Modulation of mitochondrial Ca2+ by nitric oxide in cultured bovine vascular endothelial cells

Calcium-Dependent Interaction of Nitric Oxide Synthase with Cytochrome c Oxidase: Implications for Brain Bioenergetics

Targeted nitric oxide production is relevant for maintaining cellular energy production, protecting against oxidative stress, regulating cell death, and promoting neuroprotection. This study aimed to characterize the putative interaction of nitric-oxide synthase with mitochondrial proteins. The primary finding of this study is that cytochrome c oxidase (CCO) subunit IV (CCOIV) is associated directly with NOS in brain mitochondria when calcium ions are present. The matrix side of CCOIV binds to the N-terminus of NOS, supported by the abrogation of the binding by antibodies towards the N-terminus of NOS. Evidence supporting the interaction between CCOIV and NOS was provided by the coimmunoprecipitation of NOS from detergent-solubilized whole rat brain mitochondria with antibodies to CCOIV and the coimmunoprecipitation of CCOIV from crude brain NOS preparations using antibodies to NOS. The CCOIV domain that interacts with NOS was identified using a series of overlapping peptides derived from the primary sequence of CCOIV. As calcium ions not only activate NOS, but also facilitate the docking of NOS to CCOIV, this study points to a dynamic mechanism of controlling the bioenergetics by calcium changes, thereby adapting bioenergetics to cellular demands.

Preserving and enhancing mitochondrial function after stroke to protect and repair the neurovascular unit: novel opportunities for nanoparticle-based drug delivery

The neurovascular unit (NVU) is composed of vascular cells, glia, and neurons that form the basic component of the blood brain barrier. This intricate structure rapidly adjusts cerebral blood flow to match the metabolic needs of brain activity. However, the NVU is exquisitely sensitive to damage and displays limited repair after a stroke. To effectively treat stroke, it is therefore considered crucial to both protect and repair the NVU. Mitochondrial calcium (Ca²⁺) uptake supports NVU function by buffering Ca²⁺ and stimulating energy production. However, excessive mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uptake causes toxic mitochondrial Ca²⁺ overloading that triggers numerous cell death pathways which destroy the NVU. Mitochondrial damage is one of the earliest pathological events in stroke. Drugs that preserve mitochondrial integrity and function should therefore confer profound NVU protection by blocking the initiation of numerous injury events. We have shown that mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uptake and efflux in the brain are mediated by the mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uniporter complex (MCU_cx) and sodium/Ca²⁺/lithium exchanger (NCLX), respectively. Moreover, our recent pharmacological studies have demonstrated that MCU_cx inhibition and NCLX activation suppress ischemic and excitotoxic neuronal cell death by blocking mitochondrial Ca²⁺ overloading. These findings suggest that combining MCU_cx inhibition with NCLX activation should markedly protect the NVU. In terms of promoting NVU repair, nuclear hormone receptor activation is a promising approach. Retinoid X receptor (RXR) and thyroid hormone receptor (TR) agonists activate complementary transcriptional programs that stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis, suppress inflammation, and enhance the production of new vascular cells, glia, and neurons. RXR and TR agonism should thus further improve the clinical benefits of MCU_cx inhibition and NCLX activation by increasing NVU repair. However, drugs that either inhibit the MCU_cx, or stimulate the NCLX, or activate the RXR or TR, suffer from adverse effects caused by undesired actions on healthy tissues. To overcome this problem, we describe the use of nanoparticle drug formulations that preferentially target metabolically compromised and damaged NVUs after an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. These nanoparticle-based approaches have the potential to improve clinical safety and efficacy by maximizing drug delivery to diseased NVUs and minimizing drug exposure in healthy brain and peripheral tissues.

Reactive oxygen species in cardiovascular diseases: an update

Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of death worldwide, imposing major health threats. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are one of the most important products from the process of redox reactions. In the onset and progression of cardiovascular diseases, ROS are believed to heavily influence homeostasis of lipids, proteins, DNA, mitochondria, and energy metabolism. As ROS production increases, the heart is damaged, leading to further production of ROS. The vicious cycle continues on as additional ROS are generated. For example, recent evidence indicated that connexin 43 (Cx43) deficiency and pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) activation led to a loss of protection in cardiomyocytes. In this context, a better understanding of the mechanisms behind ROS production is vital in determining effective treatment and management strategies for cardiovascular diseases.

Oxygen Glucose Deprivation Induced Prosurvival Autophagy Is Insufficient to Rescue Endothelial Function

Endothelial dysfunction, referring to a disturbance in the vascular homeostasis, has been implicated in many disease conditions including ischemic/reperfusion injury and atherosclerosis. Endothelial mitochondria have been increasingly recognized as a regulator of calcium homeostasis which has implications in the execution of diverse cellular events and energy production. The mitochondrial calcium uniporter complex through which calcium enters the mitochondria is composed of several proteins, including the pore-forming subunit MCU and its regulators MCUR1, MICU1, and MICU2. Mitochondrial calcium overload leads to opening of MPTP (mitochondrial permeability transition pore) and results in apoptotic cell death. Whereas, blockage of calcium entry into the mitochondria results in reduced ATP production thereby activates AMPK-mediated pro-survival autophagy. Here, we investigated the expression of mitochondrial calcium uniporter complex components (MCU, MCUR1, MICU1, and MICU2), induction of autophagy and apoptotic cell death in endothelial cells in response to oxygen-glucose deprivation. Human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (HPMVECs) were subjected to oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) at 3-h timepoints up to 12 h. Interestingly, except MCUR1 which was significantly downregulated, all other components of the uniporter (MCU, MICU1, and MICU2) remained unchanged. MCUR1 downregulation has been shown to activate AMPK mediated pro-survival autophagy. Similarly, MCUR1 downregulation in response to OGD resulted in AMPK phosphorylation and LC3 processing indicating the activation of pro-survival autophagy. Despite the activation of autophagy, OGD induced Caspase-mediated apoptotic cell death. Blockade of autophagy did not reduce OGD-induced apoptotic cell death whereas serum starvation conferred enough cellular and functional protection. In conclusion, the autophagic flux induced by MCUR1 downregulation in response to OGD is insufficient in protecting endothelial cells from undergoing apoptotic cell death and requires enhancement of autophagic flux by additional means such as serum starvation.

