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Mann J, Reznik E, Santer M, Fongheiser MA, Smith N, Hirschhorn T, Zandkarimi F, Soni RK, Dafré AL, Miranda-Vizuete A, Farina M, Stockwell BR. Ferroptosis inhibition by oleic acid mitigates iron-overload-induced injury. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:249-264.e7. [PMID: 37944523 PMCID: PMC10922137 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Iron overload, characterized by accumulation of iron in tissues, induces a multiorgan toxicity whose mechanisms are not fully understood. Using cultured cell lines, Caenorhabditis elegans, and mice, we found that ferroptosis occurs in the context of iron-overload-mediated damage. Exogenous oleic acid protected against iron-overload-toxicity in cell culture and Caenorhabditis elegans by suppressing ferroptosis. In mice, oleic acid protected against FAC-induced liver lipid peroxidation and damage. Oleic acid changed the cellular lipid composition, characterized by decreased levels of polyunsaturated fatty acyl phospholipids and decreased levels of ether-linked phospholipids. The protective effect of oleic acid in cells was attenuated by GW6471 (PPAR-α antagonist), as well as in Caenorhabditis elegans lacking the nuclear hormone receptor NHR-49 (a PPAR-α functional homologue). These results highlight ferroptosis as a driver of iron-overload-mediated damage, which is inhibited by oleic acid. This monounsaturated fatty acid represents a potential therapeutic approach to mitigating organ damage in iron overload individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josiane Mann
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Eduard Reznik
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Melania Santer
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Mark A Fongheiser
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Nailah Smith
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Tal Hirschhorn
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | | | - Rajesh Kumar Soni
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Alcir Luiz Dafré
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Antonio Miranda-Vizuete
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, IBiS/Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, 41013, Seville, Spain
| | - Marcelo Farina
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina 88040-900, Brazil; Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA.
| | - Brent R Stockwell
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA; Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA; Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA; Irving Institute for Cancer Dynamics, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA; Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York. NY 10032, USA.
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2
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Meng Q, Pathak N, Ren X, Borris RP, Kim HM. Exploring the Impact of Onobrychis cornuta and Veratrum lobelianum Extracts on C. elegans: Implications for MAPK Modulation, Germline Development, and Antitumor Properties. Nutrients 2023; 16:8. [PMID: 38201838 PMCID: PMC10780469 DOI: 10.3390/nu16010008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In an era of increasing interest in the potential health benefits of medicinal foods, the need to assess their safety and potential toxicity remains a critical concern. While these natural remedies have garnered substantial attention for their therapeutic potential, a comprehensive understanding of their effects on living organisms is essential. We examined 316 herbal extracts to determine their potential nematocidal attributes in Caenorhabditis elegans. Approximately 16% of these extracts exhibited the capacity to induce diminished survival rates and larval arrest, establishing a correlation between larval arrest and overall worm viability. Certain extracts led to an unexpected increase in male nematodes, accompanied by a discernible reduction in DAPI-stained bivalent structures and perturbed meiotic advancement, thereby disrupting the conventional developmental processes. Notably, Onobrychis cornuta and Veratrum lobelianum extracts activated a DNA damage checkpoint response via the ATM/ATR and CHK-1 pathways, thus hindering germline development. Our LC-MS analysis revealed jervine in V. lobelianum and nine antitumor compounds in O. cornuta. Interestingly, linoleic acid replicated phenotypes induced by O. cornuta exposure, including an increased level of pCHK-1 foci, apoptosis, and the MAPK pathway. Mutants in the MAPK pathway mitigated the decline in worm survival, underscoring its importance in promoting worm viability. This study reveals complex interactions between herbal extracts and C. elegans processes, shedding light on potential antitumor effects and mechanisms. The findings provide insights into the complex landscape of herbal medicine's impact on a model organism, offering implications for broader applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinghao Meng
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (Q.M.); (N.P.); (R.P.B.)
| | - Nishit Pathak
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (Q.M.); (N.P.); (R.P.B.)
| | - Xiaojing Ren
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (Q.M.); (N.P.); (R.P.B.)
| | - Robert P. Borris
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (Q.M.); (N.P.); (R.P.B.)
