Magnitude and control of mitochondrial sensitivity to ADP

A computational analysis of the role of integrins and Rho-GTPases in the emergence and disruption of apical-basal polarization in renal epithelial cells

Apical-basal polarization in renal epithelial cells is crucial to renal function and an important trigger for tubule formation in kidney development. Loss of polarity can induce epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which can lead to kidney pathologies. Understanding the relative and combined roles of the involved proteins and their interactions that govern epithelial polarity may provide insights for controlling the process of polarization via chemical or mechanical manipulations in an in vitro or in vivo setting. Here, we developed a computational framework that integrates several known interactions between integrins, Rho-GTPases Rho, Rac and Cdc42, and polarity complexes Par and Scribble, to study their mutual roles in the emergence of polarization. The modeled protein interactions were shown to induce the emergence of polarized distributions of Rho-GTPases, which in turn led to the accumulation of apical and basal polarity complexes Par and Scribble at their respective poles, effectively recapitulating polarization. Our multiparametric sensitivity analysis suggested that polarization depends foremost on the mutual inhibition between Rac and Rho. Next, we used the computational framework to investigate the role of integrins and GTPases in the generation and disruption of polarization. We found that a minimum concentration of integrins is required to catalyze the process of polarization. Furthermore, loss of polarization was found to be only inducible via complete degradation of the Rho-GTPases Rho and Cdc42, suggesting that polarization is fairly stable once it is established. Comparison of our computational predictions against data from in vitro experiments in which we induced EMT in renal epithelial cells while quantifying the relative Rho-GTPase levels, displayed that EMT coincides with a large reduction in the Rho-GTPase Rho. Collectively, these results demonstrate the essential roles of integrins and Rho-GTPases in the establishment and disruption of apical-basal polarity and thereby provide handles for the in vitro or in vivo regulation of polarity.

Measurements of in vivo skeletal muscle oxidative capacity are lower following sustained isometric compared with dynamic contractions

Human skeletal muscle oxidative capacity can be quantified non-invasively using 31-phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P-MRS) to measure the rate constant of phosphocreatine (PCr) recovery (kPCr) following contractions. In the quadricep muscles, several studies have quantified kPCr following 24-30 s of sustained maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC). This approach has the advantage of simplicity but is potentially problematic because sustained MVICs inhibit perfusion, which may limit muscle oxygen availability or increase the intracellular metabolic perturbation, and thus affect kPCr. Alternatively, dynamic contractions allow reperfusion between contractions, which may avoid limitations in oxygen delivery. To determine whether dynamic contraction protocols elicit greater kPCr than sustained MVIC protocols, we used a cross-sectional design to compare quadriceps kPCr in 22 young and 11 older healthy adults following 24 s of maximal voluntary: (1) sustained MVIC and (2) dynamic (MVDC; 120°·s-1, 1 every 2 s) contractions. Muscle kPCr was ∼20% lower following the MVIC protocol compared with the MVDC protocol (p ≤ 0.001), though this was less evident in older adults (p = 0.073). Changes in skeletal muscle pH (p ≤ 0.001) and PME accumulation (p ≤ 0.001) were greater following the sustained MVIC protocol, and pH (p ≤ 0.001) and PME (p ≤ 0.001) recovery were slower. These results demonstrate that (i) a brief, sustained MVIC yields a lower value for skeletal muscle oxidative capacity than an MVDC protocol of similar duration and (ii) this difference may not be consistent across populations (e.g., young vs. old). Thus, the potential effect of contraction protocol on comparisons of kPCr in different study groups requires careful consideration in the future.

Nonequilibrium thermodynamics and mitochondrial protein content predict insulin sensitivity and fuel selection during exercise in human skeletal muscle

Introduction: Many investigators have attempted to define the molecular nature of changes responsible for insulin resistance in muscle, but a molecular approach may not consider the overall physiological context of muscle. Because the energetic state of ATP (ΔGATP) could affect the rate of insulin-stimulated, energy-consuming processes, the present study was undertaken to determine whether the thermodynamic state of skeletal muscle can partially explain insulin sensitivity and fuel selection independently of molecular changes. Methods: 31P-MRS was used with glucose clamps, exercise studies, muscle biopsies and proteomics to measure insulin sensitivity, thermodynamic variables, mitochondrial protein content, and aerobic capacity in 16 volunteers. Results: After showing calibrated 31P-MRS measurements conformed to a linear electrical circuit model of muscle nonequilibrium thermodynamics, we used these measurements in multiple stepwise regression against rates of insulin-stimulated glucose disposal and fuel oxidation. Multiple linear regression analyses showed 53% of the variance in insulin sensitivity was explained by 1) VO2max (p = 0.001) and the 2) slope of the relationship of ΔGATP with the rate of oxidative phosphorylation (p = 0.007). This slope represents conductance in the linear model (functional content of mitochondria). Mitochondrial protein content from proteomics was an independent predictor of fractional fat oxidation during mild exercise (R2 = 0.55, p = 0.001). Conclusion: Higher mitochondrial functional content is related to the ability of skeletal muscle to maintain a greater ΔGATP, which may lead to faster rates of insulin-stimulated processes. Mitochondrial protein content per se can explain fractional fat oxidation during mild exercise.

Evaluation of Acute Supplementation With the Ketone Ester (R)-3-Hydroxybutyl-(R)-3-Hydroxybutyrate (deltaG) in Healthy Volunteers by Cardiac and Skeletal Muscle 31P Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy

In this acute intervention study, we investigated the potential benefit of ketone supplementation in humans by studying cardiac phosphocreatine to adenosine-triphosphate ratios (PCr/ATP) and skeletal muscle PCr recovery using phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy (³¹P-MRS) before and after ingestion of a ketone ester drink. We recruited 28 healthy individuals: 12 aged 23–70 years for cardiac ³¹P-MRS, and 16 aged 60–75 years for skeletal muscle ³¹P-MRS. Baseline and post-intervention resting cardiac and dynamic skeletal muscle ³¹P-MRS scans were performed in one visit, where 25 g of the ketone monoester, deltaG^®, was administered after the baseline scan. Administration was timed so that post-intervention ³¹P-MRS would take place 30 min after deltaG^® ingestion. The deltaG^® ketone drink was well-tolerated by all participants. In participants who provided blood samples, post-intervention blood glucose, lactate and non-esterified fatty acid concentrations decreased significantly (−28.8%, p ≪ 0.001; −28.2%, p = 0.02; and −49.1%, p ≪ 0.001, respectively), while levels of the ketone body D-beta-hydroxybutyrate significantly increased from mean (standard deviation) 0.7 (0.3) to 4.0 (1.1) mmol/L after 30 min (p ≪ 0.001). There were no significant changes in cardiac PCr/ATP or skeletal muscle metabolic parameters between baseline and post-intervention. Acute ketone supplementation caused mild ketosis in blood, with drops in glucose, lactate, and free fatty acids; however, such changes were not associated with changes in ³¹P-MRS measures in the heart or in skeletal muscle. Future work may focus on the effect of longer-term ketone supplementation on tissue energetics in groups with compromised mitochondrial function.