The mitochondrial NO-synthase/guanylate cyclase/protein kinase G signaling system underpins the dual effects of nitric oxide on mitochondrial respiration and opening of the permeability transition pore

The available data on the involvement of nitric oxide (NO) and mitochondrial calcium-dependent NO synthase (mtNOS) in the control of mitochondrial respiration and the permeability transition pore (mPTP) are contradictory. We have proposed that the mitochondrial mtNOS/guanylate cyclase/protein kinase G signaling system (mtNOS-SS) is also implicated in the control of respiration and mPTP, providing the interplay between NO and mtNOS-SS, which, in turn, may result in inconsistent effects of NO. Therefore, using rat liver mitochondria, we applied specific inhibitors of the enzymes of this signaling system to evaluate its role in the control of respiration and mPTP opening. Steady-state respiration was supported by pyruvate, glutamate, or succinate in the presence of hexokinase, glucose, and ADP. When applied at low concentrations, l-arginine (to 500 µm) and NO donors (to 50 µm) activated the respiration and increased the threshold concentrations of calcium and d,l-palmitoylcarnitine required for the dissipation of the mitochondrial membrane potential and pore opening. Both effects were eliminated by the inhibitors of NO synthase, guanylate cyclase, and kinase G, which denotes the involvement of mtNOS-SS in the activation of respiration and deceleration of mPTP opening. At high concentrations, l-arginine and NO donors inhibited the respiration and promoted pore opening, indicating that adverse effects induced by an NO excess dominate over the protection provided by mtNOS-SS. Thus, these results demonstrate the opposite impact of NO and mtNOS-SS on the respiration and mPTP control, which can explain the dual effects of NO.

Tissue Specificity: SOCE: Implications for Ca2+ Handling in Endothelial Cells

Many cellular functions of the vascular endothelium are regulated by fine-tuned global and local, microdomain-confined changes of cytosolic free Ca²⁺ ([Ca²⁺]_i). Vasoactive agonist-induced stimulation of vascular endothelial cells (VECs) typically induces Ca²⁺ release through IP₃ receptor Ca²⁺ release channels embedded in the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca²⁺ store, followed by Ca²⁺ entry from the extracellular space elicited by Ca²⁺ store depletion and referred to as capacitative or store-operated Ca²⁺ entry (SOCE). In vascular endothelial cells, SOCE is graded with the degree of store depletion and controlled locally in the subcellular microdomain where depletion occurs. SOCE provides distinct Ca²⁺ signals that selectively control specific endothelial functions: in calf pulmonary artery endothelial cells, the SOCE Ca²⁺ signal drives nitric oxide (an endothelium-derived relaxing factor of the vascular smooth muscle) production and controls activation and nuclear translocation of the transcription factor NFAT. Both cellular events are not affected by Ca²⁺ signals of comparable magnitude arising directly from Ca²⁺ release from intracellular stores, clearly indicating that SOCE regulates specific Ca²⁺-dependent cellular tasks by a unique and exclusive mechanism. This review discusses the mechanisms of intracellular Ca²⁺ regulation in vascular endothelial cells and the role of store-operated Ca²⁺ entry for endothelium-dependent smooth muscle relaxation and nitric oxide signaling, endothelial oxidative stress response, and excitation-transcription coupling in the vascular endothelium.

Reduction of Mitochondria–Endoplasmic Reticulum Interactions by Acetylcholine Protects Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells From Hypoxia/Reoxygenation Injury

Objective—

We explored the role of endoplasmic reticulum (ER)–mitochondria Ca 2+ cross talk involving voltage-dependent anion channel-1 (VDAC1)/glucose-regulated protein 75/inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor 1 complex and mitofusin 2 in endothelial cells during hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R), and investigated the protective effects of acetylcholine.

Approach and Results—

Acetylcholine treatment during reoxygenation prevented intracellular and mitochondrial Ca 2+ increases and alleviated ER Ca 2+ depletion during H/R in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Consequently, acetylcholine enhanced mitochondrial membrane potential and inhibited proapoptotic cascades, thereby reducing cell death and preserving endothelial ultrastructure. This effect was likely mediated by the type-3 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor and the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt pathway. In addition, interactions among members of the VDAC1/glucose-regulated protein 75/inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor 1 complex were increased after H/R and were associated with mitochondrial Ca 2+ overload and cell death. Inhibition of the partner of the Ca 2+ channeling complex (VDAC1 siRNA) or a reduction in ER–mitochondria tethering (mitofusin 2 siRNA) prevented the increased protein interaction within the complex and reduced mitochondrial Ca 2+ accumulation and subsequent endothelial cell death after H/R. Intriguingly, acetylcholine could modulate ER–mitochondria Ca 2+ cross talk by inhibiting the VDAC1/glucose-regulated protein 75/inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor 1 complex and mitofusin 2 expression. Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase siRNA diminished acetylcholine-mediated inhibition of mitochondrial Ca 2+ overload and VDAC1/glucose-regulated protein 75/inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor 1 complex formation induced by H/R.

Conclusions—

Our data suggest that ER–mitochondria interplay plays an important role in reperfusion injury in the endothelium and may be a novel molecular target for endothelial protection. Acetylcholine attenuates both intracellular and mitochondrial Ca 2+ overload and protects endothelial cells from H/R injury, presumably by disrupting the ER–mitochondria interaction.