| | - Hyun-Min Kim
- Division of Natural and Applied Sciences, Duke Kunshan University, Kunshan 215316, China
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3
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Zupo V, Costantini M, Aflalo ED, Levy T, Chalifa-Caspi V, Obayomi O, Mutalipassi M, Ruocco N, Glaviano F, Somma E, Nieri P, Sagi A. Ferroptosis precedes apoptosis to facilitate specific death signalling by fatty acids. Proc Biol Sci 2023; 290:20231327. [PMID: 37876198 PMCID: PMC10598420 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.1327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell death is physiologically induced by specific mediators. However, our power to trigger the process in selected cells is quite limited. The protandric shrimp Hippolyte inermis offers a possible answer. Here, we analyse a de novo transcriptome of shrimp post-larvae fed on diatoms. The sex ratio of diatom-fed shrimps versus shrimps fed on control diets was dramatically altered, demonstrating the disruption of the androgenic gland, and their transcriptome revealed key modifications in gene expression. A wide transcriptomic analysis, validated by real-time qPCR, revealed that ferroptosis represents the primary factor to re-shape the body of this invertebrate, followed by further apoptotic events, and our findings open biotechnological perspectives for controlling the destiny of selected tissues. Ferroptosis was detected here for the first time in a crustacean. In addition, this is the first demonstration of a noticeable effect prompted by an ingested food, deeply impacting the gene networks of a young metazoan, definitely determining its future physiology and sexual differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Zupo
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Dohrn, Ischia, Italy
| | - Maria Costantini
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Via Ammiraglio Ferdinando Acton, 55, 80133 Napoli, Italy
| | - Eliahu D. Aflalo
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, PO Box 653, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
- Department of Life Sciences, Achva Academic College, Mobile Post, Shikmim 79800, Israel
| | - Tom Levy
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Hopkins Marine Station, Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, USA
| | - Vered Chalifa-Caspi
- Ilse Katz Institute for Nanoscale Science & Technology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Olabiyi Obayomi
- Interdepartmental Center of Marine Pharmacology, Pisa University, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Zuckerberg Institute for Water Research, J. Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Midreshet Ben Gurion 84990, Israel
| | - Mirko Mutalipassi
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Piazza Marina 61, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Nadia Ruocco
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Calabria Marine Centre, C. da Torre Spaccata, Amendolara, Italy
| | - Francesca Glaviano
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Dohrn, Ischia, Italy
| | - Emanuele Somma
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Dohrn, Ischia, Italy
- Department of Life Science, University of Trieste, Via L. Giorgieri, 10, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Paola Nieri
- Department of Pharmacy, Pisa University, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Ilse Katz Institute for Nanoscale Science & Technology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Amir Sagi
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, PO Box 653, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
- The National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, PO Box 653, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
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4
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Sarparast M, Pourmand E, Hinman J, Vonarx D, Reason T, Zhang F, Paithankar S, Chen B, Borhan B, Watts JL, Alan J, Lee KSS. Dihydroxy-Metabolites of Dihomo-γ-linolenic Acid Drive Ferroptosis-Mediated Neurodegeneration. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2023; 9:870-882. [PMID: 37252355 PMCID: PMC10214511 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.3c00052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Even after decades of research, the mechanism of neurodegeneration remains understudied, hindering the discovery of effective treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. Recent reports suggest that ferroptosis could be a novel therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases. While polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) plays an important role in neurodegeneration and ferroptosis, how PUFAs may trigger these processes remains largely unknown. PUFA metabolites from cytochrome P450 and epoxide hydrolase metabolic pathways may modulate neurodegeneration. Here, we test the hypothesis that specific PUFAs regulate neurodegeneration through the action of their downstream metabolites by affecting ferroptosis. We find that the PUFA dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA) specifically induces ferroptosis-mediated neurodegeneration in dopaminergic neurons. Using synthetic chemical probes, targeted metabolomics, and genetic mutants, we show that DGLA triggers neurodegeneration upon conversion to dihydroxyeicosadienoic acid through the action of CYP-EH (CYP, cytochrome P450; EH, epoxide hydrolase), representing a new class of lipid metabolites that induce neurodegeneration via ferroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morteza Sarparast
- Department
of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Elham Pourmand
- Department
of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Jennifer Hinman
- Department
of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Derek Vonarx
- Department
of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Tommy Reason
- Department
of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Fan Zhang
- Department
of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan
State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Shreya Paithankar
- Department
of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan
State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503, United States
| | - Bin Chen
- Department
of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan
State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
- Department
of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan
State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503, United States
| | - Babak Borhan
- Department
of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Jennifer L. Watts
- School
of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State
University, Pullman, Washington 99164, United States
| | - Jamie Alan
- Department
of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan
State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Kin Sing Stephen Lee
- Department
of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
- Department
of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan
State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
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5
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Mortensen MS, Ruiz J, Watts JL. Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Drive Lipid Peroxidation during Ferroptosis. Cells 2023; 12:804. [PMID: 36899940 PMCID: PMC10001165 DOI: 10.3390/cells12050804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a form of regulated cell death that is intricately linked to cellular metabolism. In the forefront of research on ferroptosis, the peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids has emerged as a key driver of oxidative damage to cellular membranes leading to cell death. Here, we review the involvement of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), lipid remodeling enzymes and lipid peroxidation in ferroptosis, highlighting studies revealing how using the multicellular model organism Caenorhabditis elegans contributes to the understanding of the roles of specific lipids and lipid mediators in ferroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jennifer L. Watts
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
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6
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Sarparast M, Pourmand E, Hinman J, Vonarx D, Reason T, Zhang F, Paithankar S, Chen B, Borhan B, Watts JL, Alan J, Lee KSS. Dihydroxy-Metabolites of Dihomo-gamma-linolenic Acid Drive Ferroptosis-Mediated Neurodegeneration. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.05.522933. [PMID: 36711920 PMCID: PMC9881903 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.05.522933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Even after decades of research, the mechanism of neurodegeneration remains understudied, hindering the discovery of effective treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. Recent reports suggest that ferroptosis could be a novel therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases. While polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) plays an important role in neurodegeneration and ferroptosis, how PUFAs may trigger these processes remains largely unknown. PUFA metabolites from cytochrome P450 and epoxide hydrolase metabolic pathways may modulate neurodegeneration. Here, we test the hypothesis that specific PUFAs regulate neurodegeneration through the action of their downstream metabolites by affecting ferroptosis. We find that the PUFA, dihomo gamma linolenic acid (DGLA), specifically induces ferroptosis-mediated neurodegeneration in dopaminergic neurons. Using synthetic chemical probes, targeted metabolomics, and genetic mutants, we show that DGLA triggers neurodegeneration upon conversion to dihydroxyeicosadienoic acid through the action of CYP-EH, representing a new class of lipid metabolite that induces neurodegeneration via ferroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morteza Sarparast
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Elham Pourmand
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Jennifer Hinman
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Derek Vonarx
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Tommy Reason
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Fan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Shreya Paithankar
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Bin Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA,Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Babak Borhan