Energy metabolism design of the striated muscle cell

The design of the energy metabolism system in striated muscle remains a major area of investigation. Here, we review our current understanding and emerging hypotheses regarding the metabolic support of muscle contraction. Maintenance of ATP free energy, so called energy homeostasis, via mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation is critical to sustained contractile activity, and this major design criterion is the focus of this review. Cell volume invested in mitochondria reduces the space available for generating contractile force, and this spatial balance between mitochondria acontractile elements to meet the varying sustained power demands across muscle types is another important design criterion. This is accomplished with remarkably similar mass-specific mitochondrial protein composition across muscle types, implying that it is the organization of mitochondria within the muscle cell that is critical to supporting sustained muscle function. Beyond the production of ATP, ubiquitous distribution of ATPases throughout the muscle requires rapid distribution of potential energy across these large cells. Distribution of potential energy has long been thought to occur primarily through facilitated metabolite diffusion, but recent analysis has questioned the importance of this process under normal physiological conditions. Recent structural and functional studies have supported the hypothesis that the mitochondrial reticulum provides a rapid energy distribution system via the conduction of the mitochondrial membrane potential to maintain metabolic homeostasis during contractile activity. We extensively review this aspect of the energy metabolism design contrasting it with metabolite diffusion models and how mitochondrial structure can play a role in the delivery of energy in the striated muscle.

Oxidative phosphorylation K0.5ADP in vitro depends on substrate oxidative capacity: Insights from a luciferase-based assay to evaluate ADP kinetic parameters

The K_0.5ADP of oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos) identifies the cytosolic ADP concentration which elicits one-half the maximum OxPhos rate. This kinetic parameter is commonly measured to assess mitochondrial metabolic control sensitivity. Here we describe a luciferase-based assay to evaluate the ADP kinetic parameters of mitochondrial ATP production from OxPhos, adenylate kinase (AK), and creatine kinase (CK). The high sensitivity, reproducibility, and throughput of the microplate-based assay enabled a comprehensive kinetic assessment of all three pathways in mitochondria isolated from mouse liver, kidney, heart, and skeletal muscle. Carboxyatractyloside titrations were also performed with the assay to estimate the flux control strength of the adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT) over OxPhos in human skeletal muscle mitochondria. ANT flux control coefficients were 0.91 ± 0.07, 0.83 ± 0.06, and 0.51 ± 0.07 at ADP concentrations of 6.25, 12.5, and 25 μM, respectively, an [ADP] range which spanned the K_0.5ADP. The oxidative capacity of substrate combinations added to drive OxPhos was found to dramatically influence ADP kinetics in mitochondria from several tissues. In mouse skeletal muscle ten different substrate combinations elicited a 7-fold range of OxPhos V_max, which correlated positively (R² = 0.963) with K_0.5ADP values ranging from 2.3 ± 0.2 μM to 11.9 ± 0.6 μM. We propose that substrate-enhanced capacity to generate the protonmotive force increases the OxPhos K_0.5ADP because flux control at ANT increases, thus K_0.5ADP rises toward the dissociation constant, K_dADP, of ADP-ANT binding. The findings are discussed in the context of top-down metabolic control analysis.

Rates of oxidative ATP synthesis are not augmented beyond the pH threshold in human vastus lateralis muscles during a stepwise contraction protocol

KEY POINTS

The oxygen cost of high-intensity exercise at power outputs above an individual's lactate threshold (LT) is greater than would be predicted by the linear oxygen consumption-power relationship observed below the LT. However, whether these augmentations are caused by an increased ATP cost of force generation (ATP_COST ) or an increased oxygen cost of ATP synthesis is unclear. We used ³¹ P-MRS to measure changes in cytosolic [ADP] (intramyocellular marker of oxidative metabolism), oxidative ATP synthesis (ATP_OX ) and ATP_COST during a 6-stage, stepwise knee extension protocol. ATP_COST was unchanged across stages. The relationship between [ADP] and muscle power output was augmented at workloads above the pH threshold (pH_T ; proxy for LT), whereas increases in ATP_OX were attenuated. These results suggest the greater oxygen cost of contractions at workloads beyond the pH_T is not caused by mechanisms that increase ATP_COST , but rather mechanisms that alter intrinsic mitochondrial function or capacity.

ABSTRACT

Increases in skeletal muscle metabolism and oxygen consumption are linearly related to muscle power output for workloads below the lactate threshold (LT), but are augmented (i.e. greater rate of increase relative to workload) thereafter. Presently, it is unclear whether these metabolic augmentations are caused by increases in the ATP cost of force generation (ATP_COST ) or changes in the efficiency of mitochondrial oxygen consumption and oxidative ATP synthesis (ATP_OX ). To partition these two hypotheses in vivo, we used ³¹ P-MRS to calculate slopes relating step-changes in muscle work to concurrent changes in cytosolic phosphates and ATP_OX before and after the pH threshold (pH_T ; used here as a proxy for LT) within the vastus lateralis muscle of eight young adults during a stepwise knee extension test. Changes in muscle phosphates and ATP_OX were linearly related to workload below the pH_T . However, slopes above the pH_T were greater for muscle phosphates (P < 0.05) and lower for ATP_OX (P < 0.05) than were the slopes observed below the pH_T . The maximal capacity for ATP_OX ( V ̇ max ) and ADP-specific ATP_OX also declined beyond the pH_T (P < 0.05), whereas ATP_COST was unchanged (P = 0.10). These results oppose the hypothesis that high-intensity contractions increase ATP_COST and suggest that greater oxidative metabolism at workloads beyond the pH_T is caused by mechanisms that affect intrinsic mitochondrial function or capacity, such as alterations in substrate selection or electron entry into the electron transport chain, temperature-mediated changes in mitochondrial permeability to protons, or stimulation of mitochondrial uncoupling by reactive oxygen species generation.

Validity and accuracy of calculating oxidative ATP synthesis in vivo during high-intensity skeletal muscle contractions

Several methods have been developed for using ³¹ P-MRS to calculate rates of oxidative ATP synthesis (ATP_OX ) during muscular contractions based on assumptions that (1) the ATP cost of force generation (ATP_COST ) remains constant or (2) Michaelis-Menten coupling between cytosolic ADP and ATP_OX does not change. However, growing evidence suggests that one, or both, of these assumptions are invalid during high-intensity fatigue protocols. Consequently, there is a need to examine the validity and accuracy of traditional ATP_OX calculation methods under these conditions. To address this gap, we measured phosphate concentrations and pH in the vastus lateralis muscle of nine young adults during four rest-contraction-recovery trials lasting 24, 60, 120, and 240 s. The initial velocity of phosphocreatine resynthesis (V_iPCr ) following each trial served as the criterion measure of ATP_OX because this method makes no assumptions of constant ATP_COST or Michaelis-Menten coupling between changes in cytosolic ADP and ATP_OX . Subsequently, we calculated ATP_OX throughout the 240 s trial using several traditional calculation methods and compared estimations of ATP_OX from each method with time-matched measurements of V_iPCr . Method 1, which assumes that ATP_COST does not change, was able to model changes in V_iPCr over time, but showed poor accuracy for predicting V_iPCr across a wide range of ATP_OX values. In contrast, Michaelis-Menten methods, which assume that the relationship between changes in cytosolic ADP and ATP_OX remains constant, were invalid because they could not model the decline in V_iPCr . However, adjusting these Michaelis-Menten methods for observed changes in maximal ATP_OX capacity (i.e., V_max ) permitted modeling of the decline in V_iPCr and markedly improved accuracy. The results of these comprehensive analyses demonstrate that valid, accurate measurements of ATP_OX can be obtained during high-intensity contractions by adjusting Michaelis-Menten ATP_OX calculations for changes in V_max observed from baseline to post-fatigue.

Oxidative ATP synthesis in human quadriceps declines during 4 minutes of maximal contractions

KEY POINTS

During maximal exercise, skeletal muscle metabolism and oxygen consumption remain elevated despite precipitous declines in power. Presently, it is unclear whether these responses are caused by an increased ATP cost of force generation (ATP_COST ) or mitochondrial uncoupling; a process that reduces the efficiency of oxidative ATP synthesis (ATP_OX ). To address this gap, we used 31-phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy to measure changes in ATP_COST and ATP_OX in human quadriceps during repeated trials of maximal intensity knee extensions lasting up to 4 min. ATP_COST remained unchanged. In contrast, ATP_OX plateaued by ∼2 min and then declined (∼15%) over the final 2 min. The maximal capacity for ATP_OX (V_max ), as well as ADP-specific rates of ATP_OX , were also significantly diminished. Collectively, these results suggest that mitochondrial uncoupling, and not increased ATP_COST , is responsible for altering the regulation of skeletal muscle metabolism and oxygen consumption during maximal exercise.

