Mitochondrial permeability transition involves dissociation of F1FO ATP synthase dimers and C-ring conformation

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Mitochondria as Players and Targets of Therapies?

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease and represents the hepatic expression of several metabolic abnormalities of high epidemiologic relevance. Fat accumulation in the hepatocytes results in cellular fragility and risk of progression toward necroinflammation, i.e., nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis, cirrhosis, and eventually hepatocellular carcinoma. Several pathways contribute to fat accumulation and damage in the liver and can also involve the mitochondria, whose functional integrity is essential to maintain liver bioenergetics. In NAFLD/NASH, both structural and functional mitochondrial abnormalities occur and can involve mitochondrial electron transport chain, decreased mitochondrial β-oxidation of free fatty acids, excessive generation of reactive oxygen species, and lipid peroxidation. NASH is a major target of therapy, but there is no established single or combined treatment so far. Notably, translational and clinical studies point to mitochondria as future therapeutic targets in NAFLD since the prevention of mitochondrial damage could improve liver bioenergetics.

Cell death as a result of calcium signaling modulation: A cancer-centric prospective

Calcium ions (Ca²⁺) and the complex regulatory system governed by Ca²⁺ signaling have been described to be of crucial importance in numerous aspects related to cell life and death decisions, especially in recent years. The growing attention given to this second messenger is justified by the pleiotropic nature of Ca²⁺-binding proteins and transporters and their consequent involvement in cell fate decisions. A growing number of works highlight that deregulation of Ca²⁺ signaling and homoeostasis is often deleterious and drives pathological conditions; in particular, a disruption of the main Ca²⁺-mediated death mechanisms may lead to uncontrolled cell growth that results in cancer. In this work, we review the latest useful evidence to better understand the complex network of pathways by which Ca²⁺ regulates cell life and death decisions.

A naturally occurring mutation in ATP synthase subunit c is associated with increased damage following hypoxia/reoxygenation in STEMI patients

Preclinical models of ischemia/reperfusion injury (RI) demonstrate the deleterious effects of permeability transition pore complex (PTPC) opening in the first minutes upon revascularization of the occluded vessel. The ATP synthase c subunit (Csub) influences PTPC activity in cells, thus impacting tissue injury. A conserved glycine-rich domain in Csub is classified as critical because, when mutated, it modifies ATP synthase properties, protein interaction with the mitochondrial calcium (Ca²⁺) uniporter complex, and the conductance of the PTPC. Here, we document the role of a naturally occurring mutation in the Csub-encoding ATP5G1 gene at the G87 position found in two ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients and how PTPC opening is related to RI in patients affected by the same disease. We report a link between the expression of ATP5G1^G87E and the response to hypoxia/reoxygenation of human cardiomyocytes, which worsen when compared to those expressing the wild-type protein, and a positive correlation between PTPC and RI.

Mitochondria and the permeability transition pore in cancer metabolic reprogramming

Mitochondria are a major source of ATP provision as well as cellular suicidal weapon store. Accumulating evidences demonstrate that mitochondrial bioenergetics, biosynthesis and signaling are important mediators of tumorigenesis. Metabolic plasticity enables cancer cell reprogramming to cope with cellular and environmental alterations, a process requires mitochondria biology. Mitochondrial metabolism emerges to be a promising arena for cancer therapeutic targets. The permeability transition pore (PTP) participates in physiological Ca²⁺ and ROS homeostasis as well as cell death depending on the open state. The hypothesis that PTP forms from F-ATP synthase provides clues to the potential collaborative role of mitochondrial respiration and PTP in regulating cancer cell fate and metabolic reprogramming.

Apoptotic signals at the endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondria interface

The maintenance of cellular homeostasis involves the participation of multiple organelles, such as the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria. Specifically, ER plays a key role in calcium (Ca²⁺) storage, lipid synthesis, protein folding, and assembly, while mitochondria are the "energy factories" and provide energy to drive intracellular processes. Hence, alteration in ER or mitochondrial homeostasis has detrimental effects on cell survival, being linked to the triggering of apoptosis, a programmed form of cell death. Besides, ER stress conditions affect mitochondria functionality and vice-versa, as ER and mitochondria communicate via mitochondria-associated ER membranes (MAMs) to carry out a number of fundamental cellular functions. It is not surprising, thus, that also MAMs perturbations are involved in the regulation of apoptosis. This chapter intends to accurately discuss the involvement of MAMs in apoptosis, highlighting their crucial role in controlling this delicate cellular process.

Molecular and Supramolecular Structure of the Mitochondrial Oxidative Phosphorylation System: Implications for Pathology

Under aerobic conditions, mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) converts the energy released by nutrient oxidation into ATP, the currency of living organisms. The whole biochemical machinery is hosted by the inner mitochondrial membrane (mtIM) where the protonmotive force built by respiratory complexes, dynamically assembled as super-complexes, allows the F1FO-ATP synthase to make ATP from ADP + Pi. Recently mitochondria emerged not only as cell powerhouses, but also as signaling hubs by way of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. However, when ROS removal systems and/or OXPHOS constituents are defective, the physiological ROS generation can cause ROS imbalance and oxidative stress, which in turn damages cell components. Moreover, the morphology of mitochondria rules cell fate and the formation of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore in the mtIM, which, most likely with the F1FO-ATP synthase contribution, permeabilizes mitochondria and leads to cell death. As the multiple mitochondrial functions are mutually interconnected, changes in protein composition by mutations or in supercomplex assembly and/or in membrane structures often generate a dysfunctional cascade and lead to life-incompatible diseases or severe syndromes. The known structural/functional changes in mitochondrial proteins and structures, which impact mitochondrial bioenergetics because of an impaired or defective energy transduction system, here reviewed, constitute the main biochemical damage in a variety of genetic and age-related diseases.

Mitochondrial Ca2+ homeostasis in trypanosomes

Mitochondrial calcium ion (Ca2+) uptake is important for buffering cytosolic Ca2+ levels, for regulating cell bioenergetics, and for cell death and autophagy. Ca2+ uptake is mediated by a mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter (MCU) and the discovery of this channel in trypanosomes has been critical for the identification of the molecular nature of the channel in all eukaryotes. However, the trypanosome uniporter, which has been studied in detail in Trypanosoma cruzi, the agent of Chagas disease, and T. brucei, the agent of human and animal African trypanosomiasis, has lineage-specific adaptations which include the lack of some homologues to mammalian subunits, and the presence of unique subunits. Here, we review newly emerging insights into the role of mitochondrial Ca2+ homeostasis in trypanosomes, the composition of the uniporter, its functional characterization, and its role in general physiology.

Mitochondrial Oxidative Stress and "Mito-Inflammation": Actors in the Diseases

A decline in mitochondrial redox homeostasis has been associated with the development of a wide range of inflammatory-related diseases. Continue discoveries demonstrate that mitochondria are pivotal elements to trigger inflammation and stimulate innate immune signaling cascades to intensify the inflammatory response at front of different stimuli. Here, we review the evidence that an exacerbation in the levels of mitochondrial-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) contribute to mito-inflammation, a new concept that identifies the compartmentalization of the inflammatory process, in which the mitochondrion acts as central regulator, checkpoint, and arbitrator. In particular, we discuss how ROS contribute to specific aspects of mito-inflammation in different inflammatory-related diseases, such as neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, pulmonary diseases, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Taken together, these observations indicate that mitochondrial ROS influence and regulate a number of key aspects of mito-inflammation and that strategies directed to reduce or neutralize mitochondrial ROS levels might have broad beneficial effects on inflammatory-related diseases.

