JNK3 signaling pathway activates ceramide synthase leading to mitochondrial dysfunction

The effect of diet and exercise on lipid droplet dynamics in human muscle tissue

The majority of fat in the human body is stored as triacylglycerols in white adipose tissue. In the obese state, adipose tissue mass expands and excess lipids are stored in non-adipose tissues, such as skeletal muscle. Lipids are stored in skeletal muscle in the form of small lipid droplets. Although originally viewed as dull organelles that simply store lipids as a consequence of lipid overflow from adipose tissue, lipid droplets are now recognized as key components in the cell that exert a variety of relevant functions in multiple tissues (including muscle). Here, we review the effect of diet and exercise interventions on myocellular lipid droplets and their putative role in insulin sensitivity from a human perspective. We also provide an overview of lipid droplet biology and identify gaps for future research.

A key role for MAM in mediating mitochondrial dysfunction in Alzheimer disease

In the last few years, increased emphasis has been devoted to understanding the contribution of mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes (MAM) to human pathology in general, and neurodegenerative diseases in particular. A major reason for this is the central role that this subdomain of the ER plays in metabolic regulation and in mitochondrial biology. As such, aberrant MAM function may help explain the seemingly unrelated metabolic abnormalities often seen in neurodegeneration. In the specific case of Alzheimer disease (AD), besides perturbations in calcium and lipid homeostasis, there are numerous documented alterations in mitochondrial behavior and function, including reduced respiratory chain activity and oxidative phosphorylation, increased free radical production, and altered organellar morphology, dynamics, and positioning (especially perinuclear mitochondria). However, whether these alterations are primary events causative of the disease, or are secondary downstream events that are the result of some other, more fundamental problem, is still unclear. In support of the former possibility, we recently reported that C99, the C-terminal processing product of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) derived from its cleavage by β-secretase, is present in MAM, that its level is increased in AD, and that this increase reduces mitochondrial respiration, likely via a C99-induced alteration in cellular sphingolipid homeostasis. Thus, the metabolic disturbances seen in AD likely arise from increased ER-mitochondrial communication that is driven by an increase in the levels of C99 at the MAM.

Intracellular localization of diacylglycerols and sphingolipids influences insulin sensitivity and mitochondrial function in human skeletal muscle

BACKGROUND

Accumulation of diacylglycerol (DAG) and sphingolipids is thought to promote skeletal muscle insulin resistance by altering cellular signaling specific to their location. However,the subcellular localization of bioactive lipids in human skeletal muscle is largely unknown.

METHODS

We evaluated subcellular localization of skeletal muscle DAGs and sphingolipids in lean individuals (n = 15), endurance-trained athletes (n = 16), and obese men and women with (n = 12) and without type 2 diabetes (n = 15). Muscle biopsies were fractionated into sarcolemmal, cytosolic, mitochondrial/ER, and nuclear compartments. Lipids were measured using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, and insulin sensitivity was measured using hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp.

RESULTS

Sarcolemmal 1,2-DAGs were not significantly related to insulin sensitivity. Sarcolemmal ceramides were inversely related to insulin sensitivity, with a significant relationship found for the C18:0 species. Sarcolemmal sphingomyelins were also inversely related to insulin sensitivity, with the strongest relationships found for the C18:1, C18:0, and C18:2 species. In the mitochondrial/ER and nuclear fractions, 1,2-DAGs were positively related to, while ceramides were inversely related to, insulin sensitivity. Cytosolic lipids as well as 1,3-DAG, dihydroceramides, and glucosylceramides in any compartment were not related to insulin sensitivity. All sphingolipids but only specific DAGs administered to isolated mitochondria decreased mitochondrial state 3 respiration.

CONCLUSION

These data reveal previously unknown differences in subcellular localization of skeletal muscle DAGs and sphingolipids that relate to whole-body insulin sensitivity and mitochondrial function in humans. These data suggest that whole-cell concentrations of lipids obscure meaningful differences in compartmentalization and suggest that subcellular localization of lipids should be considered when developing therapeutic interventions to treat insulin resistance.

FUNDING

National Institutes of Health General Clinical Research Center (RR-00036), National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) (R01DK089170), NIDDK (T32 DK07658), and Colorado Nutrition Obesity Research Center (P30DK048520).

Impact of prolonged overfeeding on skeletal muscle mitochondria in healthy individuals

AIMS/HYPOTHESES

Reduced mitochondrial capacity in skeletal muscle has been observed in obesity and type 2 diabetes. In humans, the aetiology of this abnormality is not well understood but the possibility that it is secondary to the stress of nutrient overload has been suggested. To test this hypothesis, we examined whether sustained overfeeding decreases skeletal muscle mitochondrial content or impairs function.

METHODS

Twenty-six healthy volunteers (21 men, 5 women, age 25.3 ± 4.5 years, BMI 25.5 ± 2.4 kg/m²) underwent a supervised protocol consisting of 8 weeks of high-fat overfeeding (40% over baseline energy requirements). Before and after overfeeding, we measured systemic fuel oxidation by indirect calorimetry and performed skeletal muscle biopsies to measure mitochondrial gene expression, content and function in vitro. Mitochondrial function in vivo was measured by ³¹P NMR spectroscopy.

RESULTS

With overfeeding, volunteers gained 7.7 ± 1.8 kg (% change 9.8 ± 2.3). Overfeeding increased fasting NEFA, LDL-cholesterol and insulin concentrations. Indirect calorimetry showed a shift towards greater reliance on lipid oxidation. In skeletal muscle tissue, overfeeding increased ceramide content, lipid droplet content and perilipin-2 mRNA expression. Phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase was decreased. Overfeeding increased mRNA expression of certain genes coding for mitochondrial proteins (CS, OGDH, CPT1B, UCP3, ANT1). Despite the stress of nutrient overload, mitochondrial content and mitochondrial respiration in muscle did not change after overfeeding. Similarly, overfeeding had no effect on either the emission of reactive oxygen species or on mitochondrial function in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Skeletal muscle mitochondria are significantly resilient to nutrient overload. The lower skeletal muscle mitochondrial oxidative capacity in human obesity is likely to be caused by reasons other than nutrient overload per se.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01672632.

