of new metal-dependent cell death including ferroptosis and cuproptosis, increasing evidence shows that there is a complex relationship between mitochondrial quality control and metal-dependent cell death. This article reviews the latest research results and mechanisms of crosstalk between mitochondrial quality control and metal-dependent cell death in recent years, as well as their involvement in neurodegenerative diseases, tumors and other diseases, in order to provide new ideas for the research and treatment of related diseases.

Plasma membrane damage limits replicative lifespan in yeast and induces premature senescence in human fibroblasts

Plasma membrane damage (PMD) occurs in all cell types due to environmental perturbation and cell-autonomous activities. However, cellular outcomes of PMD remain largely unknown except for recovery or death. In this study, using budding yeast and normal human fibroblasts, we found that cellular senescence-stable cell cycle arrest contributing to organismal aging-is the long-term outcome of PMD. Our genetic screening using budding yeast unexpectedly identified a close genetic association between PMD response and replicative lifespan regulations. Furthermore, PMD limits replicative lifespan in budding yeast; upregulation of membrane repair factors ESCRT-III (SNF7) and AAA-ATPase (VPS4) extends it. In normal human fibroblasts, PMD induces premature senescence via the Ca2+-p53 axis but not the major senescence pathway, DNA damage response pathway. Transient upregulation of ESCRT-III (CHMP4B) suppressed PMD-dependent senescence. Together with mRNA sequencing results, our study highlights an underappreciated but ubiquitous senescent cell subtype: PMD-dependent senescent cells.

Multi-Omics Analyses Reveal Mitochondrial Dysfunction Contributing to Temozolomide Resistance in Glioblastoma Cells

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and aggressive malignant brain tumor with poor prognosis. Temozolomide (TMZ) is the standard chemotherapy for glioblastoma treatment, but TMZ resistance significantly compromises its efficacy. In the present study, we generated a TMZ-resistant cell line and identified that mitochondrial dysfunction was a novel factor contributing to TMZ resistance though multi-omics analyses and energy metabolism analysis. Furthermore, we found that rotenone treatment induced TMZ resistance to a certain level in glioblastoma cells. Notably, we further demonstrated that elevated Ca2+ levels and JNK-STAT3 pathway activation contributed to TMZ resistance and that inhibiting JNK or STAT3 increases susceptibility to TMZ. Taken together, our results indicate that co-administering TMZ with a JNK or STAT3 inhibitor holds promise as a potentially effective treatment for glioblastoma.

Sensitive imaging of Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) autophagy with an acidity-reporting ER-Tracker

Macroautophagic/autophagic turnover of endoplasmic reticulum (reticulophagy) is critical for cell health. Herein we reported a sensitive fluorescence-on imaging of reticulophagy using a small molecule probe (ER-proRed) comprised of green-emissive fluorinated rhodol for ER targeting and nonfluorescent rhodamine-lactam prone to lysosome-triggered red fluorescence. Partitioned in ER to exhibit green fluorescence, ER-proRed gives intense red fluorescence upon co-delivery with ER into acidic lysosomes. Serving as the signal of reticulophagy, the turning on of red fluorescence enables discernment of reticulophagy induced by starvation, varied levels of reticulophagic receptors, and chemical agents such as etoposide and sodium butyrate. These results show ER probes optically activatable in lysosomes, such as ER-proRed, offer a sensitive and simplified tool for studying reticulophagy in biology and diseases.Abbreviations: Baf-A1, bafilomycin A1; CCCP, carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenyl hydrazone; CQ, chloroquine diphosphate; ER, endoplasmic reticulum; FHR, fluorinated hydrophobic rhodol; GFP, green fluorescent protein; Reticulophagy, selective autophagy of ER; RFP, red fluorescent protein; ROX, X-rhodamine; UPR, unfolded protein response.

The Drosophila gene encoding JIG protein (CG14850) is critical for CrebA nuclear trafficking during development

Coordination of mitochondrial and nuclear processes is key to the cellular health; however, very little is known about the molecular mechanisms regulating nuclear-mitochondrial crosstalk. Here, we report a novel molecular mechanism controlling the shuttling of CREB (cAMP response element-binding protein) protein complex between mitochondria and nucleoplasm. We show that a previously unknown protein, herein termed as Jig, functions as a tissue-specific and developmental timing-specific coregulator in the CREB pathway. Our results demonstrate that Jig shuttles between mitochondria and nucleoplasm, interacts with CrebA protein and controls its delivery to the nucleus, thus triggering CREB-dependent transcription in nuclear chromatin and mitochondria. Ablating the expression of Jig prevents CrebA from localizing to the nucleoplasm, affecting mitochondrial functioning and morphology and leads to Drosophila developmental arrest at the early third instar larval stage. Together, these results implicate Jig as an essential mediator of nuclear and mitochondrial processes. We also found that Jig belongs to a family of nine similar proteins, each of which has its own tissue- and time-specific expression profile. Thus, our results are the first to describe the molecular mechanism regulating nuclear and mitochondrial processes in a tissue- and time-specific manner.

Multifunctions of CRIF1 in cancers and mitochondrial dysfunction

Sustaining proliferative signaling and enabling replicative immortality are two important hallmarks of cancer. The complex of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) and its cyclin plays a decisive role in the transformation of the cell cycle and is also critical in the initiation and progression of cancer. CRIF1, a multifunctional factor, plays a pivotal role in a series of cell biological progresses such as cell cycle, cell proliferation, and energy metabolism. CRIF1 is best known as a negative regulator of the cell cycle, on account of directly binding to Gadd45 family proteins or CDK2. In addition, CRIF1 acts as a regulator of several transcription factors such as Nur77 and STAT3 and partly determines the proliferation of cancer cells. Many studies showed that the expression of CRIF1 is significantly altered in cancers and potentially regarded as a tumor suppressor. This suggests that targeting CRIF1 would enhance the selectivity and sensitivity of cancer treatment. Moreover, CRIF1 might be an indispensable part of mitoribosome and is involved in the regulation of OXPHOS capacity. Further, CRIF1 is thought to be a novel target for the underlying mechanism of diseases with mitochondrial dysfunctions. In summary, this review would conclude the latest aspects of studies about CRIF1 in cancers and mitochondria-related diseases, shed new light on targeted therapy, and provide a more comprehensive holistic view.

