Switch from inhibition to activation of the mitochondrial permeability transition during hematoporphyrin-mediated photooxidative stress

The mitochondrial permeability transition: Recent progress and open questions

Major progress has been made in defining the basis of the mitochondrial permeability transition, a Ca²⁺ -dependent permeability increase of the inner membrane that has puzzled mitochondrial research for almost 70 years. Initially considered an artefact of limited biological interest by most, over the years the permeability transition has raised to the status of regulator of mitochondrial ion homeostasis and of druggable effector mechanism of cell death. The permeability transition is mediated by opening of channel(s) modulated by matrix cyclophilin D, the permeability transition pore(s) (PTP). The field has received new impulse (a) from the hypothesis that the PTP may originate from a Ca²⁺ -dependent conformational change of F-ATP synthase and (b) from the reevaluation of the long-standing hypothesis that it originates from the adenine nucleotide translocator (ANT). Here, we provide a synthetic account of the structure of ANT and F-ATP synthase to discuss potential and controversial mechanisms through which they may form high-conductance channels; and review some intriguing findings from the wealth of early studies of PTP modulation that still await an explanation. We hope that this review will stimulate new experiments addressing the many outstanding problems, and thus contribute to the eventual solution of the puzzle of the permeability transition.

The Joint Influence of Tl+ and Thiol-Modifying Agents on Rat Liver Mitochondrial Parameters In Vitro

Recent data have shown that the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP) is the complex of the Ca²⁺-modified adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT) and the Ca²⁺-modified ATP synthase. We found in a previous study that ANT conformational changes may be involved in Tl⁺-induced MPTP opening in the inner membrane of Ca²⁺-loaded rat liver mitochondria. In this study, the effects of thiol-modifying agents (eosin-5-maleimide (EMA), fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), Cu(o-phenanthroline)₂ (Cu(OP)₂), and embelin (Emb)), and MPTP inhibitors (ADP, cyclosporine A (CsA), n-ethylmaleimide (NEM), and trifluoperazine (TFP)) on MPTP opening were tested simultaneously with increases in swelling, membrane potential (ΔΨ_mito) decline, decreases in state 3, 4, and 3U_DNP (2,4-dinitrophenol-uncoupled) respiration, and changes in the inner membrane free thiol group content. The effects of these thiol-modifying agents on the studied mitochondrial characteristics were multidirectional and showed a clear dependence on their concentration. This research suggests that Tl⁺-induced MPTP opening in the inner membrane of calcium-loaded mitochondria may be caused by the interaction of used reagents (EMA, FITC, Emb, Cu(OP)₂) with active groups of ANT, the mitochondrial phosphate carrier (PiC) and the mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes. This study provides further insight into the causes of thallium toxicity and may be useful in the development of new treatments for thallium poisoning.

Effects of Tl+ on the inner membrane thiol groups, respiration, and swelling in succinate-energized rat liver mitochondria were modified by thiol reagents

The effects of both Tl⁺ and thiol reagents were studied on the content of the inner membrane free SH-groups, detected with Ellman reagent, and the inner membrane potential as well as swelling and respiration of succinate-energized rat liver mitochondria in medium containing TlNO₃ and KNO₃. These effects resulted in a rise in swelling and a decrease in the content, the potential, and mitochondrial respiration in 3 and 2,4-dinitrophenol-uncoupled states. A maximal effect was seen when phenylarsine oxide reacting with thiol groups recessed into the hydrophobic regions of the membrane. Compared with phenylarsine oxide, the effective concentrations of other reagents were approximately one order of magnitude higher in experiments with mersalyl and 4,4'-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonate, and two orders of magnitude higher in experiments with tert-butyl hydroperoxide and diamide. The above effects of Tl⁺ and the thiol reagents became even more pronounced with calcium overload of mitochondria. However, the effects were suppressed by inhibitors of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (cyclosporine A, ADP, and n-ethylmaleimide). These findings suggest that opening of the pore induced by Tl⁺ in the inner membrane can be dependent on the conformation state of the adenine nucleotide translocase, which depends on the activity of its thiol groups.