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Watts
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Jamie Alan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA,Corresponding Authors
| | - Kin Sing Stephen Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA,Corresponding Authors
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7
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Qin S, Wang Y, Li L, Liu J, Xiao C, Duan D, Hao W, Qin C, Chen J, Yao L, Zhang R, You J, Zheng JS, Shen E, Wu L. Early-life vitamin B12 orchestrates lipid peroxidation to ensure reproductive success via SBP-1/SREBP1 in Caenorhabditis elegans. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111381. [PMID: 36130518 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin B12 (B12) deficiency is a critical problem worldwide. Such deficiency in infants has long been known to increase the propensity to develop obesity and diabetes later in life through unclear mechanisms. Here, we establish a Caenorhabditis elegans model to study how early-life B12 impacts adult health. We find that early-life B12 deficiency causes increased lipogenesis and lipid peroxidation in adult worms, which in turn induces germline defects through ferroptosis. Mechanistically, we show the central role of the methionine cycle-SBP-1/SREBP1-lipogenesis axis in programming adult traits by early-life B12. Moreover, SBP-1/SREBP1 participates in a crucial feedback loop with NHR-114/HNF4 to maintain cellular B12 homeostasis. Inhibition of SBP-1/SREBP1-lipogenesis signaling and ferroptosis later in life can reverse disorders in adulthood when B12 cannot. Overall, this study provides mechanistic insights into the life-course effects of early-life B12 on the programming of adult health and identifies potential targets for future interventions for adiposity and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenlu Qin
- Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yihan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lili Li
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junli Liu
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Congmei Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Duo Duan
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wanyu Hao
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chunxia Qin
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Luxia Yao
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Runshuai Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jia You
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ju-Sheng Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Enzhi Shen
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lianfeng Wu
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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8
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Perez MA, Clostio AJ, Houston IR, Ruiz J, Magtanong L, Dixon SJ, Watts JL. Ether lipid deficiency disrupts lipid homeostasis leading to ferroptosis sensitivity. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010436. [PMID: 36178986 PMCID: PMC9555615 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death associated with uncontrolled membrane lipid peroxidation and destruction. Previously, we showed that dietary dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA; 20: 3(n-6)) triggers ferroptosis in the germ cells of the model organism, Caenorhabditis elegans. We also demonstrated that ether lipid-deficient mutant strains are sensitive to DGLA-induced ferroptosis, suggesting a protective role for ether lipids. The vinyl ether bond unique to plasmalogen lipids has been hypothesized to function as an antioxidant, but this has not been tested in animal models. In this study, we used C. elegans mutants to test the hypothesis that the vinyl ether bond in plasmalogens acts as an antioxidant to protect against germ cell ferroptosis as well as to protect from whole-body tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP)-induced oxidative stress. We found no role for plasmalogens in either process. Instead, we demonstrate that ether lipid-deficiency disrupts lipid homeostasis in C. elegans, leading to altered ratios of saturated and monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) content in cellular membranes. We demonstrate that ferroptosis sensitivity in both wild type and ether-lipid deficient mutants can be rescued in several ways that change the relative abundance of saturated fats, MUFAs and specific polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Specifically, we reduced ferroptosis sensitivity by (1) using mutant strains unable to synthesize DGLA, (2) using a strain carrying a gain-of-function mutation in the transcriptional mediator MDT-15, or (3) by dietary supplementation of MUFAs. Furthermore, our studies reveal important differences in how dietary lipids influence germ cell ferroptosis versus whole-body peroxide-induced oxidative stress. These studies highlight a potentially beneficial role for endogenous and dietary MUFAs in the prevention of ferroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos A. Perez
- School of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive Biology Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| | - Andrea J. Clostio
- School of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive Biology Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| | - Isabel R. Houston
- School of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive Biology Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| | - Jimena Ruiz
- School of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive Biology Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| | - Leslie Magtanong
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Scott J. Dixon
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Jennifer L. Watts
- School of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive Biology Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
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9
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Mosquera JV, Bacher MC, Priess JR. Nuclear lipid droplets and nuclear damage in Caenorhabditis elegans. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009602. [PMID: 34133414 PMCID: PMC8208577 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Fat stored in the form of lipid droplets has long been considered a defining characteristic of cytoplasm. However, recent studies have shown that nuclear lipid droplets occur in multiple cells and tissues, including in human patients with fatty liver disease. The function(s) of stored fat in the nucleus has not been determined, and it is possible that nuclear fat is beneficial in some situations. Conversely, nuclear lipid droplets might instead be deleterious by disrupting nuclear organization or triggering aggregation of hydrophobic proteins. We show here that nuclear lipid droplets occur normally in C. elegans intestinal cells and germ cells, but appear to be associated with damage only in the intestine. Lipid droplets in intestinal nuclei can be associated with novel bundles of microfilaments (nuclear actin) and membrane tubules that might have roles in damage repair. To increase the normal, low frequency of nuclear lipid droplets in wild-type animals, we used a forward genetic screen to isolate mutants with abnormally large or abundant nuclear lipid droplets. Genetic analysis and cloning of three such mutants showed that the genes encode the lipid regulator SEIP-1/seipin, the inner nuclear membrane protein NEMP-1/Nemp1/TMEM194A, and a component of COPI vesicles called COPA-1/α-COP. We present several lines of evidence that the nuclear lipid droplet phenotype of copa-1 mutants results from a defect in retrieving mislocalized membrane proteins that normally reside in the endoplasmic reticulum. The seip-1 mutant causes most germ cells to have nuclear lipid droplets, the largest of which occupy more than a third of the nuclear volume. Nevertheless, the nuclear lipid droplets do not trigger apoptosis, and the germ cells differentiate into gametes that produce viable, healthy progeny. Thus, our results suggest that nuclear lipid droplets are detrimental to intestinal nuclei, but have no obvious deleterious effect on germ nuclei. Several human disorders such as obesity are associated with abnormal fat storage. Cells normally store fat in cytoplasmic organelles called lipid droplets. However, recent studies have shown that fat can also form inside of the cell nucleus, and the effects of nuclear fat are not known. Here we use the cell biology and genetics of the model organism C. elegans to study the causes and consequences of nuclear fat. We show that intestinal cells can contain nuclear fat, particularly during high-low-high changes in cytoplasmic fat that involve de novo fat synthesis. Nuclear fat is associated with multiple changes in intestinal nuclei that appear to represent damage and repair. Germ nuclei that normally differentiate into oocytes can also contain nuclear fat. In germ cells, however, even high levels of nuclear fat appear to cause little or no damage. Our results suggest that intestinal nuclei and germ cell nuclei might have different responses to nuclear fat in part because they differ in chromosomal organization at the nuclear envelope.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Meghan C. Bacher
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - James R. Priess
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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10
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Perez MA, Watts JL. Worms, Fat, and Death: Caenorhabditis elegans Lipid Metabolites Regulate Cell Death. Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11020125. [PMID: 33672292 PMCID: PMC7926963 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11020125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Caenorhabditis elegans is well-known as the model organism used to elucidate the genetic pathways underlying the first described form of regulated cell death, apoptosis. Since then, C. elegans investigations have contributed to the further understanding of lipids in apoptosis, especially the roles of phosphatidylserines and phosphatidylinositols. More recently, studies in C. elegans have shown that dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids can induce the non-apoptotic, iron-dependent form of cell death, ferroptosis. In this review, we examine the roles of various lipids in specific aspects of regulated cell death, emphasizing recent work in C. elegans.