Estrogen signaling as a bridge between the nucleus and mitochondria in cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Epidemiological studies indicate that pre-menopausal women are more protected against the development of CVDs compared to men of the same age. This effect is attributed to the action/effects of sex steroid hormones on the cardiovascular system. In this context, estrogen modulates cardiovascular function in physiological and pathological conditions, being one of the main physiological cardioprotective agents. Here we describe the common pathways and mechanisms by which estrogens modulate the retrograde and anterograde communication between the nucleus and mitochondria, highlighting the role of genomic and non-genomic pathways mediated by estrogen receptors. Additionally, we discuss the presumable role of bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) in enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis and function in different CVD models and how this protein could act as a master regulator of estrogen protective activity. Altogether, this review focuses on estrogenic control in gene expression and molecular pathways, how this activity governs nucleus-mitochondria communication, and its projection for a future generation of strategies in CVDs treatment.

The Effect of Lithocholic Acid on the Gut-Liver Axis

Lithocholic acid (LCA) is a monohydroxy bile acid produced by intestinal flora, which has been found to be associated with a variety of hepatic and intestinal diseases. LCA is previously considered to be toxic, however, recent studies revealed that LCA and its derivatives may exert anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects under certain conditions. LCA goes through enterohepatic circulation along with other bile acids, here, we mainly discuss the effects of LCA on the gut-liver axis, including the regulation of gut microbiota, intestinal barrier, and relevant nuclear receptors (VDR, PXR) and G protein-coupled receptor five in related diseases. In addition, we also find that some natural ingredients are involved in regulating the detoxification and excretion of LCA, and the interaction with LCA also mediates its own biological activity.

Novel potential NOX2 inhibitors, Dudleya brittonii water extract and polygalatenoside A inhibit intracellular ROS generation and growth of melanoma

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are key regulators of the proliferation, metastasis, and drug resistance of melanoma, which accounts for 60% of skin cancer deaths. In a previous study, we developed Dudleya brittonii water extract (DBWE) with antioxidant activity, but the mechanism of action and bioactive substances of DBWE have not been fully identified. This study showed altered NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) expression and selective inhibition of cytosolic ROS but not mitochondrial ROS in B16-F10 melanoma cells, suggesting the NOX2 inhibitory potential of DBWE. In addition, DBWE inhibited mitochondrial activity, lipid metabolism, and cell cycle in B16-F10 cells. The anti-melanoma effect of DBWE was abrogated by the addition of ROS, and there was no significant change in the melanogenesis pathway. Polygalatenoside A was identified as a candidate bioactive substance in the DBWE aqueous fraction through mass spectrometry, and the DBWE-like anti-melanoma effect was confirmed. These data suggest that DBWE and polygalatenoside A have the potential to prevent and treat melanoma.

Nuclear-Mitochondrial Interactions

Mitochondria, the cell’s major energy producers, also act as signaling hubs, interacting with other organelles both directly and indirectly. Despite having its own circular genome, the majority of mitochondrial proteins are encoded by nuclear DNA. To respond to changes in cell physiology, the mitochondria must send signals to the nucleus, which can, in turn, upregulate gene expression to alter metabolism or initiate a stress response. This is known as retrograde signaling. A variety of stimuli and pathways fall under the retrograde signaling umbrella. Mitochondrial dysfunction has already been shown to have severe implications for human health. Disruption of retrograde signaling, whether directly associated with mitochondrial dysfunction or cellular environmental changes, may also contribute to pathological deficits. In this review, we discuss known signaling pathways between the mitochondria and the nucleus, examine the possibility of direct contacts, and identify pathological consequences of an altered relationship.

Ghost mitochondria drive metastasis through adaptive GCN2/Akt therapeutic vulnerability

Cancer metabolism, including in mitochondria, is a disease hallmark and therapeutic target, but its regulation is poorly understood. Here, we show that many human tumors have heterogeneous and often reduced levels of Mic60, or Mitofilin, an essential scaffold of mitochondrial structure. Despite a catastrophic collapse of mitochondrial integrity, loss of bioenergetics, and oxidative damage, tumors with Mic60 depletion slow down cell proliferation, evade cell death, and activate a nuclear gene expression program of innate immunity and cytokine/chemokine signaling. In turn, this induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), activates tumor cell movements through exaggerated mitochondrial dynamics, and promotes metastatic dissemination in vivo. In a small-molecule drug screen, compensatory activation of stress response (GCN2) and survival (Akt) signaling maintains the viability of Mic60-low tumors and provides a selective therapeutic vulnerability. These data demonstrate that acutely damaged, "ghost" mitochondria drive tumor progression and expose an actionable therapeutic target in metastasis-prone cancers.

Mitochondrial stress adaptation promotes resistance to aromatase inhibitor in human breast cancer cells via ROS/calcium up-regulated amphiregulin-estrogen receptor loop signaling

Many breast cancer patients harbor high estrogen receptor (ER) expression in tumors that can be treated with endocrine therapy, which includes aromatase inhibitors (AI); unfortunately, resistance often occurs. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been thought to contribute to progression and to be related to hormone receptor expression in breast tumors. Mitochondrial alterations in AI-resistant breast cancer have not yet been defined. In this study, we characterized mitochondrial alterations and their roles in AI resistance. MCF-7aro AI-resistant breast cancer cells were shown to have significant changes in mitochondria. Low expressions of mitochondrial genes and proteins could be poor prognostic factors for breast cancer patients. Long-term mitochondrial inhibitor treatments-mediated mitochondrial stress adaptation could induce letrozole resistance. ERα-amphiregulin (AREG) loop signaling was activated and contributed to mitochondrial stress adaptation-mediated letrozole resistance. The up-regulation of AREG-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) crosstalk activated the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and ERK pathways and was responsible for ERα activation. Moreover, mitochondrial stress adaptation-increased intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and calcium were shown to induce AREG expression and secretion. In conclusion, our results support the claim that mitochondrial stress adaptation contributes to AI resistance via ROS/calcium-mediated AREG-ERα loop signaling and provide possible treatment targets for overcoming AI resistance.

Protective Effects of Flavonoids Against Mitochondriopathies and Associated Pathologies: Focus on the Predictive Approach and Personalized Prevention

Multi-factorial mitochondrial damage exhibits a “vicious circle” that leads to a progression of mitochondrial dysfunction and multi-organ adverse effects. Mitochondrial impairments (mitochondriopathies) are associated with severe pathologies including but not restricted to cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegeneration. However, the type and level of cascading pathologies are highly individual. Consequently, patient stratification, risk assessment, and mitigating measures are instrumental for cost-effective individualized protection. Therefore, the paradigm shift from reactive to predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine (3PM) is unavoidable in advanced healthcare. Flavonoids demonstrate evident antioxidant and scavenging activity are of great therapeutic utility against mitochondrial damage and cascading pathologies. In the context of 3PM, this review focuses on preclinical and clinical research data evaluating the efficacy of flavonoids as a potent protector against mitochondriopathies and associated pathologies.