Uncoupling Effect of F16 Is Responsible for Its Mitochondrial Toxicity and Anticancer Activity

As a novel delocalized lipophilic cation, F16 selectively accumulates in mitochondria of carcinoma cells and shows a broad spectrum of antiproliferative action towards cancer cell lines. In order to reveal the mode of action and molecular mechanism of F16 inducing cytotoxicity, we investigated the effects of F16 on cancer cells and isolated mitochondria relative to its precursor compound (E)-3-(2-(pyridine-4yl)vinyl)-1 H-indole (PVI), which has a similar structure without positive charge. It was found that PVI did not accumulate in mitochondria, and exhibited lower cytotoxicity compared to F16. However, when they were directly incubated with mitochondria, both F16 and PVI were observed to induce damage to mitochondrial structure and function. Moreover, it was found that F16 as well as PVI acted as uncouplers on mitochondria, and further rescue experiments revealed that the addition of adenosine 5'-triphosphate was the most effective way to recover the cell viability decreased by F16. Thus it was concluded that the decreased intracellular adenosine 5'-triphosphate availability induced by the uncoupling effect of F16 was a major factor in F16-mediated cytotoxicity. Futhermore, the results indicated that the uncoupling effect of F16 is attributed to its chemical stucture in common with PVI but independent of its positive charge. The study may shed light on understanding the underlying mechanism of action for F16, and providing suggestions for the design of new mitochondria-targeted antitumor molecules.

Silver ion-induced mitochondrial dysfunction via a nonspecific pathway

Silver, once regarded as a safe noble metal for humans, has been widely used in industrial and commercial products, especially in nanometer biomaterials. It is now well known that Ag+ is biologically active and is able to interact with the cell membrane, proteins and DNA. However, very little is understood about the potential impacts of Ag+ at the sub-cellular level. Our work investigated the potential toxicity of Ag+ on mitochondria isolated from rat livers by examining the mitochondrial morphology, respiration, swelling, membrane fluidity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. We observed that Ag+ significantly affects the mitochondrial structure and function, including mitochondrial swelling, collapse of the transmembrane potential, change of permeability and fluidity, decline of the respiratory rate, and acceleration of ROS, indicating that Ag+ should be seriously regarded as a potentially hazardous substance. Moreover, we conclude that Ag+ injures the mitochondrial structure and function by a nonspecific approach, in which the interaction is unregulated by inherent parts such as the mitochondria permeability transition pore (MPTP). These results help us learn more about the toxicity of Ag+ at the subcellular (mitochondrial) level and influence future biological and medical applications of Ag-based materials.

Spectroscopic, Polarographic, and Microcalorimetric Studies on Mitochondrial Dysfunction Induced by Ethanol

Liver mitochondria are involved in several important life processes; mitochondrial dysfunction and disorders are implicated in several human diseases. Alcohol permeates all tissues of the body and exerts some intrinsic hepatotoxicity. In this work, our results demonstrated that ethanol caused a series of mitochondria permeability transition pore (MPTP) opening factors such as mitochondrial swelling, increased permeability of H⁺ and K⁺, collapsed membrane potential, and increased membrane fluidity. Furthermore, mitochondrial ultrastructure alternation observed clearly by transmission electron microscopy and the release of Cytochrome c could explain the MPTP opening from another aspect. Moreover, ethanol damaged the mitochondrial respiration system and induced disturbance of mitochondrial energy metabolism which was monitored by polarographic and microcalorimetric methods, respectively. Considered together, these damages may promote both apoptotic and necrotic cell death and contribute to the onset or progression alcohol-induced liver diseases.

Size Effects on the Interaction of QDs with the Mitochondrial Membrane In Vitro

The mitochondrial toxicity induced by GSH-CdTe Quantum dots (QDs) of different sizes was investigated. The decreases in absorbance and transmission electron microscopy images show that QDs induce the swelling of mitochondria. Results of flow cytometry indicate that QDs cause a reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). A remarkable increase in fluidity of protein regions of mitochondrial membrane is observed, whereas the lipid regions are not obviously affected. Cyclosporin A (CsA) effectively prevents the QD-induced mitochondrial swelling. On the basis of these results, it is proposed that QDs induce mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT). Moreover, with increasing QDs size, a pronounced MPT is observed. The difference between the membrane fluidity induced by QDs and Cadmium ion and the ineffective protective effects of EDTA suggests that the mitochondrial toxicity of QDs cannot be only attributed to the release of metal ion. The protective effects of HSA indicate that the interaction of QDs with pore-forming protein gives rise to the increase in membrane fluidity. This hypothesis is demonstrated by the interaction of QDs with model membranes and proteins using differential scanning calorimetry and isothermal titration microcalorimetry. In conclusion, as the size of QDs increases, the binding affinity of QDs with membrane protein increases, and therefore causes a pronounced mitochondrial damage.