ABSTRACT

The relationship between skeletal muscle oxygen consumption and power output is augmented during exercise at workloads above the lactate threshold. Potential mechanisms for this response have been hypothesized, including increased ATP cost of force generation (ATP_COST ) and mitochondrial uncoupling, a process that reduces the efficiency of oxidative ATP synthesis (ATP_OX ). To test these hypotheses, we used phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy to non-invasively measure changes in phosphate concentrations and pH in the vastus lateralis muscle of nine young adults during repeated trials of maximal, all-out dynamic knee extensions (120°s^-1 , 1 every 2 s) lasting 24, 60, 120, and 240 s. ATP_OX was measured at each time point from the initial velocity of PCr resynthesis, and ATP_COST was calculated as the sum of ATP synthesized by the creatine and adenylate kinase reactions, non-oxidative glycolysis, ATP_OX and net changes in [ATP]. Power output declined in a reproducible manner for all four trials. ATP_COST did not change over time (main effect P = 0.45). ATP_OX plateaued from 60 to 120 s and then decreased over the final 120 s (main effect P = 0.001). The maximal capacity for oxidative ATP synthesis (V_max ), as well as ADP-specific rates of ATP_OX , also decreased over time (main effect P = 0.001, both). Collectively, these results demonstrate that prolonged maximal contraction protocols impair oxidative energetics and implicate mitochondrial uncoupling as the mechanism for this response. The causes of mitochondrial uncoupling are presently unknown but may offer a potential explanation for the dissociation between skeletal muscle power output and oxygen consumption during maximal, all-out exercise protocols.

Dominant and sensitive control of oxidative flux by the ATP-ADP carrier in human skeletal muscle mitochondria: Effect of lysine acetylation

The adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT) of the mitochondrial inner membrane exchanges ADP for ATP. Mitochondria were isolated from human vastus lateralis muscle (n = 9). Carboxyatractyloside titration of O₂ consumption rate (J_o) at clamped [ADP] of 21 μM gave ANT abundance of 0.97 ± 0.14 nmol ANT/mg and a flux control coefficient of 82% ± 6%. Flux control fell to 1% ± 1% at saturating (2 mM) [ADP]. The KmADP for J_o was 32.4 ± 1.8 μM. In terms of the free (-3) ADP anion this KmADP was 12.0 ± 0.7 μM. A novel luciferase-based assay for ATP production gave KmADP of 13.1 ± 1.9 μM in the absence of ATP competition. The free anion KmADP in this case was 2.0 ± 0.3 μM. Targeted proteomic analyses showed significant acetylation of ANT Lysine23 and that ANT1 was the most abundant isoform. Acetylation of Lysine23 correlated positively with KmADP, r = 0.74, P = 0.022. The findings underscore the central role played by ANT in the control of oxidative phosphorylation, particularly at the energy phosphate levels associated with low ATP demand. As predicted by molecular dynamic modeling, ANT Lysine23 acetylation decreased the apparent affinity of ADP for ANT binding.

Neuronal control of astrocytic respiration through a variant of the Crabtree effect

Aerobic glycolysis is a phenomenon that in the long term contributes to synaptic formation and growth, is reduced by normal aging, and correlates with amyloid beta deposition. Aerobic glycolysis starts within seconds of neural activity and it is not obvious why energetic efficiency should be compromised precisely when energy demand is highest. Using genetically encoded FRET nanosensors and real-time oxygen measurements in culture and in hippocampal slices, we show here that astrocytes respond to physiological extracellular K⁺ with an acute rise in cytosolic ATP and a parallel inhibition of oxygen consumption, explained by glycolytic stimulation via the Na⁺-bicarbonate cotransporter NBCe1. This control of mitochondrial respiration via glycolysis modulation is reminiscent of a phenomenon previously described in proliferating cells, known as the Crabtree effect. Fast brain aerobic glycolysis may be interpreted as a strategy whereby neurons manipulate neighboring astrocytes to obtain oxygen, thus maximizing information processing.

Successive contractile periods activate mitochondria at the onset of contractions in intact rat cardiac trabeculae

The rate of oxidative phosphorylation depends on the contractile activity of the heart. Cardiac mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation is determined by free ADP concentration, mitochondrial Ca²⁺ accumulation, mitochondrial enzyme activities, and Krebs cycle intermediates. The purpose of the present study was to examine the factors that limit oxidative phosphorylation upon rapid changes in contractile activity in cardiac muscle. We tested the hypotheses that prior contractile performance enhances the changes in NAD(P)H and FAD concentration upon an increase in contractile activity and that this mitochondrial "priming" depends on pyruvate dehydrogenase activity. Intact rat cardiac trabeculae were electrically stimulated at 0.5 Hz for at least 30 min. Thereafter, two equal bouts at elevated stimulation frequency of 1, 2, or 3 Hz were applied for 3 min with 3 min of 0.5-Hz stimulation in between. No discernible time delay was observed in the changes in NAD(P)H and FAD fluorescence upon rapid changes in contractile activity. The amplitudes of the rapid changes in fluorescence upon an increase in stimulation frequency (the on-transients) were smaller than upon a decrease in stimulation frequency (the off-transients). A first bout in glucose-containing superfusion solution resulted, during the second bout, in an increase in the amplitudes of the on-transients, but the off-transients remained the same. No such priming effect was observed after addition of 10 mM pyruvate. These results indicate that mitochondrial priming can be observed in cardiac muscle in situ and that pyruvate dehydrogenase activity is critically involved in the mitochondrial adaptation to increases in contractile performance. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Mitochondrial respiration increases with increased cardiac contractile activity. Similar to mitochondrial "priming" in skeletal muscle, we hypothesized that cardiac mitochondrial activity is altered upon successive bouts of contractions and depends on pyruvate dehydrogenase activity. We found altered bioenergetics upon repeated contractile periods, indicative of mitochondrial priming in rat myocardium. No effect was seen when pyruvate was added to the perfusate. As such, pyruvate dehydrogenase activity is involved in the mitochondrial adaptation to increased contractile performance.

In-vivo31P-MRS of skeletal muscle and liver: A way for non-invasive assessment of their metabolism

In addition to direct assessment of high energy phosphorus containing metabolite content within tissues, phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy (³¹P-MRS) provides options to measure phospholipid metabolites and cellular pH, as well as the kinetics of chemical reactions of energy metabolism in vivo. Even though the great potential of ³¹P-MR was recognized over 30 years ago, modern MR systems, as well as new, dedicated hardware and measurement techniques provide further opportunities for research of human biochemistry. This paper presents a methodological overview of the ³¹P-MR techniques that can be used for basic, physiological, or clinical research of human skeletal muscle and liver in vivo. Practical issues of ³¹P-MRS experiments and examples of potential applications are also provided. As signal localization is essential for liver ³¹P-MRS and is important for dynamic muscle examinations as well, typical localization strategies for ³¹P-MR are also described.