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11
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Chang M, Yang J, Guo X, Zhang T, Liu R, Jin Q, Wang X. Medium / long-chain structured triglycerides are superior to physical mixtures triglycerides in Caenorhabditis elegans lifespan through an AMPK modified pathway. FOOD BIOSCI 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2020.100815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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12
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Polyunsaturated fatty acids and p38-MAPK link metabolic reprogramming to cytoprotective gene expression during dietary restriction. Nat Commun 2020; 11:4865. [PMID: 32978396 PMCID: PMC7519657 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-18690-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The metabolic state of an organism instructs gene expression modalities, leading to changes in complex life history traits, such as longevity. Dietary restriction (DR), which positively affects health and life span across species, leads to metabolic reprogramming that enhances utilisation of fatty acids for energy generation. One direct consequence of this metabolic shift is the upregulation of cytoprotective (CyTP) genes categorized in the Gene Ontology (GO) term of “Xenobiotic Detoxification Program” (XDP). How an organism senses metabolic changes during nutritional stress to alter gene expression programs is less known. Here, using a genetic model of DR, we show that the levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), especially linoleic acid (LA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), are increased following DR and these PUFAs are able to activate the CyTP genes. This activation of CyTP genes is mediated by the conserved p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38-MAPK) pathway. Consequently, genes of the PUFA biosynthesis and p38-MAPK pathway are required for multiple paradigms of DR-mediated longevity, suggesting conservation of mechanism. Thus, our study shows that PUFAs and p38-MAPK pathway function downstream of DR to help communicate the metabolic state of an organism to regulate expression of CyTP genes, ensuring extended life span. Metabolic reprogramming during Dietary Restriction (DR) activates cytoprotective gene expression. Here the authors show that PUFAs generated during DR signal via the p38-MAPK pathway to enhance cytoprotective gene expression, contributing to increased longevity.
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Perez MA, Magtanong L, Dixon SJ, Watts JL. Dietary Lipids Induce Ferroptosis in Caenorhabditiselegans and Human Cancer Cells. Dev Cell 2020; 54:447-454.e4. [PMID: 32652074 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2020.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Dietary lipids impact development, homeostasis, and disease, but links between specific dietary fats and cell fates are poorly understood. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of nonapoptotic cell death associated with oxidized polyunsaturated phospholipids. Here, we show that dietary ingestion of the polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) dihomogamma-linolenic acid (DGLA; 20:3n-6) can trigger germ-cell ferroptosis and sterility in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Exogenous DGLA is also sufficient to induce ferroptosis in human cells, pinpointing this omega-6 PUFA as a conserved metabolic instigator of this lethal process. In both C. elegans and human cancer cells, ether-lipid synthesis protects against ferroptosis. These results establish C. elegans as a powerful animal model to study the induction and modulation of ferroptosis by dietary fats and indicate that endogenous ether lipids act to prevent this nonapoptotic cell fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos A Perez
- School of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | | | - Scott J Dixon
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer L Watts
- School of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.