The Dual Function of Reactive Oxygen/Nitrogen Species in Bioenergetics and Cell Death: The Role of ATP Synthase

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) targeting mitochondria are major causative factors in disease pathogenesis. The mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP) is a mega-channel modulated by calcium and ROS/RNS modifications and it has been described to play a crucial role in many pathophysiological events since prolonged channel opening causes cell death. The recent identification that dimers of ATP synthase form the PTP and the fact that posttranslational modifications caused by ROS/RNS also affect cellular bioenergetics through the modulation of ATP synthase catalysis reveal a dual function of these modifications in the cells. Here, we describe mitochondria as a major site of production and as a target of ROS/RNS and discuss the pathophysiological conditions in which oxidative and nitrosative modifications modulate the catalytic and pore-forming activities of ATP synthase.

To involvement the conformation of the adenine nucleotide translocase in opening the Tl(+)-induced permeability transition pore in Ca(2+)-loaded rat liver mitochondria

The conformation of adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT) has a profound impact in opening the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP) in the inner membrane. Fixing the ANT in 'c' conformation by phenylarsine oxide (PAO), tert-butylhydroperoxide (tBHP), and carboxyatractyloside as well as the interaction of 4,4'-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulfonate (DIDS) with mitochondrial thiols markedly attenuated the ability of ADP to inhibit the MPTP opening. We earlier found (Korotkov and Saris, 2011) that calcium load of rat liver mitochondria in medium containing TlNO3 and KNO3 stimulated the Tl(+)-induced MPTP opening in the inner mitochondrial membrane. The MPTP opening as well as followed increase in swelling, a drop in membrane potential (ΔΨmito), and a decrease in state 3, state 4, and 2,4-dinitrophenol-uncoupled respiration were visibly enhanced in the presence of PAO, tBHP, DIDS, and carboxyatractyloside. However, these effects were markedly inhibited by ADP and membrane-penetrant hydrophobic thiol reagent, N-ethylmaleimide (NEM) which fix the ANT in 'm' conformation. Cyclosporine A additionally potentiated these effects of ADP and NEM. Our data suggest that conformational changes of the ANT may be directly involved in the opening of the Tl(+)-induced MPTP in the inner membrane of Ca(2+)-loaded rat liver mitochondria. Using the Tl(+)-induced MPTP model is discussed in terms finding new transition pore inhibitors and inducers among different chemical and natural compounds.

The Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore: Channel Formation by F-ATP Synthase, Integration in Signal Transduction, and Role in Pathophysiology

The mitochondrial permeability transition (PT) is a permeability increase of the inner mitochondrial membrane mediated by a channel, the permeability transition pore (PTP). After a brief historical introduction, we cover the key regulatory features of the PTP and provide a critical assessment of putative protein components that have been tested by genetic analysis. The discovery that under conditions of oxidative stress the F-ATP synthases of mammals, yeast, and Drosophila can be turned into Ca(2+)-dependent channels, whose electrophysiological properties match those of the corresponding PTPs, opens new perspectives to the field. We discuss structural and functional features of F-ATP synthases that may provide clues to its transition from an energy-conserving into an energy-dissipating device as well as recent advances on signal transduction to the PTP and on its role in cellular pathophysiology.