Mitochondria to motion: optimizing oxidative phosphorylation to improve exercise performance

Mitochondria oxidize substrates to generate the ATP that fuels muscle contraction and locomotion. This review focuses on three steps in oxidative phosphorylation that have independent roles in setting the overall mitochondrial ATP flux and thereby have direct impact on locomotion. The first is the electron transport chain, which sets the pace for oxidation. New studies indicate that the electron transport chain capacity per mitochondria declines with age and disease, but can be revived by both acute and chronic treatments. The resulting higher ATP production is reflected in improved muscle power output and locomotory performance. The second step is the coupling of ATP supply from O2 uptake (mitochondrial coupling efficiency). Treatments that elevate mitochondrial coupling raise both exercise efficiency and the capacity for sustained exercise in both young and old muscle. The final step is ATP synthesis itself, which is under dynamic control at multiple sites to provide the 50-fold range of ATP flux between resting muscle and exercise at the mitochondrial capacity. Thus, malleability at sites in these subsystems of oxidative phosphorylation has an impact on ATP flux, with direct effects on exercise performance. Interventions are emerging that target these three independent subsystems to provide many paths to improve ATP flux and elevate the muscle performance lost to inactivity, age or disease.

Modelling in vivo creatine/phosphocreatine in vitro reveals divergent adaptations in human muscle mitochondrial respiratory control by ADP after acute and chronic exercise

KEY POINTS

Mitochondrial respiratory sensitivity to ADP is thought to influence muscle fitness and is partly regulated by cytosolic-mitochondrial diffusion of ADP or phosphate shuttling via creatine/phosphocreatine (Cr/PCr) through mitochondrial creatine kinase (mtCK). Previous measurements of respiration in vitro with Cr (saturate mtCK) or without (ADP/ATP diffusion) show mixed responses of ADP sensitivity following acute exercise vs. less sensitivity after chronic exercise. In human muscle, modelling in vivo 'exercising' [Cr:PCr] during in vitro assessments revealed novel responses to exercise that differ from detections with or without Cr (±Cr). Acute exercise increased ADP sensitivity when measured without Cr but had no effect ±Cr or with +Cr:PCr, whereas chronic exercise increased sensitivity ±Cr but lowered sensitivity with +Cr:PCr despite increased markers of mitochondrial oxidative capacity. Controlling in vivo conditions during in vitro respiratory assessments reveals responses to exercise that differ from typical ±Cr comparisons and challenges our understanding of how exercise improves metabolic control in human muscle.

ABSTRACT

Mitochondrial respiratory control by ADP (Kmapp ) is viewed as a critical regulator of muscle energy homeostasis. However, acute exercise increases, decreases or has no effect on Kmapp in human muscle, whereas chronic exercise surprisingly decreases sensitivity despite greater mitochondrial content. We hypothesized that modelling in vivo mitochondrial creatine kinase (mtCK)-dependent phosphate-shuttling conditions in vitro would reveal increased sensitivity (lower Kmapp ) after acute and chronic exercise. The Kmapp was determined in vitro with 20 mm Cr (+Cr), 0 mm Cr (-Cr) or 'in vivo exercising' 20 mm Cr/2.4 mm PCr (Cr:PCr) on vastus lateralis biopsies sampled from 11 men before, immediately after and 3 h after exercise on the first, fifth and ninth sessions over 3 weeks. Dynamic responses to acute exercise occurred throughout training, whereby the first session did not change Kmapp with in vivo Cr:PCr despite increases in -Cr. The fifth session decreased sensitivity with Cr:PCr or +Cr despite no change in -Cr. Chronic exercise increased sensitivity ±Cr in association with increased electron transport chain content (+33-62% complexes I-V), supporting classic proposals that link increased sensitivity to oxidative capacity. However, in vivo Cr:PCr reveals a perplexing decreased sensitivity, contrasting the increases seen ±Cr. Functional responses occurred without changes in fibre type or proteins regulating mitochondrial-cytosolic energy exchange (mtCK, VDAC and ANT). Despite the dynamic responses seen with ±Cr, modelling in vivo phosphate-shuttling conditions in vitro reveals that ADP sensitivity is unchanged after high-intensity exercise and is decreased after training. These findings challenge our understanding of how exercise regulates skeletal muscle energy homeostasis.

Quantification of skeletal muscle mitochondrial function by 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy techniques: a quantitative review

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) can give information about cellular metabolism in vivo which is difficult to obtain in other ways. In skeletal muscle, non-invasive (31) P MRS measurements of the post-exercise recovery kinetics of pH, [PCr], [Pi] and [ADP] contain valuable information about muscle mitochondrial function and cellular pH homeostasis in vivo, but quantitative interpretation depends on understanding the underlying physiology. Here, by giving examples of the analysis of (31) P MRS recovery data, by some simple computational simulation, and by extensively comparing data from published studies using both (31) P MRS and invasive direct measurements of muscle O2 consumption in a common analytical framework, we consider what can be learnt quantitatively about mitochondrial metabolism in skeletal muscle using MRS-based methodology. We explore some technical and conceptual limitations of current methods, and point out some aspects of the physiology which are still incompletely understood.

Adenine nucleotide translocase is acetylated in vivo in human muscle: Modeling predicts a decreased ADP affinity and altered control of oxidative phosphorylation

Proteomics techniques have revealed that lysine acetylation is abundant in mitochondrial proteins. This study was undertaken (1) to determine the relationship between mitochondrial protein acetylation and insulin sensitivity in human skeletal muscle, identifying key acetylated proteins, and (2) to use molecular modeling techniques to understand the functional consequences of acetylation of adenine nucleotide translocase 1 (ANT1), which we found to be abundantly acetylated. Eight lean and eight obese nondiabetic subjects had euglycemic clamps and muscle biopsies for isolation of mitochondrial proteins and proteomics analysis. A number of acetylated mitochondrial proteins were identified in muscle biopsies. Overall, acetylation of mitochondrial proteins was correlated with insulin action (r = 0.60; P < 0.05). Of the acetylated proteins, ANT1, which catalyzes ADP-ATP exchange across the inner mitochondrial membrane, was acetylated at lysines 10, 23, and 92. The extent of acetylation of lysine 23 decreased following exercise, depending on insulin sensitivity. Molecular dynamics modeling and ensemble docking simulations predicted the ADP binding site of ANT1 to be a pocket of positively charged residues, including lysine 23. Calculated ADP-ANT1 binding affinities were physiologically relevant and predicted substantial reductions in affinity upon acetylation of lysine 23. Insertion of these derived binding affinities as parameters into a complete mathematical description of ANT1 kinetics predicted marked reductions in adenine nucleotide flux resulting from acetylation of lysine 23. Therefore, acetylation of ANT1 could have dramatic physiological effects on ADP-ATP exchange. Dysregulation of acetylation of mitochondrial proteins such as ANT1 therefore could be related to changes in mitochondrial function that are associated with insulin resistance.

MITOCHONDRIA: investigation of in vivo muscle mitochondrial function by 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy

The most important function of mitochondria is the production of energy in the form of ATP. The socio-economic impact of human diseases that affect skeletal muscle mitochondrial function is growing, and improving their clinical management critically depends on the development of non-invasive assays to assess mitochondrial function and monitor the effects of interventions. 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy provides two approaches that have been used to assess in vivo ATP synthesis in skeletal muscle: measuring Pi→ATP exchange flux using saturation transfer in resting muscle, and measuring phosphocreatine recovery kinetics after exercise. However, Pi→ATP exchange does not represent net mitochondrial ATP synthesis flux and has no simple relationship with mitochondrial function. Post-exercise phosphocreatine recovery kinetics, on the other hand, yield reliable measures of muscle mitochondrial capacity in vivo, whose ability to define the site of functional defects is enhanced by combination with other non-invasive techniques.

