Mitochondrial calcium transport in the heart: Physiological and pathological roles

Identity, structure, and function of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore: controversies, consensus, recent advances, and future directions

The mitochondrial permeability transition (mPT) describes a Ca2+-dependent and cyclophilin D (CypD)-facilitated increase of inner mitochondrial membrane permeability that allows diffusion of molecules up to 1.5 kDa in size. It is mediated by a non-selective channel, the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP). Sustained mPTP opening causes mitochondrial swelling, which ruptures the outer mitochondrial membrane leading to subsequent apoptotic and necrotic cell death, and is implicated in a range of pathologies. However, transient mPTP opening at various sub-conductance states may contribute several physiological roles such as alterations in mitochondrial bioenergetics and rapid Ca2+ efflux. Since its discovery decades ago, intensive efforts have been made to identify the exact pore-forming structure of the mPT. Both the adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT) and, more recently, the mitochondrial F1FO (F)-ATP synthase dimers, monomers or c-subunit ring alone have been implicated. Here we share the insights of several key investigators with different perspectives who have pioneered mPT research. We critically assess proposed models for the molecular identity of the mPTP and the mechanisms underlying its opposing roles in the life and death of cells. We provide in-depth insights into current controversies, seeking to achieve a degree of consensus that will stimulate future innovative research into the nature and role of the mPTP.

Cobalt chloride postconditioning as myoprotective therapy in cardiac ischemia-reperfusion

Since damage induced by ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) involves alterations in Ca²⁺ homeostasis and is reduced by ischemic postconditioning (IP) and that CoCl₂ can trigger changes resembling the response to a hypoxic event in normoxia and its blockade on Ca²⁺ current in heart muscle, our aim was to evaluate CoCl₂ as an IP therapeutic tool. Mechanic and energetic parameters of isolated and arterially perfused male Wistar rat heart ventricles were simultaneously analyzed in a model of I/R in which 0.23 mmol/L CoCl₂ was introduced upon reperfusion and kept or withdrawn after 20 min or introduced after 20 min of reperfusion. The presence of CoCl₂ did not affect diastolic pressure but increased post-ischemic contractile recovery, which peaked at 20 min and decreased at the end of reperfusion. This decrease was prevented when CoCl₂ was removed at 20 min of reperfusion. Total heat release increased throughout reperfusion, while economy increased between 15 and 25 min. No effect was observed when CoCl₂ was introduced at 20 min of reperfusion. In addition, both the area under the contracture curve evoked by 10 mmol/L caffeine-36 mmol/L Na⁺ and the contracture tension relaxation rate were higher with CoCl₂.Furthermore, CoCl₂ decreased the number of arrhythmias during reperfusion and the ventricular damaged area. The presence of CoCl₂ in reperfusion induces cardioprotection consistent with the improvement in cellular calcium handling. The use of CoCl₂ constitutes a potential cardioprotective tool of clinical relevance.

Stretching tension effects in permeability transition pores of inner mitochondrial membrane

Presently a mechanism of permeability transition pore (PTP) opening was proposed and discussed. This mechanism is based on mechanical stretching of inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM) caused by mitochondrial swelling (MS). The latter is induced by osmotic pressure generated by solute imbalance between the matrix and the surrounding cyto(sarco)plasm. Modelled by the Monte-Carlo method, an IMM fragment of 350 simulated biological molecules exhibited formation of micro-domains containing two protein and seven phospholipid molecules. The energies (-0.191 eV per molecule) in these micro-domains were significantly larger than those (-0.375 eV per molecule) of other parts of the IMM fragment. Stretching forces applied to such domains expanded them much more than other parts of the IMM fragment. We identify these micro-domains as the PTPs. Both linear and nonlinear functions were used for the strain-stress relation of the IMM fragment, with nonlinear effects more important at large IMM stretching strains. Thus, two main factors are incorporated into the PTP opening mechanism: (1) presence of micro-domains in the IMM structure and (2) IMM stretching stress caused by MS. Taking into account both of these factors, the equation for the probability of PTP opening was deduced, with matrix Ca²⁺ and H⁺ ionic concentrations as its parameters. Note that the equation deduced was similar to an earlier reported empirical equation describing PTP opening dynamics. This correspondence provides support to the presently proposed mechanism. Thus, a new look at the PTP opening mechanism is provided, of interest to various research areas related to mitochondrial biophysics.

Structural and Functional Characterization of a Nav1.5-Mitochondrial Couplon

RATIONALE

The cardiac sodium channel NaV1.5 has a fundamental role in excitability and conduction. Previous studies have shown that sodium channels cluster together in specific cellular subdomains. Their association with intracellular organelles in defined regions of the myocytes, and the functional consequences of that association, remain to be defined.

OBJECTIVE

To characterize a subcellular domain formed by sodium channel clusters in the crest region of the myocytes and the subjacent subsarcolemmal mitochondria.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Through a combination of imaging approaches including super-resolution microscopy and electron microscopy we identified, in adult cardiac myocytes, a NaV1.5 subpopulation in close proximity to subjacent subsarcolemmal mitochondria; we further found that subjacent subsarcolemmal mitochondria preferentially host the mitochondrial NCLX (Na+/Ca2+ exchanger). This anatomic proximity led us to investigate functional changes in mitochondria resulting from sodium channel activity. Upon TTX (tetrodotoxin) exposure, mitochondria near NaV1.5 channels accumulated more Ca2+ and showed increased reactive oxygen species production when compared with interfibrillar mitochondria. Finally, crosstalk between NaV1.5 channels and mitochondria was analyzed at a transcriptional level. We found that SCN5A (encoding NaV1.5) and SLC8B1 (which encode NaV1.5 and NCLX, respectively) are negatively correlated both in a human transcriptome data set (Genotype-Tissue Expression) and in human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiac myocytes deficient in SCN5A.

CONCLUSIONS

We describe an anatomic hub (a couplon) formed by sodium channel clusters and subjacent subsarcolemmal mitochondria. Preferential localization of NCLX to this domain allows for functional coupling where the extrusion of Ca2+ from the mitochondria is powered, at least in part, by the entry of sodium through NaV1.5 channels. These results provide a novel entry-point into a mechanistic understanding of the intersection between electrical and structural functions of the heart.

Pharmacological inhibition of the mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter: Relevance for pathophysiology and human therapy

Mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake has long been considered crucial for meeting the fluctuating energy demands of cells in the heart and other tissues. Increases in mitochondrial matrix [Ca2+] drive mitochondrial ATP production via stimulation of Ca2+-sensitive dehydrogenases. Mitochondria-targeted sensors have revealed mitochondrial matrix [Ca2+] rises that closely follow the cytoplasmic [Ca2+] signals in many paradigms. Mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake is mediated by the Ca2+ uniporter (mtCU). Pharmacological manipulation of the mtCU is potentially key to understanding its physiological significance, but no specific, cell-permeable inhibitors were identified. In the past decade, as the molecular identity of the mtCU was brought to light, efforts have focused on genetic targeting. However, in the cells/animals that are able to survive impaired mtCU function, robust compensatory changes were found in the mtCU as well as other mechanisms. Thus, the discovery, through chemical library screens on normal and mtCU-deficient cells, of new small-molecule inhibitors with improved cell permeability and specificity might offer a better chance to test the relevance of mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake. Success with the development of small molecule mtCU inhibitors is also expected to have clinical impact, considering the growing evidence for the role of mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake in a variety of diseases, including heart attack, stroke and various neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we review the progress in pharmacological targeting of mtCU and illustrate the challenges in this field using data obtained with MCU-i11, a new small molecule inhibitor.

