Phosphatidylcholine affects the role of the sorting and assembly machinery in the biogenesis of mitochondrial β-barrel proteins

Biogenesis of mitochondrial β-barrel membrane proteins

β-barrel membrane proteins in the mitochondrial outer membrane are crucial for mediating the metabolite exchange between the cytosol and the mitochondrial intermembrane space. In addition, the β-barrel membrane protein subunit Tom40 of the translocase of the outer membrane (TOM) is essential for the import of the vast majority of mitochondrial proteins encoded in the nucleus. The sorting and assembly machinery (SAM) in the outer membrane is required for the membrane insertion of mitochondrial β-barrel proteins. The core subunit Sam50, which has been conserved from bacteria to humans, is itself a β-barrel protein. The β-strands of β-barrel precursor proteins are assembled at the Sam50 lateral gate forming a Sam50-preprotein hybrid barrel. The assembled precursor β-barrel is finally released into the outer mitochondrial membrane by displacement of the nascent β-barrel, termed the β-barrel switching mechanism. SAM forms supercomplexes with TOM and forms a mitochondrial outer-to-inner membrane contact site with the mitochondrial contact site and cristae organizing system (MICOS) of the inner membrane. SAM shares subunits with the ER-mitochondria encounter structure (ERMES), which forms a membrane contact site between the mitochondrial outer membrane and the endoplasmic reticulum. Therefore, β-barrel membrane protein biogenesis is closely connected to general mitochondrial protein and lipid biogenesis and plays a central role in mitochondrial maintenance.

Mitochondrial membrane lipids in the regulation of bioenergetic flux

Oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) occurs through and across the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM). Mitochondrial membranes contain a distinct lipid composition, aided by lipid biosynthetic machinery localized in the IMM and class-specific lipid transporters that limit lipid traffic in and out of mitochondria. This unique lipid composition appears to be essential for functions of mitochondria, particularly OXPHOS, by its effects on direct lipid-to-protein interactions, membrane properties, and cristae ultrastructure. This review highlights the biological significance of mitochondrial lipids, with a particular spotlight on the role of lipids in mitochondrial bioenergetics. We describe pathways for the biosynthesis of mitochondrial lipids and provide evidence for their roles in physiology, their implications in human disease, and the mechanisms by which they regulate mitochondrial bioenergetics.

Chemical inhibition of phosphatidylcholine biogenesis reveals its role in mitochondrial division

Phospholipids are major components of biological membranes and play structural and regulatory roles in various biological processes. To determine the biological significance of phospholipids, the use of chemical inhibitors of phospholipid metabolism offers an effective approach; however, the availability of such compounds is limited. In this study, we performed a chemical-genetic screening using yeast and identified small molecules capable of inhibiting phosphatidylcholine (PC) biogenesis, which we designated PC inhibitors 1, 2, 3, and 4 (PCiB-1, 2, 3, and 4). Biochemical analyses indicated that PCiB-2, 3, and 4 inhibited the phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) methyltransferase activity of Cho2, whereas PCiB-1 may inhibit PE transport from mitochondria to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Interestingly, we found that PCiB treatment resulted in mitochondrial fragmentation, which was suppressed by expression of a dominant-negative mutant of the mitochondrial division factor Dnm1. These results provide evidence that normal PC biogenesis is important for the regulation of mitochondrial division.

Chronic inflammation, neuroglial dysfunction, and plasmalogen deficiency as a new pathobiological hypothesis addressing the overlap between post-COVID-19 symptoms and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome

After five waves of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreaks, it has been recognized that a significant portion of the affected individuals developed long-term debilitating symptoms marked by chronic fatigue, cognitive difficulties ("brain fog"), post-exertional malaise, and autonomic dysfunction. The onset, progression, and clinical presentation of this condition, generically named post-COVID-19 syndrome, overlap significantly with another enigmatic condition, referred to as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Several pathobiological mechanisms have been proposed for ME/CFS, including redox imbalance, systemic and central nervous system inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Chronic inflammation and glial pathological reactivity are common hallmarks of several neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders and have been consistently associated with reduced central and peripheral levels of plasmalogens, one of the major phospholipid components of cell membranes with several homeostatic functions. Of great interest, recent evidence revealed a significant reduction of plasmalogen contents, biosynthesis, and metabolism in ME/CFS and acute COVID-19, with a strong association to symptom severity and other relevant clinical outcomes. These bioactive lipids have increasingly attracted attention due to their reduced levels representing a common pathophysiological manifestation between several disorders associated with aging and chronic inflammation. However, alterations in plasmalogen levels or their lipidic metabolism have not yet been examined in individuals suffering from post-COVID-19 symptoms. Here, we proposed a pathobiological model for post-COVID-19 and ME/CFS based on their common inflammation and dysfunctional glial reactivity, and highlighted the emerging implications of plasmalogen deficiency in the underlying mechanisms. Along with the promising outcomes of plasmalogen replacement therapy (PRT) for various neurodegenerative/neuropsychiatric disorders, we sought to propose PRT as a simple, effective, and safe strategy for the potential relief of the debilitating symptoms associated with ME/CFS and post-COVID-19 syndrome.

