The dynamic regulation of NAD metabolism in mitochondria

Safety evaluation of β-nicotinamide mononucleotide oral administration in healthy adult men and women

A decrease in the intracellular level of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), an essential coenzyme for metabolic activity, causes various age-related diseases and metabolic abnormalities. Both in-vivo and in-vitro studies have shown that increasing certain NAD+ levels in cell or tissue by supplementing nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), a precursor of NAD+, alleviates age-related diseases and metabolic disorders. In recent years, several clinical trials have been performed to elucidate NMN efficacy in humans. However, previous clinical studies with NMN have not reported on the safety of repeated daily oral administration of ≥ 1000 mg/shot in healthy adult men and women, and human clinical trials on NMN safety are limited. Therefore, we conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study to evaluate the safety of 1250 mg of β-NMN administered orally once daily for up to 4 weeks in 31 healthy adult men and women aged 20–65 years. Oral administration of β-NMN did not result in changes exceeding physiological variations in multiple clinical trials, including anthropometry, hematological, biochemical, urine, and body composition analyses. Moreover, no severe adverse events were observed during the study period. Our results indicate that β-NMN is safe and well-tolerated in healthy adult men and women an oral dose of 1250 mg once daily for up to 4 weeks.

Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: UMIN000043084. Registered 21/01/2021. https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000049188.

Current Uncertainties and Future Challenges Regarding NAD+ Boosting Strategies

Precursors of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), modulators of enzymes of the NAD+ biosynthesis pathways and inhibitors of NAD+ consuming enzymes, are the main boosters of NAD+. Increasing public awareness and interest in anti-ageing strategies and health-promoting lifestyles have grown the interest in the use of NAD+ boosters as dietary supplements, both in scientific circles and among the general population. Here, we discuss the current trends in NAD+ precursor usage as well as the uncertainties in dosage, timing, safety, and side effects. There are many unknowns regarding pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, particularly bioavailability, metabolism, and tissue specificity of NAD+ boosters. Given the lack of long-term safety studies, there is a need for more clinical trials to determine the proper dose of NAD+ boosters and treatment duration for aging prevention and as disease therapy. Further research will also need to address the long-term consequences of increased NAD+ and the best approaches and combinations to increase NAD+ levels. The answers to the above questions will contribute to the more efficient and safer use of NAD+ boosters.

Mechanism and Therapeutic Targets of c-Jun-N-Terminal Kinases Activation in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) is the most common chronic liver disease. Activation of mitogen-activated kinases (MAPK) cascade, which leads to c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activation occurs in the liver in response to the nutritional and metabolic stress. The aberrant activation of MAPKs, especially c-Jun-N-terminal kinases (JNKs), leads to unwanted genetic and epi-genetic modifications in addition to the metabolic stress adaptation in hepatocytes. A mechanism of sustained P-JNK activation was identified in acute and chronic liver diseases, suggesting an important role of aberrant JNK activation in NASH. Therefore, modulation of JNK activation, rather than targeting JNK protein levels, is a plausible therapeutic application for the treatment of chronic liver disease.

Role of Mitochondria in Retinal Pigment Epithelial Aging and Degeneration

Retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells form a monolayer between the neuroretina and choroid. It has multiple important functions, including acting as outer blood-retina barrier, maintaining the function of neuroretina and photoreceptors, participating in the visual cycle and regulating retinal immune response. Due to high oxidative stress environment, RPE cells are vulnerable to dysfunction, cellular senescence, and cell death, which underlies RPE aging and age-related diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Mitochondria are the powerhouse of cells and a major source of cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) that contribute to mitochondrial DNA damage, cell death, senescence, and age-related diseases. Mitochondria also undergo dynamic changes including fission/fusion, biogenesis and mitophagy for quality control in response to stresses. The role of mitochondria, especially mitochondrial dynamics, in RPE aging and age-related diseases, is still unclear. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of mitochondrial function, biogenesis and especially dynamics such as morphological changes and mitophagy in RPE aging and age-related RPE diseases, as well as in the biological processes of RPE cellular senescence and cell death. We also discuss the current preclinical and clinical research efforts to prevent or treat RPE degeneration by restoring mitochondrial function and dynamics.

Mitochondrial transport and metabolism of the vitamin B-derived cofactors thiamine pyrophosphate, coenzyme A, FAD and NAD+ , and related diseases: A review

Multiple mitochondrial matrix enzymes playing key roles in metabolism require cofactors for their action. Due to the high impermeability of the mitochondrial inner membrane, these cofactors need to be synthesized within the mitochondria or be imported, themselves or one of their precursors, into the organelles. Transporters belonging to the protein family of mitochondrial carriers have been identified to transport the coenzymes: thiamine pyrophosphate, coenzyme A, FAD and NAD+ , which are all structurally similar to nucleotides and derived from different B-vitamins. These mitochondrial cofactors bind more or less tightly to their enzymes and, after having been involved in a specific reaction step, are regenerated, spontaneously or by other enzymes, to return to their active form, ready for the next catalysis round. Disease-causing mutations in the mitochondrial cofactor carrier genes compromise not only the transport reaction but also the activity of all mitochondrial enzymes using that particular cofactor and the metabolic pathways in which the cofactor-dependent enzymes are involved. The mitochondrial transport, metabolism and diseases of the cofactors thiamine pyrophosphate, coenzyme A, FAD and NAD+ are the focus of this review.

Mitochondrial dysfunction in cell senescence and aging

Mitochondrial dysfunction and cell senescence are hallmarks of aging and are closely interconnected. Mitochondrial dysfunction, operationally defined as a decreased respiratory capacity per mitochondrion together with a decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, typically accompanied by increased production of oxygen free radicals, is a cause and a consequence of cellular senescence and figures prominently in multiple feedback loops that induce and maintain the senescent phenotype. Here, we summarize pathways that cause mitochondrial dysfunction in senescence and aging and discuss the major consequences of mitochondrial dysfunction and how these consequences contribute to senescence and aging. We also highlight the potential of senescence-associated mitochondrial dysfunction as an antiaging and antisenescence intervention target, proposing the combination of multiple interventions converging onto mitochondrial dysfunction as novel, potent senolytics.

NAD+ centric mechanisms and molecular determinants of skeletal muscle disease and aging

The nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is an essential redox cofactor, involved in various physiological and molecular processes, including energy metabolism, epigenetics, aging, and metabolic diseases. NAD+ repletion ameliorates muscular dystrophy and improves the mitochondrial and muscle stem cell function and thereby increase lifespan in mice. Accordingly, NAD+ is considered as an anti-oxidant and anti-aging molecule. NAD+ plays a central role in energy metabolism and the energy produced is used for movements, thermoregulation, and defense against foreign bodies. The dietary precursors of NAD+ synthesis is targeted to improve NAD+ biosynthesis; however, studies have revealed conflicting results regarding skeletal muscle-specific effects. Recent advances in the activation of nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase in the NAD+ salvage pathway and supplementation of NAD+ precursors have led to beneficial effects in skeletal muscle pathophysiology and function during aging and associated metabolic diseases. NAD+ is also involved in the epigenetic regulation and post-translational modifications of proteins that are involved in various cellular processes to maintain tissue homeostasis. This review provides detailed insights into the roles of NAD+ along with molecular mechanisms during aging and disease conditions, such as the impacts of age-related NAD+ deficiencies on NAD+-dependent enzymes, including poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARPs), CD38, and sirtuins within skeletal muscle, and the most recent studies on the potential of nutritional supplementation and distinct modes of exercise to replenish the NAD+ pool.

Cell energy metabolism and bone formation

Energy metabolism plays an important role in cell and tissue ability to effectively function, maintain homeostasis, and perform repair. Yet, the role of energy metabolism in skeletal tissues in general and in bone, in particular, remains understudied. We, here, review the aspects of cell energy metabolism relevant to bone tissue, such as: i) availability of substrates and oxygen; ii) metabolism regulatory mechanisms most active in bone tissue, e.g. HIF and BMP; iii) crosstalk of cell bioenergetics with other cell functions, e.g. proliferation and differentiation; iv) role of glycolysis and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation in osteogenic lineage; and v) most significant changes in bone energy metabolism observed in aging and other pathologies. In addition, we review available methods to study energy metabolism on a subcellular, cellular, tissue, and live animal levels.