Ceramide and Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury

Ceramide, a bioactive membrane sphingolipid, functions as an important second messenger in apoptosis and cell signaling. In response to stresses, it may be generated by de novo synthesis, sphingomyelin hydrolysis, and/or recycling of complex sphingolipids. It is cleared from cells through the activity of ceramidases, phosphorylation to ceramide-1-phosphate, or resynthesis into more complex sphingolipids. Ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury occurs when oxygen/nutrition is rapidly reintroduced into ischemic tissue, resulting in cell death and tissue damage, and is a major concern in diverse clinical settings, including organ resection and transplantation. Numerous reports show that ceramide levels are markedly elevated during IR. Mitochondria are major sites of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and play a key role in IR-induced and ceramide-mediated cell death and tissue damage. During the development of IR injury, the initial response of ROS and TNF-alpha production activates two major ceramide generating pathways (sphingomyelin hydrolysis and de novo ceramide synthesis). The increased ceramide has broad effects depending on the IR phases, including both pro- and antiapoptotic effects. Therefore, strategies that reduce the levels of ceramide, for example, by modulation of ceramidase and/or sphingomyelinases activities, may represent novel and promising therapeutic approaches to prevent or treat IR injury in diverse clinical settings.

Acid sphingomyelinase promotes mitochondrial dysfunction due to glutamate-induced regulated necrosis

Inhibiting the glutamate/cystine antiporter system x_c^-, a key antioxidant defense machinery in the CNS, could trigger a novel form of regulated necrotic cell death, ferroptosis. The underlying mechanisms of system x_c^--dependent cell demise were elucidated using primary oligodendrocytes (OLs) treated with glutamate to block system x_c^- function. Pharmacological analysis revealed ferroptosis as a major contributing factor to glutamate-initiated OL death. A sphingolipid profile showed elevations of ceramide species and sphingosine that were preventable by inhibiting of an acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) activity. OL survival was enhanced by both downregulating ASM expression and blocking ASM activity. Glutamate-induced ASM activation seems to involve posttranscriptional mechanisms and was associated with a decreased GSH level. Further investigation of the mechanisms of OL response to glutamate revealed enhanced reactive oxygen species production, augmented lipid peroxidation, and opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore that were attenuated by hindering ASM. Of note, knocking down sirtuin 3, a deacetylase governing the mitochondrial antioxidant system, reduced OL survival. The data highlight the importance of the mitochondrial compartment in regulated necrotic cell death and accentuate the novel role of ASM in disturbing mitochondrial functions during OL response to glutamate toxicity, which is essential for pathobiology in stroke and traumatic brain injury.

Suppression of Acid Sphingomyelinase Protects the Retina from Ischemic Injury

PURPOSE

Acid sphingomyelinase (ASMase) catalyzes the hydrolysis of sphingomyelin to ceramide and mediates multiple responses involved in inflammatory and apoptotic signaling. However, the role ASMase plays in ischemic retinal injury has not been investigated. The purpose of this study was to investigate how reduced ASMase expression impacts retinal ischemic injury.

METHODS

Changes in ceramide levels and ASMase activity were determined by high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis and ASMase activity. Retinal function and morphology were assessed by electroretinography (ERG) and morphometric analyses. Levels of TNF-α were determined by ELISA. Activation of p38 MAP kinase was assessed by Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

In wild-type mice, ischemia produced a significant increase in retinal ASMase activity and ceramide levels. These increases were associated with functional deficits as measured by ERG analysis and significant structural degeneration in most retinal layers. In ASMase+/- mice, retinal ischemia did not significantly alter ASMase activity, and the rise in ceramide levels were significantly reduced compared to levels in retinas from wild-type mice. In ASMase+/- mice, functional and morphometric analyses of ischemic eyes revealed significantly less retinal degeneration than in injured retinas from wild-type mice. The ischemia-induced increase in retinal TNF-α levels was suppressed by the administration of the ASMase inhibitor desipramine, or by reducing ASMase expression.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate that reducing ASMase expression provides partial protection from ischemic injury. Hence, the production of ceramide and subsequent mediators plays a role in the development of ischemic retinal injury. Modulating ASMase may present new opportunities for adjunctive therapies when treating retinal ischemic disorders.

Sphingolipids in mitochondria

Sphingolipids are bioactive lipids found in cell membranes that exert a critical role in signal transduction. In recent years, it has become apparent that sphingolipids participate in growth, senescence, differentiation and apoptosis. The anabolism and catabolism of sphingolipids occur in discrete subcellular locations and consist of a strictly regulated and interconnected network, with ceramide as the central hub. Altered sphingolipid metabolism is linked to several human diseases. Hence, an advanced knowledge of how and where sphingolipids are metabolized is of paramount importance in order to understand the role of sphingolipids in cellular functions. In this review, we provide an overview of sphingolipid metabolism. We focus on the distinct pathways of ceramide synthesis, highlighting the mitochondrial ceramide generation, transport of ceramide to mitochondria and its role in the regulation of mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis, mitophagy and implications to disease. We will discuss unanswered questions and exciting future directions. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Lipids of Mitochondria edited by Guenther Daum.

Role of sphingomyelinase in mitochondrial ceramide accumulation during reperfusion

Ceramide accumulation in mitochondria has been associated with reperfusion damage, but the underlying mechanisms are not clearly elucidated. In this work we investigate the role of sphingomyelinases in mitochondrial ceramide accumulation, its effect on reactive oxygen species production, as well as on mitochondrial function by using the sphingomyelinase inhibitor, tricyclodecan-9-yl-xanthogenate (D609). Correlation between neutral sphingomyelinase (nSMase) activity and changes in ceramide content were performed in whole tissue and in isolated mitochondria from reperfused hearts. Overall results demonstrated that D609 treatment attenuates cardiac dysfuncion, mitochondrial injury and oxidative stress. Ceramide was accumulated in mitochondria, but not in the microsomal fraction of the ischemic-reperfused (I/R) group. In close association, the activity of nSMase increased, whereas glutathione (GSH) levels diminished in mitochondria after reperfusion. On the other hand, reduction of ceramide levels in mitochondria from I/R+D609 hearts correlated with diminished nSMase activity, coupling of oxidative phosphorylation and with mitochondrial integrity maintenance. These results suggest that mitochondrial nSMase activity contributes to compartmentation and further accumulation of ceramide in mitochondria, deregulating their function during reperfusion.