Role of mitochondrial dysfunction in hyperglycaemia-induced coronary microvascular dysfunction: Protective role of resveratrol

Microvascular complications are now recognized to play a major role in diabetic complications, and understanding the mechanisms is critical. Endothelial dysfunction occurs early in the course of the development of complications; the precise mechanisms remain poorly understood. Mitochondrial dysfunction may occur in a diabetic rat heart and may act as a source of the oxidative stress. However, the role of endothelial cell-specific mitochondrial dysfunction in diabetic vascular complications is poorly studied. Here, we studied the role of diabetes-induced abnormal endothelial mitochondrial function and the resultant endothelial dysfunction. Understanding the role of endothelial mitochondrial dysfunction in diabetic vasculature is critical in order to develop new therapies. We demonstrate that hyperglycaemia leads to mitochondrial dysfunction in microvascular endothelial cells, and that mitochondrial inhibition induces endothelial dysfunction. Additionally, we show that resveratrol acts as a protective agent; resveratrol-mediated mitochondrial protection may be used to prevent long-term diabetic cardiovascular complications.

Interaction between connexin 43 and nitric oxide synthase in mice heart mitochondria

Connexin 43 (Cx43), which is highly expressed in the heart and especially in cardiomyocytes, interferes with the expression of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms. Conversely, Cx43 gene expression is down-regulated by nitric oxide derived from the inducible NOS. Thus, a complex interplay between Cx43 and NOS expression appears to exist. As cardiac mitochondria are supposed to contain a NOS, we now investigated the expression of NOS isoforms and the nitric oxide production rate in isolated mitochondria of wild-type and Cx43-deficient (Cx43(Cre-ER(T)/fl) ) mice hearts. Mitochondria were isolated from hearts using differential centrifugation and purified via Percoll gradient ultracentrifugation. Isolated mitochondria were stained with an antibody against the mitochondrial marker protein adenine-nucleotide-translocator (ANT) in combination with either a neuronal NOS (nNOS) or an inducible NOS (iNOS) antibody and analysed using confocal laser scanning microscopy. The nitric oxide formation was quantified in purified mitochondria using the oxyhaemoglobin assay. Co-localization of predominantly nNOS (nNOS: 93 ± 4.1%; iNOS: 24.6 ± 7.5%) with ANT was detected in isolated mitochondria of wild-type mice. In contrast, iNOS expression was increased in Cx43(Cre-ER(T)/fl) mitochondria (iNOS: 90.7 ± 3.2%; nNOS: 53.8 ± 17.5%). The mitochondrial nitric oxide formation was reduced in Cx43(Cre-ER(T)/fl) mitochondria (0.14 ± 0.02 nmol/min./mg protein) in comparison to wild-type mitochondria (0.24 ± 0.02 nmol/min./mg). These are the first data demonstrating, that a reduced mitochondrial Cx43 content is associated with a switch of the mitochondrial NOS isoform and the respective mitochondrial rate of nitric oxide formation.

Abnormal mitochondrial L-arginine transport contributes to the pathogenesis of heart failure and rexoygenation injury

Background

Impaired mitochondrial function is fundamental feature of heart failure (HF) and myocardial ischemia. In addition to the effects of heightened oxidative stress, altered nitric oxide (NO) metabolism, generated by a mitochondrial NO synthase, has also been proposed to impact upon mitochondrial function. However, the mechanism responsible for arginine transport into mitochondria and the effect of HF on such a process is unknown. We therefore aimed to characterize mitochondrial L-arginine transport and to investigate the hypothesis that impaired mitochondrial L-arginine transport plays a key role in the pathogenesis of heart failure and myocardial injury.

Methods and Results

In mitochondria isolated from failing hearts (sheep rapid pacing model and mouse Mst1 transgenic model) we demonstrated a marked reduction in L-arginine uptake (p<0.05 and p<0.01 respectively) and expression of the principal L-arginine transporter, CAT-1 (p<0.001, p<0.01) compared to controls. This was accompanied by significantly lower NO production and higher 3-nitrotyrosine levels (both p<0.05). The role of mitochondrial L-arginine transport in modulating cardiac stress responses was examined in cardiomyocytes with mitochondrial specific overexpression of CAT-1 (mtCAT1) exposed to hypoxia-reoxygenation stress. mtCAT1 cardiomyocytes had significantly improved mitochondrial membrane potential, respiration and ATP turnover together with significantly decreased reactive oxygen species production and cell death following mitochondrial stress.

Conclusion

These data provide new insights into the role of L-arginine transport in mitochondrial biology and cardiovascular disease. Augmentation of mitochondrial L-arginine availability may be a novel therapeutic strategy for myocardial disorders involving mitochondrial stress such as heart failure and reperfusion injury.

Fus1/Tusc2 is a novel regulator of mitochondrial calcium handling, Ca2+-coupled mitochondrial processes, and Ca2+-dependent NFAT and NF-κB pathways in CD4+ T cells

AIMS

Fus1 has been established as mitochondrial tumor suppressor, immunomodulator, and antioxidant protein, but molecular mechanism of these activities remained to be identified. Based on putative calcium-binding and myristoyl-binding domains that we identified in Fus1, we explored our hypothesis that Fus1 regulates mitochondrial calcium handling and calcium-coupled processes.