CD38-Induced Apoptosis and Mitochondrial Damage is Restored by Nicotinamide in Prostate Cancer

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺) is an essential molecule for living organisms. CD38 is a key NAD⁺-dependent enzyme which breaks down NAD⁺ to cyclic ADP-ribose (ADPR) and nicotinamide (NAM, vitamin B3), and NAM can be recycled to synthesize NAD⁺. CD38 expression is consistently silenced by methylation in prostate cancer and progressively downregulated in advanced castration-resistant prostate cancer, suggesting a connection between NAD⁺ and prostate carcinogenesis as well as prostate cancer progression. However, the functional interplay between NAD⁺, CD38, and NAM remains largely uncharacterized in prostate cancer cells. In this study, we generated stable LNCaP95 cell clones expressing varying levels of CD38 upon induction by doxycycline. We demonstrate that CD38 overexpression resulted in growth suppression and apoptosis accompanied by cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1). CD38 overexpression also dramatically reduced intracellular NAD⁺ levels and decreased mitochondrial respiration as measured by oxygen consumption rate. We further show that some but not all of these CD38-induced phenotypes could be rescued by exogenous NAM. Treatment of cells with NAM rescued CD38-induced apoptosis and mitochondrial stress but did not restore intracellular NAD⁺ levels. We also found that NAM demonstrated biphasic effect on mitochondria function, a finding that can be explained by the dual role of NAM as both a precursor of NAD⁺ and also as a suppressor of a number of NAD⁺-dependent enzymes. Collectively, these findings provide additional insight supporting the functional relevance of CD38 loss in prostate cancer by linking cell-autonomous regulation of mitochondrial function and prostate cancer.

Mitochondrial NAD(P)+ Transhydrogenase: From Molecular Features to Physiology and Disease

Significance: Proton-translocating NAD(P)⁺ transhydrogenase, also known as nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase (NNT), catalyzes a reversible reaction coupling the protonmotive force across the inner mitochondrial membrane and hydride (H^-, a proton plus two electrons) transfer between the mitochondrial pools of NAD(H) and NADP(H). The forward NNT reaction is a source of NADPH in the mitochondrial matrix, fueling antioxidant and biosynthetic pathways with reductive potential. Despite the greater emphasis given to the net forward reaction, the reverse NNT reaction that oxidizes NADPH also occurs in physiological and pathological conditions. Recent Advances: NNT (dys)function has been linked to various metabolic pathways and disease phenotypes. Most of these findings have been based on spontaneous loss-of-function Nnt mutations found in the C57BL/6J mouse strain (Nnt^C57BL/6J mutation) and disease-causing Nnt mutations in humans. The present review focuses on recent advances based on the mouse Nnt^C57BL/6J mutation. Critical Issues: Most studies associating NNT function with disease phenotypes have been based on comparisons between different strains of inbred mice (with or without the Nnt^C57BL/6J mutation), which creates uncertainties over the actual contribution of NNT in the context of other potential genetic modifiers. Future Directions: Future research might contribute to understanding the role of NNT in pathological conditions and elucidate how NNT regulates physiological signaling through its forward and reverse reactions. The importance of NNT in redox balance and tumor cell proliferation makes it a potential target of new therapeutic strategies for oxidative-stress-mediated diseases and cancer. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 36, 864-884.

RIP3-Dependent Accumulation of Mitochondrial Superoxide Anions in TNF-α-Induced Necroptosis

Excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a key phenomenon in tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α-induced cell death. However, the role of ROS in necroptosis remains mostly elusive. In this study, we show that TNF-α induces the mitochondrial accumulation of superoxide anions, not H2O2, in cancer cells undergoing necroptosis. TNF-α-induced mitochondrial superoxide anions production is strictly RIP3 expression-dependent. Unexpectedly, TNF-α stimulates NADPH oxidase (NOX), not mitochondrial energy metabolism, to activate superoxide production in the RIP3-positive cancer cells. In parallel, mitochondrial superoxide-metabolizing enzymes, such as manganese-superoxide dismutase (SOD2) and peroxiredoxin III, are not involved in the superoxide accumulation. Mitochondrial-targeted superoxide scavengers and a NOX inhibitor eliminate the accumulated superoxide without affecting TNF-α-induced necroptosis. Therefore, our study provides the first evidence that mitochondrial superoxide accumulation is a consequence of necroptosis.

Retinal Circular RNA hsa_circ_0087207 Expression Promotes Apoptotic Cell Death in Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy-like Models

Backgrounds: Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is known as an inherited retinal disorder characterized by the bilateral central vision loss and degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Unaffected LHON carriers are generally asymptomatic, suggesting that certain factors may contribute to the disease manifestations between carriers and patients who carry the same mutated genotypes. Methods: We first aimed to establish the iPSC-differentiated RGCs from the normal healthy subject, the carrier, and the LHON patient and then compared the differential expression profile of circular RNAs (CircRNAs) among RGCs from these donors in vitro. We further overexpressed or knocked down the most upregulated circRNA to examine whether this circRNA contributes to the distinct phenotypic manifestations between the carrier- and patient-derived RGCs. Results: iPSCs were generated from the peripheral blood cells from the healthy subject, the carrier, and the LHON patient and successfully differentiated into RGCs. These RGCs carried equivalent intracellular reactive oxygen species, but only LHON-patient iPSC-derived RGCs exhibited remarkable apoptosis. Next-generation sequencing and quantitative real-time PCR revealed the circRNA hsa_circ_0087207 as the most upregulated circRNA in LHON-patient iPSC-derived RGCs. Overexpression of hsa_circ_0087207 increased the apoptosis in carrier iPSC-derived RGCs, while knockdown of hsa_circ_0087207 attenuated the apoptosis in LHON-patient iPSC-derived RGCs. Predicted by bioinformatics approaches, hsa_circ_0087207 acts as the sponge of miR-665 to induce the expression of a variety of apoptosis-related genes in LHON patient iPSC-derived RGCs. Conclusions: Our data indicated that hsa_circ_0087207 upregulation distinguishes the disease phenotype manifestations between iPSC-derived RGCs generated from the LHON patient and carrier. Targeting the hsa_circ_0087207/miR-665 axis might hold therapeutic promises for the treatment of LHON.

Metabolic Reprogramming in HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders

A significant number of patients infected with HIV-1 suffer from HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) such as spatial memory impairments and learning disabilities (SMI-LD). SMI-LD is also observed in patients using combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). Our lab has demonstrated that the HIV-1 protein, gp120, promotes SMI-LD by altering mitochondrial functions and energy production. We have investigated cellular processes upstream of the mitochondrial functions and discovered that gp120 causes metabolic reprogramming. Effectively, the addition of gp120 protein to neuronal cells disrupted the glycolysis pathway at the pyruvate level. Looking for the players involved, we found that gp120 promotes increased expression of polypyrimidine tract binding protein 1 (PTBP1), causing the splicing of pyruvate kinase M (PKM) into PKM1 and PKM2. We have also shown that these events lead to the accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and prevent the cleavage of pro-brain-derived neurotrophic factor (pro-BDNF) protein into mature brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). The accumulation of proBDNF results in signaling that increases the expression of the inducible cAMP early repressor (ICER) protein which then occupies the cAMP response element (CRE)-binding sites within the BDNF promoters II and IV, thus altering normal synaptic plasticity. We reversed these events by adding Tepp-46, which stabilizes the tetrameric form of PKM2. Therefore, we concluded that gp120 reprograms cellular metabolism, causing changes linked to disrupted memory in HIV-infected patients and that preventing the disruption of the metabolism presents a potential cure against HAND progression.

Hallmarks of Metabolic Reprogramming and Their Role in Viral Pathogenesis

Metabolic reprogramming is a hallmark of cancer and has proven to be critical in viral infections. Metabolic reprogramming provides the cell with energy and biomass for large-scale biosynthesis. Based on studies of the cellular changes that contribute to metabolic reprogramming, seven main hallmarks can be identified: (1) increased glycolysis and lactic acid, (2) increased glutaminolysis, (3) increased pentose phosphate pathway, (4) mitochondrial changes, (5) increased lipid metabolism, (6) changes in amino acid metabolism, and (7) changes in other biosynthetic and bioenergetic pathways. Viruses depend on metabolic reprogramming to increase biomass to fuel viral genome replication and production of new virions. Viruses take advantage of the non-metabolic effects of metabolic reprogramming, creating an anti-apoptotic environment and evading the immune system. Other non-metabolic effects can negatively affect cellular function. Understanding the role metabolic reprogramming plays in viral pathogenesis may provide better therapeutic targets for antivirals.