Slowed muscle oxygen uptake kinetics with raised metabolism are not dependent on blood flow or recruitment dynamics

Oxygen uptake kinetics (τVO2) are slowed when exercise is initiated from a raised metabolic rate. Whether this reflects the recruitment of muscle fibres differing in oxidative capacity, or slowed blood flow (Q) kinetics is unclear. This study determined τVO2 in canine muscle in situ, with experimental control over muscle activation and Q during contractions initiated from rest and a raised metabolic rate. The gastrocnemius complex of nine anaesthetised, ventilated dogs was isolated and attached to a force transducer. Isometric tetanic contractions (50 Hz; 200 ms duration) via supramaximal sciatic nerve stimulation were used to manipulate metabolic rate: 3 min stimulation at 0.33 Hz (S1), followed by 3 min at 0.67 Hz (S2). Circulation was initially intact (SPON), and subsequently isolated for pump-perfusion (PUMP) above the greatest value in SPON. Muscle VO2 was determined contraction-by-contraction using an ultrasonic flowmeter and venous oximeter, and normalised to tension-time integral (TTI). τVO2/TTI and τQ were less in S1SPON (mean ± s.d.: 13 ± 3 s and 12 ± 4 s, respectively) than in S2SPON (29 ± 19 s and 31 ± 13 s, respectively; P < 0.05). τVO2/TTI was unchanged by pump-perfusion (S1PUMP, 12 ± 4 s; S2PUMP, 24 ± 6 s; P < 0.001) despite increased O2 delivery; at S2 onset, venous O2 saturation was 21 ± 4% and 65 ± 5% in SPON and PUMP, respectively. VO2 kinetics remained slowed when contractions were initiated from a raised metabolic rate despite uniform muscle stimulation and increased O2 delivery. The intracellular mechanism may relate to a falling energy state, approaching saturating ADP concentration, and/or slowed mitochondrial activation; but further study is required. These data add to the evidence that muscle VO2 control is more complex than previously suggested.

Effects of exercise-induced intracellular acidosis on the phosphocreatine recovery kinetics: a 31P MRS study in three muscle groups in humans

Little is known about the metabolic differences that exist among different muscle groups within the same subjects. Therefore, we used (31)P-magnetic resonance spectroscopy ((31)P-MRS) to investigate muscle oxidative capacity and the potential effects of pH on PCr recovery kinetics between muscles of different phenotypes (quadriceps (Q), finger (FF) and plantar flexors (PF)) in the same cohort of 16 untrained adults. The estimated muscle oxidative capacity was lower in Q (29 ± 12 mM min(-1), CV(inter-subject) = 42%) as compared with PF (46 ± 20 mM min(-1), CV(inter-subject) = 44%) and tended to be higher in FF (43 ± 35 mM min(-1), CV(inter-subject) = 80%). The coefficient of variation (CV) of oxidative capacity between muscles within the group was 59 ± 24%. PCr recovery time constant was correlated with end-exercise pH in Q (p < 0.01), FF (p < 0.05) and PF (p < 0.05) as well as proton efflux rate in FF (p < 0.01), PF (p < 0.01) and Q (p = 0.12). We also observed a steeper slope of the relationship between end-exercise acidosis and PCr recovery kinetics in FF compared with either PF or Q muscles. Overall, this study supports the concept of skeletal muscle heterogeneity by revealing a comparable inter- and intra-individual variability in oxidative capacity across three skeletal muscles in untrained individuals. These findings also indicate that the sensitivity of mitochondrial respiration to the inhibition associated with cytosolic acidosis is greater in the finger flexor muscles compared with locomotor muscles, which might be related to differences in permeability in the mitochondrial membrane and, to some extent, to proton efflux rates.

Parameter trajectory analysis to identify treatment effects of pharmacological interventions

The field of medical systems biology aims to advance understanding of molecular mechanisms that drive disease progression and to translate this knowledge into therapies to effectively treat diseases. A challenging task is the investigation of long-term effects of a (pharmacological) treatment, to establish its applicability and to identify potential side effects. We present a new modeling approach, called Analysis of Dynamic Adaptations in Parameter Trajectories (ADAPT), to analyze the long-term effects of a pharmacological intervention. A concept of time-dependent evolution of model parameters is introduced to study the dynamics of molecular adaptations. The progression of these adaptations is predicted by identifying necessary dynamic changes in the model parameters to describe the transition between experimental data obtained during different stages of the treatment. The trajectories provide insight in the affected underlying biological systems and identify the molecular events that should be studied in more detail to unravel the mechanistic basis of treatment outcome. Modulating effects caused by interactions with the proteome and transcriptome levels, which are often less well understood, can be captured by the time-dependent descriptions of the parameters. ADAPT was employed to identify metabolic adaptations induced upon pharmacological activation of the liver X receptor (LXR), a potential drug target to treat or prevent atherosclerosis. The trajectories were investigated to study the cascade of adaptations. This provided a counter-intuitive insight concerning the function of scavenger receptor class B1 (SR-B1), a receptor that facilitates the hepatic uptake of cholesterol. Although activation of LXR promotes cholesterol efflux and -excretion, our computational analysis showed that the hepatic capacity to clear cholesterol was reduced upon prolonged treatment. This prediction was confirmed experimentally by immunoblotting measurements of SR-B1 in hepatic membranes. Next to the identification of potential unwanted side effects, we demonstrate how ADAPT can be used to design new target interventions to prevent these.

A driving ambition of medical systems biology is to advance our understanding of molecular processes that drive the progression of complex diseases such as Type 2 Diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This insight is essential to enable the development of therapies to effectively treat diseases. A challenging task is to investigate the long-term effects of a treatment, in order to establish its applicability and to identify potential side effects. As such, there is a growing need for novel approaches to support this research. Here, we present a new computational approach to identify treatment effects. We make use of a computational model of the biological system. The model is used to describe the experimental data obtained during different stages of the treatment. To incorporate the long-term/progressive adaptations in the system, induced by changes in gene and protein expression, the model is iteratively updated. The approach was employed to identify metabolic adaptations induced by a potential anti-atherosclerotic and anti-diabetic drug target. Our approach identifies the molecular events that should be studied in more detail to establish the mechanistic basis of treatment outcome. New biological insight was obtained concerning the metabolism of cholesterol, which was in turn experimentally validated.

Short-term training alters the control of mitochondrial respiration rate before maximal oxidative ATP synthesis

AIM

Short-term exercise training may induce metabolic and performance adaptations before any changes in mitochondrial enzyme potential. However, there has not been a study that has directly assessed changes in mitochondrial oxidative capacity or metabolic control as a consequence of such training in vivo. Therefore, we used (31) P-magnetic resonance spectroscopy ((31) P-MRS) to examine the effect of short-term plantar flexion exercise training on phosphocreatine (PCr) recovery kinetics and the control of respiration rate.

METHOD

To this aim, we investigated 12 healthy men, experienced with this exercise modality (TRA), and 7 time-control subjects (TC).

RESULTS

After 5 days of training, maximum work rate during incremental plantar flexion exercise was significantly improved (P < 0.01). During the recovery period, the maximal rate of oxidative adenosine triphosphate synthesis (PRE: 28 ± 13 mm min(-1) ; POST: 26 ± 15 mm min(-1) ) and the PCr recovery time constant (PRE: 31 ± 19 s; POST: 29 ± 16) were not significantly altered. In contrast, the Hill coefficient (nH ) describing the co-operativity between respiration rate and ADP was significantly increased in TRA (PRE: nH = 2.7 ± 1.4; POST: nH = 3.4 ± 1.9, P < 0.05). Meanwhile, there were no systematic variations in any of these variables in TC.

CONCLUSION

This study reveals that 5 days of training induces rapid adaptation in the allosteric control of respiration rate by ADP before any substantial improvement in muscle oxidative capacity occurs.