RESULTS

Fus1 loss resulted in reduced rate of mitochondrial calcium uptake in calcium-loaded epithelial cells, splenocytes, and activated CD4(+) T cells. The reduced rate of mitochondrial calcium uptake in Fus1-deficient cells correlated with cytosolic calcium increase and dysregulation of calcium-coupled mitochondrial parameters, such as reactive oxygen species production, ΔμH(+), mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening, and GSH content. Inhibition of calcium efflux via mitochondria, Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger significantly improved the mitochondrial calcium uptake in Fus1(-/-) cells. Ex vivo analysis of activated CD4(+) T cells showed Fus1-dependent changes in calcium-regulated processes, such as surface expression of CD4 and PD1/PD-L1, proliferation, and Th polarization. Fus1(-/-) T cells showed increased basal expression of calcium-dependent NF-κB and NFAT targets but were unable to fully activate these pathways after stimulation.

INNOVATION

Our results establish Fus1 as one of the few identified regulators of mitochondrial calcium handling. Our data support the idea that alterations in mitochondrial calcium dynamics could lead to the disruption of metabolic coupling in mitochondria that, in turn, may result in multiple cellular and systemic abnormalities.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that Fus1 achieves its protective role in inflammation, autoimmunity, and cancer via the regulation of mitochondrial calcium and calcium-coupled parameters.

Mitochondria-mediated cardioprotection by trimetazidine in rabbit heart failure

Trimetazidine (TMZ) is used successfully for treatment of ischemic cardiomyopathy, however its therapeutic potential in heart failure (HF) remains to be established. While the cardioprotective action of TMZ has been linked to inhibition of free fatty acid oxidation (FAO) via 3-ketoacyl CoA thiolase (3-KAT), additional mechanisms have been suggested. The aim of this study was to evaluate systematically the effects of TMZ on calcium signaling and mitochondrial function in a rabbit model of non-ischemic HF and to determine the cellular mechanisms of the cardioprotective action of TMZ. TMZ protected HF ventricular myocytes from cytosolic Ca(2+) overload and subsequent hypercontracture, induced by electrical and ß-adrenergic (isoproterenol) stimulation. This effect was mediated by the ability of TMZ to protect HF myocytes against mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening via attenuation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) and uncoupled mitochondrial nitric oxide synthase (mtNOS). The majority of ROS generated by the ETC in HF arose from enhanced complex II-mediated electron leak. TMZ inhibited the elevated electron leak at the level of mitochondrial ETC complex II and improved impaired activity of mitochondrial complex I, thereby restoring redox balance and mitochondrial membrane potential in HF. While TMZ decreased FAO by ~15%, the 3-KAT inhibitor 4-bromotiglic acid did not provide protection against palmitic acid-induced mPTP opening, indicating that TMZ effects were 3-KAT independent. Thus, the beneficial effect of TMZ in rabbit HF was not linked to FAO inhibition, but rather associated with reduced complex II- and uncoupled mtNOS-mediated oxidative stress and decreased propensity for mPTP opening.

Strategic localization of heart mitochondrial NOS: a review of the evidence

Heart mitochondria play a central role in cell energy provision and in signaling. Nitric oxide (NO) is a free radical with primary regulatory functions in the heart and involved in a broad array of key processes in cardiac metabolism. Specific NO synthase (NOS) isoforms are confined to distinct locations in cardiomyocytes. The present article reviews the chemical reactions through which NO interacts with biomolecules and exerts some of its crucial roles. Specifically, the article discusses the reactions of NO with mitochondrial targets and the subcellular localization of NOS within the myocardium and analyzes the available data about heart mitochondrial NOS activity and identity. The article also describes the regulation of heart mtNOS by the distinctive mitochondrial environment by showing the effects of Ca(2+), O(2), l-arginine, mitochondrial transmembrane potential, and the metabolic states on heart mitochondrial NO production. The article depicts the effects of NO on heart function and highlights the relevance of NO production within mitochondria. Finally, the evidence on the functional implications of heart mitochondrial NOS is delineated with emphasis on chronic hypoxia and ischemia-reperfusion studies.

Inorganic polyphosphate is a potent activator of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore in cardiac myocytes

Mitochondrial dysfunction caused by excessive Ca²⁺ accumulation is a major contributor to cardiac cell and tissue damage during myocardial infarction and ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI). At the molecular level, mitochondrial dysfunction is induced by Ca²⁺-dependent opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) in the inner mitochondrial membrane, which leads to the dissipation of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ_m), disruption of adenosine triphosphate production, and ultimately cell death. Although the role of Ca²⁺ for induction of mPTP opening is established, the exact molecular mechanism of this process is not understood. The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that the adverse effect of mitochondrial Ca²⁺ accumulation is mediated by its interaction with inorganic polyphosphate (polyP), a polymer of orthophosphates linked by phosphoanhydride bonds. We found that cardiac mitochondria contained significant amounts (280 ± 60 pmol/mg of protein) of short-chain polyP with an average length of 25 orthophosphates. To test the role of polyP for mPTP activity, we investigated kinetics of Ca²⁺ uptake and release, ΔΨ_m and Ca²⁺-induced mPTP opening in polyP-depleted mitochondria. polyP depletion was achieved by mitochondria-targeted expression of a polyP-hydrolyzing enzyme. Depletion of polyP in mitochondria of rabbit ventricular myocytes led to significant inhibition of mPTP opening without affecting mitochondrial Ca²⁺ concentration by itself. This effect was observed when mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uptake was stimulated by increasing cytosolic [Ca²⁺] in permeabilized myocytes mimicking mitochondrial Ca²⁺ overload observed during IRI. Our findings suggest that inorganic polyP is a previously unrecognized major activator of mPTP. We propose that the adverse effect of polyphosphate might be caused by its ability to form stable complexes with Ca²⁺ and directly contribute to inner mitochondrial membrane permeabilization.