Neonatal Rotenone Administration Induces Psychiatric Disorder-Like Behavior and Changes in Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Synaptic Proteins in Adulthood

Since psychiatric disorders are associated with changes in the development of the nervous system, an energy-dependent mechanism, we investigated whether mitochondrial inhibition during the critical neurodevelopment window in rodents would be able to induce metabolic alterations culminating in psychiatric-like behavior. We treated male Wistar rat puppies (P) with rotenone (Rot), an inhibitor of mitochondrial complex I, from postnatal days 5 to 11 (P5-P11). We demonstrated that at P60 and P120, Rot-treated animals showed hyperlocomotion and deficits in social interaction and aversive contextual memory, features observed in animal models of schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. During adulthood, Rot-treated rodents also presented modifications in CBP and CREB levels in addition to a decrease in mitochondrial biogenesis and Nrf1 expression. Additionally, NFE2L2-activation was not altered in Rot-treated P60 and P120 animals; an upregulation of pNFE2L2/ NFE2L2 was only observed in P12 cortices. Curiously, ATP/ADP levels did not change in all ages evaluated. Rot administration in newborn rodents also promoted modification in Rest and Mecp2 expression, and in synaptic protein levels, named PSD-95, Synaptotagmin-1, and Synaptophysin in the adult rats. Altogether, our data indicate that behavioral abnormalities and changes in synaptic proteins in adulthood induced by neonatal Rot administration might be a result of adjustments in CREB pathways and alterations in mitochondrial biogenesis and Nrf1 expression, rather than a direct deficiency of energy supply, as previously speculated. Consequently, Rot-induced psychiatric-like behavior would be an outcome of alterations in neuronal paths due to mitochondrial deregulation.

Mitochondria form contact sites with the nucleus to couple prosurvival retrograde response

Mitochondria drive cellular adaptation to stress by retro-communicating with the nucleus. This process is known as mitochondrial retrograde response (MRR) and is induced by mitochondrial dysfunction. MRR results in the nuclear stabilization of prosurvival transcription factors such as the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB). Here, we demonstrate that MRR is facilitated by contact sites between mitochondria and the nucleus. The translocator protein (TSPO) by preventing the mitophagy-mediated segregation o mitochonria is required for this interaction. The complex formed by TSPO with the protein kinase A (PKA), via the A-kinase anchoring protein acyl-CoA binding domain containing 3 (ACBD3), established the tethering. The latter allows for cholesterol redistribution of cholesterol in the nucleus to sustain the prosurvival response by blocking NF-κB deacetylation. This work proposes a previously unidentified paradigm in MRR: the formation of contact sites between mitochondria and nucleus to aid communication.

Mitonuclear Interactions in the Maintenance of Mitochondrial Integrity

In eukaryotic cells, mitochondria originated in an α-proteobacterial endosymbiont. Although these organelles harbor their own genome, the large majority of genes, originally encoded in the endosymbiont, were either lost or transferred to the nucleus. As a consequence, mitochondria have become semi-autonomous and most of their processes require the import of nuclear-encoded components to be functional. Therefore, the mitochondrial-specific translation has evolved to be coordinated by mitonuclear interactions to respond to the energetic demands of the cell, acquiring unique and mosaic features. However, mitochondrial-DNA-encoded genes are essential for the assembly of the respiratory chain complexes. Impaired mitochondrial function due to oxidative damage and mutations has been associated with numerous human pathologies, the aging process, and cancer. In this review, we highlight the unique features of mitochondrial protein synthesis and provide a comprehensive insight into the mitonuclear crosstalk and its co-evolution, as well as the vulnerabilities of the animal mitochondrial genome.

Dysregulation of RyR Calcium Channel Causes the Onset of Mitochondrial Retrograde Signaling

This study shows that multiple modes of mitochondrial stress generated by partial mtDNA depletion or cytochrome c oxidase disruption cause ryanodine receptor channel (RyR) dysregulation, which instigates the release of Ca2+ in the cytoplasm of C2C12 myoblasts and HCT116 carcinoma cells. We also observed a reciprocal downregulation of IP3R channel activity and reduced mitochondrial uptake of Ca2+. Ryanodine, an RyR antagonist, abrogated the mitochondrial stress-mediated increase in [Ca2+]c and the entire downstream signaling cascades of mitochondrial retrograde signaling. Interestingly, ryanodine also inhibited mitochondrial stress-induced invasive behavior in mtDNA-depleted C2C12 cells and HCT116 carcinoma cells. In addition, co-immunoprecipitation shows reduced FKBP12 protein binding to RyR channel proteins, suggesting the altered function of the Ca2+ channel. These results document how the endoplasmic reticulum-associated RyR channels, in combination with inhibition of the mitochondrial uniporter system, modulate cellular Ca2+ homeostasis and signaling under mitochondrial stress conditions.

Leucine-Rich Diet Modulates the Metabolomic and Proteomic Profile of Skeletal Muscle during Cancer Cachexia

Background: Cancer-cachexia induces a variety of metabolic disorders, including skeletal muscle imbalance. Alternative therapy, as nutritional supplementation with leucine, shows a modulatory effect over tumour damage in vivo and in vitro. Method: Adult rats distributed into Control (C), Walker tumour-bearing (W), control fed a leucine-rich diet (L), and tumour-bearing fed a leucine-rich diet (WL) groups had the gastrocnemius muscle metabolomic and proteomic assays performed in parallel to in vitro assays. Results: W group presented an affected muscle metabolomic and proteomic profile mainly related to energy generation and carbohydrates catabolic processes, but leucine-supplemented group (WL) recovered the energy production. In vitro assay showed that cell proliferation, mitochondria number and oxygen consumption were higher under leucine effect than the tumour influence. Muscle proteomics results showed that the main affected cell component was mitochondria, leading to an impacted energy generation, including impairment in proteins of the tricarboxylic cycle and carbohydrates catabolic processes, which were modulated and improved by leucine treatment. Conclusion: In summary, we showed a beneficial effect of leucine upon mitochondria, providing information about the muscle glycolytic pathways used by this amino acid, where it can be associated with the preservation of morphometric parameters and consequent protection against the effects of cachexia.

Nobiletin inhibits cell growth through restraining aerobic glycolysis via PKA-CREB pathway in oral squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND/AIM

Nobiletin is a polymethoxylated flavone enriched in Citrus and is used as an important drug in traditional Chinese medicine for various kinds of diseases. Among its multiple functions, it has shown that nobiletin inhibits proliferation of various cancer cells. However, it is unclear whether nobiletin inhibits the growth of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We explored the antitumor effects of nobiletin in TCA-8113 and CAL-27 oral squamous cells. The Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) assay was used to measure cell vitality. Flow cytometry was performed to measure the number of cells in the various phases of the cell cycle. PCR and Western blot were applied to determine mRNA and protein expression, respectively.