Profiling The Compendium Of Changes In Saccharomyces cerevisiae Due To Mutations That Alter Availability Of The Main Methyl Donor S-Adenosylmethionine

The SAM1 and SAM2 genes encode for S-AdenosylMethionine (AdoMet) synthetase enzymes, with AdoMet serving as the main methyl donor. We have previously shown that independent deletion of these genes alters chromosome stability and AdoMet concentrations in opposite ways in S. cerevisiae. To characterize other changes occurring in these mutants, we grew wildtype, sam1∆/sam1∆, and sam2∆/sam2∆ strains in 15 different Phenotypic Microarray plates with different components, equal to 1440 wells, and measured for growth variations. RNA-Sequencing was also carried out on these strains and differential gene expression determined for each mutant. In this study, we explore how the phenotypic growth differences are linked to the altered gene expression, and thereby predict the mechanisms by which loss of the SAM genes and subsequent AdoMet level changes, impact S. cerevisiae pathways and processes. We present six stories, discussing changes in sensitivity or resistance to azoles, cisplatin, oxidative stress, arginine biosynthesis perturbations, DNA synthesis inhibitors, and tamoxifen, to demonstrate the power of this novel methodology to broadly profile changes due to gene mutations. The large number of conditions that result in altered growth, as well as the large number of differentially expressed genes with wide-ranging functionality, speaks to the broad array of impacts that altering methyl donor abundance can impart, even when the conditions tested were not specifically selected as targeting known methyl involving pathways. Our findings demonstrate that some cellular changes are directly related to AdoMet-dependent methyltransferases and AdoMet availability, some are directly linked to the methyl cycle and its role is production of several important cellular components, and others reveal impacts of SAM gene mutations on previously unconnected pathways.

Metabolomic analysis of maternal mid-gestation plasma and cord blood in autism spectrum disorders

The discovery of prenatal and neonatal molecular biomarkers has the potential to yield insights into autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and facilitate early diagnosis. We characterized metabolomic profiles in ASD using plasma samples collected in the Norwegian Autism Birth Cohort from mothers at weeks 17-21 gestation (maternal mid-gestation, MMG, n = 408) and from children on the day of birth (cord blood, CB, n = 418). We analyzed associations using sex-stratified adjusted logistic regression models with Bayesian analyses. Chemical enrichment analyses (ChemRICH) were performed to determine altered chemical clusters. We also employed machine learning algorithms to assess the utility of metabolomics as ASD biomarkers. We identified ASD associations with a variety of chemical compounds including arachidonic acid, glutamate, and glutamine, and metabolite clusters including hydroxy eicospentaenoic acids, phosphatidylcholines, and ceramides in MMG and CB plasma that are consistent with inflammation, disruption of membrane integrity, and impaired neurotransmission and neurotoxicity. Girls with ASD have disruption of ether/non-ether phospholipid balance in the MMG plasma that is similar to that found in other neurodevelopmental disorders. ASD boys in the CB analyses had the highest number of dysregulated chemical clusters. Machine learning classifiers distinguished ASD cases from controls with area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) values ranging from 0.710 to 0.853. Predictive performance was better in CB analyses than in MMG. These findings may provide new insights into the sex-specific differences in ASD and have implications for discovery of biomarkers that may enable early detection and intervention.

