Regulation of autophagy by perilysosomal calcium: a new player in β-cell lipotoxicity

Autophagy is an essential quality control mechanism for maintaining organellar functions in eukaryotic cells. Defective autophagy in pancreatic beta cells has been shown to be involved in the progression of diabetes through impaired insulin secretion under glucolipotoxic stress. The underlying mechanism reveals the pathologic role of the hyperactivation of mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), which inhibits lysosomal biogenesis and autophagic processes. Moreover, accumulating evidence suggests that oxidative stress induces Ca2+ depletion in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and cytosolic Ca2+ overload, which may contribute to mTOR activation in perilysosomal microdomains, leading to autophagic defects and β-cell failure due to lipotoxicity. This review delineates the antagonistic regulation of autophagic flux by mTOR and AMP-dependent protein kinase (AMPK) at the lysosomal membrane, and both of these molecules could be activated by perilysosomal calcium signaling. However, aberrant and persistent Ca2+ elevation upon lipotoxic stress increases mTOR activity and suppresses autophagy. Therefore, normalization of autophagy is an attractive therapeutic strategy for patients with β-cell failure and diabetes.

CDN1163, an activator of sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase, up-regulates mitochondrial functions and protects against lipotoxicity in pancreatic β-cells

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

High levels of Ca2+ in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), established by the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA), are required for protein folding and cell signalling. Excessive ER Ca2+ release or decreased SERCA activity induces unfolded protein accumulation and ER stress in pancreatic β-cells, leading to defective insulin secretion and diabetes. Here we have investigated the consequences of enhancing ER Ca2+ uptake on β-cell survival and function.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

The effects of SERCA activator, CDN1163, on Ca2+ homeostasis, protein expression, mitochondrial activities, insulin secretion, and lipotoxicity have been studied in mouse pancreatic β-cells and MIN6 cells.

KEY RESULTS

CDN1163, increased insulin synthesis and exocytosis from islets. CDN1163 also increased the sensitivity of the cytosolic Ca2+ oscillation response to glucose and potentiated it in dispersed and sorted β-cells. CDN1163 augmented the ER and mitochondrial Ca2+ content, the mitochondrial membrane potential, respiration, and ATP synthesis. CDN1163 up-regulated expression of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors and antioxidant enzymes, and mitochondrial biogenesis, including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1α (PGC1α). Overexpression of SERCA2a or 2b replicated the effects of CDN1163, while knockdown of SERCA2 abolished the stimulatory actions of CDN1163. In palmitate-treated β-cells, CDN1163 prevented ER Ca2+ depletion, mitochondrial dysfunction, cytosolic and mitochondrial oxidative stress, defective insulin secretion, and apoptotic cell death.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Activation of SERCA enhanced mitochondrial bioenergetics and antioxidant capability, suppressing the cytotoxic effects of palmitate. Our results suggest that targeting SERCA could be a novel therapeutic strategy to protect β-cells from lipotoxicity and the development of Type 2 diabetes.

SLC25A46 promotes mitochondrial fission and mediates resistance to lipotoxic stress in INS-1E insulin-secreting cells

Glucose sensing in pancreatic β-cells depends on oxidative phosphorylation and mitochondria-derived signals that promote insulin secretion. Using mass spectrometry-based phosphoproteomics to search for downstream effectors of glucose-dependent signal transduction in INS-1E insulinoma cells, we identified the outer mitochondrial membrane protein SLC25A46. Under resting glucose concentrations, SLC25A46 was phosphorylated on a pair of threonine residues (T44/T45) and was dephosphorylated in response to glucose-induced Ca2+ signals. Overexpression of SLC25A46 in INS-1E cells caused complete mitochondrial fragmentation, resulting in a mild mitochondrial defect associated with lowered glucose-induced insulin secretion. In contrast, inactivation of the Slc25a46 gene resulted in dramatic mitochondrial hyperfusion, without affecting respiratory activity or insulin secretion. Consequently, SLC25A46 is not essential for metabolism-secretion coupling under normal nutrient conditions. Importantly, insulin-secreting cells lacking SLC25A46 had an exacerbated sensitivity to lipotoxic conditions, undergoing massive apoptosis when exposed to palmitate. Therefore, in addition to its role in mitochondrial dynamics, SLC25A46 plays a role in preventing mitochondria-induced apoptosis in INS-E cells exposed to nutrient stress. By protecting mitochondria, SLC25A46 might help to maintain β-cell mass essential for blood glucose control.

Mitochondrial respiratory chain dysfunction alters ER sterol sensing and mevalonate pathway activity

Mitochondrial dysfunction induces a strong adaptive retrograde signaling response; however, many of the downstream effectors of this response remain to be discovered. Here, we studied the shared transcriptional responses to three different mitochondrial respiratory chain inhibitors in human primary skin fibroblasts using QuantSeq 3′-RNA-sequencing. We found that genes involved in the mevalonate pathway were concurrently downregulated, irrespective of the respiratory chain complex affected. Targeted metabolomics demonstrated that impaired mitochondrial respiration at any of the three affected complexes also had functional consequences on the mevalonate pathway, reducing levels of cholesterol precursor metabolites. A deeper study of complex I inhibition showed a reduced activity of endoplasmic reticulum–bound sterol-sensing enzymes through impaired processing of the transcription factor Sterol Regulatory Element-Binding Protein 2 and accelerated degradation of the endoplasmic reticulum cholesterol-sensors squalene epoxidase and HMG-CoA reductase. These adaptations of mevalonate pathway activity affected neither total intracellular cholesterol levels nor the cellular free (nonesterified) cholesterol pool. Finally, measurement of intracellular cholesterol using the fluorescent cholesterol binding dye filipin revealed that complex I inhibition elevated cholesterol on intracellular compartments. Taken together, our study shows that mitochondrial respiratory chain dysfunction elevates intracellular free cholesterol levels and therefore attenuates the expression of mevalonate pathway enzymes, which lowers endogenous cholesterol biosynthesis, disrupting the metabolic output of the mevalonate pathway. We conclude that intracellular disturbances in cholesterol homeostasis may alter systemic cholesterol management in diseases associated with declining mitochondrial function.

Gut-derived short-chain fatty acids modulate skin barrier integrity by promoting keratinocyte metabolism and differentiation

Barrier integrity is central to the maintenance of healthy immunological homeostasis. Impaired skin barrier function is linked with enhanced allergen sensitization and the development of diseases such as atopic dermatitis (AD), which can precede the development of other allergic disorders, for example, food allergies and asthma. Epidemiological evidence indicates that children suffering from allergies have lower levels of dietary fibre-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFA). Using an experimental model of AD-like skin inflammation, we report that a fermentable fibre-rich diet alleviates systemic allergen sensitization and disease severity. The gut-skin axis underpins this phenomenon through SCFA production, particularly butyrate, which strengthens skin barrier function by altering mitochondrial metabolism of epidermal keratinocytes and the production of key structural components. Our results demonstrate that dietary fibre and SCFA improve epidermal barrier integrity, ultimately limiting early allergen sensitization and disease development.The Graphical Abstract was designed using Servier Medical Art images ( https://smart.servier.com ).

Augmented mitochondrial energy metabolism is an early response to chronic glucose stress in human pancreatic beta cells

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

In islets from individuals with type 2 diabetes and in islets exposed to chronic elevated glucose, mitochondrial energy metabolism is impaired. Here, we studied early metabolic changes and mitochondrial adaptations in human beta cells during chronic glucose stress.

METHODS

Respiration and cytosolic ATP changes were measured in human islet cell clusters after culture for 4 days in 11.1 mmol/l glucose. Metabolomics was applied to analyse intracellular metabolite changes as a result of glucose stress conditions. Alterations in beta cell function were followed using insulin secretion assays or cytosolic calcium signalling after expression of the calcium probe YC3.6 specifically in beta cells of islet clusters.

RESULTS

At early stages of glucose stress, mitochondrial energy metabolism was augmented in contrast to the previously described mitochondrial dysfunction in beta cells from islets of diabetic donors. Following chronic glucose stress, mitochondrial respiration increased (by 52.4%, p < 0.001) and, as a consequence, the cytosolic ATP/ADP ratio in resting human pancreatic islet cells was elevated (by 27.8%, p < 0.05). Because of mitochondrial overactivation in the resting state, nutrient-induced beta cell activation was reduced. In addition, chronic glucose stress caused metabolic adaptations that resulted in the accumulation of intermediates of the glycolytic pathway, the pentose phosphate pathway and the TCA cycle; the most strongly augmented metabolite was glycerol 3-phosphate. The changes in metabolites observed are likely to be due to the inability of mitochondria to cope with continuous nutrient oversupply. To protect beta cells from chronic glucose stress, we inhibited mitochondrial pyruvate transport. Metabolite concentrations were partially normalised and the mitochondrial respiratory response to nutrients was markedly improved. Furthermore, stimulus-secretion coupling as assessed by cytosolic calcium signalling, was restored.