The mitochondrial permeability transition pore: molecular nature and role as a target in cardioprotection

The mitochondrial permeability transition (PT) - an abrupt increase permeability of the inner membrane to solutes - is a causative event in ischemia-reperfusion injury of the heart, and the focus of intense research in cardioprotection. The PT is due to opening of the PT pore (PTP), a high conductance channel that is critically regulated by a variety of pathophysiological effectors. Very recent work indicates that the PTP forms from the F-ATP synthase, which would switch from an energy-conserving to an energy-dissipating device. This review provides an update on the current debate on how this transition is achieved, and on the PTP as a target for therapeutic intervention. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Mitochondria: from basic mitochondrial biology to cardiovascular disease".

Mitochondrial channels: ion fluxes and more

The field of mitochondrial ion channels has recently seen substantial progress, including the molecular identification of some of the channels. An integrative approach using genetics, electrophysiology, pharmacology, and cell biology to clarify the roles of these channels has thus become possible. It is by now clear that many of these channels are important for energy supply by the mitochondria and have a major impact on the fate of the entire cell as well. The purpose of this review is to provide an up-to-date overview of the electrophysiological properties, molecular identity, and pathophysiological functions of the mitochondrial ion channels studied so far and to highlight possible therapeutic perspectives based on current information.

The oligomycin-sensitivity conferring protein of mitochondrial ATP synthase: emerging new roles in mitochondrial pathophysiology

The oligomycin-sensitivity conferring protein (OSCP) of the mitochondrial F(O)F1 ATP synthase has long been recognized to be essential for the coupling of proton transport to ATP synthesis. Located on top of the catalytic F1 sector, it makes stable contacts with both F1 and the peripheral stalk, ensuring the structural and functional coupling between F(O) and F1, which is disrupted by the antibiotic, oligomycin. Recent data have established that OSCP is the binding target of cyclophilin (CyP) D, a well-characterized inducer of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP), whose opening can precipitate cell death. CyPD binding affects ATP synthase activity, and most importantly, it decreases the threshold matrix Ca²⁺ required for PTP opening, in striking analogy with benzodiazepine 423, an apoptosis-inducing agent that also binds OSCP. These findings are consistent with the demonstration that dimers of ATP synthase generate Ca²⁺-dependent currents with features indistinguishable from those of the PTP and suggest that ATP synthase is directly involved in PTP formation, although the underlying mechanism remains to be established. In this scenario, OSCP appears to play a fundamental role, sensing the signal(s) that switches the enzyme of life in a channel able to precipitate cell death.

Regulation of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore by the outer membrane does not involve the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor (Translocator Protein of 18 kDa (TSPO))

Translocator protein of 18 kDa (TSPO) is a highly conserved, ubiquitous protein localized in the outer mitochondrial membrane, where it is thought to play a key role in the mitochondrial transport of cholesterol, a key step in the generation of steroid hormones. However, it was first characterized as the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor because it appears to be responsible for high affinity binding of a number of benzodiazepines to non-neuronal tissues. Ensuing studies have employed natural and synthetic ligands to assess the role of TSPO function in a number of natural and pathological circumstances. Largely through the use of these compounds and biochemical associations, TSPO has been proposed to play a role in the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP), which has been associated with cell death in many human pathological conditions. Here, we critically assess the role of TSPO in the function of the PTP through the generation of mice in which the Tspo gene has been conditionally eliminated. Our results show that 1) TSPO plays no role in the regulation or structure of the PTP, 2) endogenous and synthetic ligands of TSPO do not regulate PTP activity through TSPO, 3) outer mitochondrial membrane regulation of PTP activity occurs though a mechanism that does not require TSPO, and 4) hearts lacking TSPO are as sensitive to ischemia-reperfusion injury as hearts from control mice. These results call into question a wide variety of studies implicating TSPO in a number of pathological processes through its actions on the PTP.