Endothelial mitochondria--less respiration, more integration

Lining the inner surface of the circulatory system, the vascular endothelium accomplishes a vast variety of specialized functions. Even slight alterations of these functions are implicated in the development of certain cardiovascular diseases that represent major causes of morbidity and mortality in developed countries. Endothelial mitochondria are essential to the functional integrity of the endothelial cell as they integrate a wide range of cellular processes including Ca²⁺ handling, redox signaling and apoptosis, all of which are closely interrelated. Growing evidence supports the notion that impairment of mitochondrial signaling in the endothelium is an early event and a causative factor in the development of diseases such as atherosclerosis or diabetic complications. In this review, we want to outline the significance of mitochondria in both physiology and pathology of the vascular endothelium.

Physical and functional interaction of NCX1 and EAAC1 transporters leading to glutamate-enhanced ATP production in brain mitochondria

Glutamate is emerging as a major factor stimulating energy production in CNS. Brain mitochondria can utilize this neurotransmitter as respiratory substrate and specific transporters are required to mediate the glutamate entry into the mitochondrial matrix. Glutamate transporters of the Excitatory Amino Acid Transporters (EAATs) family have been previously well characterized on the cell surface of neuronal and glial cells, representing the primary players for glutamate uptake in mammalian brain. Here, by using western blot, confocal microscopy and immunoelectron microscopy, we report for the first time that the Excitatory Amino Acid Carrier 1 (EAAC1), an EAATs member, is expressed in neuronal and glial mitochondria where it participates in glutamate-stimulated ATP production, evaluated by a luciferase-luciferin system. Mitochondrial metabolic response is counteracted when different EAATs pharmacological blockers or selective EAAC1 antisense oligonucleotides were used. Since EAATs are Na⁺-dependent proteins, this raised the possibility that other transporters regulating ion gradients across mitochondrial membrane were required for glutamate response. We describe colocalization, mutual activity dependency, physical interaction between EAAC1 and the sodium/calcium exchanger 1 (NCX1) both in neuronal and glial mitochondria, and that NCX1 is an essential modulator of this glutamate transporter. Only NCX1 activity is crucial for such glutamate-stimulated ATP synthesis, as demonstrated by pharmacological blockade and selective knock-down with antisense oligonucleotides. The EAAC1/NCX1-dependent mitochondrial response to glutamate may be a general and alternative mechanism whereby this neurotransmitter sustains ATP production, since we have documented such metabolic response also in mitochondria isolated from heart. The data reported here disclose a new physiological role for mitochondrial NCX1 as the key player in glutamate-induced energy production.

Measuring mitochondrial function in intact cardiac myocytes

Mitochondria are involved in cellular functions that go beyond the traditional role of these organelles as the power plants of the cell. Mitochondria have been implicated in several human diseases, including cardiac dysfunction, and play a role in the aging process. Many aspects of our knowledge of mitochondria stem from studies performed on the isolated organelle. Their relative inaccessibility imposes experimental difficulties to study mitochondria in their natural environment-the cytosol of intact cells-and has hampered a comprehensive understanding of the plethora of mitochondrial functions. Here we review currently available methods to study mitochondrial function in intact cardiomyocytes. These methods primarily use different flavors of fluorescent dyes and genetically encoded fluorescent proteins in conjunction with high-resolution imaging techniques. We review methods to study mitochondrial morphology, mitochondrial membrane potential, Ca(2+) and Na(+) signaling, mitochondrial pH regulation, redox state and ROS production, NO signaling, oxygen consumption, ATP generation and the activity of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. Where appropriate we complement this review on intact myocytes with seminal studies that were performed on isolated mitochondria, permeabilized cells, and in whole hearts.

Nitric oxide signaling: classical, less classical, and nonclassical mechanisms

Although nitric oxide (NO) was identified more than 150 years ago and its effects were clinically tested in the form of nitroglycerine, it was not until the decades of 1970-1990 that it was described as a gaseous signal transducer. Since then, a canonical pathway linked to cyclic GMP (cGMP) as its quintessential effector has been established, but other modes of action have emerged and are now part of the common body of knowledge within the field. Classical (or canonical) signaling involves the selective activation of soluble guanylate cyclase, the generation of cGMP, and the activation of specific kinases (cGMP-dependent protein kinases) by this cyclic nucleotide. Nonclassical signaling alludes to the formation of NO-induced posttranslational modifications (PTMs), especially S-nitrosylation, S-glutathionylation, and tyrosine nitration. These PTMs are governed by specific biochemical mechanisms as well as by enzymatic systems. In addition, a less classical but equally important pathway is related to the interaction between NO and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase, which might have important implications for cell respiration and intermediary metabolism. Cross talk trespassing these necessarily artificial conceptual boundaries is progressively being identified and hence an integrated systems biology approach to the comprehension of NO function will probably emerge in the near future.

Quantifying mitochondrial and plasma membrane potentials in intact pulmonary arterial endothelial cells based on extracellular disposition of rhodamine dyes

Our goal was to quantify mitochondrial and plasma potential (Δψ(m) and Δψ(p)) based on the disposition of rhodamine 123 (R123) or tetramethylrhodamine ethyl ester (TMRE) in the medium surrounding pulmonary endothelial cells. Dyes were added to the medium, and their concentrations in extracellular medium ([R(e)]) were measured over time. R123 [R(e)] fell from 10 nM to 6.6 ± 0.1 (SE) nM over 120 min. TMRE [R(e)] fell from 20 nM to a steady state of 4.9 ± 0.4 nM after ∼30 min. Protonophore or high K(+) concentration ([K(+)]), used to manipulate contributions of membrane potentials, attenuated decreases in [R(e)], and P-glycoprotein (Pgp) inhibition had the opposite effect, demonstrating the qualitative impact of these processes on [R(e)]. A kinetic model incorporating a modified Goldman-Hodgkin-Katz model was fit to [R(e)] vs. time data for R123 and TMRE, respectively, under various conditions to obtain (means ± 95% confidence intervals) Δψ(m) (-130 ± 7 and -133 ± 4 mV), Δψ(p) (-36 ± 4 and -49 ± 4 mV), and a Pgp activity parameter (K(Pgp), 25 ± 5 and 51 ± 11 μl/min). The higher membrane permeability of TMRE also allowed application of steady-state analysis to obtain Δψ(m) (-124 ± 6 mV). The consistency of kinetic parameter values obtained from R123 and TMRE data demonstrates the utility of this experimental and theoretical approach for quantifying intact cell Δψ(m) and Δψ(p.) Finally, steady-state analysis revealed that although room air- and hyperoxia-exposed (95% O(2) for 48 h) cells have equivalent resting Δψ(m), hyperoxic cell Δψ(m) was more sensitive to depolarization with protonophore, consistent with previous observations of pulmonary endothelial hyperoxia-induced mitochondrial dysfunction.