CONCLUSION/INTERPRETATION

We propose that metabolic changes and associated mitochondrial overactivation are early adaptations to glucose stress, and may reflect what happens as a result of poor blood glucose control. Inhibition of mitochondrial pyruvate transport reduces mitochondrial nutrient overload and allows beta cells to recover from chronic glucose stress. Graphical abstract.

Exploring Valine Metabolism in Astrocytic and Liver Cells: Lesson from Clinical Observation in TBI Patients for Nutritional Intervention

The utilization of alternative energy substrates to glucose could be beneficial in traumatic brain injury (TBI). Recent clinical data obtained in TBI patients reported valine, β-hydroxyisobutyrate (ibHB) and 2-ketoisovaleric acid (2-KIV) as three of the main predictors of TBI outcome. In particular, higher levels of ibHB, 2-KIV, and valine in cerebral microdialysis (CMD) were associated with better clinical outcome. In this study, we investigate the correlations between circulating and CMD levels of these metabolites. We hypothesized that the liver can metabolize valine and provide a significant amount of intermediate metabolites, which can be further metabolized in the brain. We aimed to assess the metabolism of valine in human-induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived astrocytes and HepG2 cells using ¹³C-labeled substrate to investigate potential avenues for increasing the levels of downstream metabolites of valine via valine supplementation. We observed that 94 ± 12% and 84 ± 16% of ibHB, and 94 ± 12% and 87 ± 15% of 2-KIV, in the medium of HepG2 cells and in iPSC-derived astrocytes, respectively, came directly from valine. Overall, these findings suggest that both ibHB and 2-KIV are produced from valine to a large extent in both cell types, which could be of interest in the design of optimal nutritional interventions aiming at stimulating valine metabolism.

Mitochondrial ion channels in pancreatic β-cells: Novel pharmacological targets for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes

Pancreatic beta‐cells are central regulators of glucose homeostasis. By tightly coupling nutrient sensing and granule exocytosis, beta‐cells adjust the secretion of insulin to the circulating blood glucose levels. Failure of beta‐cells to augment insulin secretion in insulin‐resistant individuals leads progressively to impaired glucose tolerance, Type 2 diabetes, and diabetes‐related diseases. Mitochondria play a crucial role in β‐cells during nutrient stimulation, linking the metabolism of glucose and other secretagogues to the generation of signals that promote insulin secretion. Mitochondria are double‐membrane organelles containing numerous channels allowing the transport of ions across both membranes. These channels regulate mitochondrial energy production, signalling, and cell death. The mitochondria of β‐cells express ion channels whose physio/pathological role is underappreciated. Here, we describe the mitochondrial ion channels identified in pancreatic β‐cells, we further discuss the possibility of targeting specific β‐cell mitochondrial channels for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, and we finally highlight the evidence from clinical studies.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on Cellular metabolism and diseases. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v178.10/issuetoc

Protein Lysine Acetylation: Grease or Sand in the Gears of β-Cell Mitochondria?

Mitochondria carry out many essential functions in metabolism. A central task is the oxidation of nutrients and the generation of ATP by oxidative phosphorylation. Mitochondrial metabolism needs to be tightly regulated for the cell to respond to changes in ATP demand and nutrient supply. Here, we review how protein lysine acetylation contributes to the regulation of mitochondrial metabolism in insulin target tissues and the insulin-secreting pancreatic β-cell. We summarize recent evidence showing that in pancreatic β-cells, lysine acetylation occurs on a large number of proteins involved in metabolism. Furthermore, we give a brief overview of the molecular mechanism that controls lysine acetylation dynamics. We propose that protein lysine acetylation is an important mechanism for the fine-tuning of mitochondrial activity in β-cells during normal physiology. In contrast, nutrient oversupply, oxidative stress, or inhibition of the mitochondrial deacetylase SIRT3 leads to protein lysine hyperacetylation, which impairs mitochondrial function. By perturbing mitochondrial activity in β-cells and insulin target tissues, protein lysine hyperacetylation may contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes.

The plant product quinic acid activates Ca2+ -dependent mitochondrial function and promotes insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Quinic acid (QA) is an abundant natural compound from plant sources which may improve metabolic health. However, little attention has been paid to its effects on pancreatic beta-cell functions, which contribute to the control of metabolic health by lowering blood glucose. Strategies targeting beta-cell signal transduction are a new approach for diabetes treatment. This study investigated the efficacy of QA to stimulate beta-cell function by targeting the basic molecular machinery of metabolism-secretion coupling.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

We measured bioenergetic parameters and insulin exocytosis in a model of insulin-secreting beta-cells (INS-1E), together with Ca²⁺ homeostasis, using genetically encoded sensors, targeted to different subcellular compartments. Islets from mice chronically infused with QA were also assessed.

KEY RESULTS

QA triggered transient cytosolic Ca²⁺ increases in insulin-secreting cells by mobilizing Ca²⁺ from intracellular stores, such as endoplasmic reticulum. Following glucose stimulation, QA increased glucose-induced mitochondrial Ca²⁺ transients. We also observed a QA-induced rise of the NAD(P)H/NAD(P)⁺ ratio, augmented ATP synthase-dependent respiration, and enhanced glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. QA promoted beta-cell function in vivo as islets from mice infused with QA displayed improved glucose-induced insulin secretion. A diet containing QA improved glucose tolerance in mice.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

QA modulated intracellular Ca²⁺ homeostasis, enhancing glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in both INS-1E cells and mouse islets. By increasing mitochondrial Ca²⁺ , QA activated the coordinated stimulation of oxidative metabolism, mitochondrial ATP synthase-dependent respiration, and therefore insulin secretion. Bioactive agents raising mitochondrial Ca²⁺ in pancreatic beta-cells could be used to treat diabetes.

Differential Metabolism of Medium-Chain Fatty Acids in Differentiated Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Astrocytes

Medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) ketogenic diets increase ketone bodies, which are believed to act as alternative energy substrates in the injured brain. Octanoic (C8:0) and decanoic (C10:0) acids, which produce ketone bodies through β-oxidation, are used as part of MCT ketogenic diets. Although the ketogenic role of MCT is well-established, it remains unclear how the network metabolism underlying β-oxidation of these medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA) differ. We aim to elucidate basal β-oxidation of these commonly used MCFA at the cellular level. Human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived (iPSC) astrocytes were incubated with [U-¹³C]-C8:0 or [U-¹³C]-C10:0, and the fractional enrichments (FE) of the derivatives were used for metabolic flux analysis. Data indicate higher extracellular concentrations and faster secretion rates of β-hydroxybutyrate (βHB) and acetoacetate (AcAc) with C8:0 than C10:0, and an important contribution from unlabeled substrates. Flux analysis indicates opposite direction of metabolic flux between the MCFA intermediates C6:0 and C8:0, with an important contribution of unlabeled sources to the elongation in the C10:0 condition, suggesting different β-oxidation pathways. Finally, larger intracellular glutathione concentrations and secretions of 3-OH-C10:0 and C6:0 were measured in C10:0-treated astrocytes. These findings reveal MCFA-specific ketogenic properties. Our results provide insights into designing different MCT-based ketogenic diets to target specific health benefits.

Macroencapsulated Human iPSC-Derived Pancreatic Progenitors Protect against STZ-Induced Hyperglycemia in Mice

In type 1 diabetes, a renewable source of human pancreatic β cells, in particular from human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) origin, would greatly benefit cell therapy. Earlier work showed that pancreatic progenitors differentiated from human embryonic stem cells in vitro can further mature to become glucose responsive following macroencapsulation and transplantation in mice. Here we took a similar approach optimizing the generation of pancreatic progenitors from hiPSCs. This work demonstrates that hiPSCs differentiated to pancreatic endoderm in vitro can be efficiently and robustly generated under large-scale conditions. The hiPSC-derived pancreatic endoderm cells (HiPECs) can further differentiate into glucose-responsive islet-like cells following macroencapsulation and in vivo implantation. The HiPECs can protect mice from streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemia and maintain normal glucose homeostasis and equilibrated plasma glucose concentrations at levels similar to the human set point. These results further validate the potential use of hiPSC-derived islet cells for application in clinical settings.