The enigma of ceramide synthase regulation in mammalian cells

Ceramide synthases (CerS) are key enzymes in the lipid metabolism of eukaryotic cells. Their products, ceramides (Cer), are components of cellular membranes but also mediate signaling functions in physiological processes such as proliferation, skin barrier function and cerebellar development. In pathophysiological processes such as multiple sclerosis and tumor progression, ceramide levels are altered, which can be ascribed, partly, to dysregulation of CerS gene transcription. Most publications deal with the effects of altered ceramide levels on physiological and pathophysiological processes, but the regulation of the appropriate CerS is frequently not investigated. This is insufficient for the clarification of the role of ceramides, because most ceramide species are generated by at least two CerS. The mechanisms of CerS regulation are manifold and it seems that each CerS isoform is regulated individually. For this reason, we discuss the different CerS separately in this review. From transcriptional regulation to alteration of protein activity, the possibilities to influence CerS are diverse. Furthermore, CerS are influenced by a variety of molecules including hormones and lipids. Without claiming completeness, we provide a résumé of the regulatory mechanisms for each CerS in mammalian cells and how dysregulation of these mechanisms during physiological processes may lead to pathophysiological processes.

Lactosylceramide contributes to mitochondrial dysfunction in diabetes

Sphingolipids have been implicated as key mediators of cell-stress responses and effectors of mitochondrial function. To investigate potential mechanisms underlying mitochondrial dysfunction, an important contributor to diabetic cardiomyopathy, we examined alterations of cardiac sphingolipid metabolism in a mouse with streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetes. Diabetes increased expression of desaturase 1, (dihydro)ceramide synthase (CerS)2, serine palmitoyl transferase 1, and the rate of ceramide formation by mitochondria-resident CerSs, indicating an activation of ceramide biosynthesis. However, the lack of an increase in mitochondrial ceramide suggests concomitant upregulation of ceramide-metabolizing pathways. Elevated levels of lactosylceramide, one of the initial products in the formation of glycosphingolipids were accompanied with decreased respiration and calcium retention capacity (CRC) in mitochondria from diabetic heart tissue. In baseline mitochondria, lactosylceramide potently suppressed state 3 respiration and decreased CRC, suggesting lactosylceramide as the primary sphingolipid responsible for mitochondrial defects in diabetic hearts. Moreover, knocking down the neutral ceramidase (NCDase) resulted in an increase in lactosylceramide level, suggesting a crosstalk between glucosylceramide synthase- and NCDase-mediated ceramide utilization pathways. These data suggest the glycosphingolipid pathway of ceramide metabolism as a promising target to correct mitochondrial abnormalities associated with type 1 diabetes.

Regulation of sphingomyelin metabolism

Sphingolipids (SFs) represent a large class of lipids playing diverse functions in a vast number of physiological and pathological processes. Sphingomyelin (SM) is the most abundant SF in the cell, with ubiquitous distribution within mammalian tissues, and particularly high levels in the Central Nervous System (CNS). SM is an essential element of plasma membrane (PM) and its levels are crucial for the cell function. SM content in a cell is strictly regulated by the enzymes of SM metabolic pathways, which activities create a balance between SM synthesis and degradation. The de novo synthesis via SM synthases (SMSs) in the last step of the multi-stage process is the most important pathway of SM formation in a cell. The SM hydrolysis by sphingomyelinases (SMases) increases the concentration of ceramide (Cer), a bioactive molecule, which is involved in cellular proliferation, growth and apoptosis. By controlling the levels of SM and Cer, SMSs and SMases maintain cellular homeostasis. Enzymes of SM cycle exhibit unique properties and diverse tissue distribution. Disturbances in their activities were observed in many CNS pathologies. This review characterizes the physiological roles of SM and enzymes controlling SM levels as well as their involvement in selected pathologies of the Central Nervous System, such as ischemia/hypoxia, Alzheimer disease (AD), Parkinson disease (PD), depression, schizophrenia and Niemann Pick disease (NPD).

Unraveling the role of the Target of Rapamycin signaling in sphingolipid metabolism

Sphingolipids are important bioactive molecules that regulate basic aspects of cellular metabolism and physiology, including cell growth, adhesion, migration, senescence, apoptosis, endocytosis, and autophagy in yeast and higher eukaryotes. Since they have the ability to modulate the activation of several proteins and signaling pathways, variations in the relative levels of different sphingolipid species result in important changes in overall cellular functions and fate. Sphingolipid metabolism and their route of synthesis are highly conserved from yeast to mammalian cells. Studies using the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae have served in many ways to foster our understanding of sphingolipid dynamics and their role in the regulation of cellular processes. In the past decade, studies in S. cerevisiae have unraveled a functional association between the Target of Rapamycin (TOR) pathway and sphingolipids, showing that both TOR Complex 1 (TORC1) and TOR Complex 2 (TORC2) branches control temporal and spatial aspects of sphingolipid metabolism in response to physiological and environmental cues. In this review, we report recent findings in this emerging and exciting link between the TOR pathway and sphingolipids and implications in human health and disease.

SIRT3 Deacetylates Ceramide Synthases: IMPLICATIONS FOR MITOCHONDRIAL DYSFUNCTION AND BRAIN INJURY

Experimental evidence supports the role of mitochondrial ceramide accumulation as a cause of mitochondrial dysfunction and brain injury after stroke. Herein, we report that SIRT3 regulates mitochondrial ceramide biosynthesis via deacetylation of ceramide synthase (CerS) 1, 2, and 6. Reciprocal immunoprecipitation experiments revealed that CerS1, CerS2, and CerS6, but not CerS4, are associated with SIRT3 in cerebral mitochondria. Furthermore, CerS1, -2, and -6 are hyperacetylated in the mitochondria of SIRT3-null mice, and SIRT3 directly deacetylates the ceramide synthases in a NAD(+)-dependent manner that increases enzyme activity. Investigation of the SIRT3 role in mitochondrial response to brain ischemia/reperfusion (IR) showed that SIRT3-mediated deacetylation of ceramide synthases increased enzyme activity and ceramide accumulation after IR. Functional studies demonstrated that absence of SIRT3 rescued the IR-induced blockade of the electron transport chain at the level of complex III, attenuated mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization, and decreased reactive oxygen species generation and protein carbonyls in mitochondria. Importantly, Sirt3 gene ablation reduced the brain injury after IR. These data support the hypothesis that IR triggers SIRT3-dependent deacetylation of ceramide synthases and the elevation of ceramide, which could inhibit complex III, leading to increased reactive oxygen species generation and brain injury. The results of these studies highlight a novel mechanism of SIRT3 involvement in modulating mitochondrial ceramide biosynthesis and suggest an important role of SIRT3 in mitochondrial dysfunction and brain injury after experimental stroke.