Cardioprotective effects of pharmacological blockade of the mitochondrial calcium uniporter on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury

PURPOSE

To evaluate whether the attenuation of mitochondrial Ca2+ overload produced by pharmacological blockade of mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter (MCU) protects the myocardium against injuries caused by cardiac ischemia and reperfusion (CIR).

METHODS

CIR was induced in adult male Wistar rats (300-350 g) by occlusion of the left anterior descendent coronary artery (10 min), followed by reperfusion (120 min). Rats were treated with different doses of MCU blocker ruthenium red (RuR), administered 5 min before ischemia or reperfusion.

RESULTS

In untreated rats, the incidences of ventricular arrhythmias (VA), atrioventricular block (AVB) and the lethality (LET) induced by CIR were 85%, 79% and 70%, respectively. In rats treated with RuR before ischemia, the incidences of VA, AVB and LET were significantly reduced to 62%, 25% and 25%, respectively. In rats treated with RuR after ischemia, the incidences of VA, AVB and LET were significantly reduced to 50%, 25% and 25%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The significant reduction of the incidence of CIR-induced VA, AVB and LET produced by the treatment with RuR indicates that the attenuation of mitochondrial Ca2+ overload produced by pharmacological blockade of MCU can protect the myocardium against injuries caused by CIR.

In silico simulation of reversible and irreversible swelling of mitochondria: The role of membrane rigidity

Mitochondria have been widely accepted as the main source of ATP in the cell. The inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM) is important for the maintenance of ATP production and other functions of mitochondria. The electron transport chain (ETC) generates an electrochemical gradient of protons known as the proton-motive force across the IMM and thus produces the mitochondrial membrane potential that is critical to ATP synthesis. One of the main factors regulating the structural and functional integrity of the IMM is the changes in the matrix volume. Mild (reversible) swelling regulates mitochondrial metabolism and function; however, excessive (irreversible) swelling causes mitochondrial dysfunction and cell death. The central mechanism of mitochondrial swelling includes the opening of non-selective channels known as permeability transition pores (PTPs) in the IMM by high mitochondrial Ca²⁺ and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The mechanisms of reversible and irreversible mitochondrial swelling and transition between these two states are still unknown. The present study elucidates an upgraded biophysical model of reversible and irreversible mitochondrial swelling dynamics. The model provides a description of the PTP regulation dynamics using an additional differential equation. The rigidity tensor was used in numerical simulations of the mitochondrial parameter dynamics with different initial conditions defined by Ca²⁺ concentration in the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum. We were able to estimate the values of the IMM rigidity tensor components by fitting the model to the previously reported experimental data. Overall, the model provides a better description of the reversible and irreversible mitochondrial swelling dynamics.

Neuronal Sigma-1 Receptors: Signaling Functions and Protective Roles in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Sigma-1 receptor (S1R) is a multi-functional, ligand-operated protein situated in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes and changes in its function and/or expression have been associated with various neurological disorders including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/frontotemporal dementia, Alzheimer's (AD) and Huntington's diseases (HD). S1R agonists are broadly neuroprotective and this is achieved through a diversity of S1R-mediated signaling functions that are generally pro-survival and anti-apoptotic; yet, relatively little is known regarding the exact mechanisms of receptor functioning at the molecular level. This review summarizes therapeutically relevant mechanisms by which S1R modulates neurophysiology and implements neuroprotective functions in neurodegenerative diseases. These mechanisms are diverse due to the fact that S1R can bind to and modulate a large range of client proteins, including many ion channels in both ER and plasma membranes. We summarize the effect of S1R on its interaction partners and consider some of the cell type- and disease-specific aspects of these actions. Besides direct protein interactions in the endoplasmic reticulum, S1R is likely to function at the cellular/interorganellar level by altering the activity of several plasmalemmal ion channels through control of trafficking, which may help to reduce excitotoxicity. Moreover, S1R is situated in lipid rafts where it binds cholesterol and regulates lipid and protein trafficking and calcium flux at the mitochondrial-associated membrane (MAM) domain. This may have important implications for MAM stability and function in neurodegenerative diseases as well as cellular bioenergetics. We also summarize the structural and biochemical features of S1R proposed to underlie its activity. In conclusion, S1R is incredibly versatile in its ability to foster neuronal homeostasis in the context of several neurodegenerative disorders.

Mitochondrial Ca2+ concentrations in live cells: quantification methods and discrepancies

Intracellular Ca²⁺ signaling controls numerous cellular functions. Mitochondria respond to cytosolic Ca²⁺ changes by adapting mitochondrial functions and, in some cell types, shaping the spatiotemporal properties of the cytosolic Ca²⁺ signal. Numerous methods have been developed to specifically and quantitatively measure the mitochondrial-free Ca²⁺ concentrations ([Ca²⁺ ]_m ), but there are still significant discrepancies in the calculated absolute values of [Ca²⁺ ]_m in stimulated live cells. These discrepancies may be due to the distinct properties of the methods used to measure [Ca²⁺ ]_m , the calcium-free/bound ratio, and the cell-type and stimulus-dependent Ca²⁺ dynamics. Critical processes happening in the mitochondria, such as ATP generation, ROS homeostasis, and mitochondrial permeability transition opening, depend directly on the [Ca²⁺ ]_m values. Thus, precise determination of absolute [Ca²⁺ ]_m values is imperative for understanding Ca²⁺ signaling. This review summarizes the reported calibrated [Ca²⁺ ]_m values in many cell types and discusses the discrepancies among these values. Areas for future research are also proposed.

The Influence of MicroRNAs on Mitochondrial Calcium

Abnormal mitochondrial calcium ([Ca²⁺]_m) handling and energy deficiency results in cellular dysfunction and cell death. Recent studies suggest that nuclear-encoded microRNAs (miRNA) are able to translocate in to the mitochondrial compartment, and modulate mitochondrial activities, including [Ca²⁺]_m uptake. Apart from this subset of miRNAs, there are several miRNAs that have been reported to target genes that play a role in maintaining [Ca²⁺]_m levels in the cytoplasm. It is imperative to validate miRNAs that alter [Ca²⁺]_m handling, and thereby alter cellular fate. The focus of this review is to highlight the mitochondrial miRNAs (MitomiRs), and other cytosolic miRNAs that target mRNAs which play an important role in [Ca²⁺]_m handling.

Myocyte [Na+]i Dysregulation in Heart Failure and Diabetic Cardiomyopathy

By controlling the function of various sarcolemmal and mitochondrial ion transporters, intracellular Na⁺ concentration ([Na⁺]_i) regulates Ca²⁺ cycling, electrical activity, the matching of energy supply and demand, and oxidative stress in cardiac myocytes. Thus, maintenance of myocyte Na⁺ homeostasis is vital for preserving the electrical and contractile activity of the heart. [Na⁺]_i is set by the balance between the passive Na⁺ entry through numerous pathways and the pumping of Na⁺ out of the cell by the Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase. This equilibrium is perturbed in heart failure, resulting in higher [Na⁺]_i. More recent studies have revealed that [Na⁺]_i is also increased in myocytes from diabetic hearts. Elevated [Na⁺]_i causes oxidative stress and augments the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺ leak, thus amplifying the risk for arrhythmias and promoting heart dysfunction. This mini-review compares and contrasts the alterations in Na⁺ extrusion and/or Na⁺ uptake that underlie the [Na⁺]_i increase in heart failure and diabetes, with a particular emphasis on the emerging role of Na⁺ - glucose cotransporters in the diabetic heart.