Neuroprotective Effects of Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3) on Neurodegeneration in Diabetic Rat Retinas

The loss of inner retinal neurons is an initial event in diabetic retinopathy. In diabetic retinas, oxidative stress is increased, which could lead to increased oxidative DNA damage. Nicotinamide is a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, which contributes to the DNA damage response. We investigated whether nicotinamide plays a neuroprotective role in diabetic retinal neurodegeneration in terms of DNA repair. Male Sprague Dawley rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes were orally administered nicotinamide (500 mg/kg/day) for 4 or 12 weeks. Oxidative stress exhibited by dihydroethidium was upregulated at 4 and 12 weeks after onset of diabetes, and nicotinamide treatment reduced oxidative stress at 4 weeks after induction of diabetes. Oxidative DNA damage measured by 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) increased at 4 and 12 weeks after induction of diabetes and decreased following nicotinamide treatment. The elevated expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) induced by diabetes was attenuated by nicotinamide treatment. In Western blot analysis, the increased expression of cleaved PARP-1 in diabetes was attenuated by nicotinamide treatment at 12 weeks after induction of diabetes. The diabetes-induced apoptosis of inner retinal cells detected by the TUNEL assay was reduced by nicotinamide treatment. In conclusion, nicotinamide attenuated retinal neurodegeneration in diabetes, probably by reducing oxidative DNA damage and supporting DNA repair.

Targeted delivery of PARP inhibitors to neuronal mitochondria via biomimetic engineered nanosystems in a mouse model of traumatic brain injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is known to activate poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP-1), which leads to pronounced negative effects on mitochondrial DNA (mt-DNA) repair and function. Notably, PARP inhibitors are reported to be beneficial in experimental models of TBI. A targeting strategy for the delivery of neuronal mitochondria-specific PARP inhibitors could result in a greater neuroprotective effect and be a safer approach for TBI treatment. In the present study, we developed the PARP inhibitor olaparib (Ola) as a model drug and devised red blood cell (RBC)-coated nanostructured lipid carriers (RBCNLCs) co-modified with C3 and SS31 peptide (C3/SS31-RBCNLCs) for brain neuronal mitochondria-targeting. Our results indicated that biomimetic nanosystems have the physical and chemical properties of the NLCs, as well as the biological properties of RBC. A high concentration of Ola delivered into brain mitochondria by C3/SS31-RBCNLCs-Ola effectively improved mitochondrial function and prevented neuronal cell death caused by excessive activation of injury-induced mitochondrial PARP (mt-PARP) in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, the results of this study support the preclinical feasibility of developing highly effective nano-drugs as part of precision medicine for TBI. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: TBI-induced neuronal mitochondria DNA damage activates Poly(ADP-ribose) Polymerase (PARP1) which leads to a pronounced negative effect on mitochondrial DNA repair and mitochondrial function. In recent years, PARP inhibitors showed strong benefits in experimental models of TBI, more importantly PARP inhibitors specially target neuronal mitochondria may play a greater neuroprotective role and may be a safer approach for TBI treatment. Herein, we designed red blood cell (RBC) membrane-coated nanostructure lipid carriers dual-modified with C3 and SS31 (C3/SS31-RBCNLCs) to accomplish these objectives. After encapsulating Olaparib (Ola) as the model PARP inhibitor, the data demonstrated that C3/SS31-RBCNLCs, with brain neuronal mitochondria targeting, can reduce neuronal cell death and improve mitochondrial dysfunction triggered by mitochondrial PARP activation in vitro and in vivo.

Fumonisin B2 Induces Mitochondrial Stress and Mitophagy in Human Embryonic Kidney (Hek293) Cells-A Preliminary Study

Ubiquitous soil fungi parasitise agricultural commodities and produce mycotoxins. Fumonisin B2 (FB2), the structural analogue of the commonly studied Fumonisin B1 (FB1), is a neglected mycotoxin produced by several Fusarium species. Mycotoxins are known for inducing toxicity via mitochondrial stress alluding to mitochondrial degradation (mitophagy). These processes involve inter-related pathways that are regulated by proteins related to SIRT3 and Nrf2. This study aimed to investigate mitochondrial stress responses in human kidney (Hek293) cells exposed to FB2 for 24 h. Cell viability was assessed via the methylthiazol tetrazolium (MTT) assay, and the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50 = 317.4 µmol/L) was estimated using statistical software. Reactive oxygen species (ROS; H2DCFDA), mitochondrial membrane depolarisation (JC1-mitoscreen) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP; luminometry) levels were evaluated to assess mitochondrial integrity. The relative expression of mitochondrial stress response proteins (SIRT3, pNrf2, LONP1, PINK1, p62 and HSP60) was determined by Western blot. Transcript levels of SIRT3, PINK1 and miR-27b were assessed using quantitative PCR (qPCR). FB2 reduced ATP production (p = 0.0040), increased mitochondrial stress marker HSP60 (p = 0.0140) and suppressed upregulation of mitochondrial stress response proteins SIRT3 (p = 0.0026) and LONP1 (p = 0.5934). FB2 promoted mitophagy via upregulation of pNrf2 (p = 0.0008), PINK1 (p = 0.0014) and p62 (p < 0.0001) protein expression. FB2 also suppressed miR-27b expression (p < 0.0001), further promoting the occurrence of mitophagy. Overall, the findings suggest that FB2 increases mitochondrial stress and promotes mitophagy in Hek293 cells.

Nicotinamide riboside supplementation confers marginal metabolic benefits in obese mice without remodeling the muscle acetyl-proteome

Nicotinamide riboside supplements (NRS) have been touted as a nutraceutical that promotes cardiometabolic and musculoskeletal health by enhancing nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) biosynthesis, mitochondrial function, and/or the activities of NAD-dependent sirtuin deacetylase enzymes. This investigation examined the impact of NRS on whole body energy homeostasis, skeletal muscle mitochondrial function, and corresponding shifts in the acetyl-lysine proteome, in the context of diet-induced obesity using C57BL/6NJ mice. The study also included a genetically modified mouse model that imposes greater demand on sirtuin flux and associated NAD+ consumption, specifically within muscle tissues. In general, whole body glucose control was marginally improved by NRS when administered at the midpoint of a chronic high-fat diet, but not when given as a preventative therapy upon initiation of the diet. Contrary to anticipated outcomes, the study produced little evidence that NRS increases tissue NAD+ levels, augments mitochondrial function, and/or mitigates diet-induced hyperacetylation of the skeletal muscle proteome.

Altered Functional Mitochondrial Protein Levels in Plasma Neuron-Derived Extracellular Vesicles of Patients With Gadolinium Deposition

The retention of the heavy metal, gadolinium, after a Gadolinium-Based Contrast Agent-assisted MRI may lead to a symptom cluster termed Gadolinium Deposition Disease. Little is known of the disorder's underlying pathophysiology, but a recent study reported abnormally elevated serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines compared to normal controls. As a calcium channel blocker in cellular plasma and mitochondrial membranes, gadolinium also interferes with mitochondrial function. We applied to sera from nine Gadolinium Deposition Disease and two Gadolinium Storage Condition patients newly developed methods allowing isolation of plasma neuron-derived extracellular vesicles that contain reproducibly quantifiable levels of mitochondrial proteins of all major classes. Patients' levels of five mitochondrial functional proteins were statistically significantly lower and of two significantly higher than the levels in normal controls. The patterns of differences between study patients and controls for mitochondrial dynamics and mitochondrial proteins encompassing neuronal energy generation, metabolic regulation, ion fluxes, and survival differed from those seen for patients with first episode psychosis and those with Major Depressive Disorder compared to their controls. These findings suggest that mitochondrial dysfunction due to retained gadolinium may play a role in causing Gadolinium Deposition Disease. Larger samples of both GDD and GSC patients are needed to allow not only testing the repeatability of our findings, but also investigation of relationships of specific mitochondrial protein deficiencies or excesses and concurrent cytokine, genetic, or other factors to GDD's neurological and cognitive symptoms. Studies of neuronal mitochondrial proteins as diagnostic markers or indicators of treatment effectiveness are also warranted.