Different Roles of Mitochondria in Cell Death and Inflammation: Focusing on Mitochondrial Quality Control in Ischemic Stroke and Reperfusion

Mitochondrial dysfunctions are among the main hallmarks of several brain diseases, including ischemic stroke. An insufficient supply of oxygen and glucose in brain cells, primarily neurons, triggers a cascade of events in which mitochondria are the leading characters. Mitochondrial calcium overload, reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction, mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening, and damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) release place mitochondria in the center of an intricate series of chance interactions. Depending on the degree to which mitochondria are affected, they promote different pathways, ranging from inflammatory response pathways to cell death pathways. In this review, we will explore the principal mitochondrial molecular mechanisms compromised during ischemic and reperfusion injury, and we will delineate potential neuroprotective strategies targeting mitochondrial dysfunction and mitochondrial homeostasis.

Bisindolylpyrrole Induces a Cpr3- and Porin1/2-Dependent Transition in Yeast Mitochondrial Permeability in a Low Conductance State via the AACs-Associated Pore

Although the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP) is presumably formed by either ATP synthase or the ATP/ADP carrier (AAC), little is known about their differential roles in PTP activation. We explored the role of AAC and ATP synthase in PTP formation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae using bisindolylpyrrole (BP), an activator of the mammalian PTP. The yeast mitochondrial membrane potential, as indicated by tetramethylrhodamine methyl ester signals, dissipated over 2–4 h after treatment of cells with 5 μM BP, which was sensitive to cyclosporin A (CsA) and Cpr3 deficiency and blocked by porin1/2 deficiency. The BP-induced depolarization was inhibited by a specific AAC inhibitor, bongkrekate, and consistently blocked in a yeast strain lacking all three AACs, while it was not affected in the strain with defective ATP synthase dimerization, suggesting the involvement of an AAC-associated pore. Upon BP treatment, isolated yeast mitochondria underwent CsA- and bongkrekate-sensitive depolarization without affecting the mitochondrial calcein signals, indicating the induction of a low conductance channel. These data suggest that, upon BP treatment, yeast can form a porin1/2- and Cpr3-regulated PTP, which is mediated by AACs but not by ATP synthase dimers. This implies that yeast may be an excellent tool for the screening of PTP modulators.

The Role of Natural Antioxidants in the Prevention of Dementia-Where Do We Stand and Future Perspectives

Dementia, and especially Alzheimer's disease (AD), puts significant burden on global healthcare expenditure through its increasing prevalence. Research has convincingly demonstrated the implication of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of dementia as well as of the conditions which increase the risk of developing dementia. However, drugs which target single pathways have so far failed in providing significant neuroprotection. Natural antioxidants, due to their effects in multiple pathways through which oxidative stress leads to neurodegeneration and triggers neuroinflammation, could prove valuable weapons in our fight against dementia. Although efficient in vitro and in animal models of AD, natural antioxidants in human trials have many drawbacks related to the limited bioavailability, unknown optimal dose, or proper timing of the treatment. Nonetheless, trials evaluating several of these natural compounds are ongoing, as are attempts to modify these compounds to achieve improved bioavailability.

Mitochondrial Function and Dysfunction in Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Cardiac tissue requires a persistent production of energy in order to exert its pumping function. Therefore, the maintenance of this function relies on mitochondria that represent the “powerhouse” of all cardiac activities. Mitochondria being one of the key players for the proper functioning of the mammalian heart suggests continual regulation and organization. Mitochondria adapt to cellular energy demands via fusion-fission events and, as a proof-reading ability, undergo mitophagy in cases of abnormalities. Ca²⁺ fluxes play a pivotal role in regulating all mitochondrial functions, including ATP production, metabolism, oxidative stress balance and apoptosis. Communication between mitochondria and others organelles, especially the sarcoplasmic reticulum is required for optimal function. Consequently, abnormal mitochondrial activity results in decreased energy production leading to pathological conditions. In this review, we will describe how mitochondrial function or dysfunction impacts cardiac activities and the development of dilated cardiomyopathy.

BIRD-2, a BH4-domain-targeting peptide of Bcl-2, provokes Bax/Bak-independent cell death in B-cell cancers through mitochondrial Ca2+-dependent mPTP opening

Anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 critically controls cell death by neutralizing pro-apoptotic Bcl-2-family members at the mitochondria. Bcl-2 proteins also act at the endoplasmic reticulum, the main intracellular Ca²⁺-storage organelle, where they inhibit IP₃ receptors (IP₃R) and prevent pro-apoptotic Ca²⁺-signaling events. IP₃R channels are targeted by the BH4 domain of Bcl-2. Some cancer types rely on the IP₃R-Bcl-2 interaction for survival. We previously developed a cell-permeable, BH4-domain-targeting peptide that can abrogate Bcl-2's inhibitory action on IP₃Rs, named Bcl-2 IP₃ receptor disrupter-2 (BIRD-2). This peptide kills several Bcl-2-dependent cancer cell types, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) cells, by eliciting intracellular Ca²⁺ signalling. However, the exact mechanisms by which these excessive Ca²⁺ signals triggered by BIRD-2 provoke cancer cell death remain elusive. Here, we demonstrate in DLBCL that although BIRD-2 activates caspase 3/7 and provokes cell death in a caspase-dependent manner, the cell death is independent of pro-apoptotic Bcl-2-family members, Bim, Bax and Bak. Instead, BIRD-2 provokes mitochondrial Ca²⁺ overload that is rapidly followed by opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP). Inhibiting mitochondrial Ca²⁺ overload using Ru265, an inhibitor of the mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uniporter complex counteracts BIRD-2-induced cancer cell death. Finally, we validated our findings in primary CLL patient samples where BIRD-2 provoked mitochondrial Ca²⁺ overload and Ru265 counteracted BIRD-2-induced cell death. Overall, this work reveals the mechanisms by which BIRD-2 provokes cell death, which occurs via mitochondrial Ca²⁺ overload but acts independently of pro-apoptotic Bcl-2-family members.

Ca2+ as cofactor of the mitochondrial H+ -translocating F1 FO -ATP(hydrol)ase

The mitochondrial F₁ F_O -ATPase in the presence of the natural cofactor Mg²⁺ acts as the enzyme of life by synthesizing ATP, but it can also hydrolyze ATP to pump H⁺ . Interestingly, Mg²⁺ can be replaced by Ca²⁺ , but only to sustain ATP hydrolysis and not ATP synthesis. When Ca²⁺ inserts in F₁ , the torque generation built by the chemomechanical coupling between F₁ and the rotating central stalk was reported as unable to drive the transmembrane H⁺ flux within F_O . However, the failed H⁺ translocation is not consistent with the oligomycin-sensitivity of the Ca²⁺ -dependent F₁ F_O -ATP(hydrol)ase. New enzyme roles in mitochondrial energy transduction are suggested by recent advances. Accordingly, the structural F₁ F_O -ATPase distortion driven by ATP hydrolysis sustained by Ca²⁺ is consistent with the permeability transition pore signal propagation pathway. The Ca²⁺ -activated F₁ F_O -ATPase, by forming the pore, may contribute to dissipate the transmembrane H⁺ gradient created by the same enzyme complex.