Ceramide synthases in biomedical research

Sphingolipid metabolism consists of multiple metabolic pathways that converge upon ceramide, one of the key molecules among sphingolipids (SLs). In mammals, ceramide synthesis occurs via N-acylation of sphingoid backbones, dihydrosphingosine (dhSo) or sphingosine (So). The reaction is catalyzed by ceramide synthases (CerS), a family of enzymes with six different isoforms, with each one showing specificity towards a restricted group of acyl-CoAs, thus producing ceramides (Cer) and dihydroceramides (dhCer) with different fatty acid chain lengths. A large body of evidence documents the role of both So and dhSo as bioactive molecules, as well as the involvement of dhCer and Cer in physiological and pathological processes. In particular, the fatty acid composition of Cer has different effects in cell biology and in the onset and progression of different diseases. Therefore, modulation of CerS activity represents an attractive target in biomedical research and in finding new treatment modalities. In this review, we discuss functional, structural and biochemical features of CerS and examine CerS inhibitors that are currently available.

Regulation of ceramide channel formation and disassembly: Insights on the initiation of apoptosis

Sphingolipid research has surged in the past two decades and has produced a wide variety of evidence supporting the role of this class of molecules in mediating cellular growth, differentiation, senescence, and apoptosis. Ceramides are a subgroup of sphingolipids (SLs) that are directly involved in the process of initiation of apoptosis. We, and others, have recently shown that ceramides are capable of the formation of protein-permeable channels in mitochondrial outer membranes under physiological conditions. These pores are indeed good candidates for the pathway of release of pro-apoptotic proteins from the mitochondrial intermembrane space (IMS) into the cytosol to initiate intrinsic apoptosis. Here, we review recent findings on the regulation of ceramide channel formation and disassembly, highlighting possible implications on the initiation of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway.

Ceramide-induced apoptosis in renal tubular cells: a role of mitochondria and sphingosine-1-phoshate

Ceramide is synthesized upon stimuli, and induces apoptosis in renal tubular cells (RTCs). Sphingosine-1 phosphate (S1P) functions as a survival factor. Thus, the balance of ceramide/S1P determines ceramide-induced apoptosis. Mitochondria play a key role for ceramide-induced apoptosis by altered mitochondrial outer membrane permeability (MOMP). Ceramide enhances oligomerization of pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins, ceramide channel, and reduces anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins in the MOM. This process alters MOMP, resulting in generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), cytochrome C release into the cytosol, caspase activation, and apoptosis. Ceramide regulates apoptosis through mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs)-dependent and -independent pathways. Conversely, MAPKs alter ceramide generation by regulating the enzymes involving ceramide metabolism, affecting ceramide-induced apoptosis. Crosstalk between Bcl-2 family proteins, ROS, and many signaling pathways regulates ceramide-induced apoptosis. Growth factors rescue ceramide-induced apoptosis by regulating the enzymes involving ceramide metabolism, S1P, and signaling pathways including MAPKs. This article reviews evidence supporting a role of ceramide for apoptosis and discusses a role of mitochondria, including MOMP, Bcl-2 family proteins, ROS, and signaling pathways, and crosstalk between these factors in the regulation of ceramide-induced apoptosis of RTCs. A balancing role between ceramide and S1P and the strategy for preventing ceramide-induced apoptosis by growth factors are also discussed.

Mitochondrial fission mediates ceramide-induced metabolic disruption in skeletal muscle

Ceramide is a sphingolipid that serves as an important second messenger in an increasing number of stress-induced pathways. Ceramide has long been known to affect the mitochondria, altering both morphology and physiology. We sought to assess the impact of ceramide on skeletal muscle mitochondrial structure and function. A primary observation was the rapid and dramatic division of mitochondria in ceramide-treated cells. This effect is likely to be a result of increased Drp1 (dynamin-related protein 1) action, as ceramide increased Drp1 expression and Drp1 inhibition prevented ceramide-induced mitochondrial fission. Further, we found that ceramide treatment reduced mitochondrial O2 consumption (i.e. respiration) in cultured myotubes and permeabilized red gastrocnemius muscle fibre bundles. Ceramide treatment also increased H2O2 levels and reduced Akt/PKB (protein kinase B) phosphorylation in myotubes. However, inhibition of mitochondrial fission via Drp1 knockdown completely protected the myotubes and fibre bundles from ceramide-induced metabolic disruption, including maintained mitochondrial respiration, reduced H2O2 levels and unaffected insulin signalling. These data suggest that the forced and sustained mitochondrial fission that results from ceramide accrual may alter metabolic function in skeletal muscle, which is a prominent site not only of energy demand (via the mitochondria), but also of ceramide accrual with weight gain.

Changes in the metabolism of sphingolipids after subarachnoid hemorrhage

We previously described how ceramide (Cer), a mediator of cell death, increases in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) patients. This study investigates the alterations of biochemical pathways involved in Cer homeostasis in SAH. Cer, dihydroceramide (DHC), sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), and the activities of acid sphingomyelinase (ASMase), neutral sphingomyelinase (NSMase), sphingomyelinase synthase (SMS), S1P-lyase, and glucosylceramide synthase (GCS) were determined in the CSF of SAH subjects and in brain homogenate of SAH rats. Compared with controls (n = 8), SAH patients (n = 26) had higher ASMase activity (10.0 ± 3.5 IF/µl· min vs. 15.0 ± 4.6 IF/µl • min; P = 0.009) and elevated levels of Cer (11.4 ± 8.8 pmol/ml vs. 33.3 ± 48.3 pmol/ml; P = 0.001) and DHC (1.3 ± 1.1 pmol/ml vs. 3.8 ± 3.4 pmol/ml; P = 0.001) in the CSF. The activities of GCS, NSMase, and SMS in the CSF were undetectable. Brain homogenates from SAH animals had increased ASMase activity (control: 9.7 ± 1.2 IF/µg • min; SAH: 16.8 ± 1.6 IF/µg • min; P < 0.05) and Cer levels (control: 3,422 ± 26 fmol/nmol of total lipid P; SAH: 7,073 ± 2,467 fmol/nmol of total lipid P; P < 0.05) compared with controls. In addition, SAH was associated with a reduction of 60% in S1P levels, a 40% increase in S1P-lyase activity, and a twofold increase in the activity of GCS. In comparison, NSMase and SMS activities were similar to controls and SMS activities similar to controls. In conclusion, our results show an activation of ASMase, S1P-lyase, and GCS resulting in a shift in the production of protective (S1P) in favor of deleterious (Cer) sphingolipids after SAH. Additional studies are needed to determine the effect of modulators of the pathways described here in SAH.

Critical determinants of mitochondria-associated neutral sphingomyelinase (MA-nSMase) for mitochondrial localization

BACKGROUND

A novel murine mitochondria-associated neutral sphingomyelinase (MA-nSMase) has been recently cloned and partially characterized. The subcellular localization of the enzyme was found to be predominant in mitochondria. In this work, the determinants of mitochondrial localization and its topology were investigated.