Apoptosis and autophagy: decoding calcium signals that mediate life or death

Calcium is a versatile and dynamic 2nd messenger that is essential for the survival of all higher organisms. In cells that undergo activation or excitation, calcium is released from the endoplasmic/sarcoplasmic reticulum to activate calcium-dependent kinases and phosphatases, thereby regulating numerous cellular processes; for example, apoptosis and autophagy. In the case of apoptosis, endogenous ligands or pharmacological agents induce prolonged cytosolic calcium elevation, which in turn leads to cell death. In contrast, there is now evidence that calcium regulates autophagy by several mechanisms, and these may be important for maintaining cell survival. Here we summarize what is known about how calcium regulates these life and death decisions. We pay particular attention to pathways that have been described in lymphocytes and cardiomyocytes, as these systems provide optimal models for understanding calcium signaling in the context of normal cell physiology.

Coupling of mitochondria to store-operated Ca(2+)-signaling sustains constitutive activation of protein kinase B/Akt and augments survival of malignant melanoma cells

Mitochondria are emerging as a major hub for cellular Ca(2+)-signaling, though their contribution to Ca(2+)-driven growth- and survival-promoting events in cancer is poorly understood. Here employing flow cytometry to monitor mitochondrial and cytosolic Ca(2+), we assessed trans-mitochondrial Ca(2+)-transport and store-operated Ca(2+)-influx (store-operated channels (SOC)) in malignant vs. non-malignant B16BL6 melanoma clones. Remarkably, mitochondrial Ca(2+)-fluxes measured in whole cells or in isolated mitochondria were accelerated in the malignant clones compared to their non-malignant counterpart clones. This coincided with enhanced SOC-mediated Ca(2+)-influx and high levels of constitutively active protein kinase B/Akt (PKB). Interruption of trans-mitochondrial Ca(2+)-transport in the malignant cells with an antagonist of the mitochondrial Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger, CGP-37157, abolsihed SOC-mediated Ca(2+)-influx, inactivated PKB, retarded cell growth and increased vulnerability to apoptosis. Similarly, direct SOC blockade by silencing Stim1 inhibited PKB, indicating that the crosstalk between SOC and mitochondria is essential to preserve PKB in constitutively active state. Finally, the retraction of mitochondria from sub-plasmalemmal micro-domains triggered by Fis1 over-expression inhibited SOC-coupled trans-mitochondrial Ca(2+)-flux, Ca(2+)-entry via SOC and PKB activity. Taken together, our data show that in the malignant melanoma cells, the functional and spatial relationship of up-regulated mitochondrial Ca(2+)-transport to the SOC sustains the robust Ca(2+)-responses and down-stream signaling critical for apoptosis-resistance and proliferation.

Mitochondrial ATP synthase inhibition and nitric oxide are involved in muscle weakness that occurs in acute exposure of rats to monocrotophos

Organophosphate poisoning in the context of self-harm is a common medical emergency in Asia. Prolonged muscle weakness is an important but poorly understood cause of morbidity and mortality of the poisoning. This study examined mitochondrial function and its modulation by nitric oxide in muscle weakness of rats exposed to an acute, oral (0.8LD(50)) dose of monocrotophos. Muscle mitochondrial ATP synthase activity was inhibited in the rat in acute exposure to monocrotophos while respiration per se was not affected. This was accompanied by decreased mitochondrial uptake of calcium and increased levels of nitric oxide. Reactive cysteine groups of ATP synthase subunits were reduced in number, which may contribute to decreased enzyme activity. The decrease in ATP synthase activity and reactive cysteine groups of ATP synthase subunits was prevented by treatment of animals with the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, L-N(G) Nitroarginine methyl ester, at 12 mg/kg body weight for 9 days in drinking water, prior to monocrotophos exposure. This indicated a role for nitric oxide in the process. The alterations in mitochondrial calcium uptake may influence cytosolic calcium levels and contribute to muscle weakness of acute organophosphate exposure.