Mitochondria Associated Membranes (MAMs): Architecture and physiopathological role

In the last decades, the communication between the Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria has obtained great attention: mitochondria-associated membranes (MAMs), which represent the contact sites between the two organelles, have indeed emerged as central hub involved in different fundamental cell processes, such as calcium signalling, apoptosis, autophagy and lipid biosynthesis. Consistently, dysregulation of ER-mitochondria crosstalk has been associated with different pathological conditions, ranging from diabetes to cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we will try to summarize the current knowledge on MAMs' structure and functions in health and their relevance for human diseases.

Cysteine 202 of cyclophilin D is a site of multiple post-translational modifications and plays a role in cardioprotection

AIMS

Cyclophilin-D is a well-known regulator of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP), the main effector of cardiac ischaemia/reperfusion injury. However, the binding of CypD to the PTP is poorly understood. Cysteine 202 (C202) of CypD is highly conserved among species and can undergo redox-sensitive post-translational modifications. We investigated whether C202 regulates the opening of PTP.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We developed a knock-in mouse model using CRISPR where CypD-C202 was mutated to a serine (C202S). Infarct size is reduced in CypD-C202S Langendorff perfused hearts compared to wild type (WT). Cardiac mitochondria from CypD-C202S mice also have higher calcium retention capacity compared to WT. Therefore, we hypothesized that oxidation of C202 might target CypD to the PTP. Indeed, isolated cardiac mitochondria subjected to oxidative stress exhibit less binding of CypD-C202S to the proposed PTP component F1F0-ATP-synthase. We previously found C202 to be S-nitrosylated in ischaemic preconditioning. Cysteine residues can also undergo S-acylation, and C202 matched an S-acylation motif. S-acylation of CypD-C202 was assessed using a resin-assisted capture (Acyl-RAC). WT hearts are abundantly S-acylated on CypD C202 under baseline conditions indicating that S-acylation on C202 per se does not lead to PTP opening. CypD C202S knock-in hearts are protected from ischaemia/reperfusion injury suggesting further that lack of CypD S-acylation at C202 is not detrimental (when C is mutated to S) and does not induce PTP opening. However, we find that ischaemia leads to de-acylation of C202 and that calcium overload in isolated mitochondria promotes de-acylation of CypD. Furthermore, a high bolus of calcium in WT cardiac mitochondria displaces CypD from its physiological binding partners and possibly renders it available for interaction with the PTP.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together the data suggest that with ischaemia CypD is de-acylated at C202 allowing the free cysteine residue to undergo oxidation during the first minutes of reperfusion which in turn targets it to the PTP.

Protocols for Mitochondria as the Target of Pharmacological Therapy in the Context of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most frequent metabolic chronic liver diseases in developed countries and puts the populations at risk of progression to liver necro-inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Mitochondrial dysfunction is involved in the onset of NAFLD and contributes to the progression from NAFLD to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Thus, liver mitochondria could become the target for treatments for improving liver function in NAFLD patients. This chapter describes the most important steps used for potential therapeutic interventions in NAFLD patients, discusses current options gathered from both experimental and clinical evidence, and presents some novel options for potentially improving mitochondrial function in NAFLD.

Amyloid β, α-synuclein and the c subunit of the ATP synthase: Can these peptides reveal an amyloidogenic pathway of the permeability transition pore?

Mitochondrial Permeability Transition (PT) is a phenomenon of increased permeability of the inner mitochondrial membrane in response to high levels of Ca²⁺ and/or reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the matrix. PT occurs upon the opening of a pore, namely the permeability transition pore (PTP), which dissipates the membrane potential uncoupling the respiratory chain. mPT activation and PTP formation can occur through multiple molecular pathways. The specific focus of this review is to discuss the possible molecular mechanisms of PTP that involve the participation of mitochondrially targeted amyloid peptides Aβ, α-synuclein and c subunit of the ATP synthase (ATPase). As activators of PTP, amyloid peptides are uniquely different from other activators because they are capable of forming channels in lipid bilayers. This property rises the possibility that in this permeabilization pathway the formation of the channel involves the direct participation of peptides, making it uniquely different from other PTP induction mechanisms. In this pathway, a critical step of PTP activation involves the import of amyloidogenic peptides from the cytosol into the matrix. In the matrix these peptides, which would fold into α-helical structure in native conditions, interact with cyclophilin D (CypD) and upon stimulation by elevated ROS and/or the Ca²⁺ spontaneously misfold into β-sheet ion conducting pores, causing PTP opening.

"The Loss of Golden Touch": Mitochondria-Organelle Interactions, Metabolism, and Cancer

Mitochondria represent the energy hub of cells and their function is under the constant influence of their tethering with other subcellular organelles. Mitochondria interact with the endoplasmic reticulum, lysosomes, cytoskeleton, peroxisomes, and nucleus in several ways, ranging from signal transduction, vesicle transport, and membrane contact sites, to regulate energy metabolism, biosynthetic processes, apoptosis, and cell turnover. Tumorigenesis is often associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, which could likely be the result of an altered interaction with different cell organelles or structures. The purpose of the present review is to provide an updated overview of the links between inter-organellar communications and interactions and metabolism in cancer cells, with a focus on mitochondria. The very recent publication of several reviews on these aspects testifies the great interest in the area. Here, we aim at (1) summarizing recent evidence supporting that the metabolic rewiring and adaptation observed in tumors deeply affect organelle dynamics and cellular functions and vice versa; (2) discussing insights on the underlying mechanisms, when available; and (3) critically presenting the gaps in the field that need to be filled, for a comprehensive understanding of tumor cells’ biology. Chemo-resistance and druggable vulnerabilities of cancer cells related to the aspects mentioned above is also outlined.

Various Aspects of Calcium Signaling in the Regulation of Apoptosis, Autophagy, Cell Proliferation, and Cancer

Calcium (Ca²⁺) is a major second messenger in cells and is essential for the fate and survival of all higher organisms. Different Ca²⁺ channels, pumps, or exchangers regulate variations in the duration and levels of intracellular Ca²⁺, which may be transient or sustained. These changes are then decoded by an elaborate toolkit of Ca²⁺-sensors, which translate Ca²⁺ signal to intracellular operational cell machinery, thereby regulating numerous Ca²⁺-dependent physiological processes. Alterations to Ca²⁺ homoeostasis and signaling are often deleterious and are associated with certain pathological states, including cancer. Altered Ca²⁺ transmission has been implicated in a variety of processes fundamental for the uncontrolled proliferation and invasiveness of tumor cells and other processes important for cancer progression, such as the development of resistance to cancer therapies. Here, we review what is known about Ca²⁺ signaling and how this fundamental second messenger regulates life and death decisions in the context of cancer, with particular attention directed to cell proliferation, apoptosis, and autophagy. We also explore the intersections of Ca²⁺ and the therapeutic targeting of cancer cells, summarizing the therapeutic opportunities for Ca²⁺ signal modulators to improve the effectiveness of current anticancer therapies.