Glucose-dependent phosphorylation signaling pathways and crosstalk to mitochondrial respiration in insulin secreting cells

Background

Glucose is the main secretagogue of pancreatic beta-cells. Uptake and metabolism of the nutrient stimulates the beta-cell to release the blood glucose lowering hormone insulin. This metabolic activation is associated with a pronounced increase in mitochondrial respiration. Glucose stimulation also initiates a number of signal transduction pathways for the coordinated regulation of multiple biological processes required for insulin secretion.

Methods

Shotgun proteomics including TiO₂ enrichment of phosphorylated peptides followed by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry on lysates from glucose-stimulated INS-1E cells was used to identify glucose regulated phosphorylated proteins and signal transduction pathways. Kinase substrate enrichment analysis (KSEA) was applied to identify key regulated kinases and phosphatases. Glucose-induced oxygen consumption was measured using a XF96 Seahorse instrument to reveal cross talk between glucose-regulated kinases and mitochondrial activation.

Results

Our kinetic analysis of substrate phosphorylation reveal the molecular mechanism leading to rapid activation of insulin biogenesis, vesicle trafficking, insulin granule exocytosis and cytoskeleton remodeling. Kinase-substrate enrichment identified upstream kinases and phosphatases and time-dependent activity changes during glucose stimulation. Activity trajectories of well-known glucose-regulated kinases and phosphatases are described. In addition, we predict activity changes in a number of kinases including NUAK1, not or only poorly studied in the context of the pancreatic beta-cell. Furthermore, we pharmacologically tested whether signaling pathways predicted by kinase-substrate enrichment analysis affected glucose-dependent acceleration of mitochondrial respiration. We find that phosphoinositide 3-kinase, Ca2+/calmodulin dependent protein kinase and protein kinase C contribute to short-term regulation of energy metabolism.

Conclusions

Our results provide a global view into the regulation of kinases and phosphatases in insulin secreting cells and suggest cross talk between glucose-induced signal transduction and mitochondrial activation.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12964-019-0326-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Cellular stress is a prerequisite for glucose-induced mitochondrial matrix alkalinization in pancreatic β-cells

Changes in mitochondrial and cytosolic pH alter the chemical gradient across the inner mitochondrial membrane. The proton chemical gradient contributes to mitochondrial ATP synthesis as well as the uptake and release of metabolites and ions from the organelle. Here mitochondrial pH and ΔpH were studied for the first time in human pancreatic β-cells. Adenoviruses were used for rat insulin promoter dependent expression of the pH sensor SypHer targeted to either the mitochondrial matrix or the cytosol. The matrix pH in resting human β-cells is low (pH = 7.50 ± SD 0.17) compared to published values in other cell types. Consequently, the ΔpH of β-cells mitochondria is small. Glucose stimulation consistently resulted in acidification of the matrix pH in INS-1E insulinoma cells and β-cells in intact human islets or islet monolayer cultures. We registered acidification with similar kinetics but of slightly smaller amplitude in the cytosol of β-cells, thus glucose stimulation further reduced the ΔpH. Infection of human islets with high levels of adenoviruses caused the mitochondrial pH to increase. The apoptosis inducer and broad-spectrum kinase inhibitor staurosporine had similar effects on pH homeostasis. Although staurosporine alone does not affect the mitochondrial pH, glucose slightly increases the matrix pH of staurosporine treated cells. These two cellular stressors alter the normal mitochondrial pH response to glucose in pancreatic β-cells.

Mitochondrial lysine deacetylation promotes energy metabolism and calcium signaling in insulin-secreting cells

In pancreatic β-cells, mitochondria generate signals that promote insulin granule exocytosis. Here we study how lysine acetylation of mitochondrial proteins mechanistically affects metabolism-secretion coupling in insulin-secreting cells. Using mass spectrometry-based proteomics, we identified lysine acetylation sites in rat insulinoma cell line clone 1E cells. In cells lacking the mitochondrial lysine deacetylase sirtuin-3 (SIRT3), several matrix proteins are hyperacetylated. Disruption of the SIRT3 gene has a deleterious effect on mitochondrial energy metabolism and Ca²⁺ signaling. Under resting conditions, SIRT3 deficient cells are overactivated, which elevates the respiratory rate and enhances calcium signaling and basal insulin secretion. In response to glucose, the SIRT3 knockout cells are unable to mount a sustained cytosolic ATP response. Calcium signaling is strongly reduced and the respiratory response as well as insulin secretion are blunted. We propose mitochondrial protein lysine acetylation as a control mechanism in β-cell energy metabolism and Ca²⁺ signaling.-De Marchi, U., Galindo, A. N., Thevenet, J., Hermant, A., Bermont, F., Lassueur, S., Domingo, J. S., Kussmann, M., Dayon, L., Wiederkehr, A. Mitochondrial lysine deacetylation promotes energy metabolism and calcium signaling in insulin-secreting cells.

Regulation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-induced Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum by AMP-activated kinase modulators

The 5' AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a nutrient-sensitive kinase that plays a key role in the control of cellular energy metabolism. We have explored here the relationship between AMPK and Ca²⁺ signaling by looking at the effect of an AMPK activator (A769662) and an AMPK inhibitor (dorsomorphin) on histamine-induced Ca²⁺-release from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in HeLa cells. Our data show that incubation with A769662 (EC₅₀ = 29 μM) inhibited histamine-induced Ca²⁺-release from the ER in intact cells, as well as inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP₃)-induced Ca²⁺ release in permeabilized cells. On the contrary, dorsomorphin (EC₅₀ = 0.4 μM) activated both histamine and IP₃-induced Ca²⁺-release and reversed the effect of A769662. These results suggest a direct effect of AMPK regulation on IP₃ receptor (IP₃R) function. A phosphoproteomic study did not reveal changes in IP₃R phosphorylation, but showed significant changes in phosphorylation of proteins placed upstream in the IP₃R interactome and in several proteins related with Ca²⁺ metabolism, which could be candidates to mediate the effects observed. In conclusion, our data suggest that AMPK negatively regulates IP₃R. This effect constitutes a novel and very important link between Ca²⁺ signaling and the AMPK pathway.

A novel ATP-synthase-independent mechanism coupling mitochondrial activation to exocytosis in insulin-secreting cells

Pancreatic β-cells sense glucose, promoting insulin secretion. Glucose sensing requires the sequential stimulation of glycolysis, mitochondrial metabolism and Ca²⁺ entry. To elucidate how mitochondrial activation in β-cells contributes to insulin secretion, we compared the effects of glucose and the mitochondrial substrate methylsuccinate in the INS-1E insulin-secreting cell line at the respective concentrations at which they maximally activate mitochondrial respiration. Both substrates induced insulin secretion with distinct respiratory profiles, mitochondrial hyperpolarization, NADH production and ATP-to-ADP ratios. In contrast to glucose, methylsuccinate failed to induce large [Ca²⁺] rises and exocytosis proceeded largely independently of mitochondrial ATP synthesis. Both glucose- and methylsuccinate-induced secretion was blocked by diazoxide, indicating that Ca²⁺ is required for exocytosis. Dynamic assessment of the redox state of mitochondrial thiols revealed a less marked reduction in response to methylsuccinate than with glucose. Our results demonstrate that insulin exocytosis can be promoted by two distinct mechanisms one of which is dependent on mitochondrial ATP synthesis and large Ca²⁺ transients, and one of which is independent of mitochondrial ATP synthesis and relies on small Ca²⁺ signals. We propose that the combined effects of Ca²⁺ and redox reactions can trigger insulin secretion by these two mechanisms.

Advances in pancreatic islet monolayer culture on glass surfaces enable super-resolution microscopy and insights into beta cell ciliogenesis and proliferation

A robust and reproducible method for culturing monolayers of adherent and well-spread primary islet cells on glass coverslips is required for detailed imaging studies by super-resolution and live-cell microscopy. Guided by an observation that dispersed islet cells spread and adhere well on glass surfaces in neuronal co-culture and form a monolayer of connected cells, we demonstrate that in the absence of neurons, well-defined surface coatings combined with components of neuronal culture media collectively support robust attachment and growth of primary human or rat islet cells as monolayers on glass surfaces. The islet cell monolayer cultures on glass stably maintain distinct mono-hormonal insulin+, glucagon+, somatostatin+ and PP+ cells and glucose-responsive synchronized calcium signaling as well as expression of the transcription factors Pdx-1 and NKX-6.1 in beta cells. This technical advance enabled detailed observation of sub-cellular processes in primary human and rat beta cells by super-resolution microscopy. The protocol is envisaged to have broad applicability to sophisticated analyses of pancreatic islet cells that reveal new biological insights, as demonstrated by the identification of an in vitro protocol that markedly increases proliferation of primary beta cells and is associated with a reduction in ciliated, ostensibly proliferation-suppressed beta cells.