The effect of methylated phosphatidylethanolamine derivatives on the ionization properties of signaling phosphatidic acid

Phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and Phosphatidylcholine (PC) are the most abundant glycerophospholipids in eukaryotic membranes. The differences in the physicochemical properties of their headgroups have contrasting modulatory effects on their interaction with intracellular macromolecules. As such, their overall impact on membrane structure and function differs significantly. Enzymatic methylation of PE's amine headgroup produces two methylated derivatives namely monomethyl PE (MMPE) and dimethyl PE (DMPE) which have physicochemical properties that generally range between that of PE and PC. Additionally, their influence on membrane properties differs from both PE and PC. Although variations in headgroup methylation have been reported to affect signaling pathways, the direct influence that these differences exert on the ionization properties of signaling phospholipids have not been investigated. Here, we briefly review membrane function and structure that are mediated by the differences in headgroup methylation between PE, MMPE, DMPE and PC. In addition, using ³¹P MAS NMR, we investigate the effect of these four phospholipids on the ionization properties of the ubiquitous signaling anionic lipid phosphatidic acid (PA). Our results show that PA's ionization properties are differentially affected by changes in phospholipid headgroup methylation. This could have important implications for PA-protein binding and hence physiological functions in cells where signaling events lead to changes in abundance of methylated PE derivatives in the membrane.

Mitochondrial protein import machinery conveys stress signals to the cytosol and beyond

Mitochondria hold diverse and pivotal roles in fundamental processes that govern cell survival, differentiation, and death, in addition to organismal growth, maintenance, and aging. The mitochondrial protein import system is a major contributor to mitochondrial biogenesis and lies at the crossroads between mitochondrial and cellular homeostasis. Recent findings highlight the mitochondrial protein import system as a signaling hub, receiving inputs from other cellular compartments and adjusting its function accordingly. Impairment of protein import, in a physiological, or disease context, elicits adaptive responses inside and outside mitochondria. In this review, we discuss recent developments, relevant to the mechanisms of mitochondrial protein import regulation, with a particular focus on quality control, proteostatic and metabolic cellular responses, triggered upon impairment of mitochondrial protein import.

Chicken or Egg? Mitochondrial Phospholipids and Oxidative Stress in Disuse-Induced Skeletal Muscle Atrophy

Significance: Accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is known to promote cellular damage in multiple cell types. In skeletal muscle, ROS has been implicated in disuse-induced muscle atrophy. However, the molecular origin and mechanism of how disuse promotes ROS and muscle dysfunction remains unclear. Recent Advances: Recently, we implicated membrane lipids of mitochondria to be a potential source of ROS to promote muscle atrophy. Critical Issues: In this review, we discuss evidence that changes in mitochondrial lipids represent a physiologically relevant process by which disuse promotes mitochondrial electron leak and oxidative stress. Future Directions: We further discuss lipid hydroperoxides as a potential downstream mediator of ROS to induce muscle atrophy. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 38, 338-351.

Using Untargeted LC-MS Metabolomics to Identify the Association of Biomarkers in Cattle Feces with Marbling Standard Longissimus Lumborum

Background: To improve the grade of beef marbling has great economic value in the cattle industry since marbling has the traits of high quality and comprehensive nutrition. And because of the marbling’s importance and complexity, it is indispensable to explore marbled beef at multiple levels. This experiment studied the relationship between fecal metabolites and marbling characters, and further screened biomarkers. Results: We performed fecal metabolomics analysis on 30 individuals selected from 100 crossbreed cattle (Luxi Yellow cattle ♀ × Japanese Wagyu cattle ♂), 15 with an extremely high-grade marbling beef and 15 with an extremely low-grade marbling beef. A total of 9959 and 8389 m/z features were detected in positive ionization and negative ionization mode by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Unfortunately, the sample separation in the PCA is not obvious, and the predictive ability of the orthogonal partial least squares discrimination analysis (OPLS-DA) model is not good. However, we got six differential metabolites filtered by VIP > 1 and p < 0.05. After that, we used weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) and found out a module in each positive and negative mode most related to the trait of marbling beef, and then identified three metabolites in positive mode. By further annotation of the Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG), it was found that these metabolites involved a variety of metabolic ways, including sphingomyelin metabolism, linoleic acid metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and so on. Finally, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate the predictability of metabolites, and the result showed that SM(d18:0/16:1(9Z)) (AUC = 0.72), PC(15:0/18:2(9Z,12Z)) (AUC = 0.72), ADP (AUC = 0.71), PC(16:0/16:0) (AUC = 0.73), and 3-O-Sulfogalactosylceramide (d18:1/18:0) (AUC = 0.69) have an accuracy diagnosis. Conclusions: In conclusion, this study supports new opinions for the successive evaluation of marbling beef through metabolites. Furthermore, six non-invasive fecal metabolites that can evaluate beef marbling grade were found, including SM(d18:0/16:1(9Z)), PC(15:0/18:2(9Z,12Z)), ADP, PC(16:0/16:0), and 3-O-Sulfogalactosylceramide.