Mitochondrial dysfunction induced by different concentrations of gadolinium ion

Gadolinium-based compounds are the most widely used paramagnetic contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging on the world. But the tricationic gadolinium ion (Gd(3+)) could induce cell apoptosis probably because of its effects on mitochondria. Until now, the mechanism about how Gd(3+) interacts with mitochondria is not well elucidated. In this work, mitochondrial swelling, collapsed transmembrane potential and decreased membrane fluidity were observed to be important factors for mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mtPTP) opening induced by Gd(3+). The protection effect of CsA (Cyclosporin A) could confirm high concentration of Gd(3+) (500 μM) would trigger mtPTP opening. Moreover, mitochondrial outer membrane breakdown and volume expansion observed clearly by transmission electron microscopy and the release of Cyt c (Cytochrome c) could explain the mtPTP opening from another aspect. In addition, MBM(+) (monobromobimane(+)) and DTT (dithiothreitol) could protect thiol (-SH) groups from oxidation so that the toxicity of Gd(3+) might be resulted from the chelation of -SH of membrane proteins by free Gd(3+). Gd(3+) could inhibit the initiation of mitochondrial membrane lipid peroxidation, so it might interact with anionic lipids too. These findings will highly contribute to the safe applications of Gd-based agents.

High concentration of gadolinium ion modifying isolated rice mitochondrial biogenesis

Mitochondria play an important role in plant growth and development, cooperating with the endoplasmic reticulum and nucleus. Gadolinium, one of the rare earth elements, is an inhibitor of stretch-activated calcium channels located on the endoplasmic reticulum and plasma membrane and has no effect on nuclear calcium variation in plant cells. We analyzed the effects of Gd3+ on mitochondria function by monitoring mitochondrial swelling, changes of membrane fluidity, and transmembrane potential collapse and by observing mitochondrial ultrastructure. We found that high concentration of Gd3+ induces rice mitochondrial dysfunction through mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT). The protection of DTT and EDTA demonstrate that Gd3+ blocks the inner membrane ion channel through thiol chelation.

African eggplant (Solanum anguivi Lam.) fruit with bioactive polyphenolic compounds exerts in vitro antioxidant properties and inhibits Ca(2+)-induced mitochondrial swelling

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the antioxidant and radical scavenging activities of Solanum anguivi fruit (SAG) and its possible effect on mitochondrial permeability transition pore as well as mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) isolated from rat liver.

METHODS

Antioxidant activity of SAG was assayed by using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), reducing power, iron chelation and ability to inhibit lipid peroxidation in both liver and brain homogenate of rats. Also, the effect of SAG on mitochondrial membrane potential and mitochondrial swelling were determined. Identification and quantification of bioactive polyphenolics was done by HPLC-DAD.

RESULTS

SAG exhibited potent and concentration dependent free radical-scavenging activity (IC50/DPPH=275.03±7.8 μg/mL). Reductive and iron chelation abilities also increase with increase in SAG concentration. SAG also inhibited peroxidation of cerebral and hepatic lipids subjected to iron oxidative assault. SAG protected against Ca(2+) (110 μmol/L)-induced mitochondrial swelling and maintained the ΔΨm. HPLC analysis revealed the presence of gallic acid [(17.54±0.04) mg/g], chlorogenic acid (21.90±0.02 mg/g), caffeic acid (16.64±0.01 mg/g), rutin [(14.71±0.03) mg/g] and quercetin [(7.39±0.05) mg/g].

CONCLUSIONS

These effects could be attributed to the bioactive polyphenolic compounds present in the extract. Our results suggest that SAG extract is a potential source of natural antioxidants that may be used not only in pharmaceutical and food industry but also in the treatment of diseases associated with oxidative stress.

The mitochondrial permeability transition pore: a mystery solved?

The permeability transition (PT) denotes an increase of the mitochondrial inner membrane permeability to solutes with molecular masses up to about 1500 Da. It is presumed to be mediated by opening of a channel, the permeability transition pore (PTP), whose molecular nature remains a mystery. Here I briefly review the history of the PTP, discuss existing models, and present our new results indicating that reconstituted dimers of the F_OF₁ ATP synthase form a channel with properties identical to those of the mitochondrial megachannel (MMC), the electrophysiological equivalent of the PTP. Open questions remain, but there is now promise that the PTP can be studied by genetic methods to solve the large number of outstanding problems.

Ce(III)-induced rice mitochondrial permeability transition investigated by spectroscopic and microscopic studies

Cerium has been widely used as fertilizer and feed additives in agriculture, but it might finally impair human health by food chain accumulation with its dosage increased in environmental and crops samples. To resolve the conflict, we investigated the effects of Ce(III) on isolated rice mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) by examining mitochondrial swelling, transmembrane potential, membrane fluidity with spectroscopy, and observing the mitochondrial ultrastructure, meanwhile, the interaction site(s) and mechanism between Ce(III) and mitochondria were also studied. The results showed that the low level of Ce(III) had little effect on rice MPT, however, the higher level of Ce(III) could induce rice MPT, and the thiol (-SH) groups of membrane proteins (defined as "S" site) matched by Ce(III)-triggered rice MPT pore opening.