Encapsulation of Insulin-Secreting Cells Expressing a Genetically Encoded Fluorescent Calcium Indicator for Cell-Based Sensing In Vivo

The development of cell-based biosensors that give insight into cell and tissue function in vivo is an attractive technology for biomedical research. Here, the development of a cell line expressing a fluorescent calcium sensor for the study of beta-cell function in vivo is reported. The bioresponsive cell model is based on INS-1E pancreatic beta-cells, stably expressing the genetically encoded cameleon-based fluorescent sensor YC3.6_cyto . Following single-cell selection and expansion, functional testing and in vitro encapsulation experiments are used to identify a suitable clone of INS-1E cells expressing the calcium sensor. This clone is transplanted subcutaneous in mouse using a cell macroencapsulation system based on flat sheet porous membranes. Cells in the implanted capsules are able to respond to glucose in vivo by secreting insulin and thereby contributing to the regulation of glycaemia in the mice. Furthermore, fluorescence imaging of explanted devices shows that encapsulated cells maintain high level expression of YC3.6_cyto in vivo. In conclusion, these data show that encapsulated INS-1E cells stably expressing a genetically encoded calcium sensor can be successfully implanted in vivo, and therefore serve as biosensing element or in vivo model to longitudinally monitor the function of pancreatic beta-cells.

Coordinated activation of mitochondrial respiration and exocytosis mediated by PKC signaling in pancreatic β cells

Mitochondria play a central role in pancreatic β-cell nutrient sensing by coupling their metabolism to plasma membrane excitability and insulin granule exocytosis. Whether non-nutrient secretagogues stimulate mitochondria as part of the molecular mechanism to promote insulin secretion is not known. Here, we show that PKC signaling, which is employed by many non-nutrient secretagogues, augments mitochondrial respiration in INS-1E (rat insulinoma cell line clone 1E) and human pancreatic β cells. The phorbol ester, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, accelerates mitochondrial respiration at both resting and stimulatory glucose concentrations. A range of inhibitors of novel PKC isoforms prevent phorbol ester-induced respiration. Respiratory response was blocked by oligomycin that demonstrated PKC-dependent acceleration of mitochondrial ATP synthesis. Enhanced respiration was observed even when glycolysis was bypassed or fatty acid transport was blocked, which suggested that PKC regulates mitochondrial processes rather than upstream catabolic fluxes. A phosphoproteome study of phorbol ester-stimulated INS-1E cells maintained under resting (2.5 mM) glucose revealed a large number of phosphorylation sites that were altered during short-term activation of PKC signaling. The data set was enriched for proteins that are involved in gene expression, cytoskeleton remodeling, secretory vesicle transport, and exocytosis. Interactome analysis identified PKC, C-Raf, and ERK1/2 as the central phosphointeraction cluster. Prevention of ERK1/2 signaling by using a MEK1 inhibitor caused a marked decreased in phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate-induced mitochondrial respiration. ERK1/2 signaling module therefore links PKC activation to downstream mitochondrial activation. We conclude that non-nutrient secretagogues act, in part, via PKC and downstream ERK1/2 signaling to stimulate mitochondrial energy production to compensate for energy expenditure that is linked to β-cell activation.-Santo-Domingo, J., Chareyron, I., Dayon, L., Galindo, A. N., Cominetti, O., Giménez, M. P. G., De Marchi, U., Canto, C., Kussmann, M., Wiederkehr, A. Coordinated activation of mitochondrial respiration and exocytosis mediated by PKC signaling in pancreatic β cells.

Medium-chain fatty acids inhibit mitochondrial metabolism in astrocytes promoting astrocyte-neuron lactate and ketone body shuttle systems

Medium-chain triglycerides have been used as part of a ketogenic diet effective in reducing epileptic episodes. The health benefits of the derived medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) are thought to result from the stimulation of liver ketogenesis providing fuel for the brain. We tested whether MCFAs have direct effects on energy metabolism in induced pluripotent stem cell-derived human astrocytes and neurons. Using single-cell imaging, we observed an acute pronounced reduction of the mitochondrial electrical potential and a concomitant drop of the NAD(P)H signal in astrocytes, but not in neurons. Despite the observed effects on mitochondrial function, MCFAs did not lower intracellular ATP levels or activate the energy sensor AMP-activated protein kinase. ATP concentrations in astrocytes were unaltered, even when blocking the respiratory chain, suggesting compensation through accelerated glycolysis. The MCFA decanoic acid (300 μM) promoted glycolysis and augmented lactate formation by 49.6%. The shorter fatty acid octanoic acid (300 μM) did not affect glycolysis but increased the rates of astrocyte ketogenesis 2.17-fold compared with that of control cells. MCFAs may have brain health benefits through the modulation of astrocyte metabolism leading to activation of shuttle systems that provide fuel to neighboring neurons in the form of lactate and ketone bodies.-Thevenet, J., De Marchi, U., Santo Domingo, J., Christinat, N., Bultot, L., Lefebvre, G., Sakamoto, K., Descombes, P., Masoodi, M., Wiederkehr, A. Medium-chain fatty acids inhibit mitochondrial metabolism in astrocytes promoting astrocyte-neuron lactate and ketone body shuttle systems.

Modulation of the matrix redox signaling by mitochondrial Ca2+

Mitochondria sense, shape and integrate signals, and thus function as central players in cellular signal transduction. Ca²⁺ waves and redox reactions are two such intracellular signals modulated by mitochondria. Mitochondrial Ca²⁺ transport is of utmost physio-pathological relevance with a strong impact on metabolism and cell fate. Despite its importance, the molecular nature of the proteins involved in mitochondrial Ca²⁺ transport has been revealed only recently. Mitochondrial Ca²⁺ promotes energy metabolism through the activation of matrix dehydrogenases and down-stream stimulation of the respiratory chain. These changes also alter the mitochondrial NAD(P)H/NAD(P)⁺ ratio, but at the same time will increase reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Reducing equivalents and ROS are having opposite effects on the mitochondrial redox state, which are hard to dissect. With the recent development of genetically encoded mitochondrial-targeted redox-sensitive sensors, real-time monitoring of matrix thiol redox dynamics has become possible. The discoveries of the molecular nature of mitochondrial transporters of Ca²⁺ combined with the utilization of the novel redox sensors is shedding light on the complex relation between mitochondrial Ca²⁺ and redox signals and their impact on cell function. In this review, we describe mitochondrial Ca²⁺ handling, focusing on a number of newly identified proteins involved in mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uptake and release. We further discuss our recent findings, revealing how mitochondrial Ca²⁺ influences the matrix redox state. As a result, mitochondrial Ca²⁺ is able to modulate the many mitochondrial redox-regulated processes linked to normal physiology and disease.

Palmitate induces ER calcium depletion and apoptosis in mouse podocytes subsequent to mitochondrial oxidative stress

Pathologic alterations in podocytes lead to failure of an essential component of the glomerular filtration barrier and proteinuria in chronic kidney diseases. Elevated levels of saturated free fatty acid (FFA) are harmful to various tissues, implemented in the progression of diabetes and its complications such as proteinuria in diabetic nephropathy. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanism of palmitate cytotoxicity in cultured mouse podocytes. Incubation with palmitate dose-dependently increased cytosolic and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, depolarized the mitochondrial membrane potential, impaired ATP synthesis and elicited apoptotic cell death. Palmitate not only evoked mitochondrial fragmentation but also caused marked dilation of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Consistently, palmitate upregulated ER stress proteins, oligomerized stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) in the subplasmalemmal ER membrane, abolished the cyclopiazonic acid-induced cytosolic Ca²⁺ increase due to depletion of luminal ER Ca²⁺. Palmitate-induced ER Ca²⁺ depletion and cytotoxicity were blocked by a selective inhibitor of the fatty-acid transporter FAT/CD36. Loss of the ER Ca²⁺ pool induced by palmitate was reverted by the phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor edelfosine. Palmitate-dependent activation of PLC was further demonstrated by following cytosolic translocation of the pleckstrin homology domain of PLC in palmitate-treated podocytes. An inhibitor of diacylglycerol (DAG) kinase, which elevates cytosolic DAG, strongly promoted ER Ca²⁺ depletion by low-dose palmitate. GF109203X, a PKC inhibitor, partially prevented palmitate-induced ER Ca²⁺ loss. Remarkably, the mitochondrial antioxidant mitoTEMPO inhibited palmitate-induced PLC activation, ER Ca²⁺ depletion and cytotoxicity. Palmitate elicited cytoskeletal changes in podocytes and increased albumin permeability, which was also blocked by mitoTEMPO. These data suggest that oxidative stress caused by saturated FFA leads to mitochondrial dysfunction and ER Ca²⁺ depletion through FAT/CD36 and PLC signaling, possibly contributing to podocyte injury.