The emerging roles of PHOSPHO1 and its regulated phospholipid homeostasis in metabolic disorders

Emerging evidence suggests that phosphoethanolamine/phosphocholine phosphatase 1 (PHOSPHO1), a specific phosphoethanolamine and phosphocholine phosphatase, is involved in energy metabolism. In this review, we describe the structure and regulation of PHOSPHO1, as well as current knowledge about the role of PHOSPHO1 and its related phospholipid metabolites in regulating energy metabolism. We also examine mechanistic evidence of PHOSPHO1- and phospholipid-mediated regulation of mitochondrial and lipid droplets functions in the context of metabolic homeostasis, which could be potentially targeted for treating metabolic disorders.

Metabolomic Evidence for Peroxisomal Dysfunction in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a chronic and debilitating disease characterized by unexplained physical fatigue, cognitive and sensory dysfunction, sleeping disturbances, orthostatic intolerance, and gastrointestinal problems. People with ME/CFS often report a prodrome consistent with infections. Using regression, Bayesian and enrichment analyses, we conducted targeted and untargeted metabolomic analysis of plasma from 106 ME/CFS cases and 91 frequency-matched healthy controls. Subjects in the ME/CFS group had significantly decreased levels of plasmalogens and phospholipid ethers (p < 0.001), phosphatidylcholines (p < 0.001) and sphingomyelins (p < 0.001), and elevated levels of dicarboxylic acids (p = 0.013). Using machine learning algorithms, we were able to differentiate ME/CFS or subgroups of ME/CFS from controls with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) values up to 0.873. Our findings provide the first metabolomic evidence of peroxisomal dysfunction, and are consistent with dysregulation of lipid remodeling and the tricarboxylic acid cycle. These findings, if validated in other cohorts, could provide new insights into the pathogenesis of ME/CFS and highlight the potential use of the plasma metabolome as a source of biomarkers for the disease.

Crosstalk between Mitochondrial Protein Import and Lipids

Mitochondria import about 1000 precursor proteins from the cytosol. The translocase of the outer membrane (TOM complex) forms the major entry site for precursor proteins. Subsequently, membrane-bound protein translocases sort the precursor proteins into the outer and inner membrane, the intermembrane space, and the matrix. The phospholipid composition of mitochondrial membranes is critical for protein import. Structural and biochemical data revealed that phospholipids affect the stability and activity of mitochondrial protein translocases. Integration of proteins into the target membrane involves rearrangement of phospholipids and distortion of the lipid bilayer. Phospholipids are present in the interface between subunits of protein translocases and affect the dynamic coupling of partner proteins. Phospholipids are required for full activity of the respiratory chain to generate membrane potential, which in turn drives protein import across and into the inner membrane. Finally, outer membrane protein translocases are closely linked to organellar contact sites that mediate lipid trafficking. Altogether, intensive crosstalk between mitochondrial protein import and lipid biogenesis controls mitochondrial biogenesis.

Evidence for Peroxisomal Dysfunction and Dysregulation of the CDP-Choline Pathway in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Background

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a chronic and debilitating disease that is characterized by unexplained physical fatigue unrelieved by rest. Symptoms also include cognitive and sensory dysfunction, sleeping disturbances, orthostatic intolerance, and gastrointestinal problems. A syndrome clinically similar to ME/CFS has been reported following well-documented infections with the coronaviruses SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV. At least 10% of COVID-19 survivors develop post acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC). Although many individuals with PASC have evidence of structural organ damage, a subset have symptoms consistent with ME/CFS including fatigue, post exertional malaise, cognitive dysfunction, gastrointestinal disturbances, and postural orthostatic intolerance. These common features in ME/CFS and PASC suggest that insights into the pathogenesis of either may enrich our understanding of both syndromes, and could expedite the development of strategies for identifying those at risk and interventions that prevent or mitigate disease.

Methods

Using regression, Bayesian and enrichment analyses, we conducted targeted and untargeted metabolomic analysis of 888 metabolic analytes in plasma samples of 106 ME/CFS cases and 91 frequency-matched healthy controls.