Overexpression of NMNAT3 improves mitochondrial function and enhances anti-oxidative stress of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells via the NAD+-Sirt3 pathway

Oxidative stress damage is a common problem in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC) transplantation. Under stress conditions, the mitochondrial function of BMSCs is disrupted, which accelerates senescence and apoptosis of BMSCs, ultimately leading to poor efficacy. Therefore, improving mitochondrial function and enhancing the anti-oxidative stress capacity of BMSCs may be an effective way of improving the survival rate and curative effect of BMSCs. In this study, we have confirmed that overexpression of nicotinamide mononucleotide adenylyl transferase 3 (NMNAT3) improves mitochondrial function and resistance to stress-induced apoptosis in BMSCs. We further revealed the mechanism of NMNAT3-mediated resistance to stress-induced apoptosis in BMSCs. We increased the level of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) by overexpressing NMNAT3 in BMSCs and found that it could significantly increase the activity of silent mating type information regulation 2 homolog 3 (Sirt3) and significantly decrease the acetylation levels of Sirt3-dependent deacetylation-related proteins isocitrate dehydrogenase 2 (Idh2) and Forkhead-box protein O3a (FOXO3a). These findings show that NMNAT3 may increase the activity of Sirt3 by increasing NAD+ levels. Our results confirm that the NMNAT3-NAD+-Sirt3 axis is a potential mechanism for improving mitochondrial function and enhancing anti-oxidative stress of BMSCs. In this study, we take advantage of the role of NMNAT3 in inhibiting stress-induced apoptosis of BMSCs and provide new methods and ideas for breaking through the bottleneck of transplantation efficacy of BMSCs in the clinic.

Ergothioneine exhibits longevity-extension effect in Drosophila melanogaster via regulation of cholinergic neurotransmission, tyrosine metabolism, and fatty acid oxidation

Many studies have demonstrated the protective effect of ergothioneine (EGT), the unique sulfur-containing antioxidant found in mushrooms, on several aging-related diseases. Nevertheless, to date, no single study has explored the potential role of EGT in the lifespan of animal models. We show here that EGT consistently extends fly lifespan in diverse genetic backgrounds and both sexes, as well as in a dose and gender-dependent manner. Additionally, EGT is shown to increases the climbing activity of flies, enhance acetylcholinesterase (AchE) activity, and maintain the ratio of reduced glutathione (GSH) to oxidized glutathione (GSSG)of aged flies. The increase in lifespan by EGT is gut microorganism dependent. We proposed potential mechanisms of lifespan extension in Drosophila by EGT through RNA-seq analysis: preservation of the normal status of the central nervous system via the coordination of cholinergic neurotransmission, tyrosine metabolism, and peroxisomal proteins, regulation of autophagic activity by altering the lysosomal protein CTSD, and the preservation of normal mitochondrial function through controlled substrate feeding into the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, the major energy-yielding metabolic process in cells.

Regulation of NAD+ metabolism in aging and disease

More than a century after discovering NAD⁺, information is still evolving on the role of this molecule in health and diseases. The biological functions of NAD⁺ and NAD⁺ precursors encompass pathways in cellular energetics, inflammation, metabolism, and cell survival. Several metabolic and neurological diseases exhibit reduced tissue NAD⁺ levels. Significantly reduced levels of NAD⁺ are also associated with aging, and enhancing NAD⁺ levels improved healthspan and lifespan in animal models. Recent studies suggest a causal link between senescence, age-associated reduction in tissue NAD⁺ and enzymatic degradation of NAD⁺. Furthermore, the discovery of transporters and receptors involved in NAD⁺ precursor (nicotinic acid, or niacin, nicotinamide, and nicotinamide riboside) metabolism allowed for a better understanding of their role in cellular homeostasis including signaling functions that are independent of their functions in redox reactions. We also review studies that demonstrate that the functional effect of niacin is partially due to the activation of its cell surface receptor, GPR109a. Based on the recent progress in understanding the mechanism and function of NAD⁺ and NAD⁺ precursors in cell metabolism, new strategies are evolving to exploit these molecules' pharmacological potential in the maintenance of metabolic balance.

Long-term oral administration of an HNF4α agonist prevents weight gain and hepatic steatosis by promoting increased mitochondrial mass and function

We report here that the potent HNF4α agonist N-trans-caffeoyltyramine (NCT) promotes weight loss by inducing an increase in mitochondrial mass and function, including fatty acid oxidation. Previously, we found in a short term trial in obese mice that NCT promoted reversal of hepatic steatosis through a mechanism involving the stimulation of lipophagy by dihydroceramides. NCT led to increased dihydroceramide levels by inhibiting dihydroceramide conversion to ceramides. Here, we were able to administer NCT orally, permitting longer term administration. Mice fed NCT mixed with high fat diet exhibited decreased weight. Examination of RNA-seq data revealed an increase in PPARGC1A, a central regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis. In addition to the decreased hepatic steatosis that we found previously, mice fed a high fat diet containing NCT mice weighed substantially less than control mice fed high fat diet alone. They had increased mitochondrial mass, exhibited increased fatty acid oxidation, and had an increased level of NAD. Markers of liver inflammation such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), which are important in the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis were decreased by NCT. There was no evidence of any toxicity from NCT consumption. These results indicate that HNF4α is an important regulator of mitochondrial mass and function and support that use of HNF4α to treat disorders of fatty acid excess, potentially including obesity, NAFLD, and NASH.

Bicalutamide Exhibits Potential to Damage Kidney via Destroying Complex I and Affecting Mitochondrial Dynamics

Bicalutamide (Bic) is an androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for treating prostate cancer, while ADT is potentially associated with acute kidney injury. Previously, we recognized Bic induced renal mitochondria dysfunction in vitro and in vivo via the ROS -HIF1α pathway. Whether OXPHOS complex, as well as mitochondrial dynamics, can be influenced by Bic via modulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor coactivator 1α (PGC1α), NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4), mitofusins 1/2 (MFN 1/2), optic atrophy 1 (OPA1), and sirtuins (SIRTs) has not been documented. Renal mesangial cell line was treated with Bic (30~60 μM) for the indicated time. SIRTs, complex I, mitochondrial dynamics- and oxidative stress-related proteins were analyzed. Bic dose-dependently reduced mitochondrial potential, but dose- and time-dependently suppressed translocase of the outer mitochondrial membrane member 20 (Tomm 20), complex I activity. Nox4 and glutathione lead to decreased NAD⁺/NADH ratio, with upregulated superoxide dismutase 2. SIRT1 was initially stimulated and then suppressed, while SIRT3 was time- and dose-dependently downregulated. PGC1α, MFN2, and OPA1 were all upregulated, with MFN1 and pro-fission dynamin-related protein I downregulated. Bic exhibits potential to damage mitochondria via destroying complex I, complex I activity, and mitochondrial dynamics. Long-term treatment with Bic should be carefully followed up.

Deciphering the mechanism by which the yeast Phaffia rhodozyma responds adaptively to environmental, nutritional, and genetic cues

Phaffia rhodozyma is a basidiomycetous yeast that synthesizes astaxanthin (ASX), which is a powerful and highly valuable antioxidant carotenoid pigment. P. rhodozyma cells accrue ASX and gain an intense red-pink coloration when faced with stressful conditions such as nutrient limitations (e.g., nitrogen or copper), the presence of toxic substances (e.g., antimycin A), or are affected by mutations in the genes that are involved in nitrogen metabolism or respiration. Since cellular accrual of ASX occurs under a wide variety of conditions, this yeast represents a valuable model for studying the growth conditions that entail oxidative stress for yeast cells. Recently, we proposed that ASX synthesis can be largely induced by conditions that lead to reduction-oxidation (redox) imbalances, particularly the state of the NADH/NAD+ couple together with an oxidative environment. In this work, we review the multiple known conditions that elicit ASX synthesis expanding on the data that we formerly examined. When considered alongside the Mitchell's chemiosmotic hypothesis, the study served to rationalize the induction of ASX synthesis and other adaptive cellular processes under a much broader set of conditions. Our aim was to propose an underlying mechanism that explains how a broad range of divergent conditions converge to induce ASX synthesis in P. rhodozyma. The mechanism that links the induction of ASX synthesis with the occurrence of NADH/NAD+ imbalances may help in understanding how other organisms detect any of a broad array of stimuli or gene mutations, and then adaptively respond to activate numerous compensatory cellular processes.