A computational model of torque generation: neural, contractile, metabolic and musculoskeletal components

The pathway of voluntary joint torque production includes motor neuron recruitment and rate-coding, sarcolemmal depolarization and calcium release by the sarcoplasmic reticulum, force generation by motor proteins within skeletal muscle, and force transmission by tendon across the joint. The direct source of energetic support for this process is ATP hydrolysis. It is possible to examine portions of this physiologic pathway using various in vivo and in vitro techniques, but an integrated view of the multiple processes that ultimately impact joint torque remains elusive. To address this gap, we present a comprehensive computational model of the combined neuromuscular and musculoskeletal systems that includes novel components related to intracellular bioenergetics function. Components representing excitatory drive, muscle activation, force generation, metabolic perturbations, and torque production during voluntary human ankle dorsiflexion were constructed, using a combination of experimentally-derived data and literature values. Simulation results were validated by comparison with torque and metabolic data obtained in vivo. The model successfully predicted peak and submaximal voluntary and electrically-elicited torque output, and accurately simulated the metabolic perturbations associated with voluntary contractions. This novel, comprehensive model could be used to better understand impact of global effectors such as age and disease on various components of the neuromuscular system, and ultimately, voluntary torque output.

On-off asymmetries in oxygen consumption kinetics of single Xenopus laevis skeletal muscle fibres suggest higher-order control

The mechanisms controlling skeletal muscle oxygen consumption (V(o)₂) during exercise are not well understood. We determined whether first-order control could explain V(o)₂kinetics at contractions onset (V(o)₂(on)) and cessation (V(o)₂off)) in single skeletal muscle fibres differing in oxdidative capacity, and across stimulation intensities up to V(o)₂(max). Xenopus laevis fibres (n = 21) were suspended in a sealed chamber with a fast response P(o)₂ electrode to measure V(o)₂ every second before, during and after stimulated isometric contractions. A first-order model did not well characterize on-transient V(o)₂ kinetics. Including a time delay (TD) in the model provided a significantly improved characterization than a first-order fit without TD (F-ratio; P < 0.05), and revealed separate 'activation' and 'exponential' phases in 15/21 fibres contracting at V(o)₂(max) (mean ± SD TD: 14 ± 3s). On-transient kinetics (τV(o)₂(on)) was weakly and linearly related to V(o)₂(max) (R² = 0.271, P = 0.015). Off-transient kinetics, however, were first-order, and τV(o)₂(off) was greater in low-oxidative (V(o)₂max < 0.05 nmol mm⁻³s⁻¹ than high-oxidative fibres (V(o)₂(max > 0.10 nmol mm ⁻³ s⁻¹; 170 ± 70 vs. 29 ± 6 s, P < 0.001). 1/ τV(o)₂(off) was proportional to V(o)₂(max) (R² = 0.727, P < 0.001), unlike in the on-transient. The calculated oxygen deficit was larger (P < 0.05) than the post-contraction volume of consumed oxygen at all intensities except V(o)₂(max). These data show a clear dissociation between the kinetic control of V(o)₂at the onset and cessation of contractions and across stimulation intensities. More complex models are therefore required to understand the activation of mitochondrial respiration in skeletal muscle at the start of exercise.

Impaired adaptability of in vivo mitochondrial energetics to acute oxidative insult in aged skeletal muscle

Periods of elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production are a normal part of mitochondrial physiology. However, little is known about age-related changes in the mitochondrial response to elevated ROS in vivo. Significantly, ROS-induced uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation has received attention as a negative feedback mechanism to reduce mitochondrial superoxide production. Here we use a novel in vivo spectroscopy system to test the hypothesis that ROS-induced uncoupling is diminished in aged mitochondria. This system simultaneously acquires (31)P magnetic resonance and near-infrared optical spectra to non-invasively measure phosphometabolite and O(2) concentrations in mouse skeletal muscle. Using low dose paraquat to elevate intracellular ROS we assess in vivo mitochondrial function in young, middle aged, and old mice. Oxidative phosphorylation was uncoupled to the same degree in response to ROS at each age, but this uncoupling was associated with loss of phosphorylation capacity and total ATP in old mice only. Using mice lacking UCP3 we demonstrate that this in vivo uncoupling is independent of this putative uncoupler of skeletal muscle mitochondria. These data indicate that ROS-induced uncoupling persists throughout life, but that oxidative stress leads to mitochondrial deficits and loss of ATP in aged organisms that may contribute to impaired function and degeneration.

On the kinetics of anaerobic power

BACKGROUND

This study investigated two different mathematical models for the kinetics of anaerobic power. Model 1 assumes that the work power is linear with the work rate, while Model 2 assumes a linear relationship between the alactic anaerobic power and the rate of change of the aerobic power. In order to test these models, a cross country skier ran with poles on a treadmill at different exercise intensities. The aerobic power, based on the measured oxygen uptake, was used as input to the models, whereas the simulated blood lactate concentration was compared with experimental results. Thereafter, the metabolic rate from phosphocreatine break down was calculated theoretically. Finally, the models were used to compare phosphocreatine break down during continuous and interval exercises.

RESULTS

Good similarity was found between experimental and simulated blood lactate concentration during steady state exercise intensities. The measured blood lactate concentrations were lower than simulated for intensities above the lactate threshold, but higher than simulated during recovery after high intensity exercise when the simulated lactate concentration was averaged over the whole lactate space. This fit was improved when the simulated lactate concentration was separated into two compartments; muscles + internal organs and blood. Model 2 gave a better behavior of alactic energy than Model 1 when compared against invasive measurements presented in the literature. During continuous exercise, Model 2 showed that the alactic energy storage decreased with time, whereas Model 1 showed a minimum value when steady state aerobic conditions were achieved. During interval exercise the two models showed similar patterns of alactic energy.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study provides useful insight on the kinetics of anaerobic power. Overall, our data indicate that blood lactate levels can be accurately modeled during steady state, and suggests a linear relationship between the alactic anaerobic power and the rate of change of the aerobic power.

Computational modeling of mitochondrial energy transduction

Mitochondria are the power plant of the heart, burning fat and sugars to supply the muscle with the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) free energy that drives contraction and relaxation during each heart beat. This function was first captured in a mathematical model in 1967. Today, interest in such a model has been rekindled by ongoing in silico integrative physiology efforts such as the Cardiac Physiome project. Here, the status of the field of computational modeling of mitochondrial ATP synthetic function is reviewed.

Prediction of muscle energy states at low metabolic rates requires feedback control of mitochondrial respiratory chain activity by inorganic phosphate

The regulation of the 100-fold dynamic range of mitochondrial ATP synthesis flux in skeletal muscle was investigated. Hypotheses of key control mechanisms were included in a biophysical model of oxidative phosphorylation and tested against metabolite dynamics recorded by (31)P nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy ((31)P MRS). Simulations of the initial model featuring only ADP and Pi feedback control of flux failed in reproducing the experimentally sampled relation between myoplasmic free energy of ATP hydrolysis (ΔG(p) = ΔG(p)(o')+RT ln ([ADP][Pi]/[ATP]) and the rate of mitochondrial ATP synthesis at low fluxes (<0.2 mM/s). Model analyses including Monte Carlo simulation approaches and metabolic control analysis (MCA) showed that this problem could not be amended by model re-parameterization, but instead required reformulation of ADP and Pi feedback control or introduction of additional control mechanisms (feed forward activation), specifically at respiratory Complex III. Both hypotheses were implemented and tested against time course data of phosphocreatine (PCr), Pi and ATP dynamics during post-exercise recovery and validation data obtained by (31)P MRS of sedentary subjects and track athletes. The results rejected the hypothesis of regulation by feed forward activation. Instead, it was concluded that feedback control of respiratory chain complexes by inorganic phosphate is essential to explain the regulation of mitochondrial ATP synthesis flux in skeletal muscle throughout its full dynamic range.