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14
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Beaudoin-Chabot C, Wang L, Smarun AV, Vidović D, Shchepinov MS, Thibault G. Deuterated Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Reduce Oxidative Stress and Extend the Lifespan of C. elegans. Front Physiol 2019; 10:641. [PMID: 31191345 PMCID: PMC6546729 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemically reinforced essential fatty acids (FAs) promise to fight numerous age-related diseases including Alzheimer’s, Friedreich’s ataxia and other neurological conditions. The reinforcement is achieved by substituting the atoms of hydrogen at the bis-allylic methylene of these essential FAs with the isotope deuterium. This substitution leads to a significantly slower oxidation due to the kinetic isotope effect, inhibiting membrane damage. The approach has the advantage of preventing the harmful accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by inhibiting the propagation of lipid peroxidation while antioxidants potentially neutralize beneficial oxidative species. Here, we developed a model system to mimic the human dietary requirement of omega-3 in Caenorhabditis elegans to study the role of deuterated polyunsaturated fatty acids (D-PUFAs). Deuterated trilinolenin [D-TG(54:9)] was sufficient to prevent the accumulation of lipid peroxides and to reduce the accumulation or ROS. Moreover, D-TG(54:9) significantly extended the lifespan of worms under normal and oxidative stress conditions. These findings demonstrate that D-PUFAs can be used as a food supplement to decelerate the aging process, resulting in extended lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lei Wang
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | | | | | - Guillaume Thibault
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
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15
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Izumida S, Kawano H, Muroya T, Motokawa T, Akashi R, Yonekura T, Morimoto Y, Yano Y, Ikeda S, Maemura K. The Relationship between Circulating Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Levels and Exercise Responses of Patients with Non-ischemic Heart Failure. Intern Med 2019; 58:3219-3225. [PMID: 31735736 PMCID: PMC6911764 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.2849-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are associated with heart failure (HF) as well as coronary artery disease. However, little is known about the relationships between PUFAs and the exercise responses of patients with HF. We evaluated the relationships between PUFAs and the parameters of cardiopulmonary exercise tests (CPETs) in patients with non-ischemic HF. Methods Fifty patients with stable non-ischemic HF underwent CPETs at our hospital. Data were analyzed to evaluate the relationships between PUFAs and echocardiographic findings as well as CPET and other test parameters. Results Correlations were significant and negative between dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA) + arachidonic acid (AA) and minute ventilation versus carbon dioxide production (VE/VCO2) slope, and positive between N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and VE/VCO2 slope. A multivariate regression analysis selected DGLA+AA and AA as independent predictors of VE/VCO2 slope. However, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) + docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) were not significantly correlated with the CPET parameters. Conclusion Low levels of circulating DGLA+AA and AA among PUFAs were associated with decreased exercise responses in patients with stable non-ischemic HF. These findings suggest that high levels of omega-6 PUFAs may improve the clinical outcomes of patients with non-ischemic HF via their effects on exercise responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seiya Izumida
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Kawano
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Japan
| | - Takahiro Muroya
- Department of Cardiology, Sasebo City General Hospital, Japan
| | - Tetsufumi Motokawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Japan
| | - Ryohei Akashi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Yonekura
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Japan
| | - Yosuke Morimoto
- Department of Rehabilitation, Nagasaki University Hospital, Japan
| | - Yudai Yano
- Department of Rehabilitation, Nagasaki University Hospital, Japan
| | - Satoshi Ikeda
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Japan
| | - Koji Maemura
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Japan
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16
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Yang Z, Xue KS, Sun X, Williams PL, Wang JS, Tang L. Toxicogenomic responses to zearalenone in Caenorhabditis elegans reveal possible molecular mechanisms of reproductive toxicity. Food Chem Toxicol 2018; 122:49-58. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2018.09.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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17
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Navarro-Herrera D, Aranaz P, Eder-Azanza L, Zabala M, Hurtado C, Romo-Hualde A, Martínez JA, González-Navarro CJ, Vizmanos JL. Dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid induces fat loss in C. elegans in an omega-3-independent manner by promoting peroxisomal fatty acid β-oxidation. Food Funct 2018; 9:1621-1637. [PMID: 29465730 DOI: 10.1039/c7fo01625e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Bioactive compounds, including some fatty acids (FAs), can induce beneficial effects on body fat-content and metabolism. In this work, we have used C. elegans as a model to examine the effects of several FAs on body fat accumulation. Both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids induced a reduction of fat content in C. elegans, with linoleic, gamma-linolenic and dihomo-gamma-linolenic acids being the most effective ones. These three FAs are sequential metabolites especially in omega-6 PUFA synthesis pathway and the effects seem to be primarily due to dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid, and independent of its transformation into omega-3 or arachidonic acid. Gene expression analyses suggest that peroxisomal beta oxidation is the main mechanism involved in the observed effect. These results point out the importance of further analysis of the activity of these omega-6 FAs, due to their potential application in obesity and related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Navarro-Herrera
- University of Navarra, School of Science, Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, Pamplona, Spain. and University of Navarra, School of Pharmacy & Nutrition, Centre for Nutrition Research, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Paula Aranaz
- University of Navarra, School of Pharmacy & Nutrition, Centre for Nutrition Research, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Laura Eder-Azanza
- University of Navarra, School of Science, Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, Pamplona, Spain. and Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - María Zabala
- University of Navarra, School of Pharmacy & Nutrition, Centre for Nutrition Research, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Cristina Hurtado
- University of Navarra, School of Science, Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, Pamplona, Spain. and Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Ana Romo-Hualde
- University of Navarra, School of Pharmacy & Nutrition, Centre for Nutrition Research, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - J Alfredo Martínez
- University of Navarra, School of Pharmacy & Nutrition, Centre for Nutrition Research, Pamplona, Spain. and Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain and Spanish Biomedical Research Center in Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos J González-Navarro
- University of Navarra, School of Pharmacy & Nutrition, Centre for Nutrition Research, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - José L Vizmanos
- University of Navarra, School of Science, Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, Pamplona, Spain. and Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain
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18