Mitochondrial electron transport chain in heavy metal-induced neurotoxicity: effects of cadmium, mercury, and copper

To clarify the role of mitochondrial electron transport chain (mtETC) in heavy-metal-induced neurotoxicity, we studied action of Cd²⁺, Hg²⁺, and Cu²⁺ on cell viability, intracellular reactive oxygen species formation, respiratory function, and mitochondrial membrane potential of rat cell line PC12. As found, the metals produced, although in a different way, dose- and time-dependent changes of all these parameters. Importantly, Cd²⁺ beginning from 10 [mu]M and already at short incubation time (3 h) significantly inhibited the FCCP-uncoupled cell respiration; besides, practically the complete inhibition of the respiration was reached after 3 h incubation with 50 [mu]M Hg²⁺ or 500 [mu]M Cd²⁺, whereas even after 48 h exposure with 500 [mu]M Cu²⁺, only a 50% inhibition of the respiration occurred. Against the Cd²⁺-induced cell injury, not only different antioxidants and mitochondrial permeability transition pore inhibitors were protective but also such mtETC effectors as FCCP and stigmatellin (complex III inhibitor). However, all mtETC effectors used did not protect against the Hg²⁺- or Cu²⁺-induced cell damage. Notably, stigmatellin was shown to be one of the strongest protectors against the Cd²⁺-induced cell damage, producing a 15–20% increase in the cell viability. The mechanisms of the mtETC involvement in the heavy-metal-induced mitochondrial membrane permeabilization and cell death are discussed.

Polyphenols and human health: a prospectus

The lay press often heralds polyphenols as panacea for all sorts of diseases. The rationale is that their antioxidant activity would prevent free radical damage to macromolecules. However, basic and clinical science is showing that the reality is much more complex than this and that several issues, notably content in foodstuff, bioavailability, or in vivo antioxidant activity are yet to be resolved. We summarize the recent findings concerning the effects of polyphenols on human health, analyze the current limitations at pitfalls, and propose future directions for research.

Mitochondrial permeability transition induced by different concentrations of zinc

Zinc is one of the required trace elements in animals, and it serves an important role in biological systems. However, high levels of zinc are poisonous to organisms. So far, there exist conflicting reports about zinc ions-induced mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT). We analyzed the effects of Zn²⁺ on MPT by monitoring mitochondrial swelling with the ultraviolet-visible light absorption spectrum, characterizing the fluidity of the membrane with fluorescence anisotropy, detecting the transmembrane potential (Δψ) with fluorescence intensity, and observing mitochondrial ultrastructure with transmission electron microscopy. Data reveal that low concentrations of zinc ions can trigger MPT while high levels of zinc ions cannot, which implies that zinc ions' toxicity cannot be the result of a single simple mechanism.

The translocator protein (peripheral benzodiazepine receptor) mediates rat-selective activation of the mitochondrial permeability transition by norbormide

We have investigated the mechanism of rat-selective induction of the mitochondrial permeability transition (PT) by norbormide (NRB). We show that the inducing effect of NRB on the PT (i) is inhibited by the selective ligands of the 18kDa outer membrane (OMM) translocator protein (TSPO, formerly peripheral benzodiazepine receptor) protoporphyrin IX, N,N-dihexyl-2-(4-fluorophenyl)indole-3-acetamide and 7-chloro-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-1,3-dihydro-1-methyl-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one; and (ii) is lost in digitonin mitoplasts, which lack an intact OMM. In mitoplasts the PT can still be induced by the NRB cationic derivative OL14, which contrary to NRB is also effective in intact mitochondria from mouse and guinea pig. We conclude that selective NRB transport into rat mitochondria occurs via TSPO in the OMM, which allows its translocation to PT-regulating sites in the inner membrane. Thus, species-specificity of NRB toward the rat PT depends on subtle differences in the structure of TSPO or of TSPO-associated proteins affecting its substrate specificity.