Unchanged muscle fiber conduction velocity relates to mild acidosis during exhaustive bicycling

Muscle fiber conduction velocity (MFCV) has often been shown to decrease during standardized fatiguing isometric contractions. However, several studies have indicated that the MFCV may remain constant during fatiguing dynamic exercise. It was investigated if these observations can be related to the absence of a large decrease in pH and if MFCV can be considered as a good indicator of acidosis, also during dynamic bicycle exercise. High-density surface electromyography (HDsEMG) was combined with read-outs of muscle energetics recorded by in vivo ³¹P magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Measurements were performed during serial exhausting bouts of bicycle exercise at three different workloads. The HDsEMG recordings revealed a small and incoherent variation of MFCV during all high-intensity exercise bouts. ³¹P MRS spectra revealed a moderate decrease in pH at the end of exercise (~0.3 units down to 6.8) and a rapid ancillary drop to pH 6.5 during recovery 30 s post-exercise. This additional degree of acidification caused a significant decrease in MFCV during cycling immediately after the rest period. From the data a significant correlation between MFCV and [H⁺] ([H⁺] = 10^−pH) was calculated (p < 0.001, Pearson’s R = −0.87). Our results confirmed the previous observations of MFCV remaining constant during fatiguing dynamic exercise. A constant MFCV is in line with a low degree of acidification, considering the presence of a correlation between pH and MFCV after further increasing acidification.

Kinetic control of oxygen consumption during contractions in self-perfused skeletal muscle

Fast kinetics of muscle oxygen consumption (VO2) is characteristic of effective physiological systems integration. The mechanism of VO2 kinetic control in vivo is equivocal as measurements are complicated by the twin difficulties of making high-frequency direct measurements of VO2 and intramuscular metabolites, and in attaining high [ADP]; complexities that can be overcome utilising highly aerobic canine muscle for the investigation of the transition from rest to contractions at maximal VO2. Isometric tetanic contractions of the gastrocnemius complex of six anaesthetised, ventilated dogs were elicited via sciatic nerve stimulation (50 Hz; 200 ms duration; 1 contraction s(−1)). Muscle VO2 and lactate efflux were determined from direct Fick measurements. Muscle biopsies were taken at rest and every ∼10 s during the transient and analysed for [phosphates], [lactate] and pH. The temporal VO2 vs. [PCr] and [ADP] relationships were not well fitted by linear or classical hyperbolic models (respectively), due to the high sensitivity of VO2 to metabolic perturbations early in the transient. The time course of this apparent sensitisation was closely aligned to that of ATP turnover, which was lower in the first ∼25 s of contractions compared to the steady state. These findings provide the first direct measurements of skeletal muscle VO2 and [PCr] in the non-steady state, and suggest that simple phosphate feedback models (which are adequate for steady-state observations in vitro) are not sufficient to explain the dynamic control of VO2 in situ. Rather an allosteric or 'parallel activation' mechanism of energy consuming and producing processes is required to explain the kinetic control of VO2 in mammalian skeletal muscle.

Comparative determination of energy production rates and mitochondrial function using different 31P MRS quantitative methods in sedentary and trained subjects

Muscle energetics has been largely and quantitatively investigated using (31)P MRS. Various methods have been used to estimate the corresponding rate of oxidative ATP synthesis (ATP(ox)); however, potential differences among methods have not been investigated. In this study, we aimed to compare the rates of ATP production and energy cost in two groups of subjects with different training status using four different methods: indirect method (method 1), ADP control model (method 2) and phosphate potential control model (method 3). Method 4 was a modified version of method 3 with the introduction of a correction factor allowing for similar values to be obtained for the end-exercise oxidative ATP synthesis rate inferred from exercise measurements and the initial recovery phosphocreatine resynthesis rate. Seven sedentary and seven endurance-trained subjects performed a dynamic standardised rest-exercise-recovery protocol. We quantified the rates of ATP(ox) and anaerobic ATP synthesis (ATP(ana)) using (31)P MRS data recorded at 1.5 T. The rates of ATP(ox) over the entire exercise session were independent of the method used, except for method 4 which provided significantly higher values in both groups (p < 0.01). In addition, methods 1-3 were cross-correlated, thereby confirming their statistical agreement. The rate of ATP(ana) was significantly higher with method 1 (p < 0.01) and lower with method 4 (p < 0.01). As a result of the higher rate of ATP(ox), EC (method 4) calculated over the entire exercise session was higher and initial EC (method 1) was lower in both groups compared with the other methods. We showed in this study that the rate of ATP(ox) was independent of the calculation method, as long as no corrections (method 4) were performed. In contrast, results related to the rates of ATP(ana) were strongly affected by the calculation method and, more exactly, by the estimation of protons generated by ATP(ox). Although the absolute EC values differed between the methods, within- or between-subject comparisons are still valid given the tight relationships between them.

Similar mitochondrial activation kinetics in wild-type and creatine kinase-deficient fast-twitch muscle indicate significant Pi control of respiration

Past simulations of oxidative ATP metabolism in skeletal muscle have predicted that elimination of the creatine kinase (CK) reaction should result in dramatically faster oxygen consumption dynamics during transitions in ATP turnover rate. This hypothesis was investigated. Oxygen consumption of fast-twitch (FT) muscle isolated from wild-type (WT) and transgenic mice deficient in the myoplasmic (M) and mitochondrial (Mi) CK isoforms (MiM CK(-/-)) were measured at 20°C at rest and during electrical stimulation. MiM CK(-/-) muscle oxygen consumption activation kinetics during a step change in contraction rate were 30% faster than WT (time constant 53 ± 3 vs. 69 ± 4 s, respectively; mean ± SE, n = 8 and 6, respectively). MiM CK(-/-) muscle oxygen consumption deactivation kinetics were 380% faster than WT (time constant 74 ± 4 s vs. 264 ± 4 s, respectively). Next, the experiments were simulated using a computational model of the oxidative ATP metabolic network in FT muscle featuring ADP and Pi feedback control of mitochondrial respiration (J. A. L. Jeneson, J. P. Schmitz, N. A. van den Broek, N. A. van Riel, P. A. Hilbers, K. Nicolay, J. J. Prompers. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 297: E774-E784, 2009) that was reparameterized for 20°C. Elimination of Pi control via clamping of the mitochondrial Pi concentration at 10 mM reproduced past simulation results of dramatically faster kinetics in CK(-/-) muscle, while inclusion of Pi control qualitatively explained the experimental observations. On this basis, it was concluded that previous studies of the CK-deficient FT muscle phenotype underestimated the contribution of Pi to mitochondrial respiratory control.

Reaction-diffusion constraints in living tissue: effectiveness factors in skeletal muscle design

A mathematical model was developed to analyze the effects of intracellular diffusion of O(2) and high-energy phosphate metabolites on aerobic energy metabolism in skeletal muscle. We tested the hypotheses that in a range of muscle fibers from different species (1) aerobic metabolism was not diffusion limited and (2) that fibers had a combination of rate and fiber size that placed them at the brink of substantial diffusion limitation. A simplified chemical reaction rate law for mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation was developed utilizing a published detailed model of isolated mitochondrial function. This rate law was then used as a boundary condition in a reaction-diffusion model that was further simplified using the volume averaging method and solved to determine the rates of oxidative phosphorylation as functions of the volume fraction of mitochondria, the size of the muscle cell, and the amount of oxygen delivered by the capillaries. The effectiveness factor, which is the ratio of reaction rate in the system with finite rates of diffusion to those in the absence of any diffusion limitations, defined the regions where intracellular diffusion of metabolites and O(2) may limit aerobic metabolism in both very small, highly oxidative fibers as well as in larger fibers with lower aerobic capacity. Comparison of model analysis with experimental data revealed that none of the fibers was strongly limited by diffusion, as expected. However, while some fibers were near substantial diffusion limitation, most were well within the domain of reaction control of aerobic metabolic rate. This may constitute a safety factor in muscle that provides a level of protection from diffusion constraints under conditions such as hypoxia.