The machineries, regulation and cellular functions of mitochondrial calcium

Calcium ions (Ca²⁺) are some of the most versatile signalling molecules, and they have many physiological functions, prominently including muscle contraction, neuronal excitability, cell migration and cell growth. By sequestering and releasing Ca²⁺, mitochondria serve as important regulators of cellular Ca²⁺. Mitochondrial Ca²⁺ also has other important functions, such as regulation of mitochondrial metabolism, ATP production and cell death. In recent years, identification of the molecular machinery regulating mitochondrial Ca²⁺ accumulation and efflux has expanded the number of (patho)physiological conditions that rely on mitochondrial Ca²⁺ homeostasis. Thus, expanding the understanding of the mechanisms of mitochondrial Ca²⁺ regulation and function in different cell types is an important task in biomedical research, which offers the possibility of targeting mitochondrial Ca²⁺ machinery for the treatment of several disorders.

Computational Modeling of In Vitro Swelling of Mitochondria: A Biophysical Approach

Swelling of mitochondria plays an important role in the pathogenesis of human diseases by stimulating mitochondria-mediated cell death through apoptosis, necrosis, and autophagy. Changes in the permeability of the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM) of ions and other substances induce an increase in the colloid osmotic pressure, leading to matrix swelling. Modeling of mitochondrial swelling is important for simulation and prediction of in vivo events in the cell during oxidative and energy stress. In the present study, we developed a computational model that describes the mechanism of mitochondrial swelling based on osmosis, the rigidity of the IMM, and dynamics of ionic/neutral species. The model describes a new biophysical approach to swelling dynamics, where osmotic pressure created in the matrix is compensated for by the rigidity of the IMM, i.e., osmotic pressure induces membrane deformation, which compensates for the osmotic pressure effect. Thus, the effect is linear and reversible at small membrane deformations, allowing the membrane to restore its normal form. On the other hand, the membrane rigidity drops to zero at large deformations, and the swelling becomes irreversible. As a result, an increased number of dysfunctional mitochondria can activate mitophagy and initiate cell death. Numerical modeling analysis produced results that reasonably describe the experimental data reported earlier.

Mitochondrial Bioenergetics During Ischemia and Reperfusion

During ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) mitochondria suffer a deficiency to supply the cardiomyocyte with chemical energy, but also contribute to the cytosolic ionic alterations especially of Ca²⁺. Their free calcium concentration ([Ca²⁺]m) mainly depends on mitochondrial entrance through the uniporter (UCam) and extrusion in exchange with Na⁺ (mNCX) driven by the electrochemical gradient (ΔΨm). Cardiac energetic is frequently estimated by the oxygen consumption, which determines metabolism coupled to ATP production and to the maintaining of ΔΨm. Nevertheless, a better estimation of heart energy consumption is the total heat release associated to ATP hydrolysis, metabolism, and binding reactions, which is measurable either in the presence or the absence of oxygenation or perfusion. Consequently, a mechano-calorimetrical approach on isolated hearts gives a tool to evaluate muscle economy. The mitochondrial role during I/R depends on the injury degree. We investigated the role of the mitochondrial Ca²⁺ transporters in the energetic of hearts stunned by a model of no-flow I/R in rat hearts. This chapter explores an integrated view of previous and new results which give evidences to the mitochondrial role in cardiac stunning by ischemia o hypoxia, and the influence of thyroid alterations and cardioprotective strategies, such as cardioplegic solutions (high K-low Ca, pyruvate) and the phytoestrogen genistein in both sex. Rat ventricles were perfused in a flow-calorimeter at either 30 °C or 37 °C to continuously measure the left ventricular pressure (LVP) and total heat rate (Ht). A pharmacological treatment was done before exposing to no-flow I and R. The post-ischemic contractile (PICR as %) and energetical (Ht) recovery and muscle economy (Eco: P/Ht) were determined during stunning. The functional interaction between mitochondria (Mit) and sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) was evaluated with selective mitochondrial inhibitors in hearts reperfused with Krebs-10 mM caffeine-36 mM Na⁺. The caffeine induced contracture (CIC) was due to SR Ca²⁺ release, while relaxation mainly depends on mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uptake since neither SL-NCX nor SERCA are functional under this media. The ratio of area-under-curves over ischemic values (AUC-ΔHt/AUC-ΔLVP) estimates the energetical consumption (EC) to maintain CIC. Relaxation of CIC was accelerated by inhibition of mNCX or by adding the aerobic substrate pyruvate, while both increased EC. Contrarily, relaxation was slowed by cardioplegia (high K-low Ca Krebs) and by inhibition of UCam. Thus, Mit regulate the cytosolic [Ca²⁺] and SR Ca²⁺ content. Both, hyperthyroidism (HpT) and hypothyroidism (HypoT) reduced the peak of CIC but increased EC, in spite of improving PICR. Both, CIC and PICR in HpT were also sensitive to inhibition of mNCX or UCam, suggesting that Mit contribute to regulate the SR store and Ca²⁺ release. The interaction between mitochondria and SR and the energetic consequences were also analyzed for the effects of genistein in hearts exposed to I/R, and for the hypoxia/reoxygenation process. Our results give evidence about the mitochondrial regulation of both PICR and energetic consumption during stunning, through the Ca²⁺ movement.

Expert consensus document: Mitochondrial function as a therapeutic target in heart failure

Heart failure is a pressing worldwide public-health problem with millions of patients having worsening heart failure. Despite all the available therapies, the condition carries a very poor prognosis. Existing therapies provide symptomatic and clinical benefit, but do not fully address molecular abnormalities that occur in cardiomyocytes. This shortcoming is particularly important given that most patients with heart failure have viable dysfunctional myocardium, in which an improvement or normalization of function might be possible. Although the pathophysiology of heart failure is complex, mitochondrial dysfunction seems to be an important target for therapy to improve cardiac function directly. Mitochondrial abnormalities include impaired mitochondrial electron transport chain activity, increased formation of reactive oxygen species, shifted metabolic substrate utilization, aberrant mitochondrial dynamics, and altered ion homeostasis. In this Consensus Statement, insights into the mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction in heart failure are presented, along with an overview of emerging treatments with the potential to improve the function of the failing heart by targeting mitochondria.