RESULTS

Nobiletin inhibited proliferation of TCA-8113 and CAL-27 cells via inducing cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase. In addition, the levels of phosphorylated-PKA and phosphorylated-CREB were reduced in nobiletin-treated TCA-8113 and CAL-27 cells. Importantly, our results showed that nobiletin treatment resulted in impaired mitochondrial function and altered glucose consumption, and pyruvate and lactate production. Lastly, nobiletin was found to inhibit the generation of xenografts in vivo. Interestingly, administration of 50 μmol/L Sp-cAMP, a potent PKA activator, rescued all phenotypes caused by nobiletin.

CONCLUSIONS

Nobiletin inhibits OSCC cell proliferation in a mitochondria-dependent manner, indicating that it may have a promising role in cancer treatment and attenuation of drug resistance.

Mitochondrial retrograde signalling in neurological disease

Neuronal mitochondrial dysfunction causes primary mitochondrial diseases and likely contributes to neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. Mitochondrial dysfunction has also been documented in neurodevelopmental disorders such as tuberous sclerosis complex and autism spectrum disorder. Only symptomatic treatments exist for neurodevelopmental disorders, while neurodegenerative diseases are largely untreatable. Altered mitochondrial function activates mitochondrial retrograde signalling pathways, which enable signalling to the nucleus to reprogramme nuclear gene expression. In this review, we discuss the role of mitochondrial retrograde signalling in neurological diseases. We summarize how mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to neurodegenerative disease and neurodevelopmental disorders. Mitochondrial signalling mechanisms that have relevance to neurological disease are discussed. We then describe studies documenting retrograde signalling pathways in neurons and glia, and in animal models of neuronal mitochondrial dysfunction and neurological disease. Finally, we suggest how specific retrograde signalling pathways can be targeted to develop novel treatments for neurological diseases. This article is part of the theme issue 'Retrograde signalling from endosymbiotic organelles'.

Role of the mitochondrial stress response in human cancer progression

IMPACT STATEMENT

Dysregulated mitochondria often occurred in cancers. Mitochondrial dysfunction might contribute to cancer progression. We reviewed several mitochondrial stresses in cancers. Mitochondrial stress responses might contribute to cancer progression. Several mitochondrion-derived molecules (ROS, Ca2+, oncometabolites, exported mtDNA, mitochondrial double-stranded RNA, humanin, and MOTS-c), integrated stress response, and mitochondrial unfolded protein response act as retrograde signaling pathways and might be critical in the development and progression of cancer. Targeting these mitochondrial stress responses may be an important strategy for cancer treatment.

Astaxanthin Inhibits Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore Opening in Rat Heart Mitochondria

The mitochondrion is the main organelle of oxidative stress in cells. Increased permeability of the inner mitochondrial membrane is a key phenomenon in cell death. Changes in membrane permeability result from the opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP), a large-conductance channel that forms after the overload of mitochondria with Ca²⁺ or in response to oxidative stress. The ketocarotenoid astaxanthin (AST) is a potent antioxidant that is capable of maintaining the integrity of mitochondria by preventing oxidative stress. In the present work, the effect of AST on the functioning of mPTP was studied. It was found that AST was able to inhibit the opening of mPTP, slowing down the swelling of mitochondria by both direct addition to mitochondria and administration. AST treatment changed the level of mPTP regulatory proteins in isolated rat heart mitochondria. Consequently, AST can protect mitochondria from changes in the induced permeability of the inner membrane. AST inhibited serine/threonine protein kinase B (Akt)/cAMP-responsive element-binding protein (CREB) signaling pathways in mitochondria, which led to the prevention of mPTP opening. Since AST improves the resistance of rat heart mitochondria to Ca²⁺-dependent stress, it can be assumed that after further studies, this antioxidant will be considered an effective tool for improving the functioning of the heart muscle in general under normal and medical conditions.

The secret messages between mitochondria and nucleus in muscle cell biology

Over two thousand proteins are found in the mitochondrial compartment but the mitochondrial genome codes for only 13 proteins. The majority of mitochondrial proteins are products of nuclear genes and are synthesized in the cytosol, then translocated into the mitochondria. Most of the subunits of the five respiratory chain complexes in the inner mitochondrial membrane, which generate a proton gradient across the membrane and produce ATP, are encoded by nuclear genes. Therefore, it is quite clear that import of nuclear-encoded proteins into the mitochondria is essential for mitochondrial function. Nuclear to mitochondrial communication is well studied. However, there is another arm to this communication, mitochondria to nucleus retrograde signaling. This plays an important role in the maintenance of cellular homeostasis, and is less well studied. Several transcription factors, including Sp1, SIRT3 and GSP2, are activated by altered mitochondrial function. These activated transcription factors then translocate to the nucleus. Based on the mitochondrially generated molecular signal, nuclear genes are targeted, which alters transcription of nuclear genes that code for mitochondrial proteins. This review article will mainly focus on this interactive and bi-directional communication between mitochondria and nucleus, and how this communication plays a significant role in muscle cell biology.

Mitochondrial localization, import, and mitochondrial function of the androgen receptor

Nuclear localization of androgen receptor (AR) directs transcriptional regulation of a host of genes, referred to as genomic signaling. Additionally, nonnuclear or nongenomic activities of the AR have long been described, but understanding of these activities remains elusive. Here, we report that AR is imported into and localizes to mitochondria and has a novel role in regulating multiple mitochondrial processes. Employing complementary experimental approaches of AR knockdown in AR-expressing cells and ectopic AR expression in AR-deficient cells, we demonstrate an inverse relationship between AR expression and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content and transcription factor A, mitochondrial (TFAM), a regulator of mtDNA content. We show that AR localizes to mitochondria in prostate tissues and cell lines and is imported into mitochondria in vitro We also found that AR contains a 36-amino-acid-long mitochondrial localization sequence (MLS) capable of targeting a passenger protein (GFP) to the mitochondria and that deletion of the MLS abolishes the import of AR into the mitochondria. Ectopic AR expression reduced the expression of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) subunits. Interestingly, AR also controlled translation of mtDNA-encoded genes by regulating expression of multiple nuclear DNA-encoded mitochondrial ribosomal proteins. Consistent with these observations, OXPHOS supercomplexes were destabilized, and OXPHOS enzymatic activities were reduced in AR-expressing cells and restored upon AR knockdown. Moreover, mitochondrial impairment induced AR expression and increased its translocation into mitochondria. We conclude that AR localizes to mitochondria, where it controls multiple mitochondrial functions and mitonuclear communication. Our studies also suggest that mitochondria are novel players in nongenomic activities of AR.