Mitochondrial Ca2 + Is Related to Mitochondrial Activity and Dynamic Events in Mouse Oocytes

Mitochondrial energy insufficiency is strongly associated with oocyte activation disorders. Ca²⁺, especially that in the mitochondrial matrix, plays a pivotal role in mitochondrial energy supplementation, but the underlying mechanisms are still only poorly understood. An encoded mitochondrial matrix Ca²⁺ probe (Mt-GCaMP6s) was introduced to observe mitochondrial Ca²⁺ ([Ca²⁺]_m) dynamic changes during oocyte maturation and activation. We found that active mitochondria surrounding the nucleus showed a higher [Ca²⁺]_m than those distributed in the cortex during oocyte maturation. During oocyte partheno-activation, the patterns of Ca²⁺ dynamic changes were synchronous in the cytoplasm and mitochondria. Such higher concentration of mitochondrial matrix Ca²⁺ was closely related to the distribution of mitochondrial calcium uptake (MICU) protein. We further showed that higher [Ca²⁺]_m mitochondria around the chromosomes in oocytes might have a potential role in stimulating mitochondrial energy for calmodulin-responsive oocyte spindle formation, while synchronizing Ca²⁺ functions in the cytoplasm and nuclear area are important for oocyte activation.

Modulation of OSCP mitigates mitochondrial and synaptic deficits in a mouse model of Alzheimer's pathology

Synaptic failure underlies cognitive impairment in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Cumulative evidence suggests a strong link between mitochondrial dysfunction and synaptic deficits in AD. We previously found that oligomycin-sensitivity-conferring protein (OSCP) dysfunction produces pronounced neuronal mitochondrial defects in AD brains and a mouse model of AD pathology (5xFAD mice). Here, we prevented OSCP dysfunction by overexpressing OSCP in 5xFAD mouse neurons in vivo (Thy-1 OSCP/5xFAD mice). This approach protected OSCP expression and reduced interaction of amyloid-beta (Aβ) with membrane-bound OSCP. OSCP overexpression also alleviated F1Fo ATP synthase deregulation and preserved mitochondrial function. Moreover, OSCP modulation conferred resistance to Aβ-mediated defects in axonal mitochondrial dynamics and motility. Consistent with preserved neuronal mitochondrial function, OSCP overexpression ameliorated synaptic injury in 5xFAD mice as demonstrated by preserved synaptic density, reduced complement-dependent synapse elimination, and improved synaptic transmission, leading to preserved spatial learning and memory. Taken together, our findings show the consequences of OSCP dysfunction in the development of synaptic stress in AD-related conditions and implicate OSCP modulation as a potential therapeutic strategy.

Cytoprotection by a naturally occurring variant of ATP5G1 in Arctic ground squirrel neural progenitor cells

Many organisms in nature have evolved mechanisms to tolerate severe hypoxia or ischemia, including the hibernation-capable Arctic ground squirrel (AGS). Although hypoxic or ischemia tolerance in AGS involves physiological adaptations, little is known about the critical cellular mechanisms underlying intrinsic AGS cell resilience to metabolic stress. Through cell survival-based cDNA expression screens in neural progenitor cells, we identify a genetic variant of AGS Atp5g1 that confers cell resilience to metabolic stress. Atp5g1 encodes a subunit of the mitochondrial ATP synthase. Ectopic expression in mouse cells and CRISPR/Cas9 base editing of endogenous AGS loci revealed causal roles of one AGS-specific amino acid substitution in mediating cytoprotection by AGS ATP5G1. AGS ATP5G1 promotes metabolic stress resilience by modulating mitochondrial morphological change and metabolic functions. Our results identify a naturally occurring variant of ATP5G1 from a mammalian hibernator that critically contributes to intrinsic cytoprotection against metabolic stress.

When animals hibernate, they lower their body temperature and metabolism to conserve the energy they need to withstand cold harsh winters. One such animal is the Arctic ground squirrel, an extreme hibernator that can drop its body temperatures to below 0°C. This hibernation ability means the cells of Arctic ground squirrels can survive severe shortages of blood and oxygen. But, it is unclear how their cells are able to endure this metabolic stress.

To answer this question, Singhal, Bai et al. studied the cells of Arctic ground squirrels for unique features that might make them more durable to stress. Examining the genetic code of these resilient cells revealed that Arctic ground squirrels may have a variant form of a protein called ATP5G1. This protein is found in a cellular compartment called the mitochondria, which is responsible for supplying energy to the rest of the cell and therefore plays an important role in metabolic processes.

Singhal, Bai et al. found that when this variant form of ATP5G1 was introduced into the cells of mice, their mitochondria was better at coping with stress conditions, such as low oxygen, low temperature and poisoning. Using a gene editing tool to selectively substitute some of the building blocks, also known as amino acids, that make up the ATP5G1 protein revealed that improvements to the mitochondria were caused by switching specific amino acids. However, swapping these amino acids, which presumably affects the role of ATP5G1, did not completely remove the cells’ resilience to stress. This suggests that variants of other genes and proteins may also be involved in providing protection.

These findings provide the first evidence of a protein variant that is responsible for protecting cells during the metabolic stress conditions caused by hibernation. The approach taken by Singhal, Bai et al. could be used to identify and study other proteins that increase resilience to metabolic stress. These findings could help develop new treatments for diseases caused by a limited blood supply to human organs, such as a stroke or heart attack.

Diabetes Mellitus, Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Ca2+-Dependent Permeability Transition Pore

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common metabolic diseases in the developed world, and is associated either with the impaired secretion of insulin or with the resistance of cells to the actions of this hormone (type I and type II diabetes, respectively). In both cases, a common pathological change is an increase in blood glucose—hyperglycemia, which eventually can lead to serious damage to the organs and tissues of the organism. Mitochondria are one of the main targets of diabetes at the intracellular level. This review is dedicated to the analysis of recent data regarding the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the development of diabetes mellitus. Specific areas of focus include the involvement of mitochondrial calcium transport systems and a pathophysiological phenomenon called the permeability transition pore in the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus. The important contribution of these systems and their potential relevance as therapeutic targets in the pathology are discussed.

Natural products and other inhibitors of F1FO ATP synthase

F₁F_O ATP synthase is responsible for the production of >95% of all ATP synthesis within the cell. Dysregulation of its expression, activity or localization is linked to various human diseases including cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. In addition, ATP synthase is a novel and viable drug target for the development of antimicrobials as evidenced by bedaquiline, which was approved in 2012 for the treatment of tuberculosis. Historically, natural products have been a rich source of ATP synthase inhibitors that help unravel the role of F₁F_O ATP synthase in cellular bioenergetics. During the last decade, new modulators of ATP synthase have been discovered through the isolation of novel natural products as well as through a ligand-based drug design process. In addition, new data has been obtained with regards to the structure and function of ATP synthase under physiological and pathological conditions. Crystal structure studies have provided a significant insight into the rotary function of the enzyme and may provide additional opportunities to design a new generation of inhibitors. This review provides an update on recently discovered ATP synthase modulators as well as an update on existing scaffolds.