Coupling calcium dynamics and mitochondrial bioenergetic: an in silico study to simulate cardiomyocyte dysfunction

The coupling of intracellular Ca(2+) dynamics with mitochondrial bioenergetic is crucial for the functioning of cardiomyocytes both in healthy and disease conditions. The pathophysiological signature of the Cardiomyocyte Dysfunction (CD) is commonly related to decreased ATP production due to mitochondrial functional impairment and to an increased mitochondrial calcium content ([Ca(2+)]m). These features advanced the therapeutic approaches which aim to reduce [Ca(2+)]m. But whether [Ca(2+)]m overload is the pathological trigger for CD or a physiological consequence, remained controversial. We addressed this issue in silico and showed that [Ca(2+)]m might not directly cause CD. Through model parameter recalibration, we demonstrated how mitochondria cope up with functionally impaired processes and consequently accumulate calcium. A strong coupling of the [Ca(2+)]m oscillations with the ATP synthesis rate ensures robust calcium cycling and avoids CD. We suggested a cardioprotective role of the mitochondrial calcium uniporter and predicted that a mitochondrial sodium calcium exchanger could be a potential therapeutic target to restore the normal functioning of the cardiomyocyte.

Involvement of mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) in cardiac arrhythmias: Evidence from cyclophilin D knockout mice

In the present study, we have used a genetic mouse model that lacks cyclophilin D (CypD KO) to assess the cardioprotective effect of mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) inhibition on Ca2+ waves and Ca2+ alternans at the single cell level, and cardiac arrhythmias in whole-heart preparations. The protonophore carbonyl cyanide p-(trifluoromethoxy) phenylhydrazone (FCCP) caused mitochondrial membrane potential depolarization to the same extent in cardiomyocytes from both WT and CypD KO mice, however, cardiomyocytes from CypD KO mice exhibited significantly less mPTP opening than cardiomyocytes from WT mice (p<0.05). Consistent with these results, FCCP caused significant increases in CaW rate in WT cardiomyocytes (p<0.05) but not in CypD KO cardiomyocytes. Furthermore, the incidence of Ca2+ alternans after treatment with FCCP and programmed stimulation was significantly higher in WT cardiomyocytes (11 of 13), than in WT cardiomyocytes treated with CsA (2 of 8; p<0.05) or CypD KO cardiomyocytes (2 of 10; p<0.01). (Pseudo-)Lead II ECGs were recorded from ex vivo hearts. We observed ST-T-wave alternans (a precursor of lethal arrhythmias) in 5 of 7 WT hearts. ST-T-wave alternans was not seen in CypD KO hearts (n=5) and in only 1 of 6 WT hearts treated with CsA. Consistent with these results, WT hearts exhibited a significantly higher average arrhythmia score than CypD KO (p<0.01) hearts subjected to FCCP treatment or chemical ischemia-reperfusion (p<0.01). In conclusion, CypD deficiency- induced mPTP inhibition attenuates CaWs and Ca2+ alternans during mitochondrial depolarization, and thereby protects against arrhythmogenesis in the heart.

Expression and reconstitution of the bioluminescent Ca(2+) reporter aequorin in human embryonic stem cells, and exploration of the presence of functional IP3 and ryanodine receptors during the early stages of their differentiation into cardiomyocytes

In order to develop a novel method of visualizing possible Ca(2+) signaling during the early differentiation of hESCs into cardiomyocytes and avoid some of the inherent problems associated with using fluorescent reporters, we expressed the bioluminescent Ca(2+) reporter, apo-aequorin, in HES2 cells and then reconstituted active holo-aequorin by incubation with f-coelenterazine. The temporal nature of the Ca(2+) signals generated by the holo-f-aequorin-expressing HES2 cells during the earliest stages of differentiation into cardiomyocytes was then investigated. Our data show that no endogenous Ca(2+) transients (generated by release from intracellular stores) were detected in 1-12-day-old cardiospheres but transients were generated in cardiospheres following stimulation with KCl or CaCl2, indicating that holo-f-aequorin was functional in these cells. Furthermore, following the addition of exogenous ATP, an inositol trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) agonist, small Ca(2+) transients were generated from day 1 onward. That ATP was inducing Ca(2+) release from functional IP3Rs was demonstrated by treatment with 2-APB, a known IP3R antagonist. In contrast, following treatment with caffeine, a ryanodine receptor (RyR) agonist, a minimal Ca(2+) response was observed at day 8 of differentiation only. Thus, our data indicate that unlike RyRs, IP3Rs are present and continually functional at these early stages of cardiomyocyte differentiation.

Arsenic trioxide triggered calcium homeostasis imbalance and induced endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated apoptosis in adult rat ventricular myocytes

Arsenic trioxide (ATO) is a potent anticancer drug agent but its clinical use is often limited by severe cardiotoxicity. However, its exact mechanism remains poorly understood. In this study, we simultaneously explored the direct effect of ATO on cardiac contraction in adult rat ventricular myocytes and its effects on Ca²⁺ transient in real time by using an IonOptix MyoCam system. The results showed that ATO increased the amplitude of sarcomere shortening, the maximal velocity of relengthening and shortening (-dL/dt_max and +dL/dt_max), time-to-90% relengthening (TR90), and time-to-peak shortening (TPS), resulting in abnormal cardiomyocyte contraction. Meanwhile, ATO markedly increased the resting Ca²⁺ ratio, amplitude/resting calcium, the maximal velocity of Ca²⁺ shortening and relaxation (+d[Ca²⁺]/dt_max and -d[Ca²⁺]/dt_max), time-to-50% peak [Ca²⁺] _i and the decay rate of [Ca²⁺] _i transients, suggesting that ATO leads to intracellular imbalance of calcium homeostasis. ATO also inhibited sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺-ATPase 2a (SERCA2a) activity in a time-dependent manner and activated the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress reaction. These results revealed that ATO dramatically aggravates Ca²⁺ overload and promotes ER stress, eventually causing abnormal cardiomyocyte contraction in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner.

A Novel Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Correction Method for Mitochondrial Ca(2+) Measurement with FURA-2-FF in Single Permeabilized Ventricular Myocytes of Rat

Fura-2 analogs are ratiometric fluoroprobes that are widely used for the quantitative measurement of [Ca(2+)]. However, the dye usage is intrinsically limited, as the dyes require ultraviolet (UV) excitation, which can also generate great interference, mainly from nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) autofluorescence. Specifically, this limitation causes serious problems for the quantitative measurement of mitochondrial [Ca(2+)], as no available ratiometric dyes are excited in the visible range. Thus, NADH interference cannot be avoided during quantitative measurement of [Ca(2+)] because the majority of NADH is located in the mitochondria. The emission intensity ratio of two different excitation wavelengths must be constant when the fluorescent dye concentration is the same. In accordance with this principle, we developed a novel online method that corrected NADH and Fura-2-FF interference. We simultaneously measured multiple parameters, including NADH, [Ca(2+)], and pH/mitochondrial membrane potential; Fura-2-FF for mitochondrial [Ca(2+)] and TMRE for Ψm or carboxy-SNARF-1 for pH were used. With this novel method, we found that the resting mitochondrial [Ca(2+)] concentration was 1.03 µM. This 1 µM cytosolic Ca(2+) could theoretically increase to more than 100 mM in mitochondria. However, the mitochondrial [Ca(2+)] increase was limited to ~30 µM in the presence of 1 µM cytosolic Ca(2+). Our method solved the problem of NADH signal contamination during the use of Fura-2 analogs, and therefore the method may be useful when NADH interference is expected.

Role of licochalcone C in cardioprotection against ischemia/reperfusion injury of isolated rat heart via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic activities

AIMS

This study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of licochalcone C against myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats.