Distinction of sporadic and familial forms of ALS based on mitochondrial characteristics

Bioenergetic failure, oxidative stress, and changes in mitochondrial morphology are common pathologic hallmarks of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in several cellular and animal models. Disturbed mitochondrial physiology has serious consequences for proper functioning of the cell, leading to the chronic mitochondrial stress. Mitochondria, being in the center of cellular metabolism, play a pivotal role in adaptation to stress conditions. We found that mitochondrial dysfunction and adaptation processes differ in primary fibroblasts derived from patients diagnosed with either sporadic or familial forms of ALS. The evaluation of mitochondrial parameters such as the mitochondrial membrane potential, the oxygen consumption rate, the activity and levels of respiratory chain complexes, and the levels of ATP, reactive oxygen species, and Ca²⁺ show that the bioenergetic properties of mitochondria are different in sporadic ALS, familial ALS, and control groups. Comparative statistical analysis of the data set (with use of principal component analysis and support vector machine) identifies and distinguishes 3 separate groups despite the small number of investigated cell lines and high variability in measured parameters. These findings could be a first step in development of a new tool for predicting sporadic and familial forms of ALS and could contribute to knowledge of its pathophysiology.-Walczak, J., Dębska-Vielhaber, G., Vielhaber, S., Szymański, J., Charzyńska, A., Duszyński, J., Szczepanowska, J. Distinction of sporadic and familial forms of ALS based on mitochondrial characteristics.

The Multiple Levels of Mitonuclear Coregulation

Together, the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes encode the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) complexes that reside in the mitochondrial inner membrane and enable aerobic life. Mitochondria maintain their own genome that is expressed and regulated by factors distinct from their nuclear counterparts. For optimal function, the cell must ensure proper stoichiometric production of OXPHOS subunits by coordinating two physically separated and evolutionarily distinct gene expression systems. Here, we review our current understanding of mitonuclear coregulation primarily at the levels of transcription and translation. Additionally, we discuss other levels of coregulation that may exist but remain largely unexplored, including mRNA modification and stability and posttranslational protein degradation.

Calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IV (CaMKIV) activation contributes to the pathogenesis of experimental colitis via inhibition of intestinal epithelial cell proliferation

The incidence and prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are increasing worldwide. IBD is known to be multifactorial, but inflammatory signaling within the intestinal epithelium and a subsequent failure of the intestinal epithelial barrier have been shown to play essential roles in disease pathogenesis. CaMKIV is a multifunctional protein kinase associated with inflammation and cell cycle regulation. CaMKIV has been extensively studied in autoimmune diseases, but a role in idiopathic intestinal inflammation has not been described. In this study, active CaMKIV was highly expressed within the intestinal epithelium of humans with ulcerative colitis and wild-type (WT) mice with experimental induced colitis. Clinical disease severity directly correlates with CaMKIV activation, as does expression of proinflammatory cytokines and histologic features of colitis. In WT mice, CaMKIV activation is associated with increases in expression of 2 cell cycle proarrest signals: p53 and p21. Cell cycle arrest inhibits proliferation of the intestinal epithelium and ultimately results in compromised intestinal epithelial barrier integrity, further perpetuating intestinal inflammation during experimental colitis. Using a CaMKIV null mutant mouse, we demonstrate that a loss of CaMKIV protects against murine DSS colitis. Small molecules targeting CaMKIV activation may provide therapeutic benefit for patients with IBD.-Cunningham, K. E., Novak, E. A., Vincent, G., Siow, V. S., Griffith, B. D., Ranganathan, S., Rosengart, M. R., Piganelli, J. D., Mollen, K. P. Calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IV (CaMKIV) activation contributes to the pathogenesis of experimental colitis via inhibition of intestinal epithelial cell proliferation.

Stem cell rejuvenation and the role of autophagy in age retardation by caloric restriction: An update

Stem cells being pluripotent in nature can differentiate into a wide array of specific cells and asymmetrically divide to produce new ones but may undergo aging by themselves. Aging has both quantitative and qualitative effects on stem cells, and could eventually restrain them from replenishing into progenitor cells. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulated in the aging cells could not only block the cell cycle but also affect autophagy by damaging the mitochondria. Autophagy could eliminate redundant production of ROS in aging stem cells and helps to maintain the proliferation capacity by restraining the expression of p16^INK4a. Current studies showed that improving autophagy could restore the regenerative ability of aging stem cells. Therefore, it is important for an organism to maintain the appropriate autophagy. Caloric restriction (CR) was shown to retard the stem cell aging by a certain basic level of autophagy, suggesting that CR was an effective way to extend longevity in mammals. However, little is known about the underlying mechanisms. In this review, we tried to explore the molecular mechanisms on how CR induces appropriate autophagy to restore aging stem cell regenerative ability.

Global mapping of transcription factor motifs in human aging

Biological aging is a complex process dependent on the interplay of cell autonomous and tissue contextual changes which occur in response to cumulative molecular stress and manifest through adaptive transcriptional reprogramming. Here we describe a transcription factor (TF) meta-analysis of gene expression datasets accrued from 18 tissue sites collected at different biological ages and from 7 different in-vitro aging models. In-vitro aging platforms included replicative senescence and an energy restriction model in quiescence (ERiQ), in which ATP was transiently reduced. TF motifs in promoter regions of trimmed sets of target genes were scanned using JASPAR and TRANSFAC. TF signatures established a global mapping of agglomerating motifs with distinct clusters when ranked hierarchically. Remarkably, the ERiQ profile was shared with the majority of in-vivo aged tissues. Fitting motifs in a minimalistic protein-protein network allowed to probe for connectivity to distinct stress sensors. The DNA damage sensors ATM and ATR linked to the subnetwork associated with senescence. By contrast, the energy sensors PTEN and AMPK connected to the nodes in the ERiQ subnetwork. These data suggest that metabolic dysfunction may be linked to transcriptional patterns characteristic of many aged tissues and distinct from cumulative DNA damage associated with senescence.