Mitochondrial oxidative stress mediates high-phosphate-induced secretory defects and apoptosis in insulin-secreting cells

Inorganic phosphate (Pi) plays an important role in cell signaling and energy metabolism. In insulin-releasing cells, Pi transport into mitochondria is essential for the generation of ATP, a signaling factor in metabolism-secretion coupling. Elevated Pi concentrations, however, can have toxic effects in various cell types. The underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, we have investigated the effect of Pi on secretory function and apoptosis in INS-1E clonal β-cells and rat pancreatic islets. Elevated extracellular Pi (1~5 mM) increased the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), superoxide generation, caspase activation, and cell death. Depolarization of the ΔΨm abolished Pi-induced superoxide generation. Butylmalonate, a nonselective blocker of mitochondrial phosphate transporters, prevented ΔΨm hyperpolarization, superoxide generation, and cytotoxicity caused by Pi. High Pi also promoted the opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition (PT) pore, leading to apoptosis, which was also prevented by butylmalonate. The mitochondrial antioxidants mitoTEMPO or MnTBAP prevented Pi-triggered PT pore opening and cytotoxicity. Elevated extracellular Pi diminished ATP synthesis, cytosolic Ca(2+) oscillations, and insulin content and secretion in INS-1E cells as well as in dispersed islet cells. These parameters were restored following preincubation with mitochondrial antioxidants. This treatment also prevented high-Pi-induced phosphorylation of ER stress proteins. We propose that elevated extracellular Pi causes mitochondrial oxidative stress linked to mitochondrial hyperpolarization. Such stress results in reduced insulin content and defective insulin secretion and cytotoxicity. Our data explain the decreased insulin content and secretion observed under hyperphosphatemic states.

Essential role of mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter in the generation of mitochondrial pH gradient and metabolism-secretion coupling in insulin-releasing cells

In pancreatic β-cells, ATP acts as a signaling molecule initiating plasma membrane electrical activity linked to Ca(2+) influx, which triggers insulin exocytosis. The mitochondrial Ca(2+) uniporter (MCU) mediates Ca(2+) uptake into the organelle, where energy metabolism is further stimulated for sustained second phase insulin secretion. Here, we have studied the contribution of the MCU to the regulation of oxidative phosphorylation and metabolism-secretion coupling in intact and permeabilized clonal β-cells as well as rat pancreatic islets. Knockdown of MCU with siRNA transfection blunted matrix Ca(2+) rises, decreased nutrient-stimulated ATP production as well as insulin secretion. Furthermore, MCU knockdown lowered the expression of respiratory chain complexes, mitochondrial metabolic activity, and oxygen consumption. The pH gradient formed across the inner mitochondrial membrane following nutrient stimulation was markedly lowered in MCU-silenced cells. In contrast, nutrient-induced hyperpolarization of the electrical gradient was not altered. In permeabilized cells, knockdown of MCU ablated matrix acidification in response to extramitochondrial Ca(2+). Suppression of the putative Ca(2+)/H(+) antiporter leucine zipper-EF hand-containing transmembrane protein 1 (LETM1) also abolished Ca(2+)-induced matrix acidification. These results demonstrate that MCU-mediated Ca(2+) uptake is essential to establish a nutrient-induced mitochondrial pH gradient which is critical for sustained ATP synthesis and metabolism-secretion coupling in insulin-releasing cells.

NCLX protein, but not LETM1, mediates mitochondrial Ca2+ extrusion, thereby limiting Ca2+-induced NAD(P)H production and modulating matrix redox state

Mitochondria capture and subsequently release Ca(2+) ions, thereby sensing and shaping cellular Ca(2+) signals. The Ca(2+) uniporter MCU mediates Ca(2+) uptake, whereas NCLX (mitochondrial Na/Ca exchanger) and LETM1 (leucine zipper-EF-hand-containing transmembrane protein 1) were proposed to exchange Ca(2+) against Na(+) or H(+), respectively. Here we study the role of these ion exchangers in mitochondrial Ca(2+) extrusion and in Ca(2+)-metabolic coupling. Both NCLX and LETM1 proteins were expressed in HeLa cells mitochondria. The rate of mitochondrial Ca(2+) efflux, measured with a genetically encoded indicator during agonist stimulations, increased with the amplitude of mitochondrial Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)]mt) elevations. NCLX overexpression enhanced the rates of Ca(2+) efflux, whereas increasing LETM1 levels had no impact on Ca(2+) extrusion. The fluorescence of the redox-sensitive probe roGFP increased during [Ca(2+)]mt elevations, indicating a net reduction of the matrix. This redox response was abolished by NCLX overexpression and restored by the Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger inhibitor CGP37157. The [Ca(2+)]mt elevations were associated with increases in the autofluorescence of NAD(P)H, whose amplitude was strongly reduced by NCLX overexpression, an effect reverted by Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange inhibition. We conclude that NCLX, but not LETM1, mediates Ca(2+) extrusion from mitochondria. By controlling the duration of matrix Ca(2+) elevations, NCLX contributes to the regulation of NAD(P)H production and to the conversion of Ca(2+) signals into redox changes.

Calcium co-regulates oxidative metabolism and ATP synthase-dependent respiration in pancreatic beta cells

Mitochondrial energy metabolism is essential for glucose-induced calcium signaling and, therefore, insulin granule exocytosis in pancreatic beta cells. Calcium signals are sensed by mitochondria acting in concert with mitochondrial substrates for the full activation of the organelle. Here we have studied glucose-induced calcium signaling and energy metabolism in INS-1E insulinoma cells and human islet beta cells. In insulin secreting cells a surprisingly large fraction of total respiration under resting conditions is ATP synthase-independent. We observe that ATP synthase-dependent respiration is markedly increased after glucose stimulation. Glucose also causes a very rapid elevation of oxidative metabolism as was followed by NAD(P)H autofluorescence. However, neither the rate of the glucose-induced increase nor the new steady-state NAD(P)H levels are significantly affected by calcium. Our findings challenge the current view, which has focused mainly on calcium-sensitive dehydrogenases as the target for the activation of mitochondrial energy metabolism. We propose a model of tight calcium-dependent regulation of oxidative metabolism and ATP synthase-dependent respiration in beta cell mitochondria. Coordinated activation of matrix dehydrogenases and respiratory chain activity by calcium allows the respiratory rate to change severalfold with only small or no alterations of the NAD(P)H/NAD(P)(+) ratio.

Mitochondrial phosphate transport during nutrient stimulation of INS-1E insulinoma cells

Here, we have investigated the role of inorganic phosphate (Pi) transport in mitochondria of rat clonal β-cells. In α-toxin-permeabilized INS-1E cells, succinate and glycerol-3-phosphate increased mitochondrial ATP release which depends on exogenous ADP and Pi. In the presence of substrates, addition of Pi caused mitochondrial matrix acidification and hyperpolarisation which promoted ATP export. Dissipation of the mitochondrial pH gradient or pharmacological inhibition of Pi transport blocked the effects of Pi on electrochemical gradient and ATP export. Knock-down of the phosphate transporter PiC, however, neither prevented Pi-induced mitochondrial activation nor glucose-induced insulin secretion. Using (31)P NMR we observed reduction of Pi pools during nutrient stimulation of INS-1E cells. Interestingly, Pi loss was less pronounced in mitochondria than in the cytosol. We conclude that matrix alkalinisation is necessary to maintain a mitochondrial Pi pool, at levels sufficient to stimulate energy metabolism in insulin-secreting cells beyond its role as a substrate for ATP synthesis.