The role of protein acetylation in regulating mitochondrial fusion and fission

The dynamic processes of mitochondrial fusion and fission determine the shape of mitochondria, which can range from individual fragments to a hyperfused network, and influence mitochondrial function. Changes in mitochondrial shape can occur rapidly, allowing mitochondria to adapt to specific cues and changing cellular demands. Here, we will review what is known about how key proteins required for mitochondrial fusion and fission are regulated by their acetylation status, with acetylation promoting fission and deacetylation enhancing fusion. In particular, we will examine the roles of NAD+ dependant sirtuin deacetylases, which mediate mitochondrial acetylation, and how this post-translational modification provides an exquisite regulatory mechanism to co-ordinate mitochondrial function with metabolic demands of the cell.

Influence of prefoldin subunit 4 on the tolerance of Kluyveromyces marxianus to lignocellulosic biomass-derived inhibitors

BACKGROUND

Kluyveromyces marxianus is a potentially excellent host for microbial cell factories using lignocellulosic biomass, due to its thermotolerance, high growth rate, and wide substrate spectrum. However, its tolerance to inhibitors derived from lignocellulosic biomass pretreatment needs to be improved. The prefoldin complex assists the folding of cytoskeleton which relates to the stress tolerance, moreover, several subunits of prefoldin have been verified to be involved in gene expression regulation. With the presence of inhibitors, the expression of a gene coding the subunit 4 of prefoldin (KmPFD4), a possible transcription factor, was significantly changed. Therefore, KmPFD4 was selected to evaluate its functions in inhibitors tolerance.

RESULTS

In this study, the disruption of the prefoldin subunit 4 gene (KmPFD4) led to increased concentration of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and disturbed the assembly of actin and tubulin in the presence of inhibitors, resulting in reduced inhibitor tolerance. Nuclear localization of KmPFD4 indicated that it could regulate gene expression. Transcriptomic analysis showed that upregulated gene expression related to ROS elimination, ATP production, and NAD+ synthesis, which is a response to the presence of inhibitors, disappeared in KmPFD4-disrupted cells. Thus, KmPFD4 impacts inhibitor tolerance by maintaining integration of the cytoskeleton and directly or indirectly affecting the expression of genes in response to inhibitors. Finally, overexpression of KmPFD4 enhanced ethanol fermentation with a 46.27% improvement in productivity in presence of the inhibitors.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that KmPFD4 plays a positive role in the inhibitor tolerance and can be applied for the development of inhibitor-tolerant platform strains.

Mitochondria Metabolomics Reveals a Role of β-Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Metabolism in Mitochondrial DNA Replication

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) replication is tightly regulated and necessary for cellular homeostasis; however, its relationship with mitochondrial metabolism remains unclear. Advances in metabolomics integrated with the rapid isolation of mitochondria will allow for remarkable progress in analyzing mitochondrial metabolism. Here, we propose a novel methodology for mitochondria-targeted metabolomics, which employs a quick isolation procedure using a hemolytic toxin from Streptococcus pyogenes streptolysin O (SLO). SLO-isolation of mitochondria from cultured HEK293 cells is time- and labor-saving for simultaneous multi-sample processing and has been applied to various other cell lines in this study. Furthermore, our method can detect the time-dependent reduction in mitochondrial ATP in response to a glycolytic inhibitor 2-deoxyglucose, indicating the suitability to prepare metabolite analysis-competent mitochondria. Using this methodology, we searched for specific mitochondrial metabolites associated with mtDNA replication activation, and nucleotides and NAD+ were identified to be prominently altered. Most notably, treatment of β-Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (β-NMN), a precursor of NAD+, to HEK293 cells activated and improved the rate of mtDNA replication by increasing nucleotides in mitochondria and decreasing their degradation products: nucleosides. Our results suggest that β-NMN metabolism play a role in supporting mtDNA replication by maintaining the nucleotide pool balance in the mitochondria.

A metabolomic approach to elucidate the inhibitory effects of baicalin in pulmonary fibrosis

CONTEXT

Baicalin, a major flavonoid extracted from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (Lamiaceae), has been shown to exert therapeutic effects on pulmonary fibrosis (PF).

OBJECTIVE

To use serum metabolomics combined with biochemical and histopathological analyses to clarify anti-PF mechanisms of baicalin on metabolic pathways and the levels of potential biomarkers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into the control, PF model, prednisolone acetate-treated (4.2 mg/kg/day) and baicalin-treated (25 and 100 mg/kg/day) groups. A rat model of PF was established using a tracheal injection of bleomycin, and the respective drugs were administered intragastrically for 4 weeks. Histomorphology of lung tissue was examined after H&E and Masson's trichrome staining. Biochemical indicators including SOD, MDA and HYP were measured. Serum-metabonomic analysis based on UPLC-Q-TOF/MS was used to clarify the changes in potential biomarkers among different groups of PF rats.

RESULTS

Both doses of baicalin effectively alleviated bleomycin-induced pathological changes, and increased the levels of SOD (from 69.48 to 99.50 and 112.30, respectively), reduced the levels of MDA (from 10.91 to 5.0 and 7.53, respectively) and HYP (from 0.63 to 0.41 and 0.49, respectively). Forty-eight potential biomarkers associated with PF were identified. Meanwhile, the metabolic profiles and fluctuating metabolite levels were normalized or partially reversed after baicalin treatment. Furthermore, baicalin was found to improve PF potentially by the regulation of four key biomarkers involving taurine and hypotaurine metabolism, glutathione metabolism, and glycerophospholipid metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings revealed the anti-fibrotic mechanisms of baicalin and it may be considered as an effective therapy for PF.

Mitochondrial Redox Metabolism: The Epicenter of Metabolism during Cancer Progression

Mitochondrial redox metabolism is the central component in the cellular metabolic landscape, where anabolic and catabolic pathways are reprogrammed to maintain optimum redox homeostasis. During different stages of cancer, the mitochondrial redox status plays an active role in navigating cancer cells’ progression and regulating metabolic adaptation according to the constraints of each stage. Mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation induces malignant transformation. Once vigorous cell proliferation renders the core of the solid tumor hypoxic, the mitochondrial electron transport chain mediates ROS signaling for bringing about cellular adaptation to hypoxia. Highly aggressive cells are selected in this process, which are capable of progressing through the enhanced oxidative stress encountered during different stages of metastasis for distant colonization. Mitochondrial oxidative metabolism is suppressed to lower ROS generation, and the overall cellular metabolism is reprogrammed to maintain the optimum NADPH level in the mitochondria required for redox homeostasis. After reaching the distant organ, the intrinsic metabolic limitations of that organ dictate the success of colonization and flexibility of the mitochondrial metabolism of cancer cells plays a pivotal role in their adaptation to the new environment.

First we eat, then we do everything else: The dynamic metabolic regulation of efferocytosis

Clearance of apoptotic cells, or "efferocytosis," is essential for diverse processes including embryonic development, tissue turnover, organ regeneration, and immune cell development. The human body is estimated to remove approximately 1% of its body mass via apoptotic cell clearance daily. This poses several intriguing cell metabolism problems. For instance, phagocytes such as macrophages must induce or suppress metabolic pathways to find, engulf, and digest apoptotic cells. Then, phagocytes must manage the potentially burdensome biomass of the engulfed apoptotic cell. Finally, phagocytes reside in complex tissue architectures that vary in nutrient availability, the types of dying cells or debris that require clearance, and the neighboring cells they interact with. Here, we review advances in our understanding of these three key areas of phagocyte metabolism. We end by proposing a model of efferocytosis that integrates recent findings and establishes a new paradigm for testing how efferocytosis prevents chronic inflammatory disease and autoimmunity.