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Watts JL, Ristow M. Lipid and Carbohydrate Metabolism in Caenorhabditis elegans. Genetics 2017; 207:413-446. [PMID: 28978773 PMCID: PMC5629314 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.117.300106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipid and carbohydrate metabolism are highly conserved processes that affect nearly all aspects of organismal biology. Caenorhabditis elegans eat bacteria, which consist of lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins that are broken down during digestion into fatty acids, simple sugars, and amino acid precursors. With these nutrients, C. elegans synthesizes a wide range of metabolites that are required for development and behavior. In this review, we outline lipid and carbohydrate structures as well as biosynthesis and breakdown pathways that have been characterized in C. elegans We bring attention to functional studies using mutant strains that reveal physiological roles for specific lipids and carbohydrates during development, aging, and adaptation to changing environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Watts
- School of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164
| | - Michael Ristow
- Energy Metabolism Laboratory, Institute of Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, 8603 Schwerzenbach-Zurich, Switzerland
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19
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Devkota R, Svensk E, Ruiz M, Ståhlman M, Borén J, Pilon M. The adiponectin receptor AdipoR2 and its Caenorhabditis elegans homolog PAQR-2 prevent membrane rigidification by exogenous saturated fatty acids. PLoS Genet 2017; 13:e1007004. [PMID: 28886012 PMCID: PMC5607217 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1007004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Revised: 09/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Dietary fatty acids can be incorporated directly into phospholipids. This poses a specific challenge to cellular membranes since their composition, hence properties, could greatly vary with different diets. That vast variations in diets are tolerated therefore implies the existence of regulatory mechanisms that monitor and regulate membrane compositions. Here we show that the adiponectin receptor AdipoR2, and its C. elegans homolog PAQR-2, are essential to counter the membrane rigidifying effects of exogenously provided saturated fatty acids. In particular, we use dietary supplements or mutated E. coli as food, together with direct measurements of membrane fluidity and composition, to show that diets containing a high ratio of saturated to monounsaturated fatty acids cause membrane rigidity and lethality in the paqr-2 mutant. We also show that mammalian cells in which AdipoR2 has been knocked-down by siRNA are unable to prevent the membrane-rigidifying effects of palmitic acid. We conclude that the PAQR-2 and AdipoR2 proteins share an evolutionarily conserved function that maintains membrane fluidity in the presence of exogenous saturated fatty acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranjan Devkota
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Emma Svensk
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Mario Ruiz
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Marcus Ståhlman
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Wallenberg Laboratory, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jan Borén
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Wallenberg Laboratory, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Marc Pilon
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- * E-mail:
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20
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Ouchi S, Miyazaki T, Shimada K, Sugita Y, Shimizu M, Murata A, Kato T, Aikawa T, Suda S, Shiozawa T, Hiki M, Takahashi S, Kasai T, Miyauchi K, Daida H. Decreased circulating dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid levels are associated with total mortality in patients with acute cardiovascular disease and acute decompensated heart failure. Lipids Health Dis 2017; 16:150. [PMID: 28806965 PMCID: PMC5556673 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-017-0542-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have important roles in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. However, the clinical significance of omega-6 PUFAs in acute cardiovascular disease remains unknown. METHODS We enrolled 417 consecutive patients with acute cardiovascular disease admitted to the cardiac intensive care unit at Juntendo University Hospital between April 2012 and October 2013. We investigated the association between serum PUFA levels and long-term mortality. Blood samples were collected after an overnight fast, within 24 h of admission. We excluded patients who received eicosapentaenoic acid therapy and those with malignancy, end-stage kidney disease, chronic hepatic disease, and connective tissue disease. RESULTS Overall, 306 patients (mean age: 66.4 ± 15.0 years) were analysed. During the follow-up period of 2.4 ± 1.2 years, 50 patients (16.3%) died. The dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) levels, arachidonic acid (AA) levels, and DGLA/AA ratio were significantly lower in the nonsurvivor group than in the survivor group (DGLA: 23.2 ± 9.8 vs. 31.5 ± 12.0 μg/ml, AA: 151.1 ± 41.6 vs. 173.3 ± 51.6 μg/ml, and DGLA/AA: 0.16 ± 0.05 vs. 0.19 ± 0.06, all p < 0.01). Kaplan-Meier curves showed that survival rates were significantly higher in the higher DGLA, AA, and DGLA/AA groups than in their lower counterparts (DGLA and AA; p < 0.01, DGLA/AA; p = 0.01), although omega-3 PUFAs were not associated with prognosis. Furthermore, in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF), survival rates were significantly higher in the higher DGLA, AA, and DGLA/AA groups than in their lower counterparts (DGLA and AA; p < 0.01, DGLA/AA; p = 0.04). However, among patients with acute coronary syndrome, none of the PUFA levels were associated with prognosis. Among patients with ADHF, after controlling for confounding variables, DGLA and DGLA/AA were associated with long-term mortality [DGLA: hazard ratio (HR), 0.94; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.88-0.99; p = 0.01 and DGLA/AA: HR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.77-0.97; p < 0.01], whereas AA was not associated with prognosis. CONCLUSION Low omega-6 PUFA levels, particularly DGLA, and a low DGLA/AA ratio predict long-term mortality in patients with acute cardiovascular disease and ADHF. TRIAL REGISTRATION UMIN-CTR; UMIN000007555 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Shohei Ouchi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Tetsuro Miyazaki
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan.
| | - Kazunori Shimada
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Yurina Sugita
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Megumi Shimizu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Azusa Murata
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Takao Kato
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Tatsuro Aikawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Shoko Suda
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Shiozawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Masaru Hiki
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Shuhei Takahashi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Takatoshi Kasai
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Katsumi Miyauchi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Daida
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
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21
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Shemesh N, Meshnik L, Shpigel N, Ben-Zvi A. Dietary-Induced Signals That Activate the Gonadal Longevity Pathway during Development Regulate a Proteostasis Switch in Caenorhabditis elegans Adulthood. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:254. [PMID: 28848390 PMCID: PMC5552676 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-non-autonomous signals dictate the functional state of cellular quality control systems, remodeling the ability of cells to cope with stress and maintain protein homeostasis (proteostasis). One highly regulated cell-non-autonomous switch controls proteostatic capacity in Caenorhabditis elegans adulthood. Signals from the reproductive system down-regulate cyto-protective pathways, unless countered by signals reporting on germline proliferation disruption. Here, we utilized dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA) that depletes the C. elegans germline to ask when cell-non-autonomous signals from the reproductive system determine somatic proteostasis and whether such regulation is reversible. We found that diet supplementation of DGLA resulted in the maintenance of somatic proteostasis after the onset of reproduction. DGLA-dependent proteostasis remodeling was only effective if animals were exposed to DGLA during larval development. A short exposure of 16 h during the second to fourth larval stages was sufficient and required to maintain somatic proteostasis in adulthood but not to extend lifespan. The reproductive system was required for DGLA-dependent remodeling of proteostasis in adulthood, likely via DGLA-dependent disruption of germline stem cells. However, arachidonic acid (AA), a somatic regulator of this pathway that does not require the reproductive system, presented similar regulatory timing. Finally, we showed that DGLA- and AA-supplementation led to activation of the gonadal longevity pathway but presented differential regulatory timing. Proteostasis and stress response regulators, including hsf-1 and daf-16, were only activated if exposed to DGLA and AA during development, while other gonadal longevity factors did not show this regulatory timing. We propose that C. elegans determines its proteostatic fate during development and is committed to either reproduction, and thus present restricted proteostasis, or survival, and thus present robust proteostasis. Given the critical role of proteostatic networks in the onset and progression of many aging-related diseases, such a choice could impact susceptibility to protein misfolding diseases later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Netta Shemesh