Brain mitochondria from rats treated with sulforaphane are resistant to redox-regulated permeability transition

Oxidative stress promotes Ca2+-dependent opening of the mitochondrial inner membrane permeability transition pore (PTP), causing bioenergetic failure and subsequent cell death in many paradigms, including those related to acute brain injury. One approach to pre-conditioning against oxidative stress is pharmacologic activation of the Nrf2/ARE pathway of antioxidant gene expression by agents such as sulforaphane (SFP). This study tested the hypothesis that administration of SFP to normal rats increases resistance of isolated brain mitochondria to redox-sensitive PTP opening. SFP or DMSO vehicle was administered intraperitoneally to adult male rats at 10 mg/kg 40 h prior to isolation of non-synaptic brain mitochondria. Mitochondria were suspended in medium containing a respiratory substrate and were exposed to an addition of Ca2+ below the threshold for PTP opening. Subsequent addition of tert-butyl hydroperoxide (tBOOH) resulted in a cyclosporin A-inhibitable release of accumulated Ca2+ into the medium, as monitored by an increase in fluorescence of Calcium Green 5N within the medium, and was preceded by a decrease in the autofluorescence of mitochondrial NAD(P)H. SFP treatment significantly reduced the rate of tBOOH-induced Ca2+ release but did not affect NAD(P)H oxidation or inhibit PTP opening induced by the addition of phenylarsine oxide, a direct sulfhydryl oxidizing agent. SFP treatment had no effect on respiration by brain mitochondria and had no effect on PTP opening or respiration when added directly to isolated mitochondria. We conclude that SFP confers resistance of brain mitochondria to redox-regulated PTP opening, which could contribute to neuroprotection observed with SFP.

Regulation of the inner membrane mitochondrial permeability transition by the outer membrane translocator protein (peripheral benzodiazepine receptor)

We studied the properties of the permeability transition pore (PTP) in rat liver mitochondria and in mitoplasts retaining inner membrane ultrastructure and energy-linked functions. Like mitochondria, mitoplasts readily underwent a permeability transition following Ca(2+) uptake in a process that maintained sensitivity to cyclosporin A. On the other hand, major differences between mitochondria and mitoplasts emerged in PTP regulation by ligands of the outer membrane translocator protein of 18 kDa, TSPO, formerly known as the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor. Indeed, (i) in mitoplasts, the PTP could not be activated by photo-oxidation after treatment with dicarboxylic porphyrins endowed with protoporphyrin IX configuration, which bind TSPO in intact mitochondria; and (ii) mitoplasts became resistant to the PTP-inducing effects of N,N-dihexyl-2-(4-fluorophenyl)indole-3-acetamide and of other selective ligands of TSPO. Thus, the permeability transition is an inner membrane event that is regulated by the outer membrane through specific interactions with TSPO.

The mitochondrial permeability transition from yeast to mammals

Regulated permeability changes have been detected in mitochondria across species. We review here their key features, with the goal of assessing whether a "permeability transition" similar to that observed in higher eukaryotes is present in other species. The recent discoveries (i) that treatment with cyclosporin A (CsA) unmasks an inhibitory site for inorganic phosphate (Pi) [Basso, E., Petronilli, V., Forte, M.A. and Bernardi, P. (2008) Phosphate is essential for inhibition of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore by cyclosporin A and by cyclophilin D ablation. J. Biol. Chem. 283, 26307-26311], the classical inhibitor of the permeability transition of yeast and (ii) that under proper experimental conditions a matrix Ca(2+)-dependence can be demonstrated in yeast as well [Yamada, A., Yamamoto, T., Yoshimura, Y., Gouda, S., Kawashima, S., Yamazaki, N., Yamashita, K., Kataoka, M., Nagata, T., Terada, H., Pfeiffer, D.R. and Shinohara Y. (2009) Ca(2+)-induced permeability transition can be observed even in yeast mitochondria under optimized experimental conditions. Biochim. Biophys. Acta 1787, 1486-1491] suggest that the mitochondrial permeability transition has been conserved during evolution.