A Novel Conceptual Model for the Dual Role of FOF1-ATP Synthase in Cell Life and Cell Death

The mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) has been one of the longstanding enigmas in biology. Its cause is currently at the center of an extensive scientific debate, and several hypotheses on its molecular nature have been put forward. The present view holds that the transition arises from the opening of a high-conductance channel in the energy-transducing membrane, the permeability transition pore (PTP), also called the mitochondrial megachannel or the multiconductance channel (MMC). Here, the novel hypothesis is proposed that the aqueous access channels at the interface of the c-ring and the a-subunit of FO in the FOF1-ATP synthase are repurposed during induction of apoptosis and constitute the elusive PTP/ MMC. A unifying principle based on regulation by local potentials is advanced to rationalize the action of the myriad structurally and chemically diverse inducers and inhibitors of PTP/MMC. Experimental evidence in favor of the hypothesis and its differences from current models of PTP/MMC are summarized. The hypothesis explains in considerable detail how the binding of Ca2+ to a β-catalytic site (site 3) in the F1 portion of ATP synthase triggers the opening of the PTP/MMC. It is also shown to connect to longstanding proposals within Nath's torsional mechanism of energy transduction and ATP synthesis as to how the binding of MgADP to site 3 does not induce PTP/MMC, but instead catalyzes physiological ATP synthesis in cell life. In the author's knowledge, this is the first model that explains how Ca2+ transforms the FOF1-ATP synthase from an exquisite energy-conserving enzyme in cell life into an energy-dissipating structure that promotes cell death. This has major implications for basic as well as for clinical research, such as for the development of drugs that target the MPT, given the established role of PTP/MMC dysregulation in cancer, ischemia, cardiac hypertrophy, and various neurodegenerative diseases.

Mitochondrial F-ATP synthase as the permeability transition pore

The current state of research on the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP) can be described in terms of three major problems: molecular identity, atomic structure and gating mechanism. In this review these three problems are discussed in the light of recent findings with special emphasis on the discovery that the PTP is mitochondrial F-ATP synthase (mtF_oF₁). Novel features of the mitochondrial F-ATP synthase emerging from the success of single particle cryo electron microscopy (cryo-EM) to determine F-ATP synthase structures are surveyed along with their possible involvement in pore formation. Also, current findings from the gap junction field concerning the involvement of lipids in channel closure are examined. Finally, an earlier proposal denoted as the 'Death Finger' is discussed as a working model for PTP gating.

Physiopathology of the Permeability Transition Pore: Molecular Mechanisms in Human Pathology

Mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) is the sudden loss in the permeability of the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM) to low-molecular-weight solutes. Due to osmotic forces, MPT is paralleled by a massive influx of water into the mitochondrial matrix, eventually leading to the structural collapse of the organelle. Thus, MPT can initiate outer-mitochondrial-membrane permeabilization (MOMP), promoting the activation of the apoptotic caspase cascade and caspase-independent cell-death mechanisms. The induction of MPT is mostly dependent on mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca²⁺, but is also dependent on the metabolic stage of the affected cell and signaling events. Therefore, since its discovery in the late 1970s, the role of MPT in human pathology has been heavily investigated. Here, we summarize the most significant findings corroborating a role for MPT in the etiology of a spectrum of human diseases, including diseases characterized by acute or chronic loss of adult cells and those characterized by neoplastic initiation.

Mitochondrial F-type ATP synthase: multiple enzyme functions revealed by the membrane-embedded FO structure

Of the two main sectors of the F-type ATP synthase, the membrane-intrinsic F_O domain is the one which, during evolution, has undergone the highest structural variations and changes in subunit composition. The F_O complexity in mitochondria is apparently related to additional enzyme functions that lack in bacterial and thylakoid complexes. Indeed, the F-type ATP synthase has the main bioenergetic role to synthesize ATP by exploiting the electrochemical gradient built by respiratory complexes. The F_O membrane domain, essential in the enzyme machinery, also participates in the bioenergetic cost of synthesizing ATP and in the formation of the cristae, thus contributing to mitochondrial morphology. The recent enzyme involvement in a high-conductance channel, which forms in the inner mitochondrial membrane and promotes the mitochondrial permeability transition, highlights a new F-type ATP synthase role. Point mutations which cause amino acid substitutions in F_O subunits produce mitochondrial dysfunctions and lead to severe pathologies. The F_O variability in different species, pointed out by cryo-EM analysis, mirrors the multiple enzyme functions and opens a new scenario in mitochondrial biology.

Cyclophilin D: An Integrator of Mitochondrial Function

Cyclophilin D (CypD) is a mitochondrial peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase, well-known for regulating the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP), a nonspecific large conductance pore whose opening leads to cell death and has been implicated in ischemia/reperfusion injury in multiple organs, in neurodegenerative disorders, and in muscular dystrophies. While the main target of CypD is a matter of ongoing research, inhibiting CypD protects in models of those diseases making it an interesting therapeutic target. The present review focuses on post-translational modifications of CypD that have been identified by recent studies, which can alter the regulation of the PTP and contribute to understanding the mechanisms of action of CypD.

Cardiac metabolism as a driver and therapeutic target of myocardial infarction

Reducing infarct size during a cardiac ischaemic-reperfusion episode is still of paramount importance, because the extension of myocardial necrosis is an important risk factor for developing heart failure. Cardiac ischaemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is in principle a metabolic pathology as it is caused by abruptly halted metabolism during the ischaemic episode and exacerbated by sudden restart of specific metabolic pathways at reperfusion. It should therefore not come as a surprise that therapy directed at metabolic pathways can modulate IRI. Here, we summarize the current knowledge of important metabolic pathways as therapeutic targets to combat cardiac IRI. Activating metabolic pathways such as glycolysis (eg AMPK activators), glucose oxidation (activating pyruvate dehydrogenase complex), ketone oxidation (increasing ketone plasma levels), hexosamine biosynthesis pathway (O-GlcNAcylation; administration of glucosamine/glutamine) and deacetylation (activating sirtuins 1 or 3; administration of NAD+ -boosting compounds) all seem to hold promise to reduce acute IRI. In contrast, some metabolic pathways may offer protection through diminished activity. These pathways comprise the malate-aspartate shuttle (in need of novel specific reversible inhibitors), mitochondrial oxygen consumption, fatty acid oxidation (CD36 inhibitors, malonyl-CoA decarboxylase inhibitors) and mitochondrial succinate metabolism (malonate). Additionally, protecting the cristae structure of the mitochondria during IR, by maintaining the association of hexokinase II or creatine kinase with mitochondria, or inhibiting destabilization of FO F1 -ATPase dimers, prevents mitochondrial damage and thereby reduces cardiac IRI. Currently, the most promising and druggable metabolic therapy against cardiac IRI seems to be the singular or combined targeting of glycolysis, O-GlcNAcylation and metabolism of ketones, fatty acids and succinate.