- Department of Life Sciences, The National Institute for Biotechnology in the NegevBen-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Lana Meshnik
- Department of Life Sciences, The National Institute for Biotechnology in the NegevBen-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Nufar Shpigel
- Department of Life Sciences, The National Institute for Biotechnology in the NegevBen-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Anat Ben-Zvi
- Department of Life Sciences, The National Institute for Biotechnology in the NegevBen-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
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22
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Ying L, Zhu H. Current advances in the functional studies of fatty acids and fatty acid-derived lipids in C. elegans. WORM 2016; 5:e1184814. [PMID: 27695652 DOI: 10.1080/21624054.2016.1184814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Revised: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 04/26/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Fatty acids and fatty acid-derived lipids (FAs/FADLs) play essential roles in many living organisms, including contributions to membrane structure and signaling transduction. Aberrant metabolism of FAs/FADLs often causes diseases and health problems. However, the detailed mechanistic studies of specific FAs/FADLs in vivo are limited. C. elegans has been an effective model system for FA/ FADL studies due to its powerful genetics and conserved lipid biosynthetic pathways. The recently developed high-throughput analytic tools also enable sophisticated profiling of lipids molecules in C. elegans, which is critical for understanding their specific functions. Here we review a subset of current advances in FA/FADL functional studies in C. elegans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Ying
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University , Shanghai, China
| | - Huanhu Zhu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University , Shanghai, China
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23
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Watts JL. Using Caenorhabditis elegans to Uncover Conserved Functions of Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids. J Clin Med 2016; 5:jcm5020019. [PMID: 26848697 PMCID: PMC4773775 DOI: 10.3390/jcm5020019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Revised: 01/05/2016] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is a powerful model organism to study functions of polyunsaturated fatty acids. The ability to alter fatty acid composition with genetic manipulation and dietary supplementation permits the dissection of the roles of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in many biological process including reproduction, aging and neurobiology. Studies in C. elegans to date have mostly identified overlapping functions of 20-carbon omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in reproduction and in neurons, however, specific roles for either omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids are beginning to emerge. Recent findings with importance to human health include the identification of a conserved Cox-independent prostaglandin synthesis pathway, critical functions for cytochrome P450 derivatives of polyunsaturated fatty acids, the requirements for omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in sensory neurons, and the importance of fatty acid desaturation for long lifespan. Furthermore, the ability of C. elegans to interconvert omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids using the FAT-1 omega-3 desaturase has been exploited in mammalian studies and biotechnology approaches to generate mammals capable of exogenous generation of omega-3 fatty acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Watts
- School of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA.
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24
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Lynn DA, Dalton HM, Sowa JN, Wang MC, Soukas AA, Curran SP. Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids allocate somatic and germline lipids to ensure fitness during nutrient and oxidative stress in Caenorhabditis elegans. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:15378-83. [PMID: 26621724 PMCID: PMC4687584 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1514012112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Animals in nature are continually challenged by periods of feast and famine as resources inevitably fluctuate, and must allocate somatic reserves for reproduction to abate evolutionary pressures. We identify an age-dependent lipid homeostasis pathway in Caenorhabditis elegans that regulates the mobilization of lipids from the soma to the germline, which supports fecundity but at the cost of survival in nutrient-poor and oxidative stress environments. This trade-off is responsive to the levels of dietary carbohydrates and organismal oleic acid and is coupled to activation of the cytoprotective transcription factor SKN-1 in both laboratory-derived and natural isolates of C. elegans. The homeostatic balance of lipid stores between the somatic and germ cells is mediated by arachidonic acid (omega-6) and eicosapentaenoic acid (omega-3) precursors of eicosanoid signaling molecules. Our results describe a mechanism for resource reallocation within intact animals that influences reproductive fitness at the cost of somatic resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana A Lynn
- Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089; Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, Department of Molecular and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089
| | - Hans M Dalton
- Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089; Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, Department of Molecular and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089
| | - Jessica N Sowa
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Huffington Center on Aging, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Meng C Wang
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Huffington Center on Aging, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Alexander A Soukas
- Center for Human Genetic Research and Diabetes Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114
| | - Sean P Curran
- Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089; Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, Department of Molecular and Computational Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089;
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25
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Deline M, Keller J, Rothe M, Schunck WH, Menzel R, Watts JL. Epoxides Derived from Dietary Dihomo-Gamma-Linolenic Acid Induce Germ Cell Death in C. elegans. Sci Rep 2015; 5:15417. [PMID: 26486965 PMCID: PMC4614016 DOI: 10.1038/srep15417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Dietary fats are not created equally, slight differences in structure lead to crucial differences in function. Muticellular organisms use polyunsaturated fatty acid as substrates to produce potent signaling molecules crucial for many physiological processes, including reproduction. Here we explored the mechanism responsible for germ cell loss induced by dietary supplementation of dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA, 20:3n-6) in the roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans. In this study we found that C. elegans CYP-33E2 activity produces a range of epoxy and hydroxy metabolites from dietary DGLA. Knockdown of cyp-33E2 suppressed the DGLA-induced sterility phenotype. Additionally, direct exposure of two specific DGLA-derived epoxy products, 8,9- and 14,15-epoxyeicosadienoic acids, produced germ cell abnormalities in the C. elegans gonad. We propose that sterility is mediated by the production of toxic DGLA-derived epoxides that trigger germ cell destruction. These studies are the first to establish a biological activity for a CYP-produced metabolite of DGLA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marshall Deline