Pyruvate dehydrogenase E1α phosphorylation is induced by glucose but does not control metabolism-secretion coupling in INS-1E clonal β-cells

Glucose-induced insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells depends on mitochondrial activation. In the organelle, glucose-derived pyruvate is metabolised along the oxidative and anaplerotic pathway to generate downstream signals leading to insulin granule exocytosis. Entry into the oxidative pathway is catalysed by pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) and controlled in part by phosphorylation of the PDH E1α subunit blocking enzyme activity. We find that glucose but not other nutrient secretagogues induce PDH E1α phosphorylation in INS-1E cells and rat islets. INS-1E cells and primary β-cells express pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK) 1, 2 and 3, which mediate the observed phosphorylation. In INS-1E cells, suppression of the two main isoforms, PDK1 and PDK3, almost completely prevented PDH E1α phosphorylation. Under basal glucose conditions, phosphorylation was barely detectable and therefore the enzyme almost fully active (90% of maximal). During glucose stimulation, PDH is only partially inhibited (to 78% of maximal). Preventing PDH phosphorylation in situ after suppression of PDK1, 2 and 3 neither enhanced pyruvate oxidation nor insulin secretion. In conclusion, although glucose stimulates E1α phosphorylation and therefore inhibits PDH activity, this control mechanism by itself does not alter metabolism-secretion coupling in INS-1E clonal β-cells.

Mitochondrial signals drive insulin secretion in the pancreatic β-cell

β-Cell nutrient sensing depends on mitochondrial function. Oxidation of nutrient-derived metabolites in the mitochondria leads to plasma membrane depolarization, Ca(2+) influx and insulin granule exocytosis. Subsequent mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake further accelerates metabolism and oxidative phosphorylation. Nutrient activation also increases the mitochondrial matrix pH. This alkalinization is required to maintain elevated insulin secretion during prolonged nutrient stimulation. Together the mitochondrial Ca(2+) rise and matrix alkalinization assure optimal ATP synthesis necessary for efficient activation of the triggering pathway of insulin secretion. The sustained, amplifying pathway of insulin release also depends on mitochondrial Ca(2+) signals, which likely influence the generation of glucose-derived metabolites serving as coupling factors. Therefore, mitochondria are both recipients and generators of signals essential for metabolism-secretion coupling. Activation of these signaling pathways would be an attractive target for the improvement of β-cell function and the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Defective mitochondrial function and motility due to mitofusin 1 overexpression in insulin secreting cells

Mitochondrial dynamics and distribution is critical for their role in bioenergetics and cell survival. We investigated the consequence of altered fission/fusion on mitochondrial function and motility in INS-1E rat clonal β-cells. Adenoviruses were used to induce doxycycline-dependent expression of wild type (WT-Mfn1) or a dominant negative mitofusin 1 mutant (DN-Mfn1). Mitochondrial morphology and motility were analyzed by monitoring mitochondrially-targeted red fluorescent protein. Adenovirus-driven overexpression of WT-Mfn1 elicited severe aggregation of mitochondria, preventing them from reaching peripheral near plasma membrane areas of the cell. Overexpression of DN-Mfn1 resulted in fragmented mitochondria with widespread cytosolic distribution. WT-Mfn1 overexpression impaired mitochondrial function as glucose- and oligomycin-induced mitochondrial hyperpolarization were markedly reduced. Viability of the INS-1E cells, however, was not affected. Mitochondrial motility was significantly reduced in WT-Mfn1 overexpressing cells. Conversely, fragmented mitochondria in DN-Mfn1 overexpressing cells showed more vigorous movement than mitochondria in control cells. Movement of these mitochondria was also less microtubule-dependent. These results suggest that Mfn1-induced hyperfusion leads to mitochondrial dysfunction and hypomotility, which may explain impaired metabolism-secretion coupling in insulin-releasing cells overexpressing Mfn1.

Normal glucagon signaling and β-cell function after near-total α-cell ablation in adult mice

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether healthy or diabetic adult mice can tolerate an extreme loss of pancreatic α-cells and how this sudden massive depletion affects β-cell function and blood glucose homeostasis.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We generated a new transgenic model allowing near-total α-cell removal specifically in adult mice. Massive α-cell ablation was triggered in normally grown and healthy adult animals upon diphtheria toxin (DT) administration. The metabolic status of these mice was assessed in 1) physiologic conditions, 2) a situation requiring glucagon action, and 3) after β-cell loss.

RESULTS

Adult transgenic mice enduring extreme (98%) α-cell removal remained healthy and did not display major defects in insulin counter-regulatory response. We observed that 2% of the normal α-cell mass produced enough glucagon to ensure near-normal glucagonemia. β-Cell function and blood glucose homeostasis remained unaltered after α-cell loss, indicating that direct local intraislet signaling between α- and β-cells is dispensable. Escaping α-cells increased their glucagon content during subsequent months, but there was no significant α-cell regeneration. Near-total α-cell ablation did not prevent hyperglycemia in mice having also undergone massive β-cell loss, indicating that a minimal amount of α-cells can still guarantee normal glucagon signaling in diabetic conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

An extremely low amount of α-cells is sufficient to prevent a major counter-regulatory deregulation, both under physiologic and diabetic conditions. We previously reported that α-cells reprogram to insulin production after extreme β-cell loss and now conjecture that the low α-cell requirement could be exploited in future diabetic therapies aimed at regenerating β-cells by reprogramming adult α-cells.

Hepatic nuclear factor 1alpha (HNF1alpha) dysfunction down-regulates X-box-binding protein 1 (XBP1) and sensitizes beta-cells to endoplasmic reticulum stress

Correct endoplasmic reticulum (ER) function is critical for the health of secretory cells, such as the pancreatic β-cell, and ER stress is often a contributory factor to β-cell death in type 2 diabetes. We have used an insulin-secreting cell line with inducible expression of dominant negative (DN) HNF1α, a transcription factor vital for correct β-cell development and function, to show that HNF1α is required for Xbp1 transcription and maintenance of the normal ER stress response. DN HNF1α expression sensitizes the β-cell to ER stress by directly down-regulating Xbp1 transcription, whereas Atf6 is unaffected. Furthermore, DN HNF1α alters calcium homeostasis, resulting in elevated cytoplasmic calcium and increased store-operated calcium entry, whereas mitochondrial calcium uptake is normal. Loss of function of XBP1 is toxic to the β-cell and decreases production of the ER chaperone BiP, even in the absence of ER stress. DN HNF1α-induced sensitivity to cyclopiazonic acid can be partially rescued with the chemical chaperone tauroursodeoxycholate. Rat insulin 2 promoter-DN HNF1α mouse islets express lower levels of BiP mRNA, synthesize less insulin, and are sensitized to ER stress relative to matched control mouse islets, suggesting that this mechanism is also operating in vivo.

Reduction of plasma membrane glutamate transport potentiates insulin but not glucagon secretion in pancreatic islet cells

Glutamate is generated during nutrient stimulation of pancreatic islets and has been proposed to act both as an intra- and extra-cellular messenger molecule. We demonstrate that glutamate is not co-secreted with the hormones from intact islets or purified α- and β-cells. Fractional glutamate release was 5-50 times higher than hormone secretion. Furthermore, various hormone secretagogues did not elicit glutamate efflux. Interestingly, epinephrine even decreased glutamate release while increasing glucagon secretion. Rather than being co-secreted with hormones, we show that glutamate is mainly released via plasma membrane excitatory amino acid transporters (EAAT) by uptake reversal. Transcripts for EAAT1, 2 and 3 were present in both rat α- and β-cells. Inhibition of EAATs by L-trans-pyrrolidine-2,4-dicarboxylate augmented intra-cellular glutamate and α-ketoglutarate contents and potentiated glucose-stimulated insulin secretion from islets and purified β-cells without affecting glucagon secretion from α-cells. In conclusion, intra-cellular glutamate-derived metabolite pools are linked to glucose-stimulated insulin but not glucagon secretion.

Mitochondrial matrix calcium is an activating signal for hormone secretion

Mitochondrial Ca(2+) signals have been proposed to accelerate oxidative metabolism and ATP production to match Ca(2+)-activated energy-consuming processes. Efforts to understand the signaling role of mitochondrial Ca(2+) have been hampered by the inability to manipulate matrix Ca(2+) without directly altering cytosolic Ca(2+). We were able to selectively buffer mitochondrial Ca(2+) rises by targeting the Ca(2+)-binding protein S100G to the matrix. We find that matrix Ca(2+) controls signal-dependent NAD(P)H formation, respiration, and ATP changes in intact cells. Furthermore, we demonstrate that matrix Ca(2+) increases are necessary for the amplification of sustained glucose-dependent insulin secretion in β cells. Through the regulation of NAD(P)H in adrenal glomerulosa cells, matrix Ca(2+) also acts as a positive signal in reductive biosynthesis, which stimulates aldosterone secretion. Our dissection of cytosolic and mitochondrial Ca(2+) signals reveals the physiological importance of matrix Ca(2+) in energy metabolism required for signal-dependent hormone secretion.