MAIN METHODS

Left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP) and its maximum up/down rate (±dp/dtmax) were recorded as myocardial function. Levels of creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione/glutathione disulfide (GSH/GSSG) ratio, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were determined by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Cell morphology was observed and mitochondrial damage was assessed by HE coloration and transmission electron microscopy, respectively. Cardiomyocyte apoptosis was determined by using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferased UTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL).

KEY FINDINGS

Pretreatment with licochalcone C significantly improved the recovery of LVDP and ±dp/dtmax, and increased the levels of SOD and GSH/GSSG ratio. However, pretreatment with licochalcone C not only decreased the TUNEL-positive cell ratio and morphological changes, but also weaken the mitochondrial injury and the levels of CK, LDH, MDA, and TNF-α.

SIGNIFICANCE

These results suggested an important function of licochalcone C extracted from traditional Chinese medicine in the cardioprotection via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic activities.

MiR-25 protects cardiomyocytes against oxidative damage by targeting the mitochondrial calcium uniporter

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs, whose expression levels vary in different cell types and tissues. Emerging evidence indicates that tissue-specific and -enriched miRNAs are closely associated with cellular development and stress responses in their tissues. MiR-25 has been documented to be abundant in cardiomyocytes, but its function in the heart remains unknown. Here, we report that miR-25 can protect cardiomyocytes against oxidative damage by down-regulating mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU). MiR-25 was markedly elevated in response to oxidative stimulation in cardiomyocytes. Further overexpression of miR-25 protected cardiomyocytes against oxidative damage by inactivating the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. MCU was identified as a potential target of miR-25 by bioinformatical analysis. MCU mRNA level was reversely correlated with miR-25 under the exposure of H₂O₂, and MCU protein level was largely decreased by miR-25 overexpression. The luciferase reporter assay confirmed that miR-25 bound directly to the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of MCU mRNA. MiR-25 significantly decreased H₂O₂-induced elevation of mitochondrial Ca²⁺ concentration, which is likely to be the result of decreased activity of MCU. We conclude that miR-25 targets MCU to protect cardiomyocytes against oxidative damages. This finding provides novel insights into the involvement of miRNAs in oxidative stress in cardiomyocytes.

Calcium movement in cardiac mitochondria

Existing theory suggests that mitochondria act as significant, dynamic buffers of cytosolic calcium ([Ca(2+)]i) in heart. These buffers can remove up to one-third of the Ca(2+) that enters the cytosol during the [Ca(2+)]i transients that underlie contractions. However, few quantitative experiments have been presented to test this hypothesis. Here, we investigate the influence of Ca(2+) movement across the inner mitochondrial membrane during both subcellular and global cellular cytosolic Ca(2+) signals (i.e., Ca(2+) sparks and [Ca(2+)]i transients, respectively) in isolated rat cardiomyocytes. By rapidly turning off the mitochondria using depolarization of the inner mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), the role of the mitochondria in buffering cytosolic Ca(2+) signals was investigated. We show here that rapid loss of ΔΨm leads to no significant changes in cytosolic Ca(2+) signals. Second, we make direct measurements of mitochondrial [Ca(2+)] ([Ca(2+)]m) using a mitochondrially targeted Ca(2+) probe (MityCam) and these data suggest that [Ca(2+)]m is near the [Ca(2+)]i level (∼100 nM) under quiescent conditions. These two findings indicate that although the mitochondrial matrix is fully buffer-capable under quiescent conditions, it does not function as a significant dynamic buffer during physiological Ca(2+) signaling. Finally, quantitative analysis using a computational model of mitochondrial Ca(2+) cycling suggests that mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake would need to be at least ∼100-fold greater than the current estimates of Ca(2+) influx for mitochondria to influence measurably cytosolic [Ca(2+)] signals under physiological conditions. Combined, these experiments and computational investigations show that mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake does not significantly alter cytosolic Ca(2+) signals under normal conditions and indicates that mitochondria do not act as important dynamic buffers of [Ca(2+)]i under physiological conditions in heart.

Mitochondrial calcium handling in normotensive and spontaneously hypertensive rats: correlation with systolic blood pressure levels

The aim was to study the mitochondrial Ca(2+) handling of mitochondria isolated from normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) hearts and to establish a possible correlation with systolic blood pressure (SBP). Mitochondrial swelling after Ca(2+) addition, Ca(2+)-retention capacity (CRC) by calcium green method, and membrane potential (ΔΨm) were assessed. SBP was 124±1 (WKY) and 235±6mmHg (SHR). CRC, Ca(2+) response and ΔΨm were lower in SHR than WKY mitochondria. The conclusion is: the more depolarized state of SHR than WKY mitochondria results in an abnormal Ca(2+) handling and this event is closely associated with the SBP.

The mitochondrial permeability transition: a current perspective on its identity and role in ischaemia/reperfusion injury

The mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP) is a non-specific pore that opens in the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM) when matrix [Ca(2+)] is high, especially when accompanied by oxidative stress, high [Pi] and adenine nucleotide depletion. Such conditions occur during ischaemia and subsequent reperfusion, when MPTP opening is known to occur and cause irreversible damage to the heart. Matrix cyclophilin D facilitates MPTP opening and is the target of its inhibition by cyclosporin A that is cardioprotective. Less certainty exists over the composition of the pore itself, with structural and/or regulatory roles proposed for the adenine nucleotide translocase, the phosphate carrier and the FoF1 ATP synthase. Here we critically review the supporting data for the role of each and suggest that they may interact with each other through their bound cardiolipin to form the ATP synthasome. We propose that under conditions favouring MPTP opening, calcium-triggered conformational changes in these proteins may perturb the interface between them generating the pore. Proteins associated with the outer mitochondrial membrane (OMM), such as members of the Bcl-2 family and hexokinase (HK), whilst not directly involved in pore formation, may regulate MPTP opening through interactions between OMM and IMM proteins at "contact sites". Recent evidence suggests that cardioprotective protocols such as preconditioning inhibit MPTP opening at reperfusion by preventing the loss of mitochondrial bound HK2 that stabilises these contact sites. Contact site breakage both sensitises the MPTP to [Ca(2+)] and facilitates cytochrome c loss from the intermembrane space leading to greater ROS production and further MPTP opening. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Mitochondria: From Basic Mitochondrial Biology to Cardiovascular Disease".

Mitochondrial permeability transition pore is a potential drug target for neurodegeneration

Mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) plays a central role in alterations of mitochondrial structure and function leading to neuronal injury relevant to aging and neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease (AD). mPTP putatively consists of the voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC), the adenine nucleotide translocator (ANT) and cyclophilin D (CypD). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) increase intra-cellular calcium and enhance the formation of mPTP that leads to neuronal cell death in AD. CypD-dependent mPTP can play a crucial role in ischemia/reperfusion injury. The interaction of amyloid beta peptide (Aβ) with CypD potentiates mitochondrial and neuronal perturbation. This interaction triggers the formation of mPTP, resulting in decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, impaired mitochondrial respiration function, increased oxidative stress, release of cytochrome c, and impaired axonal mitochondrial transport. Thus, the CypD-dependent mPTP is directly linked to the cellular and synaptic perturbations observed in the pathogenesis of AD. Designing small molecules to block this interaction would lessen the effects of Aβ neurotoxicity. This review summarizes the recent progress on mPTP and its potential therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases including AD.