Comparison of in vivo postexercise phosphocreatine recovery and resting ATP synthesis flux for the assessment of skeletal muscle mitochondrial function

(31)P magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) has been used to assess skeletal muscle mitochondrial function in vivo by measuring 1) phosphocreatine (PCr) recovery after exercise or 2) resting ATP synthesis flux with saturation transfer (ST). In this study, we compared both parameters in a rat model of mitochondrial dysfunction with the aim of establishing the most appropriate method for the assessment of in vivo muscle mitochondrial function. Mitochondrial dysfunction was induced in adult Wistar rats by daily subcutaneous injections with the complex I inhibitor diphenyleneiodonium (DPI) for 2 wk. In vivo (31)P MRS measurements were supplemented by in vitro measurements of oxygen consumption in isolated mitochondria. Two weeks of DPI treatment induced mitochondrial dysfunction, as evidenced by a 20% lower maximal ADP-stimulated oxygen consumption rate in isolated mitochondria from DPI-treated rats oxidizing pyruvate plus malate. This was paralleled by a 46% decrease in in vivo oxidative capacity, determined from postexercise PCr recovery. Interestingly, no significant difference in resting, ST-based ATP synthesis flux was observed between DPI-treated rats and controls. These results show that PCr recovery after exercise has a more direct relationship with skeletal muscle mitochondrial function than the ATP synthesis flux measured with (31)P ST MRS in the resting state.

Glucose sensing in the pancreatic beta cell: a computational systems analysis

Background

Pancreatic beta-cells respond to rising blood glucose by increasing oxidative metabolism, leading to an increased ATP/ADP ratio in the cytoplasm. This leads to a closure of K_ATP channels, depolarization of the plasma membrane, influx of calcium and the eventual secretion of insulin. Such mechanism suggests that beta-cell metabolism should have a functional regulation specific to secretion, as opposed to coupling to contraction. The goal of this work is to uncover contributions of the cytoplasmic and mitochondrial processes in this secretory coupling mechanism using mathematical modeling in a systems biology approach.

Methods

We describe a mathematical model of beta-cell sensitivity to glucose. The cytoplasmic part of the model includes equations describing glucokinase, glycolysis, pyruvate reduction, NADH and ATP production and consumption. The mitochondrial part begins with production of NADH, which is regulated by pyruvate dehydrogenase. NADH is used in the electron transport chain to establish a proton motive force, driving the F₁F₀ ATPase. Redox shuttles and mitochondrial Ca²⁺ handling were also modeled.

Results

The model correctly predicts changes in the ATP/ADP ratio, Ca²⁺ and other metabolic parameters in response to changes in substrate delivery at steady-state and during cytoplasmic Ca²⁺ oscillations. Our analysis of the model simulations suggests that the mitochondrial membrane potential should be relatively lower in beta cells compared with other cell types to permit precise mitochondrial regulation of the cytoplasmic ATP/ADP ratio. This key difference may follow from a relative reduction in respiratory activity. The model demonstrates how activity of lactate dehydrogenase, uncoupling proteins and the redox shuttles can regulate beta-cell function in concert; that independent oscillations of cytoplasmic Ca²⁺ can lead to slow coupled metabolic oscillations; and that the relatively low production rate of reactive oxygen species in beta-cells under physiological conditions is a consequence of the relatively decreased mitochondrial membrane potential.

Conclusion

This comprehensive model predicts a special role for mitochondrial control mechanisms in insulin secretion and ROS generation in the beta cell. The model can be used for testing and generating control hypotheses and will help to provide a more complete understanding of beta-cell glucose-sensing central to the physiology and pathology of pancreatic β-cells.

Application of the principles of systems biology and Wiener's cybernetics for analysis of regulation of energy fluxes in muscle cells in vivo

The mechanisms of regulation of respiration and energy fluxes in the cells are analyzed based on the concepts of systems biology, non-equilibrium steady state kinetics and applications of Wiener’s cybernetic principles of feedback regulation. Under physiological conditions cardiac function is governed by the Frank-Starling law and the main metabolic characteristic of cardiac muscle cells is metabolic homeostasis, when both workload and respiration rate can be changed manifold at constant intracellular level of phosphocreatine and ATP in the cells. This is not observed in skeletal muscles. Controversies in theoretical explanations of these observations are analyzed. Experimental studies of permeabilized fibers from human skeletal muscle vastus lateralis and adult rat cardiomyocytes showed that the respiration rate is always an apparent hyperbolic but not a sigmoid function of ADP concentration. It is our conclusion that realistic explanations of regulation of energy fluxes in muscle cells require systemic approaches including application of the feedback theory of Wiener’s cybernetics in combination with detailed experimental research. Such an analysis reveals the importance of limited permeability of mitochondrial outer membrane for ADP due to interactions of mitochondria with cytoskeleton resulting in quasi-linear dependence of respiration rate on amplitude of cyclic changes in cytoplasmic ADP concentrations. The system of compartmentalized creatine kinase (CK) isoenzymes functionally coupled to ANT and ATPases, and mitochondrial-cytoskeletal interactions separate energy fluxes (mass and energy transfer) from signalling (information transfer) within dissipative metabolic structures – intracellular energetic units (ICEU). Due to the non-equilibrium state of CK reactions, intracellular ATP utilization and mitochondrial ATP regeneration are interconnected by the PCr flux from mitochondria. The feedback regulation of respiration occurring via cyclic fluctuations of cytosolic ADP, Pi and Cr/PCr ensures metabolic stability necessary for normal function of cardiac cells.

Structure-function relationships in feedback regulation of energy fluxes in vivo in health and disease: mitochondrial interactosome

The aim of this review is to analyze the results of experimental research of mechanisms of regulation of mitochondrial respiration in cardiac and skeletal muscle cells in vivo obtained by using the permeabilized cell technique. Such an analysis in the framework of Molecular Systems Bioenergetics shows that the mechanisms of regulation of energy fluxes depend on the structural organization of the cells and interaction of mitochondria with cytoskeletal elements. Two types of cells of cardiac phenotype with very different structures were analyzed: adult cardiomyocytes and continuously dividing cancerous HL-1 cells. In cardiomyocytes mitochondria are arranged very regularly, and show rapid configuration changes of inner membrane but no fusion or fission, diffusion of ADP and ATP is restricted mostly at the level of mitochondrial outer membrane due to an interaction of heterodimeric tubulin with voltage dependent anion channel, VDAC. VDAC with associated tubulin forms a supercomplex, Mitochondrial Interactosome, with mitochondrial creatine kinase, MtCK, which is structurally and functionally coupled to ATP synthasome. Due to selectively limited permeability of VDAC for adenine nucleotides, mitochondrial respiration rate depends almost linearly upon the changes of cytoplasmic ADP concentration in their physiological range. Functional coupling of MtCK with ATP synthasome amplifies this signal by recycling adenine nucleotides in mitochondria coupled to effective phosphocreatine synthesis. In cancerous HL-1 cells this complex is significantly modified: tubulin is replaced by hexokinase and MtCK is lacking, resulting in direct utilization of mitochondrial ATP for glycolytic lactate production and in this way contributing in the mechanism of the Warburg effect. Systemic analysis of changes in the integrated system of energy metabolism is also helpful for better understanding of pathogenesis of many other diseases.