METHODS

MA-nSMase mutants lacking consecutive regions and fusion proteins of GFP with truncated MA-nSMase regions were constructed and expressed in MCF-7 cells. Its localization was analyzed using confocal microscopy and sub-cellular fractionation methods. The sub-mitochondrial localization of MA-nSMase was determined using protease protection assay on isolated mitochondria.

RESULTS

The results initially showed that a putative mitochondrial localization signal (MLS), homologous to an MLS in the zebra-fish mitochondrial SMase is not necessary for the mitochondrial localization of the murine MA-nSMase. Evidence is provided to the presence of two regions in MA-nSMase that are sufficient for mitochondrial localization: a signal sequence (amino acids 24-56) that is responsible for the mitochondrial localization and an additional 'signal-anchor' sequence (amino acids 77-99) that anchors the protein to the mitochondrial membrane. This protein is topologically located in the outer mitochondrial membrane where both the C and N-termini remain exposed to the cytosol.

CONCLUSIONS

MA-nSMase is a membrane anchored protein with a MLS and a signal-anchor sequence at its N-terminal to localize it to the outer mitochondrial membrane.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

Mitochondrial sphingolipids have been reported to play a critical role in cellular viability. This study opens a new window to investigate their cellular functions, and to define novel therapeutic targets.

Multiple sphingolipid abnormalities following cerebral microendothelial hypoxia

Hypoxia has been previously shown to inhibit the dihydroceramide (DHC) desaturase, leading to the accumulation of DHC. In this study, we used metabolic labeling with [3H]-palmitate, HPLC/MS/MS analysis, and specific inhibitors to show numerous sphingolipid changes after oxygen deprivation in cerebral microendothelial cells. The increased DHC, particularly long-chain forms, was observed in both whole cells and detergent-resistant membranes. This was reversed by reoxygenation and blocked by the de novo sphingolipid synthesis inhibitor myriocin, but not by the neutral sphingomyelinase inhibitor GW-4869. Furthermore, oxygen deprivation of microendothelial cells increased levels of dihydro-sphingosine (DH-Sph), DH-sphingosine1-phosphate (DH-S1P), DH-sphingomyelin (DH-SM), DH-glucosylceramide (DH-GlcCer), and S1P levels. In vitro assays revealed no changes in the activity of sphingomyelinases or sphingomyelin synthase, but resulted in reduced S1P lyase activity and 40% increase in glucosylceramide synthase (GCS) activity, which was reversed by reoxygenation. Inhibition of the de novo sphingolipid pathway (myriocin) or GCS (EtPoD4) induced endothelial barrier dysfunction and increased caspase 3-mediated cell death in response to hypoxia. Our findings suggest that hypoxia induces synthesis of S1P and multiple dihydro-sphingolipids, including DHC, DH-SM, DH-GlcCer, DH-Sph and DH-S1P, which may be involved in ameliorating the effects of stroke . Progressive hypoxia leads to the accumulation of several dihydrosphingolipids in cerebral microendothelial cells. Hypoxia also increases sphingosine-1-phosphate and the activity of glucosylceramide (Glc-Cer) synthase. These changes reverse by inhibiting the de novo sphingolipid synthesis, which worsens hypoxia-induced endothelial barrier dysfunction and apoptosis, suggesting that the identified sphingolipids may be vasculoprotective.

Of mice and men: modelling post-stroke depression experimentally

At least one-third of stroke survivors suffer from depression. The development of comorbid depression after stroke is clinically highly significant because post-stroke depression is associated with increased mortality, slows recovery and leads to worse functional outcomes. Here, we review the evidence that post-stroke depression can be effectively modelled in experimental rodents via a variety of approaches. This opens an exciting new window onto the neurobiology of depression and permits probing potential underlying mechanisms such as disturbed cellular plasticity, neuroendocrine dysregulation, neuroinflammation, and neurodegeneration in a novel context. From the point of view of translational stroke research, extending the scope of experimental investigations beyond the study of short-term end points and, in particular, acute lesion size, may help improve the relevance of preclinical results to human disease. Furthermore, accumulating evidence from both clinical and experimental studies offers the tantalizing prospect of 5-hydroxytryptaminergic antidepressants as the first pharmacological therapy for stroke that would be available during the subacute and chronic phases of recovery. Interdisciplinary neuropsychiatric research will be called on to dissect the mechanisms underpinning the beneficial effects of antidepressants on stroke recovery.

Essential roles of neutral ceramidase and sphingosine in mitochondrial dysfunction due to traumatic brain injury

In addition to immediate brain damage, traumatic brain injury (TBI) initiates a cascade of pathophysiological events producing secondary injury. The biochemical and cellular mechanisms that comprise secondary injury are not entirely understood. Herein, we report a substantial deregulation of cerebral sphingolipid metabolism in a mouse model of TBI. Sphingolipid profile analysis demonstrated increases in sphingomyelin species and sphingosine concurrently with up-regulation of intermediates of de novo sphingolipid biosynthesis in the brain. Investigation of intracellular sites of sphingosine accumulation revealed an elevation of sphingosine in mitochondria due to the activation of neutral ceramidase (NCDase) and the reduced activity of sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2). The lack of change in gene expression suggested that post-translational mechanisms are responsible for the shift in the activities of both enzymes. Immunoprecipitation studies revealed that SphK2 is complexed with NCDase and cytochrome oxidase (COX) subunit 1 in mitochondria and that brain injury hindered SphK2 association with the complex. Functional studies showed that sphingosine accumulation resulted in a decreased activity of COX, a rate-limiting enzyme of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. Knocking down NCDase reduced sphingosine accumulation in mitochondria and preserved COX activity after the brain injury. Also, NCDase knockdown improved brain function recovery and lessened brain contusion volume after trauma. These studies highlight a novel mechanism of secondary TBI involving a disturbance of sphingolipid-metabolizing enzymes in mitochondria and suggest a critical role for mitochondrial sphingosine in promoting brain injury after trauma.