The physiological role of mitochondrial calcium revealed by mice lacking the mitochondrial calcium uniporter

Mitochondrial calcium has been postulated to regulate a wide range of processes from bioenergetics to cell death. Here, we characterize a mouse model that lacks expression of the recently discovered mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU). Mitochondria derived from MCU^-/- mice have no apparent capacity to rapidly uptake calcium. While basal metabolism appears unaffected, the skeletal muscle of MCU^-/- mice exhibited alterations in the phosphorylation and activity of pyruvate dehydrogenase. In addition, MCU^-/- mice exhibited marked impairment in their ability to perform strenuous work. We further show that mitochondria from MCU^-/- mice lacked evidence for calcium-induced permeability transition pore (PTP) opening. The lack of PTP opening does not appear to protect MCU^-/- cells and tissues from cell death, although MCU^-/- hearts fail to respond to the PTP inhibitor cyclosporin A (CsA). Taken together, these results clarify how acute alterations in mitochondrial matrix calcium can regulate mammalian physiology.

Modulation of intracellular calcium waves and triggered activities by mitochondrial ca flux in mouse cardiomyocytes

Recent studies have suggested that mitochondria may play important roles in the Ca(2+) homeostasis of cardiac myocytes. However, it is still unclear if mitochondrial Ca(2+) flux can regulate the generation of Ca(2+) waves (CaWs) and triggered activities in cardiac myocytes. In the present study, intracellular/cytosolic Ca(2+) (Cai (2+)) was imaged in Fluo-4-AM loaded mouse ventricular myocytes. Spontaneous sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca(2+) release and CaWs were induced in the presence of high (4 mM) external Ca(2+) (Cao (2+)). The protonophore carbonyl cyanide p-(trifluoromethoxy)phenylhydrazone (FCCP) reversibly raised basal Cai (2+) levels even after depletion of SR Ca(2+) in the absence of Cao (2+) , suggesting Ca(2+) release from mitochondria. FCCP at 0.01 - 0.1 µM partially depolarized the mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψ m ) and increased the frequency and amplitude of CaWs in a dose-dependent manner. Simultaneous recording of cell membrane potentials showed the augmentation of delayed afterdepolarization amplitudes and frequencies, and induction of triggered action potentials. The effect of FCCP on CaWs was mimicked by antimycin A (an electron transport chain inhibitor disrupting Δψ m ) or Ru360 (a mitochondrial Ca(2+) uniporter inhibitor), but not by oligomycin (an ATP synthase inhibitor) or iodoacetic acid (a glycolytic inhibitor), excluding the contribution of intracellular ATP levels. The effects of FCCP on CaWs were counteracted by the mitochondrial permeability transition pore blocker cyclosporine A, or the mitochondrial Ca(2+) uniporter activator kaempferol. Our results suggest that mitochondrial Ca(2+) release and uptake exquisitely control the local Ca(2+) level in the micro-domain near SR ryanodine receptors and play an important role in regulation of intracellular CaWs and arrhythmogenesis.

How does the cell overcome LCP nanoparticle-induced calcium toxicity?

To address the question of how cells respond to the possible Ca(2+) toxicity caused by the release of Ca(2+) into the cytoplasm by LCP nanoparticles, a series of in vitro and in vivo studies using Ca(2+) pump inhibitors were conducted. The results indicated that two major Ca(2+) pumps on the plasma membrane and the mitochondrial membrane, respectively, were able to rapidly respond to the elevated cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration and prevent Ca(2+)-induced apoptosis or necrosis. However, exposure to specific inhibitors of calcium pumps would cause LCP-treated H460 cells to undergo necrosis both in vitro and in vivo. These results demonstrated that the Ca(2+) delivered by LCP was not toxic to cells when the cells contain functional Ca(2+) pumps.

Mitochondrial hyperfusion during oxidative stress is coupled to a dysregulation in calcium handling within a C2C12 cell model

Atrial Fibrillation is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia worldwide harming millions of people every year. Atrial Fibrillation (AF) abruptly induces rapid conduction between atrial myocytes which is associated with oxidative stress and abnormal calcium handling. Unfortunately this new equilibrium promotes perpetuation of the arrhythmia. Recently, in addition to being the major source of oxidative stress within cells, mitochondria have been observed to fuse, forming mitochondrial networks and attach to intracellular calcium stores in response to cellular stress. We sought to identify a potential role for rapid stimulation, oxidative stress and mitochondrial hyperfusion in acute changes to myocyte calcium handling. In addition we hoped to link altered calcium handling to increased sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR)-mitochondrial contacts, the so-called mitochondrial associated membrane (MAM). We selected the C2C12 murine myotube model as it has previously been successfully used to investigate mitochondrial dynamics and has a myofibrillar system similar to atrial myocytes. We observed that rapid stimulation of C2C12 cells resulted in mitochondrial hyperfusion and increased mitochondrial colocalisation with calcium stores. Inhibition of mitochondrial fission by transfection of mutant DRP1K38E resulted in similar effects on mitochondrial fusion, SR colocalisation and altered calcium handling. Interestingly the effects of 'forced fusion' were reversed by co-incubation with the reducing agent N-Acetyl cysteine (NAC). Subsequently we demonstrated that oxidative stress resulted in similar reversible increases in mitochondrial fusion, SR-colocalisation and altered calcium handling. Finally, we believe we have identified that myocyte calcium handling is reliant on baseline levels of reactive oxygen species as co-incubation with NAC both reversed and retarded myocyte response to caffeine induced calcium release and re-uptake. Based on these results we conclude that the coordinate regulation of mitochondrial fusion and MAM contacts may form a point source for stress-induced arrhythmogenesis. We believe that the MAM merits further investigation as a therapeutic target in AF-induced remodelling.

Na⁺ transport in the normal and failing heart - remember the balance

In the heart, intracellular Na(+) concentration ([Na(+)]i) is a key modulator of Ca(2+) cycling, contractility and cardiac myocyte metabolism. Several Na(+) transporters are electrogenic, thus they both contribute to shaping the cardiac action potential and at the same time are affected by it. [Na(+)]i is controlled by the balance between Na(+) influx through various pathways, including the Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger and Na(+) channels, and Na(+) extrusion via the Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase. [Na(+)]i is elevated in HF due to a combination of increased entry through Na(+) channels and/or Na(+)/H(+) exchanger and reduced activity of the Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase. Here we review the major Na(+) transport pathways in cardiac myocytes and how they participate in regulating [Na(+)]i in normal and failing hearts. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Na(+) Regulation in Cardiac Myocytes."

The role of the mitochondrial calcium uniporter in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats involves regulation of mitochondrial energy metabolism

The mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) maintains intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis by transporting Ca2+ from the cell cytosol into the mitochondrial matrix and is important for shaping Ca2+ signals and the activation of programmed cell death. Inhibition of MCU by ruthenium red (RR) or Ru360 has previously been reported to protect against neuronal death. The aim of the present study was to analyze the mechanisms underlying the effects of MCU activity in a rat model of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Adult male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups; sham, I/R, I/R + RR and I/R + spermine (Sper) and were subjected to reversible middle cerebral artery occlusion for 2 h followed by 24 h of reperfusion. A bolus injection of RR administered 30 min prior to ischemia was found to significantly decrease the total infarct volume and reduce neuronal damage and cell apoptosis compared with ischemia/reperfusion values. However, treatment with Sper, an activator of the MCU, increased the injury induced by I/R. Analysis of energy metabolism revealed that I/R induced progressive inhibition of complexes I‑IV of the electron transport chain, decreased ATP production, dissipated the mitochondrial membrane potential and increased the generation of reactive oxygen species. Treatment with RR ameliorated the condition, while spermine had the opposite effect. In conclusion, blocking MCU was demonstrated to exert protective effects against I/R injury and this process may be mediated by the prevention of energy failure.