NAMPT reduction-induced NAD+ insufficiency contributes to the compromised oocyte quality from obese mice

Maternal obesity is associated with multiple adverse reproductive outcomes, whereas the underlying molecular mechanisms are still not fully understood. Here, we found the reduced nicotinamide phosphoribosyl transferase (NAMPT) expression and lowered nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺) content in oocytes from obese mice. Next, by performing morpholino knockdown assay and pharmacological inhibition, we revealed that NAMPT deficiency not only severely disrupts maturational progression and meiotic apparatus, but also induces the metabolic dysfunction in oocytes. Furthermore, overexpression analysis demonstrated that NAMPT insufficiency induced NAD⁺ loss contributes to the compromised developmental potential of oocytes and early embryos from obese mice. Importantly, in vitro supplement and in vivo administration of nicotinic acid (NA) was able to ameliorate the obesity‐associated meiotic defects and oxidative stress in oocytes. Our results indicate a role of NAMPT in modulating oocyte meiosis and metabolism, and uncover the beneficial effects of NA treatment on oocyte quality from obese mice.

Kinetic characterization and thermostability of C. elegans cytoplasmic and mitochondrial malate dehydrogenases

Malate dehydrogenase (MDH) catalyzes the conversion of NAD⁺ and malate to NADH and oxaloacetate in the citric acid cycle. Eukaryotes have one MDH isozyme that is imported into the mitochondria and one in the cytoplasm. We overexpressed and purified Caenorhabditis elegans cytoplasmic MDH-1 and mitochondrial MDH-2 in E. coli. Our goal was to compare the kinetic and structural properties of these enzymes because C. elegans can survive adverse environmental conditions, such as lack of food and elevated temperatures. In steady-state enzyme kinetics assays, we measured K_M values for oxaloacetate of 54 and 52 μM and K_M values for NADH of 61 and 107 μM for MDH-1 and MDH-2, respectively. We partially purified endogenous MDH-1 and MDH-2 from a mixed population of worms and separated them using anion exchange chromatography. Both endogenous enzymes had a K_M for oxaloacetate similar to that of the corresponding recombinant enzyme. Recombinant MDH-1 and MDH-2 had maximum activity at 40 °C and 35 °C, respectively. In a thermotolerance assay, MDH-1 was much more thermostable than MDH-2. Protein homology modeling predicted that MDH-1 had more intersubunit salt-bridges than mammalian MDH1 enzymes, and these ionic interactions may contribute to its thermostability. In contrast, the MDH-2 homology model predicted fewer intersubunit ionic interactions compared to mammalian MDH2 enzymes. These results suggest that the increased stability of MDH-1 may facilitate its ability to remain active in adverse environmental conditions. In contrast, MDH-2 may use other strategies, such as protein binding partners, to function under similar conditions.

Hypocaloric Dieting Unsettles the Neuroenergetic Homeostasis in Humans

Background: The effects of low-calorie dieting in obesity are disappointing in the long run. The brain’s energy homeostasis plays a key role in the regulation of body weight. We hypothesized that the cerebral energy status underlies an adaptation process upon body weight loss due to hypocaloric dieting in humans. Objective: We instructed 26 healthy obese participants to reduce body weight via replacement of meals by a commercial diet product for two weeks. The cerebral energy status was assessed by ³¹ phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31 PMRS) before and after low-caloric dieting as well as at follow-up. A standardized test buffet was quantified after body weight loss and at follow-up. Blood glucose metabolism and neurohormonal stress axis activity were monitored. Results: Weight loss induced a decline in blood concentrations of insulin (p = 0.002), C-peptide (p = 0.005), ACTH (p = 0.006), and norepinephrine (p = 0.012). ATP/Pi (p = 0.003) and PCr/Pi ratios (p = 0.012) were increased and NADH levels reduced (p = 0.041) after hypocaloric dieting. At follow-up, weight loss persisted (p < 0.001), while insulin, C-peptide, and ACTH increased (p < 0.005 for all) corresponding to baseline levels again. Despite repealed hormonal alterations, ratios of PCr/Pi remained higher (p = 0.039) and NADH levels lower (p = 0.007) 6 weeks after ending the diet. ATP/Pi ratios returned to baseline levels again (p = 0.168). Conclusion: Low-calorie dieting reduces neurohormonal stress axis activity and increases the neuroenergetic status in obesity. This effect was of a transient nature in terms of stress hormonal measures. In contrast, PCr/Pi ratios remained increased after dieting and at follow-up while NADH levels were still reduced, which indicates a persistently unsettled neuroenergetic homeostasis upon diet-induced rapid body weight loss.

Role of Mitochondria in Neurodegenerative Diseases: From an Epigenetic Perspective

Mitochondria, the centers of energy metabolism, have been shown to participate in epigenetic regulation of neurodegenerative diseases. Epigenetic modification of nuclear genes encoding mitochondrial proteins has an impact on mitochondria homeostasis, including mitochondrial biogenesis, and quality, which plays role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. On the other hand, intermediate metabolites regulated by mitochondria such as acetyl-CoA and NAD⁺, in turn, may regulate nuclear epigenome as the substrate for acetylation and a cofactor of deacetylation, respectively. Thus, mitochondria are involved in epigenetic regulation through bidirectional communication between mitochondria and nuclear, which may provide a new strategy for neurodegenerative diseases treatment. In addition, emerging evidence has suggested that the abnormal modification of mitochondria DNA contributes to disease development through mitochondria dysfunction. In this review, we provide an overview of how mitochondria are involved in epigenetic regulation and discuss the mechanisms of mitochondria in regulation of neurodegenerative diseases from epigenetic perspective.

Metabolic imaging of human cumulus cells reveals associations among metabolic profiles of cumulus cells, patient clinical factors, and oocyte maturity

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) detects differences in metabolic state among cumulus cell samples and whether their metabolic state is associated with patient age, body mass index (BMI), and antimüllerian hormone (AMH) level and maturity of the oocyte.

DESIGN

Prospective observational study.

SETTING

Academic laboratory.

PATIENT(S)

Cumulus cell (CC) clusters from cumulus-oocyte complexes were collected from patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology treatment after oocyte retrieval and vitrified.

INTERVENTION(S)

Cumulus cell metabolism was assessed using FLIM to measure autofluorescence of nicotinamide adenine (phosphate) dinucleotide and flavine adenine dinucleotide, endogenous coenzymes essential for cellular respiration and glycolysis. Patient age, BMI, and AMH level and the maturity of the corresponding oocytes were recorded.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Quantitative information from FLIM was obtained regarding metabolite concentrations from fluorescence intensity and metabolite enzyme engagement from fluorescence lifetimes. Associations were investigated between each FLIM parameter and oocyte maturity and patient age, BMI, and AMH. Variance between CC clusters within and between patients was determined.

RESULT(S)

Of 619 CC clusters from 193 patients, 90 were associated with immature oocytes and 505 with metaphase II oocytes. FLIM enabled quantitative measurements of the metabolic state of CC clusters. These parameters were significantly correlated with patient age and AMH independently, but not with BMI. Cumulus cell nicotinamide adenine (phosphate) dinucleotide FLIM parameters and redox ratio were significantly associated with maturity of the enclosed oocyte.

CONCLUSION(S)

FLIM detects variations in the metabolic state of CCs, showing a greater variance among clusters from each patient than between patients. Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy can detect CC metabolic associations with patient age and AMH and variations between mature and immature oocytes, suggesting the potential utility of this technique to help identify superior oocytes.

An Insight Into the Mechanism of Plant Organelle Genome Maintenance and Implications of Organelle Genome in Crop Improvement: An Update

Besides the nuclear genome, plants possess two small extra chromosomal genomes in mitochondria and chloroplast, respectively, which contribute a small fraction of the organelles’ proteome. Both mitochondrial and chloroplast DNA have originated endosymbiotically and most of their prokaryotic genes were either lost or transferred to the nuclear genome through endosymbiotic gene transfer during the course of evolution. Due to their immobile nature, plant nuclear and organellar genomes face continuous threat from diverse exogenous agents as well as some reactive by-products or intermediates released from various endogenous metabolic pathways. These factors eventually affect the overall plant growth and development and finally productivity. The detailed mechanism of DNA damage response and repair following accumulation of various forms of DNA lesions, including single and double-strand breaks (SSBs and DSBs) have been well documented for the nuclear genome and now it has been extended to the organelles also. Recently, it has been shown that both mitochondria and chloroplast possess a counterpart of most of the nuclear DNA damage repair pathways and share remarkable similarities with different damage repair proteins present in the nucleus. Among various repair pathways, homologous recombination (HR) is crucial for the repair as well as the evolution of organellar genomes. Along with the repair pathways, various other factors, such as the MSH1 and WHIRLY family proteins, WHY1, WHY2, and WHY3 are also known to be involved in maintaining low mutation rates and structural integrity of mitochondrial and chloroplast genome. SOG1, the central regulator in DNA damage response in plants, has also been found to mediate endoreduplication and cell-cycle progression through chloroplast to nucleus retrograde signaling in response to chloroplast genome instability. Various proteins associated with the maintenance of genome stability are targeted to both nuclear and organellar compartments, establishing communication between organelles as well as organelles and nucleus. Therefore, understanding the mechanism of DNA damage repair and inter compartmental crosstalk mechanism in various sub-cellular organelles following induction of DNA damage and identification of key components of such signaling cascades may eventually be translated into strategies for crop improvement under abiotic and genotoxic stress conditions. This review mainly highlights the current understanding as well as the importance of different aspects of organelle genome maintenance mechanisms in higher plants.