Results

In ME/CFS cases, regression, Bayesian and enrichment analyses revealed evidence of peroxisomal dysfunction with decreased levels of plasmalogens. Other findings included decreased levels of several membrane lipids, including phosphatidylcholines and sphingomyelins, that may indicate dysregulation of the cytidine-5’-diphosphocholine pathway. Enrichment analyses revealed decreased levels of choline, ceramides and carnitines, and increased levels of long chain triglycerides (TG) and hydroxy-eicosapentaenoic acid. Elevated levels of dicarboxylic acids were consistent with abnormalities in the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Using machine learning algorithms with selected metabolites as predictors, we were able to differentiate female ME/CFS cases from female controls (highest AUC=0.794) and ME/CFS cases without self-reported irritable bowel syndrome (sr-IBS) from controls without sr-IBS (highest AUC=0.873).

Conclusion

Our findings are consistent with earlier ME/CFS work indicating compromised energy metabolism and redox imbalance, and highlight new abnormalities that may provide insights into the pathogenesis of ME/CFS.

Plasma levels of plasmalogens are decreased in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome suggesting peroxisome dysfunction.

The Mitochondrial Import Complex MIM Functions as Main Translocase for α-Helical Outer Membrane Proteins

The mitochondrial outer membrane contains integral proteins with α-helical membrane anchors or a transmembrane β-barrel. The translocase of the outer membrane (TOM) cooperates with the sorting and assembly machinery (SAM) in the import of β-barrel proteins, whereas the mitochondrial import (MIM) complex inserts precursors of multi-spanning α-helical proteins. Single-spanning proteins constitute more than half of the integral outer membrane proteins; however, their biogenesis is poorly understood. We report that the yeast MIM complex promotes the insertion of proteins with N-terminal (signal-anchored) or C-terminal (tail-anchored) membrane anchors. The MIM complex exists in three dynamic populations. MIM interacts with TOM to accept precursor proteins from the receptor Tom70. Free MIM complexes insert single-spanning proteins that are imported in a Tom70-independent manner. Finally, coupling of MIM and SAM promotes early assembly steps of TOM subunits. We conclude that the MIM complex is a major and versatile protein translocase of the mitochondrial outer membrane.

Phospholipid ebb and flow makes mitochondria go

Mitochondria, so much more than just being energy factories, also have the capacity to synthesize macromolecules including phospholipids, particularly cardiolipin (CL) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE). Phospholipids are vital constituents of mitochondrial membranes, impacting the plethora of functions performed by this organelle. Hence, the orchestrated movement of phospholipids to and from the mitochondrion is essential for cellular integrity. In this review, we capture recent advances in the field of mitochondrial phospholipid biosynthesis and trafficking, highlighting the significance of interorganellar communication, intramitochondrial contact sites, and lipid transfer proteins in maintaining membrane homeostasis. We then discuss the physiological functions of CL and PE, specifically how they associate with protein complexes in mitochondrial membranes to support bioenergetics and maintain mitochondrial architecture.

Mitochondrial sorting and assembly machinery operates by β-barrel switching

The mitochondrial outer membrane contains so-called β-barrel proteins, which allow communication between the cytosol and the mitochondrial interior^1-3. Insertion of β-barrel proteins into the outer membrane is mediated by the multisubunit mitochondrial sorting and assembly machinery (SAM, also known as TOB)^4-6. Here we use cryo-electron microscopy to determine the structures of two different forms of the yeast SAM complex at a resolution of 2.8-3.2 Å. The dimeric complex contains two copies of the β-barrel channel protein Sam50-Sam50a and Sam50b-with partially open lateral gates. The peripheral membrane proteins Sam35 and Sam37 cap the Sam50 channels from the cytosolic side, and are crucial for the structural and functional integrity of the dimeric complex. In the second complex, Sam50b is replaced by the β-barrel protein Mdm10. In cooperation with Sam50a, Sam37 recruits and traps Mdm10 by penetrating the interior of its laterally closed β-barrel from the cytosolic side. The substrate-loaded SAM complex contains one each of Sam50, Sam35 and Sam37, but neither Mdm10 nor a second Sam50, suggesting that Mdm10 and Sam50b function as placeholders for a β-barrel substrate released from Sam50a. Our proposed mechanism for dynamic switching of β-barrel subunits and substrate explains how entire precursor proteins can fold in association with the mitochondrial machinery for β-barrel assembly.