Energetic study of cardioplegic hearts under ischaemia/reperfusion and [Ca(2+)] changes in cardiomyocytes of guinea-pig: mitochondrial role

AIM

To study the role of mitochondria in the recovery of guinea-pig hearts exposed to high-K(+)-cardioplegia (CPG) and ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) METHODS: We measured contractility and heat release in perfused guinea-pig hearts and cytosolic and mitochondrial Ca(2+) by epifluorescence and confocal microscopy in isolated cardiomyocytes loaded with Fluo-4 or Rhod-2.

RESULTS

In hearts, CPG increased the postischaemic contractile recovery, and this was potentiated by the mNCX blocker clonazepam and the mKATP opener diazoxide, which also prevented the fall in muscle economy. Moreover, CPG prevented the stunning induced by ouabain, which was reduced by clonazepam. In cardiomyocytes, CPG increased fluorescent signals of cytosolic and mitochondrial Ca(2+), while the addition of a mNCX blocker (CGP37157) increased cytosolic but reduced mitochondrial [Ca(2+)]. Ouabain in CPG increased cytosolic Ca(2+) and resting heat, but the addition of CGP37157 reduced them, as well as mitochondrial Ca(2+).

CONCLUSIONS

CPG, diazoxide and clonazepam improve postischaemic recovery, respectively, by increasing the Ca(2+) cycling and by reducing the mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake either by uniporter or by mNCX. The mitochondria compete with the leaky sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) as sink of Ca(2+) in guinea-pig hearts, affecting the postischaemic contractility. CPG also prevented the ouabain-induced dysfunction by avoiding the Ca(2+) overload. Ouabain reduced the synergism between CPG and clonazepam suggesting that [Na(+)]i and SR load influence the mNCX role.

Dynamic buffering of mitochondrial Ca2+ during Ca2+ uptake and Na+-induced Ca2+ release

In cardiac mitochondria, matrix free Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)]m) is primarily regulated by Ca(2+) uptake and release via the Ca(2+) uniporter (CU) and Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger (NCE) as well as by Ca(2+) buffering. Although experimental and computational studies on the CU and NCE dynamics exist, it is not well understood how matrix Ca(2+) buffering affects these dynamics under various Ca(2+) uptake and release conditions, and whether this influences the stoichiometry of the NCE. To elucidate the role of matrix Ca(2+) buffering on the uptake and release of Ca(2+), we monitored Ca(2+) dynamics in isolated mitochondria by measuring both the extra-matrix free [Ca(2+)] ([Ca(2+)]e) and [Ca(2+)]m. A detailed protocol was developed and freshly isolated mitochondria from guinea pig hearts were exposed to five different [CaCl2] followed by ruthenium red and six different [NaCl]. By using the fluorescent probe indo-1, [Ca(2+)]e and [Ca(2+)]m were spectrofluorometrically quantified, and the stoichiometry of the NCE was determined. In addition, we measured NADH, membrane potential, matrix volume and matrix pH to monitor Ca(2+)-induced changes in mitochondrial bioenergetics. Our [Ca(2+)]e and [Ca(2+)]m measurements demonstrate that Ca(2+) uptake and release do not show reciprocal Ca(2+) dynamics in the extra-matrix and matrix compartments. This salient finding is likely caused by a dynamic Ca(2+) buffering system in the matrix compartment. The Na(+)- induced Ca(2+) release demonstrates an electrogenic exchange via the NCE by excluding an electroneutral exchange. Mitochondrial bioenergetics were only transiently affected by Ca(2+) uptake in the presence of large amounts of CaCl2, but not by Na(+)- induced Ca(2+) release.

Coupling of ryanodine receptor 2 and voltage-dependent anion channel 2 is essential for Ca2+ transfer from the sarcoplasmic reticulum to the mitochondria in the heart

The structural proximity and functional coupling between the SR (sarcoplasmic reticulum) and mitochondria have been suggested to occur in the heart. However, the molecular architecture involved in the SR–mitochondrial coupling remains unclear. In the present study, we performed various genetic and Ca2+-probing studies to resolve the proteins involved in the coupling process. By using the bacterial 2-hybrid, glutathione transferase pull-down, co-immunoprecipitation and immunocytochemistry assays, we found that RyR2 (ryanodine receptor type 2), which is physically associated with VDAC2 (voltage-dependent anion channel 2), was co-localized in SR–mitochondrial junctions. Furthermore, a fractionation study revealed that VDAC2 was co-localized with RyR2 only in the subsarcolemmal region. VDAC2 knockdown by targeted short hairpin RNA led to an increased diastolic [Ca2+] (calcium concentration) and abolishment of mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake. Collectively, the present study suggests that the coupling of VDAC2 with RyR2 is essential for Ca2+ transfer from the SR to mitochondria in the heart.

Mitochondrial Ca²⁺ homeostasis: mechanism, role, and tissue specificities

Mitochondria from every tissue are quite similar in their capability to accumulate Ca²⁺ in a process that depends on the electrical potential across the inner membrane; it is catalyzed by a gated channel (named mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uniporter), the molecular identity of which has only recently been unraveled. The release of accumulated Ca²⁺ in mitochondria from different tissues is, on the contrary, quite variable, both in terms of speed and mechanism: a Na⁺-dependent efflux in excitable cells (catalyzed by NCLX) and a H⁺/Ca²⁺ exchanger in other cells. The efficacy of mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uptake in living cells is strictly dependent on the topological arrangement of the organelles with respect to the source of Ca²⁺ flowing into the cytoplasm, i.e., plasma membrane or intracellular channels. In turn, the structural and functional relationships between mitochondria and other cellular membranes are dictated by the specific architecture of different cells. Mitochondria not only modulate the amplitude and the kinetics of local and bulk cytoplasmic Ca²⁺ changes but also depend on the Ca²⁺ signal for their own functionality, in particular for their capacity to produce ATP. In this review, we summarize the processes involved in mitochondrial Ca²⁺ handling and its integration in cell physiology, highlighting the main common characteristics as well as key differences, in different tissues.

Regulation of ATP production by mitochondrial Ca(2+)

Stimulation of mitochondrial oxidative metabolism by Ca(2+) is now generally recognised as important for the control of cellular ATP homeostasis. Here, we review the mechanisms through which Ca(2+) regulates mitochondrial ATP synthesis. We focus on cardiac myocytes and pancreatic β-cells, where tight control of this process is likely to play an important role in the response to rapid changes in workload and to nutrient stimulation, respectively. We also describe a novel approach for imaging the Ca(2+)-dependent regulation of ATP levels dynamically in single cells.