Small Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Adipocytes Attenuate Intervertebral Disc Degeneration in Rats by Rejuvenating Senescent Nucleus Pulposus Cells and Endplate Cells by Delivering Exogenous NAMPT

Cellular senescence is a key factor in the development of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). Age-associated decreases in NAD⁺ levels play a critical role in regulating cellular senescence. Previous studies have found that small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) secreted by adipocytes (Adipo-sEVs) or adipose tissue are abundant in nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT), which is the key NAD⁺ biosynthetic enzyme in mammals. Systemic injection of these sEVs significantly improves physical activity and extends the lifespan of aged mice by increasing NAD⁺ levels. However, to date, the therapeutic potential of Adipo-sEVs in other age-associated disease models, such as IVDD, has not been explored. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of Adipo-sEVs on senescence of nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) and cartilaginous endplate cells (EPCs). In vitro, Adipo-sEVs could rejuvenate the senescence of NPCs and EPCs. Age-related dysfunctions were also ameliorated by Adipo-sEVs by delivering NAMPT and activating NAD⁺ biosynthesis and the Sirt1 pathway. Further in vivo experiments revealed that Adipo-sEV-mediated delivery of NAMPT attenuated IVDD in rats by rejuvenating senescent NPCs and EPCs. Collectively, the results indicate a new cell-free tool and provide a promising sEV-mediated delivery method of NAMPT as a therapeutic approach for IVDD clinically.

Evolutionary Views of Tuberculosis: Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase Catalyzed Nicotinamide Synthesis Reflects Shifts in Macrophage Metabolism: Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase Reflects Altered Macrophage Metabolism During Tuberculosis Pathogenesis

Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) is the rate-limiting enzyme in conversion of tryptophan to kynurenines, feeding de novo nicotinamide synthesis. IDO orchestrates materno-foetal tolerance, increasing human reproductive fitness. IDO mediates immune suppression through depletion of tryptophan required by T lymphocytes and other mechanisms. IDO is expressed by alternatively activated macrophages, suspected to play a key role in tuberculosis (TB) pathogenesis. Unlike its human host, Mycobacterium tuberculosis can synthesize tryptophan, suggesting possible benefit to the host from infection with the microbe. Intriguingly, nicotinamide analogues are used to treat TB. In reviewing this field, it is postulated that flux through the nicotinamide synthesis pathway reflects switching between aerobic glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation in M. tuberculosis-infected macrophages. The evolutionary cause of such shifts may be ancient mitochondrial behavior related to reproductive fitness. Evolutionary perspectives on the IDO pathway may elucidate why, after centuries of co-existence with the Tubercle bacillus, humans still remain susceptible to TB disease.

NAD(H) Regulates the Permeability Transition Pore in Mitochondria through an External Site

The opening of the permeability transition pore (mPTP) in mitochondria initiates cell death in numerous diseases. The regulation of mPTP by NAD(H) in the mitochondrial matrix is well established; however, the role of extramitochondrial (cytosolic) NAD(H) is still unclear. We studied the effect of added NADH and NAD⁺ on: (1) the Ca²⁺-retention capacity (CRC) of isolated rat liver, heart, and brain mitochondria; (2) the Ca²⁺-dependent mitochondrial swelling in media whose particles can (KCl) or cannot (sucrose) be extruded from the matrix by mitochondrial carriers; (3) the Ca²⁺-dependent mitochondrial depolarization and the release of entrapped calcein from mitochondria of permeabilized hepatocytes; and (4) the Ca²⁺-dependent mitochondrial depolarization and subsequent repolarization. NADH and NAD⁺ increased the CRC of liver, heart, and brain mitochondria 1.5-2.5 times, insignificantly affecting the rate of Ca²⁺-uptake and the free Ca²⁺ concentration in the medium. NAD(H) suppressed the Ca²⁺-dependent mitochondrial swelling both in KCl- and sucrose-based media but did not induce the contraction and repolarization of swollen mitochondria. By contrast, EGTA caused mitochondrial repolarization in both media and the contraction in KCl-based medium only. NAD(H) delayed the Ca²⁺-dependent depolarization and the release of calcein from individual mitochondria in hepatocytes. These data unambiguously demonstrate the existence of an external NAD(H)-dependent site of mPTP regulation.

Inhibition of nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase protects against acute pancreatitis via modulating macrophage polarization and its related metabolites

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES

Acute pancreatitis is a common inflammatory disorder of the exocrine pancreas with no specific therapy. Intracellular nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT), the rate-limiting enzyme in nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) salvage pathway, is involved in many inflammatory disorders. In this study, we investigated the role of NAMPT in experimental acute pancreatitis.

METHODS

Acute pancreatitis was induced in mice using three disparate models: (1) caerulein hyperstimulation, (2) ethanol plus palmitoleic acid, and (3) retrograde biliopancreatic ductal infusion of sodium taurocholate. The NAMPT inhibitor FK866 and NAMPT downstream product nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) was administered. Serum and pancreas were collected and analyzed biochemically and histologically. Bone marrow derived macrophages were isolated, cultured with cytokines or pancreatic acini, then analyzed by quantitative PCR and non-targeted metabolomics.

RESULTS

The levels of pancreatic NAMPT and NAD were down-regulated upon acute pancreatitis. NAMPT inhibitor FK866 suppressed M1 macrophage polarization while NMN boosted it. In co-culture of macrophages with acinar cells, inhibition of NAMPT prevented M1-like macrophage differentiation induced by injured pancreatic acini. The injured pancreatic acinar milieu induced a unique metabolic signature linked to macrophage polarization, and inhibition of NAMPT reversed these metabolites changes. Furthermore, NMN supplementation aggravated caerulein hyperstimulation pancreatitis and alcoholic pancreatitis, and inhibition of NAMPT protected against caerulein hyperstimulation, alcoholic and biliary acute pancreatitis and reducing pancreatic macrophage infiltration in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

NAMPT inhibition protects against acute pancreatitis via preventing M1 macrophage polarization and restoring the metabolites related to macrophage polarization and that NAMPT could be a promising therapeutic target for acute pancreatitis.

Risks and rewards of targeting NAD+ homeostasis in the brain

Strategies to correct declining nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺) levels in neurological disease and biological ageing are promising therapeutic candidates. These strategies include supplementing with NAD⁺ precursors, small molecule activation of NAD⁺ biosynthetic enzymes, and treatment with small molecule inhibitors of NAD⁺ consuming enzymes such as CD38, SARM1 or members of the PARP family. While these strategies have shown efficacy in animal models of neurological disease, each of these has the mechanistic potential for adverse events that could preclude their preclinical use. Here, we discuss the implications of these strategies for treating neurological diseases, including potential off-target effects that may be unique to the brain.

Plasma-Functionalized Isotactic Polypropylene Assembled with Conducting Polymers for Bacterial Quantification by NADH Sensing

Rapid detection of bacterial presence on implantable medical devices is essential to prevent biofilm formation, which consists of densely packed bacteria colonies able to withstand antibiotic-mediated killing. In this work, a smart approach is presented to integrate electrochemical sensors for detecting bacterial infections in biomedical implants made of isotactic polypropylene (i-PP) using chemical assembly. The electrochemical detection is based on the capacity of conducting polymers (CPs) to detect extracellular nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) released from cellular respiration of bacteria, which allows distinguishing prokaryotic from eukaryotic cells. Oxygen plasma-functionalized free-standing i-PP, coated with a layer (≈1.1 µm in thickness) of CP nanoparticles obtained by oxidative polymerization, is used as working electrode for the anodic polymerization of a second CP layer (≈8.2 µm in thickness), which provides very high electrochemical activity and stability. The resulting layered material, i-PP_f /CP² , detects the electro-oxidation of NADH in physiological media with a sensitivity 417 µA cm^-2 and a detection limit up to 0.14 × 10^-3 m, which is below the concentration of extracellular NADH found for bacterial cultures of biofilm-positive and biofilm-negative strains.