Mitochondrial matrix pH controls oxidative phosphorylation and metabolism-secretion coupling in INS-1E clonal beta cells

Glucose-evoked mitochondrial signals augment ATP synthesis in the pancreatic β cell. This activation of energy metabolism increases the cytosolic ATP/ADP ratio, which stimulates plasma membrane electrical activity and insulin granule exocytosis. We have recently demonstrated that matrix pH increases during nutrient stimulation of the pancreatic β cell. Here, we have tested whether mitochondrial matrix pH controls oxidative phosphorylation and metabolism-secretion coupling in the rat β-cell line INS-1E. Acidification of the mitochondrial matrix pH by nigericin blunted nutrient-dependent respiratory and ATP responses (continuously monitored in intact cells). Using electrophysiology and single cell imaging, we find that the associated defects in energy metabolism suppress glucose-stimulated plasma membrane electrical activity and cytosolic calcium transients. The same parameters were unaffected after direct stimulation of electrical activity with tolbutamide, which bypasses mitochondrial function. Furthermore, lowered matrix pH strongly inhibited sustained, but not first-phase, insulin secretion. Our results demonstrate that the matrix pH exerts a control function on oxidative phosphorylation in intact cells and that this mode of regulation is of physiological relevance for the generation of downstream signals leading to insulin granule exocytosis. We propose that matrix pH serves a novel signaling role in sustained cell activation.

Matrix alkalinisation unleashes β-cell mitochondria

Recently, we have identified matrix pH as a key regulator of mitochondrial energy metabolism in the β-cell (Wiederkehr et al. EMBO J. (2009) 28(4):417-28). Under resting glucose conditions matrix pH in β-cell mitochondria is unusually low (pH 7.25). Following nutrient stimulation of rat islets matrix alkalinisation occurs raising matrix pH to 7.7 a value close to those determined in other cell types (pH 7.8-8.1). Alkalinisation follows a very similar time-course as net increases of the cytosolic ATP levels and is associated with a 2.5-fold elevation of the mitochondrial ATP synthesis rate. Suppression of this alkalinisation using nigericin almost completely abolishes mitochondrial ATP synthesis in a permeabilised cell system. Our working hypothesis is that low mitochondrial pH maintains the β-cell mitochondria in an inactive state, whereas nutrient stimulation favors alkalinisation and full activation of mitochondrial energy metabolism, resulting in mitochondrial signal generation and insulin granule exocytosis.

PDX1 deficiency causes mitochondrial dysfunction and defective insulin secretion through TFAM suppression

Mutations in the transcription factor Pdx1 cause maturity-onset diabetes of the young 4 (MODY4). Islet transduction with dominant-negative Pdx1 (RIPDN79PDX1) impairs mitochondrial metabolism and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS). Transcript profiling revealed suppression of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial factor A (TFAM). Herein, we show that Pdx1 suppression in adult mice reduces islet TFAM expression coinciding with hyperglycemia. We define TFAM as a direct target of Pdx1 both in rat INS1 cells and human islets. Adenoviral overexpression of TFAM along with RIPDN79PDX1 in isolated rat islets rescued mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number and restored respiratory chain activity as well as glucose-induced ATP synthesis and insulin secretion. CGP37157, which blocks the mitochondrial Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger, restored ATP generation and GSIS in RIPDN79PDX1 islets, thereby bypassing the transcriptional defect. Thus, the genetic control by the beta cell-specific factor Pdx1 of the ubiquitous gene TFAM maintains beta cell mtDNA vital for ATP production and normal GSIS.

Requirement for aralar and its Ca2+-binding sites in Ca2+ signal transduction in mitochondria from INS-1 clonal beta-cells

Aralar, the mitochondrial aspartate-glutamate carrier present in beta-cells, is a component of the malate-aspartate NADH shuttle (MAS). MAS is activated by Ca2+ in mitochondria from tissues with aralar as the only AGC isoform with an S0.5 of approximately 300 nm. We have studied the role of aralar and its Ca2+-binding EF-hand motifs in glucose-induced mitochondrial NAD(P)H generation by two-photon microscopy imaging in INS-1 beta-cells lacking aralar or expressing aralar mutants blocked for Ca2+ binding. Aralar knock-down in INS-1 beta-cell lines resulted in undetectable levels of aralar protein and complete loss of MAS activity in isolated mitochondria and in a 25% decrease in glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. MAS activity in mitochondria from INS-1 cells was activated 2-3-fold by extramitochondrial Ca2+, whereas aralar mutants were Ca2+ insensitive. In Ca2+-free medium, glucose-induced increases in mitochondrial NAD(P)H were small (1.3-fold) and unchanged regardless of the lack of aralar. In the presence of 1.5 mm Ca2+, glucose induced robust increases in mitochondrial NAD(P)H (approximately 2-fold) in cell lines with wild-type or mutant aralar. There was a approximately 20% reduction in NAD(P)H response in cells lacking aralar, illustrating the importance of MAS in glucose action. When small Ca2+ signals that resulted in extremely small mitochondrial Ca2+ transients were induced in the presence of glucose, the rise in mitochondrial NAD(P)H was maintained in cells with wild-type aralar but was reduced by approximately 50% in cells lacking or expressing mutant aralar. These results indicate that 1) glucose-induced activation of MAS requires Ca2+ potentiation; 2) Ca2+ activation of MAS represents a larger fraction of glucose-induced mitochondrial NAD(P)H production under conditions where suboptimal Ca2+ signals are associated with a glucose challenge (50 versus 20%, respectively); 3) inactivation of EF-hand motifs in aralar prevents activation of MAS by small Ca2+ signals. The results suggest a possible role for aralar and MAS in priming the beta-cell by Ca2+-mobilizing neurotransmitter or hormones.

Selective actions of mitochondrial fission/fusion genes on metabolism-secretion coupling in insulin-releasing cells

Mitochondria form filamentous networks that undergo continuous fission/fusion. In the pancreatic beta-cells, mitochondria are essential for the transduction of signals linking nutrient metabolism to insulin granule exocytosis. Here we have studied mitochondrial networks in the insulinoma cell line INS-1E, primary rat and human beta-cells. We have further investigated the impact of mitochondrial fission/fusion on metabolism-secretion coupling in INS-1E cells. Overexpression of hFis1 caused dramatic mitochondrial fragmentation, whereas Mfn1 evoked hyperfusion and the aggregation of mitochondria. Cells overexpressing hFis1 or Mfn1 showed reduced mitochondrial volume, lowered cellular ATP levels, and as a consequence, impaired glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. Decreased mitochondrial ATP generation was partially compensated for by enhanced glycolysis as indicated by increased lactate production in these cells. Dominant-negative Mfn1 elicited mitochondrial shortening and fragmentation of INS-1E cell mitochondria, similar to hFis1. However, the mitochondrial volume, cytosolic ATP levels, and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion were little affected. We conclude that mitochondrial fragmentation per se does not impair metabolism-secretion coupling. Through their impact on mitochondrial bioenergetics and distribution, hFis1 and Mfn1 activities influence mitochondrial signal generation thereby insulin exocytosis.

Impact of mitochondrial calcium on the coupling of metabolism to insulin secretion in the pancreatic beta-cell

Mitochondria play an essential role in metabolism-secretion coupling in the pancreatic beta-cell. Dysfunction of the organelle leads to impaired glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, as exemplified by the rare disease mitochondrial diabetes, which is caused by mutations in the mitochondrial DNA. In the excitable beta-cell, mitochondria generate ATP and possibly other coupling factors that promote plasma membrane depolarization and calcium influx triggering insulin exocytosis. Cytosolic calcium signals are relayed into the mitochondria, where the ion potentiates oxidative metabolism. Hormones such as glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) or neurotransmitter secretagogues stimulate the beta-cell by activating different signal transduction pathways eventually also raising mitochondrial calcium. Likewise, pharmacological inhibition of the Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger of the inner mitochondrial membrane augments intra-organellar calcium and insulin secretion. Islets obtained after autopsy from type 2 diabetic patients have altered mitochondrial morphology impaired glucose oxidation and reduced ATP generation, explaining defective insulin secretion. We hypothesize that the improvement of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion by sulfonylurea compounds in type 2 diabetic patients is in part due to their capacity to raise mitochondrial calcium, which is beneficial for the generation of metabolic coupling factors.