Defining the momiome: Promiscuous information transfer by mobile mitochondria and the mitochondrial genome

Mitochondria are complex intracellular organelles that have long been identified as the powerhouses of eukaryotic cells because of the central role they play in oxidative metabolism. A resurgence of interest in the study of mitochondria during the past decade has revealed that mitochondria also play key roles in cell signaling, proliferation, cell metabolism and cell death, and that genetic and/or metabolic alterations in mitochondria contribute to a number of diseases, including cancer. Mitochondria have been identified as signaling organelles, capable of mediating bidirectional intracellular information transfer: anterograde (from nucleus to mitochondria) and retrograde (from mitochondria to nucleus). More recently, evidence is now building that the role of mitochondria extends to intercellular communication as well, and that the mitochondrial genome (mtDNA) and even whole mitochondria are indeed mobile and can mediate information transfer between cells. We define this promiscuous information transfer function of mitochondria and mtDNA as "momiome" to include all mobile functions of mitochondria and the mitochondrial genome. Herein, we review the "momiome" and explore its role in cancer development, progression, and treatment.

Mitochondrial retrograde signaling in the nervous system

Mitochondria generate the majority of cellular ATP and are essential for neuronal function. Loss of mitochondrial activity leads to primary mitochondrial diseases and may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Mitochondria communicate with the cell through mitochondrial retrograde signaling pathways. These signaling pathways are triggered by mitochondrial dysfunction and allow the organelle to control nuclear gene transcription. Neuronal mitochondrial retrograde signaling pathways have been identified in disease model systems and targeted to restore neuronal function and prevent neurodegeneration. In this review, we describe yeast and mammalian cellular models that have paved the way in the investigation of mitochondrial retrograde mechanisms. We then discuss the evidence for retrograde signaling in neurons and our current knowledge of retrograde signaling mechanisms in neuronal model systems. We argue that targeting mitochondrial retrograde pathways has the potential to lead to novel treatments for neurological diseases.

Linking CREB function with altered metabolism in murine fibroblast-based model cell lines

The cAMP-responsive element binding protein CREB is frequently overexpressed and activated in tumors of distinct histology, leading to enhanced proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis as well as reduced apoptosis. The de-regulated expression of CREB might be linked with transcriptional as well as post-transcriptional regulation mechanisms. We show here that altered CREB expression levels and function are associated with changes in the cellular metabolism. Using comparative proteome-based analysis an altered expression pattern of proteins involved in the cellular metabolism in particular in glycolysis was found upon CREB down-regulation in HER-2/neu-transfected cell lines. This was associated with diminished expression levels of the glucose transporter 1, reduced glucose uptake and reduced glycolytic activity in HER-2/neu-transfected cells with down-regulated CREB when compared to HER-2/neu⁺ cells. Furthermore, hypoxia-induced CREB activity resulted in changes of the metabolism in HER-2/neu transfected cells. Low pH values in the supernatant of HER-2/neu transformants were restored by CREB down-regulation, but further decreased by hypoxia. The altered intracellular pH values were associated with a distinct expression of lactate dehydrogenase, and its substrate lactate. Moreover, enhanced phosphorylation of CREB on residue Ser133 was accompanied by a down-regulation of pERK and an up-regulation of pAKT. CREB promotes the detoxification of ROS by catalase, therefore protecting the mitochondrial activity under oxidative stress. These data suggest that there might exists a link between CREB function and the altered metabolism in HER-2/neu-transformed cells. Thus, targeting these altered metabolic pathways might represent an attractive therapeutic approach at least for the treatment of patients with HER-2/neu overexpressing tumors.

CREB5 promotes tumor cell invasion and correlates with poor prognosis in epithelial ovarian cancer

CAMP responsive element binding protein 5 (CREB5) has crucial roles in regulating cell growth, proliferation, differentiation and cell cycle regulation. CREB5 has been identified to be overexpressed in several types of human cancer. However, the expression characteristics of CREB5 in epithelial ovarian cancer remains unknown, and its potential clinical prognostic significance has not yet been elucidated. In the present study, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and western blot analysis were performed to detect CREB5 mRNA and protein expression levels in 10 fresh tissue and cell lines epithelial ovarian cancer. Furthermore, CREB5 expression was analyzed using immunohistochemical analysis in 125 clinicopathologically characterized ovarian cancers: Stage I+II (n=31), stage III (n=70), stage IV (n=24). The patient survival rate was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier analysis. CREB5 was significantly overexpressed at both the mRNA and protein levels in epithelial ovarian cancer cells. There was a significant positive correlation between high CREB5 expression and increasing the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage and pelvic lymph node metastasis (P<0.05). Patients with high CREB5 expression had a shorter overall survival, whereas patients with low CREB5 expression had longer survival. In addition, patients with high CREB5 expression had shorter relapse-free survival whereas patients with low CREB5 expression had longer relapse-free survival. Univariate logistic regression analysis and stepwise multivariate analysis all revealed that the FIGO stage and high CREB5 expression were significant risk factors for epithelial ovarian cancer (P<0.001), which suggested that CREB5 upregulation may be associated with a poor prognosis; therefore, it may be an independent prognostic indicator of epithelial ovarian cancer and may serve as a tumor-aggressive gene.

Lithocholic bile acid inhibits lipogenesis and induces apoptosis in breast cancer cells

BACKGROUND

It has amply been documented that mammary tumor cells may exhibit an increased lipogenesis. Biliary acids are currently recognized as signaling molecules in the intestine, in addition to their classical roles in the digestion and absorption of lipids. The aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of lithocholic acid (LCA) on the lipogenesis of breast cancer cells. The putative cytotoxic effects of LCA on these cells were also examined.

METHODS

The effects of LCA on breast cancer-derived MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells were studied using MTT viability assays, Annexin-FITC and Akt phosphorylation assays to evaluate anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic properties, qRT-PCR and Western blotting assays to assess the expression of the bile acid receptor TGR5 and the estrogen receptor ERα, and genes and proteins involved in apoptosis (Bax, Bcl-2, p53) and lipogenesis (SREBP-1c, FASN, ACACA). Intracellular lipid droplets were visualized using Oil Red O staining.

RESULTS

We found that LCA induces TGR5 expression and exhibits anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Also, an increase in pro-apoptotic p53 protein expression and a decrease in anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein expression were observed after LCA treatment of MCF-7 cells. In addition, we found that LCA reduced Akt phosphorylation in MCF-7 cells, but not in MDA-MB-231 cells. We also noted that LCA reduced the expression of SREBP-1c, FASN and ACACA in both breast cancer-derived cell lines and that cells treated with LCA contained low numbers of lipid droplets compared to untreated control cells. Finally, a decrease in ERα expression was observed in MCF-7 cells treated with LCA.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest a potential therapeutic role of lithocholic acid in breast cancer cells through a reversion of lipid metabolism deregulation.