Mitochondrial basis of the anti-arrhythmic action of lidocaine and modulation by the n-6 to n-3 PUFA ratio of cardiac phospholipids

The aim of this study was to evaluate the involvement of mitochondria in the mechanism of the anti-arrhythmic lidocaine. Rats were fed with a diet containing either n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs, SSO group) or an equimolecular mixture of n-3 and n-6 PUFAs (FO group) for 8 weeks. The hearts were perfused according to the working mode using a medium with or without lidocaine 5 μm. They were then subjected to local ischemia (20 min) and reperfusion (30 min). Dietary n-3 PUFAs triggered the expected decrease in the n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio of cardiac phospholipids. Reperfusing the ischemic area favored the incidence of severe arrhythmias. Lidocaine treatment abolished almost completely reperfusion arrhythmias in the FO group, but did not display anti-arrhythmic properties in the SSO group. As it was indicated by measurements of the mitochondrial function, lidocaine seemed to favor mitochondrial calcium retention in the FO group, which might prevent cytosolic calcium spikes and reperfusion arrhythmias. In the SSO group, the resistance to lidocaine was associated with an aggravation of cellular damages. The mitochondrial calcium retention capacities were saturated, and lidocaine was unable to increase them, making the drug inefficient in preventing reperfusion arrhythmias.

Hyperuricemia induces endothelial dysfunction via mitochondrial Na+/Ca2+ exchanger-mediated mitochondrial calcium overload

BACKGROUND

Uric acid (UA) has proven to be a causal agent in endothelial dysfunction in which ROS production plays an important role. Calcium overload in mitochondria can promote the mitochondrial production of ROS. We hypothesize that calcium transduction in mitochondria contributes to UA-induced endothelial dysfunction.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We first demonstrated that high concentrations of UA cause endothelial dysfunction, marked by a reduction in eNOS protein expression and NO release in vitro. We further found that a high concentration of UA increased levels of [Ca2+]mito, total intracellular ROS, H2O2, and mitochondrial O2·-, and Δψmito but not the [Ca2+]cyt level. When the mitochondrial calcium channels NCXmito and MCU were blocked by CGP-37157 and Ru360, respectively, the UA-induced increases in the levels of [Ca2+]mito and total intracellular ROS were significantly reduced. Mitochondrial levels of O2·- and Δψmito were reduced by inhibition of NCXmito but not of MCU. Moreover, inhibition of NCXmito, but not of MCU, blocked the UA-induced reductions in eNOS protein expression and NO release.

CONCLUSIONS

The increased generation of mitochondrial O2·- induced by a high concentration of UA is triggered by mitochondrial calcium overload and ultimately leads to endothelial dysfunction. In this process, the activation of NCXmito is the major cause of the influx of calcium into mitochondria. Our results provide a new pathophysiological mechanism for UA-induced endothelial dysfunction and may offer a new therapeutic target for clinicians.

Mitochondria and heart disease

Mitochondria play a key role in the normal functioning of the heart, and in the pathogenesis and development of various types of heart disease. Physiologically, mitochondrial ATP supply needs to be matched to the often sudden changes in ATP demand of the heart, and this is mediated to a large extent by the mitochondrial Ca(2+) transport pathways allowing elevation of mitochondrial [Ca(2+)] ([Ca(2+)](m)). In turn this activates dehydrogenase enzymes to increase NADH and hence ATP supply. Pathologically, [Ca(2+)](m) is also important in generation of reactive oxygen species, and in opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP); factors involved in both ischaemia-reperfusion injury and in heart failure. The MPTP has proved a promising target for protective strategies, with inhibitors widely used to show cardioprotection in experimental, and very recently human, studies. Similarly mitochondrially-targeted antioxidants have proved protective in various animal models of disease and await clinical trials. The mitochondrial Ca(2+) transport pathways, although in theory promising therapeutic targets, cannot yet be targeted in human studies due to non-specific effects of drugs used experimentally to inhibit them. Finally, specific mitochondrial cardiomyopathies due to mutations in mtDNA have been identified, usually in a gene for a tRNA, which, although rare, are almost always very severe once the mutation has exceeded its threshold.

Mitochondrial and cytosolic calcium in rat hearts under high-K(+) cardioplegia and pyruvate: mechano-energetic performance

High-K(+)-cardioplegia (CPG) and pyruvate (Pyr) are used as cardioprotective agents. Considering that mitochondria play a critical role in cardiac dysfunction, we investigated the effect of CPG on mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake and sarcorreticular (SR) calcium handling. Cytosolic and mitochondrial Ca(2+), as well as mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) were assessed in rat cardiomyocytes by confocal microscopy. Mechano-calorimetrical correlation was studied in perfused hearts. CPG did not modify JC-1 (ΔΨm), but transiently increased, by up to 1.8 times, the Fura-2 (intracellular Ca concentration, [Ca(2+)]i) and Rhod-2 (mitochondrial free Ca concentration [Ca(2+)]m) fluorescence of resting cells, with exponential decays. The addition of 5 µmol·L(-1) thapsigargin (Tpg) increased the Rhod-2 fluorescence in a group of cells without any effect on the Fura-2 signal. In rat hearts perfused with CPG, 1 µmol·L(-1) Tpg decreased resting heat rate (ΔH(r): -0.44 ± 0.07 mW·g(-1)), while the addition of 5 µmol·L(-1) KB-R7943 increased resting pressure (ΔrLVP by +5.26 ± 1.10 mm Hg; 1 mm Hg = 133.322 Pa). The addition of 10 mmol·L(-1) Pyr to CPG increased H(r) (+3.30 ± 0.24 mW·g(-1)) and ΔrLVP (+2.2 ± 0.4 mm Hg), which are effects potentiated by KB-R7943. The results suggest that under CPG, (i) there was an increase in [Ca(2+)]i and [Ca(2+)]m (without changing ΔΨm) that decayed by exothermic removal mechanisms; (ii) mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake contributed to the removal of cytosolic Ca(2+), in a process that was potentiated by inhibition of sarco-endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA), and reduced by KB-R7943; (iii) under these conditions, SERCA represents the main energetic consumer; (iv) Pyr increased the energetic performance of hearts,mainly by inducing mitochondrial metabolism.

A minimal model for the mitochondrial rapid mode of Ca²+ uptake mechanism

Mitochondria possess a remarkable ability to rapidly accumulate and sequester Ca²⁺. One of the mechanisms responsible for this ability is believed to be the rapid mode (RaM) of Ca²⁺ uptake. Despite the existence of many models of mitochondrial Ca²⁺ dynamics, very few consider RaM as a potential mechanism that regulates mitochondrial Ca²⁺ dynamics. To fill this gap, a novel mathematical model of the RaM mechanism is developed herein. The model is able to simulate the available experimental data of rapid Ca²⁺ uptake in isolated mitochondria from both chicken heart and rat liver tissues with good fidelity. The mechanism is based on Ca²⁺ binding to an external trigger site(s) and initiating a brief transient of high Ca²⁺ conductivity. It then quickly switches to an inhibited, zero-conductive state until the external Ca²⁺ level is dropped below a critical value (∼100–150 nM). RaM's Ca²⁺- and time-dependent properties make it a unique Ca²⁺ transporter that may be an important means by which mitochondria take up Ca²⁺in situ and help enable mitochondria to decode cytosolic Ca²⁺ signals. Integrating the developed RaM model into existing models of mitochondrial Ca²⁺ dynamics will help elucidate the physiological role that this unique mechanism plays in mitochondrial Ca²⁺-homeostasis and bioenergetics.