Characteristics and function of cardiac mitochondrial nitric oxide synthase

We used laser scanning confocal microscopy in combination with the nitric oxide (NO)-sensitive fluorescent dye DAF-2 and the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-sensitive dyes CM-H(2)DCF and MitoSOX Red to characterize NO and ROS production by mitochondrial NO synthase (mtNOS) in permeabilized cat ventricular myocytes. Stimulation of mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake by exposure to different cytoplasmic Ca(2+) concentrations ([Ca(2+)](i) = 1, 2 and 5 microm) resulted in a dose-dependent increase of NO production by mitochondria when L-arginine, a substrate for mtNOS, was present. Collapsing the mitochondrial membrane potential with the protonophore FCCP or blocking the mitochondrial Ca(2+) uniporter with Ru360 as well as blocking the respiratory chain with rotenone or antimycin A in combination with oligomycin inhibited mitochondrial NO production. In the absence of L-arginine, mitochondrial NO production during stimulation of Ca(2+) uptake was significantly decreased, but accompanied by increase in mitochondrial ROS production. Inhibition of mitochondrial arginase to limit L-arginine availability resulted in 50% inhibition of Ca(2+)-induced ROS production. Both mitochondrial NO and ROS production were blocked by the nNOS inhibitor (4S)-N-(4-amino-5[aminoethyl]aminopentyl)-N'-nitroguanidine and the calmodulin antagonist W-7, while the eNOS inhibitor L-N(5)-(1-iminoethyl)ornithine (L-NIO) or iNOS inhibitor N-(3-aminomethyl)benzylacetamidine, 2HCl (1400W) had no effect. The superoxide dismutase mimetic and peroxynitrite scavenger MnTBAP abolished Ca(2+)-induced ROS generation and increased NO production threefold, suggesting that in the absence of MnTBAP either formation of superoxide radicals suppressed NO production or part of the formed NO was transformed quickly to peroxynitrite. In the absence of L-arginine, mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake induced opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP), which was blocked by the PTP inhibitor cyclosporin A and MnTBAP, and reversed by L-arginine supplementation. In the presence of the mtNOS cofactor (6R)-5,6,7,8,-tetrahydrobiopterin (BH(4); 100 microm) mitochondrial ROS generation and PTP opening decreased while mitochondrial NO generation slightly increased. These data demonstrate that mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake activates mtNOS and leads to NO-mediated protection against opening of the mitochondrial PTP, provided sufficient availability of l-arginine and BH(4). In conclusion, our data show the importance of L-arginine and BH(4) for cardioprotection via regulation of mitochondrial oxidative stress and modulation of PTP opening by mtNOS.

Expression of mutant SOD1 in astrocytes induces functional deficits in motoneuron mitochondria

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motoneuron degeneration resulting in paralysis and eventual death. ALS is regarded as a motoneuron-specific disorder but increasing evidence indicates non-neuronal cells play a significant role in disease pathogenesis. Although the precise aetiology of ALS remains unclear, mutations in the superoxide dismutase (SOD1) gene are known to account for approximately 20% of familial ALS. We examined the influence of SOD1(G93A) expression in astrocytes on mitochondrial homeostasis in motoneurons in a primary astrocyte : motoneuron co-culture model. SOD1(G93A) expression in astrocytes induced changes in mitochondrial function of both SOD1(G93A) and wild-type motoneurons. In the presence of SOD1(G93A) astrocytes, mitochondrial redox state of both wild-type and SOD1(G93A) motoneurons was more reduced and mitochondrial membrane potential decreased. While intra-mitochondrial calcium levels [Ca(2+)](m) were elevated in SOD1(G93A) motoneurons, changes in mitochondrial function did not correlate with [Ca(2+)](m). Thus, expression of SOD1(G93A) in astrocytes directly alters mitochondrial function even in embryonic motoneurons, irrespective of genotype. These early deficits in mitochondrial function induced by surrounding astrocytes may increase the vulnerability of motoneurons to other neurotoxic mechanisms involved in ALS pathogenesis.

HSPB2/MKBP, a novel and unique member of the small heat-shock protein family

Although proteins belonging to the sHSP superfamily are diverse in sequence and size, most share characteristic features, including 1) a small molecular mass of 12-43 kDa, 2) a conserved alpha-crystallin domain of 80-100 residues, 3) formation of large oligomers, 4) a dynamic quaternary structure, and 5) induction by stress conditions and chaperone activity in suppressing protein aggregation. HSPB2/MKBP (myotonic dystrophy kinase-bind-protein) retains the structural motif of the alpha-crystallin family of HSPs but shows a unique nature compared with canonical family members, characterized by gene allocation, specific binding partners in skeletal muscle, and unique stress responsiveness. MKBP may be involved in the pathogenesis of myotonic dystrophy and contribute to the neuropathology in both Alzheimer's disease and hereditary cerebral hemorrhage with amyloidosis, Dutch type.

Time course of regression of the protection conferred by simulated high altitude to rat myocardium: correlation with mtNOS

During acclimatization to sustained hypobaric hypoxia, retardation of age-associated decline in left ventricle mechanical activity and improved posthypoxic recovery were accompanied by upregulation of mitochondrial nitric oxide synthase (mtNOS). To evaluate the time course of regression of these effects on deacclimatization, rats exposed to 53.8 kPa in a hypopressure chamber for 5 mo were returned to 101.3 kPa, whereas controls remained at 101.3 kPa throughout the study. At three time points, contractile function in response to calcium and to hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R) were determined in papillary muscle, and NOS activity and expression were determined in mitochondria isolated from left ventricle. Developed tension was, before H/R, 65, 58, and 40%, and, after H/R, 129, 107, and 71% higher than in controls at 0.4, 2, and 5 mo of normoxia, respectively. Maximal rates of contraction and relaxation followed a similar pattern. All three parameters showed a linear decline during deacclimatization, with mean half-time ( t1/2) of 5.9 mo for basal mechanical activity and 5.3 mo for posthypoxic recovery. Left ventricle mtNOS activity was 42, 27, and 20% higher than in controls at 0.4, 2, and 5 mo, respectively ( t1/2 = 5.0 mo). The expression of mtNOS showed similar behavior. The correlation of mtNOS activity with muscle contractility sustained a biphasic modulation, suggesting an optimal mtNOS activity. This experimental model would provide the most persistent effect known at present on preservation of myocardial mechanical activity and improved tolerance to O2 deprivation. Results support the putative role of mtNOS in the mechanism involved.

mAtNOS1 regulates mitochondrial functions and apoptosis of human neuroblastoma cells

mAtNOS1 is a novel gene recently reported in mammalian cells with functions that are not fully understood. The present study generated human neuroblastoma SHSY cells over- and underexpressing mAtNOS1 and shows that mAtNOS1 is involved in regulating mitochondrial nitric oxide, mitochondrial transmembrane potential, protein tyrosine nitration, cytochrome c release, and apoptosis of those cells.