DNA damage related crosstalk between the nucleus and mitochondria

The electron transport chain is the primary pathway by which a cell generates energy in the form of ATP. Byproducts of this process produce reactive oxygen species that can cause damage to mitochondrial DNA. If not properly repaired, the accumulation of DNA damage can lead to mitochondrial dysfunction linked to several human disorders including neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. Mitochondria are able to combat oxidative DNA damage via repair mechanisms that are analogous to those found in the nucleus. Of the repair pathways currently reported in the mitochondria, the base excision repair pathway is the most comprehensively described. Proteins that are involved with the maintenance of mtDNA are encoded by nuclear genes and translocate to the mitochondria making signaling between the nucleus and mitochondria imperative. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of mitochondrial DNA repair mechanisms and also highlight the sensors and signaling pathways that mediate crosstalk between the nucleus and mitochondria in the event of mitochondrial stress.

Mitochondrial retrograde signaling connects respiratory capacity to thermogenic gene expression

Mitochondrial respiration plays a crucial role in determining the metabolic state of brown adipose tissue (BAT), due to its direct roles in thermogenesis, as well as through additional mechanisms. Here, we show that respiration-dependent retrograde signaling from mitochondria to nucleus contributes to genetic and metabolic reprogramming of BAT. In mouse BAT, ablation of LRPPRC (LRP130), a potent regulator of mitochondrial transcription and respiratory capacity, triggers down-regulation of thermogenic genes, promoting a storage phenotype in BAT. This retrograde regulation functions by inhibiting the recruitment of PPARγ to the regulatory elements of thermogenic genes. Reducing cytosolic Ca²⁺ reverses the attenuation of thermogenic genes in brown adipocytes with impaired respiratory capacity, while induction of cytosolic Ca²⁺ is sufficient to attenuate thermogenic gene expression, indicating that cytosolic Ca²⁺ mediates mitochondria-nucleus crosstalk. Our findings suggest respiratory capacity governs thermogenic gene expression and BAT function via mitochondria-nucleus communication, which in turn leads to either a thermogenic or storage mode.

Classical and Novel TSPO Ligands for the Mitochondrial TSPO Can Modulate Nuclear Gene Expression: Implications for Mitochondrial Retrograde Signaling

It is known that knockdown of the mitochondrial 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO) as well as TSPO ligands modulate various functions, including functions related to cancer. To study the ability of TSPO to regulate gene expression regarding such functions, we applied microarray analysis of gene expression to U118MG glioblastoma cells. Within 15 min, the classical TSPO ligand PK 11195 induced changes in expression of immediate early genes and transcription factors. These changes also included gene products that are part of the canonical pathway serving to modulate general gene expression. These changes are in accord with real-time, reverse transcriptase (RT) PCR. At the time points of 15, 30, 45, and 60 min, as well as 3 and 24 h of PK 11195 exposure, the functions associated with the changes in gene expression in these glioblastoma cells covered well known TSPO functions. These functions included cell viability, proliferation, differentiation, adhesion, migration, tumorigenesis, and angiogenesis. This was corroborated microscopically for cell migration, cell accumulation, adhesion, and neuronal differentiation. Changes in gene expression at 24 h of PK 11195 exposure were related to downregulation of tumorigenesis and upregulation of programmed cell death. In the vehicle treated as well as PK 11195 exposed cell cultures, our triple labeling showed intense TSPO labeling in the mitochondria but no TSPO signal in the cell nuclei. Thus, mitochondrial TSPO appears to be part of the mitochondria-to-nucleus signaling pathway for modulation of nuclear gene expression. The novel TSPO ligand 2-Cl-MGV-1 appeared to be very specific regarding modulation of gene expression of immediate early genes and transcription factors.

Redox control of senescence and age-related disease

The signaling networks that drive the aging process, associated functional deterioration, and pathologies has captured the scientific community's attention for decades. While many theories exist to explain the aging process, the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) provides a signaling link between engagement of cellular senescence and several age-associated pathologies. Cellular senescence has evolved to restrict tumor progression but the accompanying senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) promotes pathogenic pathways. Here, we review known biological theories of aging and how ROS mechanistically control senescence and the aging process. We also describe the redox-regulated signaling networks controlling the SASP and its important role in driving age-related diseases. Finally, we discuss progress in designing therapeutic strategies that manipulate the cellular redox environment to restrict age-associated pathology.

Corticosterone Inhibits the Proliferation of C6 Glioma Cells via the Translocation of Unphosphorylated Glucocorticoid Receptor

Astroglial cells have been considered to have passive brain function by helping to maintain neurons. However, recent studies have revealed that the dysfunction of such passive functions may be associated with various neuropathological diseases, such as schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and major depression. Corticosterone (CORT), which is often referred to as the stress hormone, is a well-known regulator of peripheral immune responses and also shows anti-inflammatory properties in the brain. However, it is still obscure how CORT affects astroglial cell function. In this study, we investigated the effects of CORT on the proliferation and survival of astroglial cells using C6 glioma cells. Under treatment with CORT for 24h, the proliferation of C6 glioma cells decreased in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, this inhibition was diminised by treatment with mifepristone, a glucocorticoid receptor (GR) antagonist, but not by spironolactone, a mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonist, and was independent of GR phosphorylation and other GR-related intracellular signaling cascades. Furthermore, it was observed that the translocation of GR from the cytosol to the nucleus was promoted by the treatment with CORT. These results indicate that CORT decreases the proliferation of C6 glioma cells by modifying the transcription of a particular gene related to cell proliferation independent of GR phosphorylation.

Mitochondrial dysfunction and mitochondrial dynamics-The cancer connection

Mitochondrial dysfunction is a hallmark of many diseases. The retrograde signaling initiated by dysfunctional mitochondria can bring about global changes in gene expression that alters cell morphology and function. Typically, this is attributed to disruption of important mitochondrial functions, such as ATP production, integration of metabolism, calcium homeostasis and regulation of apoptosis. Recent studies showed that in addition to these factors, mitochondrial dynamics might play an important role in stress signaling. Normal mitochondria are highly dynamic organelles whose size, shape and network are controlled by cell physiology. Defective mitochondrial dynamics play important roles in human diseases. Mitochondrial DNA defects and defective mitochondrial function have been reported in many cancers. Recent studies show that increased mitochondrial fission is a pro-tumorigenic phenotype. In this paper, we have explored the current understanding of the role of mitochondrial dynamics in pathologies. We present new data on mitochondrial dynamics and dysfunction to illustrate a causal link between mitochondrial DNA defects, excessive fission, mitochondrial retrograde signaling and cancer progression. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Mitochondria in Cancer, edited by Giuseppe Gasparre, Rodrigue Rossignol and Pierre Sonveaux.