Ceramide in the molecular mechanisms of neuronal cell death. The role of sphingosine-1-phosphate

Ceramide and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), two important bioactive sphingolipids, have been suggested as being key players in the pathology of Alzheimer’s disease in inflammation and cancer. However, their role in the molecular mechanisms of neuronal death has not been fully elucidated. Our study indicated that ceramide significantly enhanced the level of free radicals and decreased the viability of the human neuroblastoma cell line (SH-SY5Y) through inhibition of the prosurvival PI3-K/Akt pathway. Ceramide also decreased anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2) and increased pro-apoptotic (Bax, Hrk) mRNA/protein levels. Concomitantly, our study indicated that ceramide induced poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) activation and accumulation of poly(ADP-ribose) PAR, a signalling molecule involved in mitochondria-nucleus cross-talk and mitochondria integrity. Ceramide treatment significantly decreased the level of apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) in the mitochondria. The PARP-1 inhibitor (PJ-34) prevented AIF release from the mitochondria. In addition, our data showed that exogenously added S1P increased the viability of SH-SY5Y through the S1P (1,3) receptor-dependent mechanism. It was also revealed that the S1P and PARP-1 inhibitor (PJ-34) decreased oxidative stress, gene expression of the pro-apoptotic Hrk protein and up-regulated the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein. Our data demonstrate that neuronal cell death evoked by ceramide is regulated by PARP/PAR/AIF and by S1P receptor signalling. In summary, our results suggest that PARP-1 inhibitor(s) and modulators of sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor(s) should be considered in potential therapeutic strategies directed at neurodegenerative diseases.

New role of signal peptide peptidase to liberate C-terminal peptides for MHC class I presentation

The signal peptide peptidase (SPP) is an intramembrane cleaving aspartyl protease involved in release of leader peptide remnants from the endoplasmic reticulum membrane, hence its name. We now found a new activity of SPP that mediates liberation of C-terminal peptides. In our search for novel proteolytic enzymes involved in MHC class I (MHC-I) presentation, we found that SPP generates the C-terminal peptide-epitope of a ceramide synthase. The display of this immunogenic peptide-MHC-I complex at the cell surface was independent of conventional processing components like proteasome and peptide transporter TAP. Absence of TAP activity even increased the MHC-I presentation of this Ag. Mutagenesis studies revealed the crucial role of the C-terminal location of the epitope and "helix-breaking" residues in the transmembrane region just upstream of the peptide, indicating that SPP directly liberated the minimal 9-mer peptide. Moreover, silencing of SPP and its family member SPPL2a led to a general reduction of surface peptide-MHC-I complexes, underlining the involvement of these enzymes in Ag processing and presentation.

Ceramide synthases as potential targets for therapeutic intervention in human diseases

Ceramide is located at a key hub in the sphingolipid metabolic pathway and also acts as an important cellular signaling molecule. Ceramide contains one acyl chain which is attached to a sphingoid long chain base via an amide bond, with the acyl chain varying in length and degree of saturation. The identification of a family of six mammalian ceramide synthases (CerS) that synthesize ceramide with distinct acyl chains, has led to significant advances in our understanding of ceramide biology, including further delineation of the role of ceramide in various pathophysiologies in both mice and humans. Since ceramides, and the complex sphingolipids generated from ceramide, are implicated in disease, the CerS might potentially be novel targets for therapeutic intervention in the diseases in which the ceramide acyl chain length is altered. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled New Frontiers in Sphingolipid Biology.

Ceramide and the mitochondrial respiratory chain

Ceramide is a group of sphingolipids found in cell membranes, composed of a sphingoid base linked to a fatty acid of varying chain length. Initially regarded as purely structural components, this group of molecules is now recognized as a key signaling and regulatory elements in cell biology. Ceramide species differing in acyl chain length, with distinct biophysical properties, execute distinct functions and effects. Some of these modulate mitochondrial function and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Certain ceramides were associated with decreased mitochondrial respiratory chain (MRC) activity, increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and oxidative stress, mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP), reduced mitochondrial membrane potential, mitophagy and apoptosis. In this review we aim to summarize the most relevant findings linking ceramide to mitochondria. The physiological significance of synthetic short and naturally occurring long chain ceramides in modulating mitochondrial function with emphasis on the MRC will be discussed.

Oxidized phospholipids induce ceramide accumulation in RAW 264.7 macrophages: role of ceramide synthases

Oxidized phospholipids (OxPLs), including 1-palmitoyl-2-glutaroyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (PGPC) and 1-palmitoyl-2-oxovaleroyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POVPC) are among several biologically active derivatives that are generated during oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (LDLs). These OxPLs are factors contributing to pro-atherogenic effects of oxidized LDLs (OxLDLs), including inflammation, proliferation and death of vascular cells. OxLDL also elicits formation of the lipid messenger ceramide (Cer) which plays a pivotal role in apoptotic signaling pathways. Here we report that both PGPC and POVPC are cytotoxic to cultured macrophages and induce apoptosis in these cells which is associated with increased cellular ceramide levels after several hours. In addition, exposure of RAW 264.7 cells to POVPC and PGPC under the same conditions resulted in a significant increase in ceramide synthase activity, whereas, acid or neutral sphingomyelinase activities were not affected. PGPC is not only more toxic than POVPC, but also a more potent inducer of ceramide formation by activating a limited subset of CerS isoforms. The stimulated CerS activities are in line with the C16-, C22-, and C24:0-Cer species that are generated under the influence of the OxPL. Fumonisin B1, a specific inhibitor of CerS, suppressed OxPL-induced ceramide generation, demonstrating that OxPL-induced CerS activity in macrophages is responsible for the accumulation of ceramide. OxLDL elicits the same cellular ceramide and CerS effects. Thus, it is concluded that PGPC and POVPC are active components that contribute to the capacity of this lipoprotein to elevate ceramide levels in macrophages.

Involvement of sphingolipids in ethanol neurotoxicity in the developing brain

Ethanol-induced neuronal death during a sensitive period of brain development is considered one of the significant causes of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). In rodent models, ethanol triggers robust apoptotic neurodegeneration during a period of active synaptogenesis that occurs around the first two postnatal weeks, equivalent to the third trimester in human fetuses. The ethanol-induced apoptosis is mitochondria-dependent, involving Bax and caspase-3 activation. Such apoptotic pathways are often mediated by sphingolipids, a class of bioactive lipids ubiquitously present in eukaryotic cellular membranes. While the central role of lipids in ethanol liver toxicity is well recognized, the involvement of sphingolipids in ethanol neurotoxicity is less explored despite mounting evidence of their importance in neuronal apoptosis. Nevertheless, recent studies indicate that ethanol-induced neuronal apoptosis in animal models of FASD is mediated or regulated by cellular sphingolipids, including via the pro-apoptotic action of ceramide and through the neuroprotective action of GM1 ganglioside. Such sphingolipid involvement in ethanol neurotoxicity in the developing brain may provide unique targets for therapeutic applications against FASD. Here we summarize findings describing the involvement of sphingolipids in ethanol-induced apoptosis and discuss the possibility that the combined action of various sphingolipids in mitochondria may control neuronal cell fate.