Implications of gut microbiota dysbiosis and metabolic changes in prion disease

Evidence of the gut microbiota influencing neurodegenerative diseases has been reported for several neural diseases. However, there is little insight regarding the relationship between the gut microbiota and prion disease. Here, using fecal samples of 12 prion-infected mice and 25 healthy controls, we analyzed the structure of the gut microbiota and metabolic changes by 16S rRNA sequencing and LC-MS-based metabolomics respectively as multi-omic analyses. Additionally, SCFAs and common amino acids were detected by GC-MS and UPLC respectively. Enteric changes induced by prion disease affected both structure and abundances of the gut microbiota. The gut microbiota of infected mice displayed greater numbers of Proteobacteria and less Saccharibacteria at the phylum level and more Lactobacillaceae and Helicobacteraceae and less Prevotellaceae and Ruminococcaceae at the family level. A total of 145 fecal metabolites were found to be significantly different in prion infection, and most (114) of these were lipid metabolites. Using KEGG pathway enrichment analysis, we found that 3 phosphatidylcholine (PC) compounds significantly decreased and 4 hydrophobic bile acids significantly increased. Decreases of 8 types of short-chain acids (SCFAs) and increases of Cys and Tyr and decreases of His, Trp, and Arg were observed in prion infection. Correlation analysis indicated that the gut microbiota changes observed in our study may have been the shared outcome of prion disease. These findings suggest that prion disease can cause significant shifts in the gut microbiota. Certain bacterial taxa can then respond to the resulting change to the enteric environment by causing dramatic shifts in metabolite levels. Our data highlight the health impact of the gut microbiota and related metabolites in prion disease.

Hydrophobic Mismatch Modulates Stability and Plasticity of Human Mitochondrial VDAC2

The human mitochondrial outer membrane protein voltage-dependent anion channel isoform 2 (hVDAC2) is a β-barrel metabolite flux channel that is indispensable for cell survival. It is well established that physical forces imposed on a transmembrane protein by its surrounding lipid environment decide protein structure and stability. Yet, how the mitochondrial membrane and protein-lipid interplay together regulate hVDAC2 stability is unknown. Here, we combine experimental biophysical investigations of protein stability with all-atom molecular dynamics simulations to study the effect of the most abundant mitochondrial phosphocholine (PC) lipids on hVDAC2. We demonstrate experimentally that increasing the PC lipid acyl chain length from diC14:0 to diC18:0-PC has a nonlinear effect on the β-barrel. We show that protein stability is highest in diC16:0-PC, which exhibits a negative mismatch with the hVDAC2 barrel. Our simulations also reveal that structural rigidity of hVDAC2 is highest under optimal negative mismatch provided by diC16:0-PC bilayers. Further, we validate our observations by altering the physical properties of PC membranes indirectly using cholesterol. We propose that VDAC plasticity and stability in the mitochondrial outer membrane are modulated by physical properties of the bilayer.

Role of phospholipid synthesis in the development and differentiation of malaria parasites in the blood

The life cycle of malaria parasites in both their mammalian host and mosquito vector consists of multiple developmental stages that ensure proper replication and progeny survival. The transition between these stages is fueled by nutrients scavenged from the host and fed into specialized metabolic pathways of the parasite. One such pathway is used by Plasmodium falciparum, which causes the most severe form of human malaria, to synthesize its major phospholipids, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and phosphatidylserine. Much is known about the enzymes involved in the synthesis of these phospholipids, and recent advances in genetic engineering, single-cell RNA-Seq analyses, and drug screening have provided new perspectives on the importance of some of these enzymes in parasite development and sexual differentiation and have identified targets for the development of new antimalarial drugs. This Minireview focuses on two phospholipid biosynthesis enzymes of P. falciparum that catalyze phosphoethanolamine transmethylation (PfPMT) and phosphatidylserine decarboxylation (PfPSD) during the blood stages of the parasite. We also discuss our current understanding of the biochemical, structural, and biological functions of these enzymes and highlight efforts to use them as antimalarial drug targets.