Mitochondrial Stress Response and Cancer

Cancer cells survive and adapt to many types of stress including hypoxia, nutrient deprivation, metabolic, and oxidative stress. These stresses are sensed by diverse cellular signaling processes, leading to either degradation of mitochondria or alleviation of mitochondrial stress. This review discusses signaling during sensing and mitigation of stress involving mitochondrial communication with the endoplasmic reticulum, and how retrograde signaling upregulates the mitochondrial stress response to maintain mitochondrial integrity. The importance of the mitochondrial unfolded protein response, an emerging pathway that alleviates cellular stress, will be elaborated with respect to cancer. Detailed understanding of cellular pathways will establish mitochondrial stress response as a key mechanism for cancer cell survival leading to cancer progression and resistance, and provide a potential therapeutic target in cancer.

MCL-1Matrix maintains neuronal survival by enhancing mitochondrial integrity and bioenergetic capacity under stress conditions

Mitochondria play a crucial role in neuronal survival through efficient energy metabolism. In pathological conditions, mitochondrial stress leads to neuronal death, which is regulated by the anti-apoptotic BCL-2 family of proteins. MCL-1 is an anti-apoptotic BCL-2 protein localized to mitochondria either in the outer membrane (OM) or inner membrane (Matrix), which have distinct roles in inhibiting apoptosis and promoting bioenergetics, respectively. While the anti-apoptotic role for Mcl1 is well characterized, the protective function of MCL-1 ^Matrix remains poorly understood. Here, we show MCL-1^OM and MCL-1^Matrix prevent neuronal death through distinct mechanisms. We report that MCL-1^Matrix functions to preserve mitochondrial energy transduction and improves respiratory chain capacity by modulating mitochondrial oxygen consumption in response to mitochondrial stress. We show that MCL-1^Matrix protects neurons from stress by enhancing respiratory function, and by inhibiting mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening. Taken together, our results provide novel insight into how MCL-1^Matrix may confer neuroprotection under stress conditions involving loss of mitochondrial function.

Susceptibility to cellular stress in PS1 mutant N2a cells is associated with mitochondrial defects and altered calcium homeostasis

Presenilin 1 (PS1) mutations are the most common cause of familial Alzheimer's disease (FAD). PS1 also plays a role in cellular processes such as calcium homeostasis and autophagy. We hypothesized that mutant presenilins increase cellular vulnerability to stress. We stably expressed human PS1, mutant PS1E280A and mutant PS1Δ9 in mouse neuroblastoma N2a cells. We examined early signs of stress in different conditions: endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, calcium overload, oxidative stress, and Aβ 1-42 oligomers toxicity. Additionally, we induced autophagy via serum starvation. PS1 mutations did not have an effect in ER stress but PS1E280A mutation affected autophagy. PS1 overexpression influenced calcium homeostasis and generated mitochondrial calcium overload modifying mitochondrial function. However, the opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP) was affected in PS1 mutants, being accelerated in PS1E280A and inhibited in PS1Δ9 cells. Altered autophagy in PS1E280A cells was neither modified by inhibition of γ-secretase, nor by ER calcium retention. MPTP opening was directly regulated by γ-secretase inhibitors independent on organelle calcium modulation, suggesting a novel direct role for PS1 and γ-secretase in mitochondrial stress. We identified intrinsic cellular vulnerability to stress in PS1 mutants associated simultaneously with both, autophagic and mitochondrial function, independent of Aβ pathology.

Mitophagy in Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular diseases are one of the leading causes of death. Increasing evidence has shown that pharmacological or genetic targeting of mitochondria can ameliorate each stage of these pathologies, which are strongly associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. Removal of inefficient and dysfunctional mitochondria through the process of mitophagy has been reported to be essential for meeting the energetic requirements and maintaining the biochemical homeostasis of cells. This process is useful for counteracting the negative phenotypic changes that occur during cardiovascular diseases, and understanding the molecular players involved might be crucial for the development of potential therapies. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on mitophagy (and autophagy) mechanisms in the context of heart disease with an important focus on atherosclerosis, ischemic heart disease, cardiomyopathies, heart failure, hypertension, arrhythmia, congenital heart disease and peripheral vascular disease. We aim to provide a complete background on the mechanisms of action of this mitochondrial quality control process in cardiology and in cardiac surgery by also reviewing studies on the use of known compounds able to modulate mitophagy for cardioprotective purposes.

Cell organelles as targets of mammalian cadmium toxicity

Ever increasing environmental presence of cadmium as a consequence of industrial activities is considered a health hazard and is closely linked to deteriorating global health status. General animal and human cadmium exposure ranges from ingestion of foodstuffs sourced from heavily polluted hotspots and cigarette smoke to widespread contamination of air and water, including cadmium-containing microplastics found in household water. Cadmium is promiscuous in its effects and exerts numerous cellular perturbations based on direct interactions with macromolecules and its capacity to mimic or displace essential physiological ions, such as iron and zinc. Cell organelles use lipid membranes to form complex tightly-regulated, compartmentalized networks with specialized functions, which are fundamental to life. Interorganellar communication is crucial for orchestrating correct cell behavior, such as adaptive stress responses, and can be mediated by the release of signaling molecules, exchange of organelle contents, mechanical force generated through organelle shape changes or direct membrane contact sites. In this review, cadmium effects on organellar structure and function will be critically discussed with particular consideration to disruption of organelle physiology in vertebrates.

ATP Synthase C-Subunit-Deficient Mitochondria Have a Small Cyclosporine A-Sensitive Channel, but Lack the Permeability Transition Pore

Permeability transition (PT) is an increase in mitochondrial inner membrane permeability that can lead to a disruption of mitochondrial function and cell death. PT is responsible for tissue damage in stroke and myocardial infarction. It is caused by the opening of a large conductance (~1.5 nS) channel, the mitochondrial PT pore (mPTP). We directly tested the role of the c-subunit of ATP synthase in mPTP formation by measuring channel activity in c-subunit knockout mitochondria. We found that the classic mPTP conductance was lacking in c-subunit knockout mitochondria, but channels sensitive to the PT inhibitor cyclosporine A could be recorded. These channels had a significantly lower conductance compared with the cyclosporine A-sensitive channels detected in parental cells and were sensitive to the ATP/ADP translocase inhibitor bongkrekic acid. We propose that, in the absence of the c-subunit, mPTP cannot be formed, and a distinct cyclosporine A-sensitive low-conductance channel emerges.

Neginskaya et al. report that c-subunit-deficient mitochondria contain a CSA-sensitive channel. This channel is much smaller compared with the wild-type permeability transition pore and is sensitive to inhibitors of adenine nucleotide translocase. This work highlights the importance of the c-subunit in forming the permeability transition pore.

Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Age-Related Metabolic Disorders

Aging is a natural biological process in living organisms characterized by receding bioenergetics. Mitochondria are crucial for cellular bioenergetics and thus an important contributor to age-related energetics deterioration. In addition, mitochondria play a major role in calcium signaling, redox homeostasis, and thermogenesis making this organelle a major cellular component that dictates the fate of a cell. To maintain its quantity and quality, mitochondria undergo multiple processes such as fission, fusion, and mitophagy to eliminate or replace damaged mitochondria. While this bioenergetics machinery is properly protected, the functional decline associated with age and age-related metabolic diseases is mostly a result of failure in such protective mechanisms. In addition, metabolic by-products like reactive oxygen species also aid in this destructive pathway. Mitochondrial dysfunction has always been thought to be associated with diseases. Moreover, studies in recent years have pointed out that aging contributes to the decay of mitochondrial health by promoting imbalances in key mitochondrial-regulated pathways. Hence, it is crucial to understand the nexus of mitochondrial dysfunction in age-related diseases. This review focuses on various aspects of basic mitochondrial biology and its status in aging and age-related metabolic diseases.

The Mitochondrial Calcium Uniporter Interacts with Subunit c of the ATP Synthase of Trypanosomes and Humans

Mitochondrial Ca2+ transport mediated by the uniporter complex (MCUC) plays a key role in the regulation of cell bioenergetics in both trypanosomes and mammals. Here we report that Trypanosoma brucei MCU (TbMCU) subunits interact with subunit c of the mitochondrial ATP synthase (ATPc), as determined by coimmunoprecipitation and split-ubiquitin membrane-based yeast two-hybrid (MYTH) assays. Mutagenesis analysis in combination with MYTH assays suggested that transmembrane helices (TMHs) are determinants of this specific interaction. In situ tagging, followed by immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence microscopy, revealed that T. brucei ATPc (TbATPc) coimmunoprecipitates with TbMCUC subunits and colocalizes with them to the mitochondria. Blue native PAGE and immunodetection analyses indicated that the TbMCUC is present together with the ATP synthase in a large protein complex with a molecular weight of approximately 900 kDa. Ablation of the TbMCUC subunits by RNA interference (RNAi) significantly increased the AMP/ATP ratio, revealing the downregulation of ATP production in the cells. Interestingly, the direct physical MCU-ATPc interaction is conserved in Trypanosoma cruzi and human cells. Specific interaction between human MCU (HsMCU) and human ATPc (HsATPc) was confirmed in vitro by mutagenesis and MYTH assays and in vivo by coimmunoprecipitation. In summary, our study has identified that MCU complex physically interacts with mitochondrial ATP synthase, possibly forming an MCUC-ATP megacomplex that couples ADP and Pi transport with ATP synthesis, a process that is stimulated by Ca2+ in trypanosomes and human cells.IMPORTANCE The mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) is essential for the regulation of oxidative phosphorylation in mammalian cells, and we have shown that in Trypanosoma brucei, the etiologic agent of sleeping sickness, this channel is essential for its survival and infectivity. Here we reveal that that Trypanosoma brucei MCU subunits interact with subunit c of the mitochondrial ATP synthase (ATPc). Interestingly, the direct physical MCU-ATPc interaction is conserved in T. cruzi and human cells.

Cancer-Related Increases and Decreases in Calcium Signaling at the Endoplasmic Reticulum-Mitochondria Interface (MAMs)

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-mitochondria regions are specialized subdomains called also mitochondria-associated membranes (MAMs). MAMs allow regulation of lipid synthesis and represent hubs for ion and metabolite signaling. As these two organelles can module both the amplitude and the spatiotemporal patterns of calcium (Ca²⁺) signals, this particular interaction controls several Ca²⁺-dependent pathways well known for their contribution to tumorigenesis, such as metabolism, survival, sensitivity to cell death, and metastasis. Mitochondria-mediated apoptosis arises from mitochondrial Ca²⁺ overload, permeabilization of the mitochondrial outer membrane, and the release of mitochondrial apoptotic factors into the cytosol. Decreases in Ca²⁺ signaling at the ER-mitochondria interface are being studied in depth as failure of apoptotic-dependent cell death is one of the predominant characteristics of cancer cells. However, some recent papers that linked MAMs Ca²⁺ crosstalk-related upregulation to tumor onset and progression have aroused the interest of the scientific community.In this review, we will describe how different MAMs-localized proteins modulate the effectiveness of Ca²⁺-dependent apoptotic stimuli by causing both increases and decreases in the ER-mitochondria interplay and, specifically, by modulating Ca²⁺ signaling.

The role of mitochondria-associated membranes in cellular homeostasis and diseases

Mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) are fundamental in the control of cell physiology regulating several signal transduction pathways. They continuously communicate exchanging messages in their contact sites called MAMs (mitochondria-associated membranes). MAMs are specific microdomains acting as a platform for the sorting of vital and dangerous signals. In recent years increasing evidence reported that multiple scaffold proteins and regulatory factors localize to this subcellular fraction suggesting MAMs as hotspot signaling domains. In this review we describe the current knowledge about MAMs' dynamics and processes, which provided new correlations between MAMs' dysfunctions and human diseases. In fact, MAMs machinery is strictly connected with several pathologies, like neurodegeneration, diabetes and mainly cancer. These pathological events are characterized by alterations in the normal communication between ER and mitochondria, leading to deep metabolic defects that contribute to the progression of the diseases.

The mitochondrial permeability transition pore in cell death: A promising drug binding bioarchitecture

Bioenergetic failure often features programmed cell death involved in some severe pathologies. When the cell is fated to die, the inner mitochondrial membrane becomes permeable to ions and solutes, due to the formation and opening of a channel known as mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP). Up to now, the still-elusive mPTP structure and mechanism prevented any attempt to identify/design drugs to rule its formation and limit cell death. Latest advances, which strongly suggest that the F₁ F_O -ATPase can coincide with the mPTP, open new perspectives in therapy. Compounds targeting and inhibiting cyclophilin D, a known mPTP promoter, could be exploited to block mPTP formation. Moreover, if the mPTP-F₁ F_O -ATPase connection will be consolidated, selected F₁ F_O -ATPase inhibitors could represent novel therapeutic options to attenuate mPTP-related diseases by directly acting on mPTP molecular mechanism. This intriguing perspective, which raises new hopes to counteract mPTP-related diseases, stimulates further studies to clarify the mPTP architecture and mechanism.

Cytoplasmic and Mitochondrial Calcium Signaling: A Two-Way Relationship

Intracellular Ca²⁺ signals are well organized in all cell types, and trigger a variety of vital physiological processes. The temporal and spatial characteristics of cytosolic Ca²⁺ increases are mainly governed by the fluxes of this ion across the membrane of the endoplasmic/sarcoplasmic reticulum and the plasma membrane. However, various Ca²⁺ transporters also allow for Ca²⁺ exchanges between the cytoplasm and mitochondria. Increases in mitochondrial Ca²⁺ stimulate the production of ATP, which allows the cells to cope with the increased energy demand created by the stimulus. Less widely appreciated is the fact that Ca²⁺ handling by mitochondria also shapes cytosolic Ca²⁺ signals. Indeed, the frequency, amplitude, and duration of cytosolic Ca²⁺ increases can be altered by modifying the rates of Ca²⁺ transport into, or from, mitochondria. In this review, we focus on the interplay between mitochondria and Ca²⁺ signaling, highlighting not only the consequences of cytosolic Ca²⁺ changes on mitochondrial Ca²⁺, but also how cytosolic Ca²⁺ dynamics is controlled by modifications of the Ca²⁺-handling properties and the metabolism of mitochondria.