Localized sphingolipid signaling at presynaptic terminals is regulated by calcium influx and promotes recruitment of priming factors

Activity-dependent changes in presynaptic function represent a critical mechanism by which synaptic strength is controlled. However, how changes in synaptic activity couple to presynaptic components to control synaptic vesicle release and recycling are poorly understood. Sphingosine kinase (SphK) is a sphingolipid metabolic enzyme whose activity-dependent recruitment to membrane regions within presynaptic terminals promotes neurotransmitter release. Here, we show that synaptic recruitment of SPHK-1, the SphK ortholog in Caenorhabditis elegans, is mediated by presynaptic calcium influx. Quantitative fluorescence imaging of live presynaptic terminals reveals that blocking presynaptic calcium influx reduces synaptic SPHK-1 abundance whereas increasing calcium influx increases SPHK-1 synaptic abundance. CALM-1, the calcium and integrin binding protein ortholog, colocalizes with SPHK-1 at release sites and regulates muscarinic-mediated synaptic SPHK-1 recruitment. We identify two additional sphingolipid metabolic enzymes that are concentrated at presynaptic terminals, and mutants lacking one of these, HYL-1/ceramide synthase, have defects in synaptic transmission and in synaptic vesicle cycling. Finally, we show that SPHK-1 activity is required for the recruitment of the priming protein UNC-13/Munc13 to presynaptic terminals following activation by muscarinic signaling. These findings suggest that calcium-dependent regulation of local S1P metabolism at synapses may be an important mechanism by which synaptic vesicle priming factors are recruited to release sites to promote synaptic transmission.

Mitochondrial lipid transport at a glance

Lipids are the building blocks of cellular membranes and are synthesized at distinct parts of the cell. A precise control of lipid synthesis and distribution is crucial for cell function and survival. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is the major lipid-synthesizing organelle. However, a subset of lipids is synthesized within mitochondria, and this aspect has become a focus of recent lipid research. Mitochondria form a dynamic membrane network that is reshaped by fusion and fission events. Their functionality therefore depends on a continuous lipid supply from the ER and the distribution of lipids between both mitochondrial membranes. The mechanisms of mitochondrial lipid trafficking are only now emerging and appear to involve membrane contact sites and lipid transfer proteins. In this Cell Science at a Glance article, we will discuss recent discoveries in the field of mitochondrial lipid trafficking that build on long-standing observations and shed new light on the shuttling of membrane lipids between mitochondria and other organelles.

Inhibition of JNK mitochondrial localization and signaling is protective against ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats

To build upon recent findings that mitochondrial JNK signaling is inhibited by selectively blocking the interaction between JNK and Sab, we utilized a cell-permeable peptide to demonstrate that ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury could be protected in vivo and that JNK mitochondrial signaling was the mechanism by which reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cardiomyocyte cell death occur. We also demonstrated that 5 mg/kg SR-3306 (a selective JNK inhibitor) was able to protect against I/R injury, reducing infarct volume by 34% (p < 0.05) while also decreasing I/R-induced increases in the activity of creatine phosphokinase and creatine kinase-MB. TUNEL staining showed that the percent TUNEL positive nuclei in rat hearts increased 10-fold after I/R injury and that this was reduced 4-fold (p < 0.01) by SR-3306. These data suggest that blocking JNK mitochondrial translocation or JNK inhibition prevents ROS increases and mitochondrial dysfunction and may be an effective treatment for I/R-induced cardiomyocyte death.

Ceramide and its transport protein (CERT) contribute to deterioration of mitochondrial structure and function in aging oocytes

In women as well as in mice, oocytes exhibit decreased developmental potential (oocyte quality) with advanced age. Our current data implicate alterations in the levels of oocyte ceramide and associated changes in mitochondrial function and structure as being prominent elements contributing to reduced oocyte quality. Both ROS levels and ATP content were significantly reduced in aged oocytes. The decreased in ROS levels are of intrigue because it is contrary to what has been previously reported. Lowered levels of both ROS and ATP indicate diminished mitochondrial function that was accompanied by alterations in mitochondrial structure. Interestingly, developmental potential of old oocytes was improved by microinjection of mitochondria isolated from young oocytes. Co-treatment of aged oocytes with ceramide and a cytoplasmic lipid carrier (l-carnitine) improved both mitochondrial morphology and function, and totally rescued spontaneous in vitro fragmentation. In addition, ceramide localization was altered in old oocytes possibly due to downregulation of the ceramide transport protein (CERT). However, knockdown of CERT alone was not sufficient to increase young oocyte's susceptibility to death, because the sequential manipulation of ceramide levels (its chronic decrease, followed by downregulation of CERT, and finally a ceramide spike) were all necessary to replicate the aging phenotype. These results indicate that oocyte aging is due to a multiplicity of events; and that with increasing biological age, changes in levels of both ceramide and its transport protein contribute to deterioration of oocyte mitochondrial structure and function. Hence, those changes may represent potential targets to manipulate when attempting to ameliorate aging phenotypes in germ cells.

CLN5 and CLN8 protein association with ceramide synthase: biochemical and proteomic approaches

Four patients with juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses, a childhood neurodegenerative disorder that was previously described as CLN9 variant, are reclassified as CLN5 disease. CLN5-deficient (CLN5(-/-) ) fibroblasts demonstrate adhesion defects, increased growth, apoptosis, and decreased levels of ceramide, sphingomyelin, and glycosphingolipids. The CLN8 protein (CLN8p) corrects growth and apoptosis in CLN5(-/-) cells. Related proteins containing a Lag1 motif (CerS1/2/4/5/6) partially corrected these deficits, with CerS1, which is primarily expressed in brain, providing the best complementation, suggesting CLN5p activates CerS1 and may co-immunoprecipitate with it. CLN8p complements CLN5-deficient cells, consolidating the interrelationship of CLN5p/CLN8p, whose potential roles are explored as activators of (dihydro)ceramide synthases. Homozygosity mapping using microarray technology led to identification of CLN5 as the culprit gene in previously classified CLN9-defective cases. Similar to CLN5(-/-) cells, ceramide synthase activity, C16/C18:0/C24:0/C24:1 ceramide species, measured by MS is decreased in CLN8(-/-) cells. Comparison of normal versus CLN5(-/-) cell CerS1-bound proteins by immunoprecipitation, differential gel electrophoresis, and MS revealed absence of γ-actin in CLN5(-/-) cells. The γ-actin gene sequence is normal in CLN5(-/-) derived DNA. The γ-actin-bound proteins, vimentin and histones H2Afz/H3F3A/Hist1H4, were absent from the γ-actin protein complex in CLN5(-/-) cells. The function of CLN5p may require vimentin and the histone proteins to bind γ-actin. Defective binding could explain the CLN5(-/-) cellular phenotype. We explore the role of the CLN5/CLN8 proteins in ceramide species specific sphingolipid de novo synthesis, and suggest that CLN5/CLN8 proteins are more closely related than previously believed.

Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress activate inflammasomes: impact on the aging process and age-related diseases

Oxidative stress and low-grade inflammation are the hallmarks of the aging process and are even more enhanced in many age-related degenerative diseases. Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress can provoke and potentiate inflammatory responses, but the mechanism has remained elusive. Recent studies indicate that oxidative stress can induce the assembly of multiprotein inflammatory complexes called the inflammasomes. Nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) is the major immune sensor for cellular stress signals, e.g., reactive oxygen species, ceramides, and cathepsin B. NLRP3 activation triggers the caspase-1-mediated maturation of the precursors of IL-1β and IL-18 cytokines. During aging, the autophagic clearance of mitochondria declines and dysfunctional mitochondria provoke chronic oxidative stress, which disturbs the cellular redox balance. Moreover, increased NF-κB signaling observed during aging could potentiate the expression of NLRP3 and cytokine proforms enhancing the priming of NLRP3 inflammasomes. Recent studies have demonstrated that NLRP3 activation is associated with several age-related diseases, e.g., the metabolic syndrome. We will review here the emerging field of inflammasomes in the appearance of the proinflammatory phenotype during the aging process and in age-related diseases.

Role of intramyocelluar lipids in human health

Intramyocellular lipid (IMCL) is predominantly stored as intramuscular triglyceride (IMTG) in lipid droplets and is utilized as metabolic fuel during physical exercise. IMTG is also implicated in muscle insulin resistance (IR) in type 2 diabetes. However, it has become apparent that lipid moieties such as ceramide and diacylglycerol are the likely culprits of IR. This article reviews current knowledge of IMCL-mediated IR and important areas of investigation, including myocellular lipid transport and lipid droplet proteins. Several crucial questions remain unanswered, such as the identity of specific ceramide and diacylglycerol species that mediate IR in human muscle and their subcellular location. Quantitative lipidomics and proteomics of targeted subcellular organelles will help to better define the mechanisms underlying pathological IMCL accumulation and IR.

Changes in the cerebrospinal fluid ceramide profile after subarachnoid hemorrhage

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to investigate changes in the cerebrospinal fluid sphingolipid profile in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage in relation to the occurrence of symptomatic vasospasm and outcome at hospital discharge.

METHODS

The ceramide profile in the cerebrospinal fluid was determined by mass spectrometry in control subjects and patients with Fisher 3 grade subarachnoid hemorrhage within 48 hours of the bleed. Patients were prospectively followed and subcategorized based on the occurrence of symptomatic vasospasm and modified Rankin Scale at discharge.

RESULTS

Compared to control subjects, patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage had higher cerebrospinal fluid levels of total ceramide (12.4±8.8 versus 54.6±49.3 pmol/mL; P<0.001). In the subgroup analysis, total ceramide levels in individuals with symptomatic vasospasm (104.2±57.0 pmol/mL) were higher than in those with asymptomatic vasospasm (32.4±25.7 pmol/mL; P=0.006) and no vasospasm (30.9±15.7 pmol/mL; P=0.003). In addition, compared to patients with a good outcome (modified Rankin Scale ≤3), individuals with poor outcome (modified Rankin Scale ≥4) had higher cerebrospinal fluid levels of total ceramide (79±25 versus 23±6 pmol/mL; P=0.008). When the relative contributions of the different ceramide species were calculated, a higher relative concentration of C(18:0) ceramide was observed in individuals with symptomatic vasospasm (P=0.018) and poor outcome (P=0.028).

CONCLUSIONS

Ceramide profile changes occur in subarachnoid hemorrhage. In this small case-based series elevation of levels of this sphingolipid, particularly C(18:0), was associated with the occurrence of symptomatic vasospasm and poor neurological outcome after subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidative mechanisms of minocycline against sphingomyelinase/ceramide neurotoxicity: implication in Alzheimer's disease and cerebral ischemia

Sphingolipids represent a major class of lipids in which selected family members act as bioactive molecules that control diverse cellular processes, such as proliferation, differentiation, growth, senescence, migration and apoptosis. Emerging evidence reveals that sphingomyelinase/ceramide pathway plays a pivotal role in neurodegenerative diseases that involve mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress and apoptosis. Minocycline, a semi-synthetic second-generation tetracycline derivative in clinical use for infection control, is also considered an effective protective agent in various neurodegenerative diseases in pre-clinical studies. Acting via multiple mechanisms, including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and anti-apoptotic effects, minocycline is a desirable candidate for clinical trials in both acute brain injury as well as chronic neurodegenerative disorders. This review is focused on the anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidative mechanisms of minocycline against neurotoxicity induced by sphingomyelinase/ceramide in relation to neurodegeneration, particularly Alzheimer's disease and cerebral ischemia.

Modulation of ceramide synthase activity via dimerization

Ceramide, the backbone of all sphingolipids, is synthesized by a family of ceramide synthases (CerS) that each use acyl-CoAs of defined chain length for N-acylation of the sphingoid long chain base. CerS mRNA expression and enzymatic activity do not always correlate with the sphingolipid acyl chain composition of a particular tissue, suggesting post-translational mechanism(s) of regulation of CerS activity. We now demonstrate that CerS activity can be modulated by dimer formation. Under suitable conditions, high M(r) CerS complexes can be detected by Western blotting, and various CerS co-immunoprecipitate. CerS5 activity is inhibited in a dominant-negative fashion by co-expression with catalytically inactive CerS5, and CerS2 activity is enhanced by co-expression with a catalytically active form of CerS5 or CerS6. In a constitutive heterodimer comprising CerS5 and CerS2, the activity of CerS2 depends on the catalytic activity of CerS5. Finally, CerS dimers are formed upon rapid stimulation of ceramide synthesis by curcumin. Together, these data demonstrate that ceramide synthesis can be regulated by the formation of CerS dimers and suggest a novel way to generate the acyl chain composition of ceramide (and downstream sphingolipids), which may depend on the interaction of CerS with each other.