The Phosphatidylcholine Transfer Protein Stard7 is Required for Mitochondrial and Epithelial Cell Homeostasis

Mitochondria synthesize select phospholipids but lack the machinery for synthesis of the most abundant mitochondrial phospholipid, phosphatidylcholine (PC). Although the phospholipid transfer protein Stard7 promotes uptake of PC by mitochondria, the importance of this pathway for mitochondrial and cellular homeostasis represents a significant knowledge gap. Haploinsufficiency for Stard7 is associated with significant exacerbation of allergic airway disease in mice, including an increase in epithelial barrier permeability. To test the hypothesis that Stard7 deficiency leads to altered barrier structure/function downstream of mitochondrial dysfunction, Stard7 expression was knocked down in a bronchiolar epithelial cell line (BEAS-2B) and specifically deleted in lung epithelial cells of mice (Stard7^epi∆/∆). Stard7 deficiency was associated with altered mitochondrial size and membrane organization both in vitro and in vivo. Altered mitochondrial structure was accompanied by disruption of mitochondrial homeostasis, including decreased aerobic respiration, increased oxidant stress, and mitochondrial DNA damage that, in turn, was linked to altered barrier integrity and function. Both mitochondrial and barrier defects were largely corrected by targeting Stard7 to mitochondria or treating epithelial cells with a mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant. These studies suggest that Stard7-mediated transfer of PC is crucial for mitochondrial homeostasis and that mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to altered barrier permeability in Stard7-deficient mice.

Endoplasmic reticulum stress affects the transport of phosphatidylethanolamine from mitochondria to the endoplasmic reticulum in S.cerevisiae

Phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) are two of the most abundant phospholipids in cells. Although both lipids can be synthesized in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), in S. cerevisiae PE can also be produced in mitochondria and endosomes; this PE can be transported back to the ER where it is converted to PC. In this study we found that dithiothreitol (DTT), which induces ER stress, decreases PE export from mitochondria to the ER. This results in decreased levels of total cellular PC and mitochondrial PC. These decreases were not caused by changes in levels of PC synthesizing or degrading enzymes. PE export from mitochondria to the ER during ER stress was further reduced in cells lacking Mdm10p, a component of an ER-mitochondrial tethering complex that may facilitated lipid exchange between these compartments. We also found that reducing mitochondrial PC levels induces mitophagy. In conclusion, we show that ER stress affected PE export from mitochondria to ER and the Mdm10p is important for this process.

Endoplasmic reticulum stress and calcium imbalance are involved in cadmium-induced lipid aberrancy in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The endoplasmic reticulum is the key organelle which controls protein folding, lipid biogenesis, and calcium (Ca(2+)) homeostasis. Cd exposure in Saccharomyces cerevisiae activated the unfolded protein response and was confirmed by the increased Kar2p expression. Cd exposure in wild-type (WT) cells increased PC levels and the PC biosynthetic genes. Deletion of the two phospholipid methyltransferases CHO2 and OPI3 modulated PC, TAG levels and the lipid droplets with cadmium exposure. Interestingly, we noticed an increase in the calcium levels upon Cd exposure in the mutant cells. This study concluded that Cd interrupted calcium homeostasis-induced lipid dysregulation leading to ER stress.

Intramitochondrial phospholipid trafficking

Mitochondrial functions and architecture rely on a defined lipid composition of their outer and inner membranes, which are characterized by a high content of non-bilayer phospholipids such as cardiolipin (CL) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE). Mitochondrial membrane lipids are synthesized in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) or within mitochondria from ER-derived precursor lipids, are asymmetrically distributed within mitochondria and can relocate in response to cellular stress. Maintenance of lipid homeostasis thus requires multiple lipid transport processes to be orchestrated within mitochondria. Recent findings identified members of the Ups/PRELI family as specific lipid transfer proteins in mitochondria that shuttle phospholipids between mitochondrial membranes. They cooperate with membrane organizing proteins that preserve the spatial organization of mitochondrial membranes and the formation of membrane contact sites, unravelling an intimate crosstalk of membrane lipid transport and homeostasis with the structural organization of mitochondria. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Lipids of Mitochondria edited by Guenther Daum.