ER Ca2+ release and store-operated Ca2+ entry - partners in crime or independent actors in oncogenic transformation?

Ca²⁺ is a pleiotropic messenger that controls life and death decisions from fertilisation until death. Cellular Ca²⁺ handling mechanisms show plasticity and are remodelled throughout life to meet the changing needs of the cell. In turn, as the demands on a cell alter, for example through a change in its niche environment or its functional requirements, Ca²⁺ handling systems may be targeted to sustain the remodelled cellular state. Nowhere is this more apparent than in cancer. Oncogenic transformation is a multi-stage process during which normal cells become progressively differentiated towards a cancerous state that is principally associated with enhanced proliferation and avoidance of death. Ca²⁺ signalling is intimately involved in almost all aspects of the life of a transformed cell and alterations in Ca²⁺ handling have been observed in cancer. Moreover, this remodelling of Ca²⁺ signalling pathways is also required in some cases to sustain the transformed phenotype. As such, Ca²⁺ handling is hijacked by oncogenic processes to deliver and maintain the transformed phenotype. Central to generation of intracellular Ca²⁺ signals is the release of Ca²⁺ from the endoplasmic reticulum intracellular (ER) Ca²⁺ store via inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (InsP₃Rs). Upon depletion of ER Ca²⁺, store-operated Ca²⁺ entry (SOCE) across the plasma membrane occurs via STIM-gated Orai channels. SOCE serves to both replenish stores but also sustain Ca²⁺ signalling events. Here, we will discuss the role and regulation of these two signalling pathways and their interplay in oncogenic transformation.

Interorganellar calcium signaling in the regulation of cell metabolism: A cancer perspective

Organelles were originally considered to be individual cellular compartments with a defined organization and function. However, recent studies revealed that organelles deeply communicate within each other via Ca²⁺ exchange. This communication, mediated by specialized membrane regions in close apposition between two organelles, regulate cellular functions, including metabolism and cell fate decisions. Advances in microscopy techniques, molecular biology and biochemistry have increased our understanding of these interorganelle platforms. Research findings suggest that interorganellar Ca²⁺ signaling, which is altered in cancer, influences tumorigenesis and tumor progression by controlling cell death programs and metabolism. Here, we summarize the available data on the existence and composition of interorganelle platforms connecting the endoplasmic reticulum with mitochondria, the plasma membrane, or endolysosomes. Finally, we provide a timely overview of the potential function of interorganellar Ca²⁺ signaling in maintaining cellular homeostasis.

Dynamics of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore: Transient and permanent opening events

A gentle optical examination of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening events was carried out in isolated quiescent ventricular myocytes by tracking the inner membrane potential (ΔΨM) using TMRM (tetramethylrhodamine methyl ester). Zeiss Airyscan 880 ″super-resolution" or "high-resolution" imaging was done with very low levels of illumination (0.009% laser power). In cellular areas imaged every 9 s (ROI or regions of interest), transient depolarizations of variable amplitudes occurred at increasing rates for the first 30 min. The time to first depolarization events was 8.4 min (±1.1 SEM n = 21 cells). At longer times, essentially permanent and irreversible depolarizations occurred at an increasing fraction of all events. In other cellular areas surrounding the ROI, mitochondria were rarely illuminated (once per 5 min) and virtually no permanent depolarization events occurred for over 1 h of imaging. These findings suggest that photon stress due to the imaging itself plays an important role in the generation of both the transient mPTP opening events as well as the permanent mPTP opening events. Consistent with the evidence that photon "stress" in mitochondria loaded with virtually any photon absorbing substance, generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) [1-5], we show that cyclosporine-A (CsA, 10 μM) and the antioxidant n-acetyl cysteine (NAC, 10 mM), reduced the number of events by 80% and 93% respectively. Furthermore, CsA and NAC treatment led to the virtual disappearance of permanent depolarization events. Nevertheless, all transient depolarization events in any condition (control, CsA and NAC) appeared to repolarize with a similar half-time of 30 ± 6 s (n = 478) at 37 °C. Further experiments showed quantitatively similar results in cerebral vascular smooth muscle cells, using a different confocal system, and different photon absorbing reagent (TMRE; tetramethylrhodamine ethyl ester). In these experiments, using modest power (1% laser power) transient depolarization events were seen in only 8 out of 23 cells while with higher power (8%), all cells showed transient events, which align with the level of photon stress being the driver of the effect. Together, our findings suggest that photon-induced ROS is sufficient to cause depolarization events of individual mitochondria in quiescent cells; without electrical or mechanical activity to stimulates mitochondrial metabolism, and without raising the mitochondrial matrix Ca2+. In a broad context, these findings neither support nor deny the relevance or occurrence of ΔΨM depolarization events in specific putatively physiologic mitochondrial behaviors such as MitoFlashes [6,7] or MitoWinks [8]. Instead, our findings raise a caution with regards to the physiological and pathophysiological functions attributed to singular ΔΨM depolarization events when those functions are investigated using photon absorbing substances. Nevertheless, using photon stress as a tool ("Optical Stress-Probe"), we can extract information on the activation, reversibility, permanency and kinetics of mitochondrial depolarization. These data may provide new information on mPTP, help identify the mPTP protein complex, and establish the physiological function of the mPTP protein complex and their links to MitoFlashes and MitoWinks.

Investigating the Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore in Disease Phenotypes and Drug Screening

Mitochondria act as ‘sinks’ for Ca²⁺ signaling, with mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uptake linking physiological stimuli to increased ATP production. However, mitochondrial Ca²⁺ overload can induce a cellular catastrophe by opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP). This pore is a large conductance pathway in the inner mitochondrial membrane that causes bioenergetic collapse and appears to represent a final common path to cell death in many diseases. The role of the mPTP as a determinant of disease outcome is best established in ischemia/reperfusion injury in the heart, brain, and kidney, and it is also implicated in neurodegenerative disorders and muscular dystrophies. As the probability of pore opening can be modulated by drugs, it represents a useful pharmacological target for translational research in drug discovery. Described in this unit is a protocol utilizing isolated mitochondria to quantify this phenomenon and to develop a high‐throughput platform for phenotypic screens for Ca²⁺ dyshomeostasis. © 2019 The Authors. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Mitochondrial calcium uniporter complex modulation in cancerogenesis

Aberrations in mitochondrial Ca²⁺ homeostasis have been associated with different pathological conditions, including neurological defects, cardiovascular diseases, and, in the last years, cancer. With the recent molecular identification of the mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) complex, the channel that allows Ca²⁺ accumulation into the mitochondrial matrix, alterations in the expression levels or functioning in one or more MCU complex members have been linked to different cancers and cancer-related phenotypes. In this review, we will analyze the role of the uniporter and mitochondrial Ca²⁺ derangements in modulating cancer cell sensitivity to death, invasiveness, and migratory capacity, as well as cancer progression in vivo. We will also discuss some critical points and contradictory results to highlight the consequence of MCU complex modulation in tumor development.