Protective effect and mechanism of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide against optic neuritis in mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) are commonly accompanied by optic neuritis (ON) that causes retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death and even vision loss. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺) can protect against cell apoptosis and attenuate MS-triggered symptoms. However, the effect of NAD⁺ on MS-triggered ON remains unclear. Herein, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) was established by immunizing female C57BL/6 mice with MOG_35-55 peptide. To investigate the effect of NAD⁺ on ON prevention and treatment, EAE mice received 250 mg/kg NAD⁺ daily via intraperitoneal injection after immunization and EAE onset, respectively. EX-527 (10 mg/kg, SIRT1 inhibitor) was intraperitoneally injected every two days to explore the role of SIRT1 in NAD⁺-induced therapeutic effect on EAE. NAD⁺ intervention attenuated the severity of EAE in mice. NAD⁺ intervention relieved inflammatory infiltration and CD3⁺ and CD4⁺ cell infiltration and decreased the number and activation of microglia and astrocytes in the optic nerve. NAD⁺ intervention also attenuated demyelination, axonal loss, oligodendrocyte apoptosis and oligodendrocyte progenitor cell recruitment and proliferation in the optic nerve and protected against RGC apoptosis in the retina. NAD⁺ intervention decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine mRNA and pro-apoptotic protein expression and enhanced anti-inflammatory cytokine mRNA expression and the SIRT1 signaling in the optic nerve and retina and regulated the Th1/Th17/Tregs immune response in the spleen. In addition, EX-527 reversed the therapeutic effect of NAD⁺ on EAE, suggesting that NAD⁺ prevented MS-triggered ON by activating the SIRT1 signaling pathway. This study shows the potential of NAD⁺ to be used as a drug in preventing and treating MS-related ON.

Dark-cutting beef: A brief review and an integromics meta-analysis at the proteome level to decipher the underlying pathways

Comprehensive characterization of the post-mortem muscle proteome defines a fundamental goal in meat proteomics. During the last decade, proteomics tools have been applied in the field of foodomics to help decipher factors underpinning meat quality variations and to enlighten us, through data-driven methods, on the underlying mechanisms leading to meat quality defects such as dark-cutting meat known also as dark, firm and dry (DFD) meat. In cattle, several proteomics studies have focused on the extent to which changes in the post-mortem muscle proteome relate to dark-cutting beef development. The present data-mining study firstly reviews proteomics studies which investigated dark-cutting beef, and secondly, gathers the protein biomarkers that differ between dark-cutting versus beef with normal-pH in a unique repertoire. A list of 130 proteins from eight eligible studies was curated and mined through bioinformatics for Gene Ontology annotations, molecular pathways enrichments, secretome analysis and biological pathways comparisons to normal beef color from a previous meta-analysis. The major biological pathways underpinning dark-cutting beef at the proteome level have been described and deeply discussed in this integromics study.

Welcome to the Family: Identification of the NAD+ Transporter of Animal Mitochondria as Member of the Solute Carrier Family SLC25

Subcellular compartmentation is a fundamental property of eukaryotic cells. Communication and metabolic and regulatory interconnectivity between organelles require that solutes can be transported across their surrounding membranes. Indeed, in mammals, there are hundreds of genes encoding solute carriers (SLCs) which mediate the selective transport of molecules such as nucleotides, amino acids, and sugars across biological membranes. Research over many years has identified the localization and preferred substrates of a large variety of SLCs. Of particular interest has been the SLC25 family, which includes carriers embedded in the inner membrane of mitochondria to secure the supply of these organelles with major metabolic intermediates and coenzymes. The substrate specificity of many of these carriers has been established in the past. However, the route by which animal mitochondria are supplied with NAD⁺ had long remained obscure. Only just recently, the existence of a human mitochondrial NAD⁺ carrier was firmly established. With the realization that SLC25A51 (or MCART1) represents the major mitochondrial NAD⁺ carrier in mammals, a long-standing mystery in NAD⁺ biology has been resolved. Here, we summarize the functional importance and structural features of this carrier as well as the key observations leading to its discovery.

Nampt controls skeletal muscle development by maintaining Ca2+ homeostasis and mitochondrial integrity

Objective

NAD⁺ is a co-factor and substrate for enzymes maintaining energy homeostasis. Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) controls NAD⁺ synthesis, and in skeletal muscle, NAD⁺ is essential for muscle integrity. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms by which NAD⁺ synthesis affects muscle health remain poorly understood. Thus, the objective of the current study was to delineate the role of NAMPT-mediated NAD⁺ biosynthesis in skeletal muscle development and function.

Methods

To determine the role of Nampt in muscle development and function, we generated skeletal muscle-specific Nampt KO (SMNKO) mice. We performed a comprehensive phenotypic characterization of the SMNKO mice, including metabolic measurements, histological examinations, and RNA sequencing analyses of skeletal muscle from SMNKO mice and WT littermates.

Results

SMNKO mice were smaller, with phenotypic changes in skeletal muscle, including reduced fiber area and increased number of centralized nuclei. The majority of SMNKO mice died prematurely. Transcriptomic analysis identified that the gene encoding the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) regulator Cyclophilin D (Ppif) was upregulated in skeletal muscle of SMNKO mice from 2 weeks of age, with associated increased sensitivity of mitochondria to the Ca²⁺-stimulated mPTP opening. Treatment of SMNKO mice with the Cyclophilin D inhibitor, Cyclosporine A, increased membrane integrity, decreased the number of centralized nuclei, and increased survival.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that NAMPT is crucial for maintaining cellular Ca²⁺ homeostasis and skeletal muscle development, which is vital for juvenile survival.

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NAD⁺ salvage capacity is important for skeletal muscle development and survival.

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Skeletal muscle-specific Nampt knockout mice exhibit a dystrophy-like phenotype.

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Nampt deletion alters Ca²⁺ homeostasis and impairs mitochondrial function.

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Low NAD⁺ levels signals mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening.

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Cyclosporin A treatment improves sarcolemma integrity and increases survival rate.

The Mystery of Extramitochondrial Proteins Lysine Succinylation

Lysine succinylation is a post-translational modification which alters protein function in both physiological and pathological processes. Mindful that it requires succinyl-CoA, a metabolite formed within the mitochondrial matrix that cannot permeate the inner mitochondrial membrane, the question arises as to how there can be succinylation of proteins outside mitochondria. The present mini-review examines pathways participating in peroxisomal fatty acid oxidation that lead to succinyl-CoA production, potentially supporting succinylation of extramitochondrial proteins. Furthermore, the influence of the mitochondrial status on cytosolic NAD⁺ availability affecting the activity of cytosolic SIRT5 iso1 and iso4—in turn regulating cytosolic protein lysine succinylations—is presented. Finally, the discovery that glia in the adult human brain lack subunits of both alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex and succinate-CoA ligase—thus being unable to produce succinyl-CoA in the matrix—and yet exhibit robust pancellular lysine succinylation, is highlighted.

Sirtuins as pharmacological targets in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are enzymes that regulate several processes, such as transcription, cell proliferation, differentiation and development. HDACs are classified as either Zn²⁺ -dependent or NAD⁺ -dependent enzymes. Over the years, experimental and clinical evidence has demonstrated that HDAC modulation is a critical process in neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. Nevertheless, most of the studies have focused on the role of Zn²⁺ -dependent HDACs in the development of these diseases, although there is growing evidence showing that the NAD⁺ -dependent HDACs, known as sirtuins, are also very promising targets. This possibility has been strengthened by reports of decreased levels of NAD⁺ in CNS disorders, which can lead to alterations in sirtuin activation and therefore result in increased pathology. In this review, we discuss the role of sirtuins in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders as well the possible rationale for them to be considered as pharmacological targets in future therapeutic interventions.