Detection assays for determination of mitochondrial nitric oxide synthase activity; advantages and limitations

Nitric oxide (NO) is a reactive radical synthesized by members of the NO synthase (NOS) family, including mitochondrial-specific NOS (mtNOS). Some of the assays used for the determination of cytoplasmic NOS activity have been utilized to detect mtNOS activity. However, it seems that many of those assays need to be adjusted and optimized to detect NO in the unique environment of mitochondria. Additionally, most mtNOS detection assays are designed and optimized for isolated mitochondria and may exert inherent pitfalls and limitations once used in living cells. This chapter describes several assays used commonly for mtNOS detection in isolated mitochondria and in mitochondria of live cells. Those include colorimetric and spectrophotometric methods, Griess reaction, radioassay, and polarographic and chemiluminescence assays. It also describes fluorescent-based assays for the detection of mitochondrial NO in live cells. Advantages and limitations of each assay are discussed.

Endothelial mitochondria: contributing to vascular function and disease

Disturbances in vascular function contribute to the development of several diseases of increasing prevalence and thereby contribute significantly to human mortality and morbidity. Atherosclerosis, diabetes, heart failure, and ischemia with attendant reperfusion injury share many of the same risk factors, among the most important being oxidative stress and alterations in the blood concentrations of compounds that influence oxidative stress, such as oxidized low-density lipoprotein. In this review, we focus on endothelial cells: cells in the frontline against these disturbances. Because ATP supplies in endothelial cells are relatively independent of mitochondrial oxidative pathways, the mitochondria of endothelial cells have been somewhat neglected. However, they are emerging as agents with diverse roles in modulating the dynamics of intracellular calcium and the generation of reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide. The mitochondria may also constitute critical "targets" of oxidative stress, because survival of endothelial cells can be compromised by opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore or by mitochondrial pathways of apoptosis. In addition, evidence suggests that endothelial mitochondria may play a "reconnaissance" role. For example, although the exact mechanism remains obscure, endothelial mitochondria may sense levels of oxygen in the blood and relay this information to cardiac myocytes as well as modulating the vasodilatory response mediated by endothelial nitric oxide.

Integration of rapid cytosolic Ca2+signals by mitochondria in cat ventricular myocytes

Decoding of fast cytosolic Ca2+concentration ([Ca2+]i) transients by mitochondria was studied in permeabilized cat ventricular myocytes. Mitochondrial [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]m) was measured with fluo-3 trapped inside mitochondria after removal of cytosolic indicator by plasma membrane permeabilization with digitonin. Elevation of extramitochondrial [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]em) to >0.5 μM resulted in a [Ca2+]em-dependent increase in the rate of mitochondrial Ca2+accumulation ([Ca2+]emresulting in half-maximal rate of Ca2+accumulation = 4.4 μM) via Ca2+uniporter. Ca2+uptake was sensitive to the Ca2+uniporter blocker ruthenium red and the protonophore carbonyl cyanide p-trifluoromethoxyphenylhydrazone and depended on inorganic phosphate concentration. The rates of [Ca2+]mincrease and recovery were dependent on the extramitochondrial [Na+] ([Na+]em) due to Ca2+extrusion via mitochondrial Na+/Ca2+exchanger. The maximal rate of Ca2+extrusion was observed with [Na+]emin the range of 20–40 mM. Rapid switching (0.25–1 Hz) of [Ca2+]embetween 0 and 100 μM simulated rapid beat-to-beat changes in [Ca2+]i(with [Ca2+]itransient duration of 100–500 ms). No [Ca2+]moscillations were observed, either under conditions of maximal rate of Ca2+uptake (100 μM [Ca2+]em, 0 [Na+]em) or with maximal rate of Ca2+removal (0 [Ca2+]em, 40 mM [Na+]em). The slow frequency-dependent increase of [Ca2+]margues against a rapid transmission of Ca2+signals between cytosol and mitochondria on a beat-to-beat basis in the heart. [Ca2+]mchanges elicited by continuous or pulsatile exposure to elevated [Ca2+]emshowed no difference in mitochondrial Ca2+uptake. Thus in cardiac myocytes fast [Ca2+]itransients are integrated by mitochondrial Ca2+transport systems, resulting in a frequency-dependent net mitochondrial Ca2+accumulation.

CRYAB and HSPB2 deficiency increases myocyte mitochondrial permeability transition and mitochondrial calcium uptake

Double knockout (DKO) of the small heat shock proteins CRYAB and HSPB2 increases necrosis and apoptosis induced by ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) in vitro, but the mechanisms involved are unknown. We examined [Ca2+]i during metabolic inhibition (MI) changes in [Ca2+]m induced by exposure to elevated [Ca2+]i, and whether mitochondria in isolated DKO ventricular myocytes (VM) are more susceptible than wild type (WT) to induction of the mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT). The rise in [Ca2+]i in DKO myocytes during metabolic inhibition (MI) was less than in WT, and ouabain caused a greater increase in [Ca2+]m in DKO than in WT. These findings suggested that Ca2+ uptake was increased in mitochondria in DKO myocytes. Measurements of Rhod 2 fluorescence during exposure of permeabilized VM to 1000 nM [Ca2+] for 5 min confirmed that DKO myocytes have enhanced mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake, and this difference between DKO and WT myocyte mitochondria was eliminated by inhibition of NO synthesis. MPT was induced more readily by ouabain, PAO, or TMRM in DKO myocytes than in WT. Thus, Ca2+ uptake by mitochondria is increased in DKO VM by a NO-dependent mechanism. This can predispose to the development of MPT, and increased VM injury during I/R. These findings indicate an important role of CRYAB and/or HSPB2 in mitochondrial function.