Minireview: implication of mitochondria in insulin secretion and action

Mitochondria are essential for intermediary metabolism as well as energy production in the cell. Their aerobic metabolism permits oxidation of glucose and fatty acids for the generation of ATP and other intermediates that are exchanged with the cytoplasm for various biosynthetic and secretory processes. In the pancreatic beta-cell, glucose carbons are quantitatively funneled to the mitochondria, where signals for the initiation and potentiation of insulin secretion are generated. After mitochondrial activation, the plasma membrane is depolarized with ensuing cytosolic calcium transients and exocytosis of insulin. Calcium also acts in a feed-forward manner on mitochondrial metabolism, which contributes to sustained second phase insulin secretion. Patients with mitochondrial diabetes and a corresponding mouse model display defective glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and reduced beta-cell mass, leading to overt diabetes. Normal mitochondrial activity appears to be equally important in the action of insulin on its target tissues. The development of insulin resistance may involve impairment of glucose oxidation after short exposure to increased levels of circulating free fatty acids. Insulin resistance in the elderly and in relatives of type 2 diabetic patients has also been associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. Both prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes should focus on mitochondrial targets for the improvement of nutrient-stimulated insulin secretion and their utilization in peripheral tissues.

Functional specialization within a vesicle tethering complex: bypass of a subset of exocyst deletion mutants by Sec1p or Sec4p

The exocyst is an octameric protein complex required to tether secretory vesicles to exocytic sites and to retain ER tubules at the apical tip of budded cells. Unlike the other five exocyst genes, SEC3, SEC5, and EXO70 are not essential for growth or secretion when either the upstream activator rab, Sec4p, or the downstream SNARE-binding component, Sec1p, are overproduced. Analysis of the suppressed sec3Δ, sec5Δ, and exo70Δ strains demonstrates that the corresponding proteins confer differential effects on vesicle targeting and ER inheritance. Sec3p and Sec5p are more critical than Exo70p for ER inheritance. Although nonessential under these conditions, Sec3p, Sec5p, and Exo70p are still important for tethering, as in their absence the exocyst is only partially assembled. Sec1p overproduction results in increased SNARE complex levels, indicating a role in assembly or stabilization of SNARE complexes. Furthermore, a fraction of Sec1p can be coprecipitated with the exoycst. Our results suggest that Sec1p couples exocyst-mediated vesicle tethering with SNARE-mediated docking and fusion.

Sec3p is needed for the spatial regulation of secretion and for the inheritance of the cortical endoplasmic reticulum

Sec3p is a component of the exocyst complex that tethers secretory vesicles to the plasma membrane at exocytic sites in preparation for fusion. Unlike all other exocyst structural genes, SEC3 is not essential for growth. Cells lacking Sec3p grow and secrete surprisingly well at 25 degrees C; however, late markers of secretion, such as the vesicle marker Sec4p and the exocyst subunit Sec8p, localize more diffusely within the bud. Furthermore, sec3Delta cells are strikingly round relative to wild-type cells and are unable to form pointed mating projections in response to alpha factor. These phenotypes support the proposed role of Sec3p as a spatial landmark for secretion. We also find that cells lacking Sec3p exhibit a dramatic defect in the inheritance of cortical ER into the bud, whereas the inheritance of mitochondria and Golgi is unaffected. Overexpression of Sec3p results in a prominent patch of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) marker Sec61p-GFP at the bud tip. Cortical ER inheritance in yeast has been suggested to involve the capture of ER tubules at the bud tip. Sec3p may act in this process as a spatial landmark for cortical ER inheritance.

Identification and characterization of Saccharomyces cerevisiae mutants defective in fluid-phase endocytosis

A mutant library generated by the European Functional Analysis Network (EUROFAN) was screened for strains defective in fluid-phase endocytosis. Accumulation of Lucifer yellow in the vacuole was used as a marker for efficient endocytosis. Fourteen mutants, including ede1Delta, rcy1Delta, sys1Delta and tlg2Delta, previously described to be involved in membrane trafficking, were identified in this screen. alpha-Factor uptake, endocytosis of FM4-64, carboxypeptidase Y secretion, vacuolar morphology, and a vma2 synthetic growth defect were used as criteria to characterize the endocytic defect of the mutant strains obtained. Accordingly, eight mutant strains have endocytic phenotypes in addition to their defect in Lucifer yellow accumulation. These fluid-phase endocytosis mutants are defective at different steps of the endocytic pathway. Interestingly, only two mutants were defective for internalization, two for vacuolar protein sorting and four mutants had aberrant vacuolar morphologies. Some of the mutants identified in this screen that sort carboxypeptidase Y correctly may affect endocytosis at an early post-internalization step before the intersection of the endocytic with the vacuolar protein-sorting pathway.

Skp1p and the F-box protein Rcy1p form a non-SCF complex involved in recycling of the SNARE Snc1p in yeast

Skp1p-cullin-F-box protein (SCF) complexes are ubiquitin-ligases composed of a core complex including Skp1p, Cdc53p, Hrt1p, the E2 enzyme Cdc34p, and one of multiple F-box proteins which are thought to provide substrate specificity to the complex. Here we show that the F-box protein Rcy1p is required for recycling of the v-SNARE Snc1p in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Rcy1p localized to areas of polarized growth, and this polarized localization required its CAAX box and an intact actin cytoskeleton. Rcy1p interacted with Skp1p in vivo in an F-box-dependent manner, and both deletion of its F box and loss of Skp1p function impaired recycling. In contrast, cells deficient in Cdc53p, Hrt1p, or Cdc34p did not exhibit recycling defects. Unlike the case for F-box proteins that are known to participate in SCF complexes, degradation of Rcy1p required neither its F box nor functional 26S proteasomes or other SCF core subunits. Importantly, Skp1p was the only major partner that copurified with Rcy1p. Our results thus suggest that a complex composed of Rcy1p and Skp1p but not other SCF components may play a direct role in recycling of internalized proteins.

A novel EH domain protein of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Ede1p, involved in endocytosis

Sequencing of the entire genome of S. cerevisiae has revealed the existence of five proteins containing EH domains. These are protein-protein interaction modules first described in mammalian Eps15, a protein that is involved in clathrin-dependent endocytosis. Two of the yeast proteins, End3p and Pan1p, are required for the internalization step of endocytosis. We report characterization of the nonessential ORF YBL047c which, like Eps15, encodes a protein with three N-terminal EH domains. Deletion of YBL047c leads to a defective fluid-phase endocytosis and to defective internalization of the pheromone (alpha)-factor and uracil permease. We therefore named YBL047c EDE1, for EH Domains and Endocytosis. Ede1p expressed as a chromosomally encoded fusion to the green fluorescent protein is localized in punctate cortical spots that only partially colocalize with actin patches. This localization is maintained when actin is depolymerized. Deletion of EDE1 impairs the diploid budding pattern, but has only a small impact on actin cytoskeleton organization, in contrast to the effects observed in pan1 cells and many end mutants impaired in proteins colocalizing with cortical actin patches. Genetic interaction was observed between EDE1 and RSP5, which encodes the ubiquitin ligase Rsp5p essential for ubiquitin-dependent endocytosis of many plasma membrane proteins, thus further emphasizing the functional link between Rsp5p and the EH domain proteins. We also observed genetic interaction between EDE1, and END3 or PAN1, suggesting that Ede1p might be part of a yeast EH network implicated in endocytosis.

The F-box protein Rcy1p is involved in endocytic membrane traffic and recycling out of an early endosome in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, endocytic material is transported through different membrane-bound compartments before it reaches the vacuole. In a screen for mutants that affect membrane trafficking along the endocytic pathway, we have identified a novel mutant disrupted for the gene YJL204c that we have renamed RCY1 (recycling 1). Deletion of RCY1 leads to an early block in the endocytic pathway before the intersection with the vacuolar protein sorting pathway. Mutation of RCY1 leads to the accumulation of an enlarged compartment that contains the t-SNARE Tlg1p and lies close to areas of cell expansion. In addition, endocytic markers such as Ste2p and the fluorescent dyes, Lucifer yellow and FM4-64, were found in a similar enlarged compartment after their internalization. To determine whether rcy1Delta is defective for recycling, we have developed an assay that measures the recycling of previously internalized FM4-64. This method enables us to follow the recycling pathway in yeast in real time. Using this assay, it could be demonstrated that recycling of membranes is rapid in S. cerevisiae and that a major fraction of internalized FM4-64 is secreted back into the medium within a few minutes. The rcy1Delta mutant is strongly defective in recycling.