Phosphatidylcholine Affects Inner Membrane Protein Translocases of Mitochondria

Two protein translocases transport precursor proteins into or across the inner mitochondrial membrane. The presequence translocase (TIM23 complex) sorts precursor proteins with a cleavable presequence either into the matrix or into the inner membrane. The carrier translocase (TIM22 complex) inserts multispanning proteins into the inner membrane. Both protein import pathways depend on the presence of a membrane potential, which is generated by the activity of the respiratory chain. The non-bilayer-forming phospholipids cardiolipin and phosphatidylethanolamine are required for the activity of the respiratory chain and therefore to maintain the membrane potential for protein import. Depletion of cardiolipin further affects the stability of the TIM23 complex. The role of bilayer-forming phospholipids like phosphatidylcholine (PC) in protein transport into the inner membrane and the matrix is unknown. Here, we report that import of presequence-containing precursors and carrier proteins is impaired in PC-deficient mitochondria. Surprisingly, depletion of PC does not affect stability and activity of respiratory supercomplexes, and the membrane potential is maintained. Instead, the dynamic TIM23 complex is destabilized when the PC levels are reduced, whereas the TIM22 complex remains intact. Our analysis further revealed that initial precursor binding to the TIM23 complex is impaired in PC-deficient mitochondria. We conclude that reduced PC levels differentially affect the TIM22 and TIM23 complexes in mitochondrial protein transport.

Effects of lipids on mitochondrial functions

Mitochondria contain two membranes: the outer and inner membrane. Whereas the outer membrane is particularly enriched in phospholipids, the inner membrane has an unusual high protein content and forms large invaginations termed cristae. The proper phospholipid composition of the membranes is crucial for mitochondrial functions. Phospholipids affect activity, biogenesis and stability of protein complexes including protein translocases and respiratory chain supercomplexes. Negatively charged phospholipids such as cardiolipin are important for the architecture of the membranes and recruit soluble factors to the membranes to support mitochondrial dynamics. Thus, phospholipids not only form the hydrophobic core of biological membranes that surround mitochondria, but also create a specific environment to promote functions of various protein machineries. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Lipids of Mitochondria edited by Guenther Daum.

Specific requirements of nonbilayer phospholipids in mitochondrial respiratory chain function and formation

Phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and cardiolipin have specific roles in the activity and assembly of the mitochondrial respiratory chain supercomplexes, respectively, whereas phosphatidylcholine is redundant. Nonmitochondrial PE can be transported into mitochondria, where it can fully substitute for the lack of mitochondrial PE biosynthesis.

Mitochondrial membrane phospholipid composition affects mitochondrial function by influencing the assembly of the mitochondrial respiratory chain (MRC) complexes into supercomplexes. For example, the loss of cardiolipin (CL), a signature non–bilayer-forming phospholipid of mitochondria, results in disruption of MRC supercomplexes. However, the functions of the most abundant mitochondrial phospholipids, bilayer-forming phosphatidylcholine (PC) and non–bilayer-forming phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), are not clearly defined. Using yeast mutants of PE and PC biosynthetic pathways, we show a specific requirement for mitochondrial PE in MRC complex III and IV activities but not for their formation, whereas loss of PC does not affect MRC function or formation. Unlike CL, mitochondrial PE or PC is not required for MRC supercomplex formation, emphasizing the specific requirement of CL in supercomplex assembly. Of interest, PE biosynthesized in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) can functionally substitute for the lack of mitochondrial PE biosynthesis, suggesting the existence of PE transport pathway from ER to mitochondria. To understand the mechanism of PE transport, we disrupted ER–mitochondrial contact sites formed by the ERMES complex and found that, although not essential for PE transport, ERMES facilitates the efficient rescue of mitochondrial PE deficiency. Our work highlights specific roles of non–bilayer-forming phospholipids in MRC function and formation.

The evolution of ERMIONE in mitochondrial biogenesis and lipid homeostasis: An evolutionary view from comparative cell biology

The ER-mitochondria organizing network (ERMIONE) in Saccharomyces cerevisiae is involved in maintaining mitochondrial morphology and lipid homeostasis. ERMES and MICOS are two scaffolding complexes of ERMIONE that contribute to these processes. ERMES is ancient but has been lost in several lineages including animals, plants, and SAR (stramenopiles, alveolates and rhizaria). On the other hand, MICOS is ancient and has remained present in all organisms bearing mitochondrial cristae. The ERMIONE precursor evolved in the α-proteobacterial ancestor of mitochondria which had the central subunit of MICOS, Mic60. The subsequent evolution of ERMIONE and its interactors in eukaryotes reflects the integrative co-evolution of mitochondria and their hosts and the adaptive paths that some lineages have followed in their specialization to certain environments. By approaching the ERMIONE from a perspective of comparative evolutionary cell biology, we hope to shed light on not only its evolutionary history, but also how ERMIONE components may function in organisms other than S. cerevisiae. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The cellular lipid landscape edited by Tim P. Levine and Anant K. Menon.