HnRNPA2 is a novel histone acetyltransferase that mediates mitochondrial stress-induced nuclear gene expression

Reduced mitochondrial DNA copy number, mitochondrial DNA mutations or disruption of electron transfer chain complexes induce mitochondria-to-nucleus retrograde signaling, which induces global change in nuclear gene expression ultimately contributing to various human pathologies including cancer. Recent studies suggest that these mitochondrial changes cause transcriptional reprogramming of nuclear genes although the mechanism of this cross talk remains unclear. Here, we provide evidence that mitochondria-to-nucleus retrograde signaling regulates chromatin acetylation and alters nuclear gene expression through the heterogeneous ribonucleoprotein A2 (hnRNAP2). These processes are reversed when mitochondrial DNA content is restored to near normal cell levels. We show that the mitochondrial stress-induced transcription coactivator hnRNAP2 acetylates Lys 8 of H4 through an intrinsic histone lysine acetyltransferase (KAT) activity with Arg 48 and Arg 50 of hnRNAP2 being essential for acetyl-CoA binding and acetyltransferase activity. H4K8 acetylation at the mitochondrial stress-responsive promoters by hnRNAP2 is essential for transcriptional activation. We found that the previously described mitochondria-to-nucleus retrograde signaling-mediated transformation of C2C12 cells caused an increased expression of genes involved in various oncogenic processes, which is retarded in hnRNAP2 silenced or hnRNAP2 KAT mutant cells. Taken together, these data show that altered gene expression by mitochondria-to-nucleus retrograde signaling involves a novel hnRNAP2-dependent epigenetic mechanism that may have a role in cancer and other pathologies.

Differential Protein Distribution between the Nucleus and Mitochondria: Implications in Aging

The coordination of nuclear and mitochondrial genomes plays a pivotal role in maintenance of mitochondrial biogenesis and functionality during stress and aging. Environmental and cellular inputs signal to nucleus and/or mitochondria to trigger interorganellar compensatory responses. Loss of this tightly orchestrated coordination results in loss of cellular homeostasis and underlies various pathologies and age-related diseases. Several signaling cascades that govern interorganellar communication have been revealed up to now, and have been classified as part of the anterograde (nucleus to mitochondria) or retrograde (mitochondrial to nucleus) response. Many of these molecular pathways rely on the dual distribution of nuclear or mitochondrial components under basal or stress conditions. These dually localized components usually engage in specific tasks in their primary organelle of function, whilst upon cellular stimuli, they appear in the other organelle where they engage in the same or a different task, triggering a compensatory stress response. In this review, we focus on protein factors distributed between the nucleus and mitochondria and activated to exert their functions upon basal or stress conditions. We further discuss implications of bi-organellar targeting in the context of aging.

Mitohormesis in exercise training

Hormesis is a process whereby exposure to a low dose of a potentially harmful stressor promotes adaptive changes to the cell that enables it to better tolerate subsequent stress. In recent years this concept has been applied specifically to the mitochondria (mitohormesis), suggesting that in response to a perturbation the mitochondria can initiate and transduce a signal to the nucleus that coordinates a transcriptional response resulting in both mitochondrial and non-mitochondrial adaptations that return and maintain cellular homeostasis. In this review we summarize the evidence that mitohormesis is a significant adaptive-response signaling pathway, and suggest that it plays a role in mediating exercise-induced adaptations. We discuss potential mitochondrial emitters of retrograde signals that may activate known exercise-sensitive transcription factors to modulate transcription responses to exercise, and draw on evidence from mitochondrial dysfunction animal models to support a role for mitohormesis in mitochondrial biogenesis. Studies directly linking mitohormesis to the exercise training response are lacking, however mounting evidence suggests numerous signals are emitted from the mitochondria during exercise and have the potential to induce a nuclear transcription response, with reactive oxygen species (ROS) being the primary candidate.

Mitochondrial retrograde signaling in the Drosophila nervous system and beyond

Mitochondrial dysfunction has been suggested to contribute to neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer and Parkinson disease. Cells respond to changes in the functional state of mitochondria via retrograde signaling pathways from the mitochondria to the nucleus, but little is known about retrograde signaling in the nervous system. We have recently shown that inhibition of retrograde signaling reduces the impact of neuronal mitochondrial dysfunction. We performed a study designed to characterize the mitochondrial retrograde signaling pathway in the Drosophila nervous system. Using several different models we found that neuronal specific mitochondrial dysfunction results in defects in synapse development and neuronal function. Moreover, we identified the Drosophila hypoxia inducible factor α (HIFα) ortholog Sima as a key neuronal transcriptional regulator. Knock-down of sima restores function in several Drosophila models of mitochondrial dysfunction, including models of human disease. Here we discuss these findings and speculate on the potential benefits of inhibition of retrograde signaling. We also describe how our results relate to other studies of mitochondrial retrograde signaling and the potential therapeutic applications of these discoveries.

GSK-3α Is a Novel Target of CREB and CREB-GSK-3α Signaling Participates in Cell Viability in Lung Cancer

Overexpression or activation of cyclic AMP-response element-binding protein (CREB) has been known to be involved in several human malignancies, including lung cancer. Genes regulated by CREB have been reported to suppress apoptosis, induce cell proliferation, inflammation, and tumor metastasis. However, the critical target genes of CREB in lung cancer have not been well understood. Here, we identified GSK-3α as one of the CREB target genes which is critical for the viability of lung cancer cells. The CREB knockdown significantly reduced the expression of GSK-3α and the direct binding of CREB on the promoter of GSK3A was identified. Kaplan-Meier analysis with a public database showed a prognostic significance of aberrant GSK-3α expression in lung cancer. Inhibition of GSK-3α suppressed cell viability, colony formation, and tumor growth. For the first time, we demonstrated that GSK-3α is regulated by CREB in lung cancer and is required for the cell viability. These findings implicate CREB-GSK-3α axis as a novel therapeutic target for lung cancer treatment.

Mitonuclear communication in homeostasis and stress

Mitochondria participate in crucial cellular processes such as energy harvesting and intermediate metabolism. Although mitochondria possess their own genome--a vestige of their bacterial origins and endosymbiotic evolution--most mitochondrial proteins are encoded in the nucleus. The expression of the mitochondrial proteome hence requires tight coordination between the two genomes to adapt mitochondrial function to the ever-changing cellular milieu. In this Review, we focus on the pathways that coordinate the communication between mitochondria and the nucleus during homeostasis and mitochondrial stress. These pathways include nucleus-to-mitochondria (anterograde) and mitochondria-to-nucleus (retrograde) communication, mitonuclear feedback signalling and proteostasis regulation, the integrated stress response and non-cell-autonomous communication. We discuss how mitonuclear communication safeguards cellular and organismal fitness and regulates lifespan.