- School of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99614-6340, USA
| | - Julia Keller
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Biology, Ecology, Philippstr. 13, House 18, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Rothe
- Lipidomix GmbH, Robert-Rössle-Str. 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Wolf-Hagen Schunck
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Robert-Rössle-Str. 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Ralph Menzel
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Biology, Ecology, Philippstr. 13, House 18, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jennifer L. Watts
- School of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99614-6340, USA
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26
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Zhu H, Han M. Exploring developmental and physiological functions of fatty acid and lipid variants through worm and fly genetics. Annu Rev Genet 2014; 48:119-48. [PMID: 25195508 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-genet-041814-095928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Lipids are more than biomolecules for energy storage and membrane structure. With ample structural variation, lipids critically participate in nearly all aspects of cellular function. Lipid homeostasis and metabolism are closely related to major human diseases and health problems. However, lipid functional studies have been significantly underdeveloped, partly because of the difficulty in applying genetics and common molecular approaches to tackle the complexity associated with lipid biosynthesis, metabolism, and function. In the past decade, a number of laboratories began to analyze the roles of lipid metabolism in development and other physiological functions using animal models and combining genetics, genomics, and biochemical approaches. These pioneering efforts have not only provided valuable insights regarding lipid functions in vivo but have also established feasible methodology for future studies. Here, we review a subset of these studies using Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila melanogaster.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanhu Zhu
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309;
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27
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Deline ML, Vrablik TL, Watts JL. Dietary supplementation of polyunsaturated fatty acids in Caenorhabditis elegans. J Vis Exp 2013. [PMID: 24326396 DOI: 10.3791/50879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Fatty acids are essential for numerous cellular functions. They serve as efficient energy storage molecules, make up the hydrophobic core of membranes, and participate in various signaling pathways. Caenorhabditis elegans synthesizes all of the enzymes necessary to produce a range of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. This, combined with the simple anatomy and range of available genetic tools, make it an attractive model to study fatty acid function. In order to investigate the genetic pathways that mediate the physiological effects of dietary fatty acids, we have developed a method to supplement the C. elegans diet with unsaturated fatty acids. Supplementation is an effective means to alter the fatty acid composition of worms and can also be used to rescue defects in fatty acid-deficient mutants. Our method uses nematode growth medium agar (NGM) supplemented with fatty acid sodium salts. The fatty acids in the supplemented plates become incorporated into the membranes of the bacterial food source, which is then taken up by the C. elegans that feed on the supplemented bacteria. We also describe a gas chromatography protocol to monitor the changes in fatty acid composition that occur in supplemented worms. This is an efficient way to supplement the diets of both large and small populations of C. elegans, allowing for a range of applications for this method.
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28
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Peroxisome protein transportation affects metabolism of branched-chain fatty acids that critically impact growth and development of C. elegans. PLoS One 2013; 8:e76270. [PMID: 24086720 PMCID: PMC3785516 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0076270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2013] [Accepted: 08/23/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The impact of specific lipid molecules, including fatty acid variants, on cellular and developmental regulation is an important research subject that remains under studied. Monomethyl branched-chain fatty acids (mmBCFAs) are commonly present in multiple organisms including mammals, however our understanding of mmBCFA functions is very limited. C. elegans has been the premier model system to study the functions of mmBCFAs and their derived lipids, as mmBCFAs have been shown to play essential roles in post-embryonic development in this organism. To understand more about the metabolism of mmBCFAs in C. elegans, we performed a genetic screen for suppressors of the L1 developmental arrest phenotype caused by mmBCFA depletion. Extensive characterization of one suppressor mutation identified prx-5, which encodes an ortholog of the human receptor for the type-1 peroxisomal targeting signal protein. Our study showed that inactivating prx-5 function compromised the peroxisome protein import, resulting in an increased level of branched-chain fatty acid C17ISO in animals lacking normal mmBCFA synthesis, thereby restoring wild-type growth and development. This work reveals a novel connection between peroxisomal functions and mmBCFA metabolism.
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29
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Abstract
Laboratory-reared Caenorhabditis elegans eat Escherichia coli. A new study demonstrates a strong diet-gene interaction: worms with reduced nhr-114 activity are fertile when fed E. coli K-12 strains but are sterile on E. coli B. Surprisingly, tryptophan supplementation of E. coli B restores worm fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Jane Albert Hubbard
- New York University School of Medicine, Skirball Institute for Biomolecular Medicine, 540 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA.
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30
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Vrablik TL, Watts JL. Polyunsaturated fatty acid derived signaling in reproduction and development: insights from Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila melanogaster. Mol Reprod Dev 2013; 80:244-59. [PMID: 23440886 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2012] [Accepted: 02/13/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) exhibit a diverse range of critical functions in biological systems. PUFAs modulate the biophysical properties of membranes and, along with their derivatives, the eicosanoids and endocannabinoids, form a wide array potent lipid signaling molecules. Much of our early understanding of PUFAs and PUFA-derived signaling stems from work in mammals; however, technological advances have made comprehensive lipid analysis possible in small genetic models such as Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila melanogaster. These models have a number of advantages, such as simple anatomy and genome-wide genetic screening techniques, which can broaden our understanding of fatty-acid-derived signaling in biological systems. Here we review what is known about PUFAs, eicosanoids, and endocannabinoids in the development and reproduction of C. elegans and D. melanogaster. Fatty acid signaling appears to be fundamental for multicellular organisms, and simple invertebrates often employ functionally similar pathways. In particular, studies in C. elegans and Drosophila are providing insight into the roles of PUFAs and PUFA-derived signaling in early developmental processes, such as meiosis, fertilization, and early embryonic cleavage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy L Vrablik
- School of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164-7520, USA
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