Search

Accumulation of hepatic triacylglycerol (TG) is highly associated with impaired whole-body insulin-glucose homeostasis and dyslipidemia. The summarized findings from human intervention studies investigating the effect of reduced dietary carbohydrate and increased fat intake (and in studies also increased protein) while maintaining energy intake at eucaloric requirements reveal a beneficial effect of carbohydrate reduction on hepatic TG content in obese individuals with steatosis and indices of insulin resistance. Evidence suggests that the reduction of hepatic TG content following reduced intake of carbohydrate and increased fat/protein intake in humans results from regulation of fatty acid (FA) metabolism within the liver, with an increase in hepatic FA oxidation and ketogenesis, together with a concomitant downregulation of FA synthesis from de novo lipogenesis. The adaptations in hepatic metabolism may result from reduced intrahepatic monosaccharide and insulin availability, reduced glycolysis and increased FA availability when carbohydrate intake is reduced.

Accumulation of hepatic triacylglycerol (TG) is highly associated with impaired whole-body insulin-glucose homeostasis and dyslipidemia. The summarized findings from human intervention studies investigating the effect of reduced dietary carbohydrate and increased fat intake (and in studies also increased protein) while maintaining energy intake at eucaloric requirements reveal a beneficial effect of carbohydrate reduction on hepatic TG content in obese individuals with steatosis and indices of insulin resistance. Evidence suggests that the reduction of hepatic TG content following reduced intake of carbohydrate and increased fat/protein intake in humans results from regulation of fatty acid (FA) metabolism within the liver, with an increase in hepatic FA oxidation and ketogenesis, together with a concomitant downregulation of FA synthesis from de novo lipogenesis. The adaptations in hepatic metabolism may result from reduced intrahepatic monosaccharide and insulin availability, reduced glycolysis and increased FA availability when carbohydrate intake is reduced.

Thermogenic adipocytes possess a promising approach to combat obesity with its capability promoting energy metabolism. We previously discovered that deletion of GPR30 (GPRKO), a presumably membrane-associated estrogen receptor, protected female mice from developing obesity, glucose intolerance, and insulin resistance when challenged with a high-fat diet (HFD). In vivo, the metabolic phenotype of wild type (WT) and GPRKO female mice were measured weekly. Acute cold tolerance test was performed. Ex vivo, mitochondrial respiration of brown adipose tissue (BAT) was analyzed from diet-induced obese female mice of both genotypes. In vitro, stromal vascular fractions (SVF) were isolated for beige adipocyte differentiation to investigate the role of GPR30 in thermogenic adipocyte. Deletion of GPR30 protects female mice from hypothermia and the mitochondria in BAT are highly energetic in GPRKO animals while the WT mitochondria remain in a relatively quiescent stage. Consistently, GPR30 deficiency enhances beige adipocyte differentiation in white adipose tissue (WAT) and activates the thermogenic browning of subcutaneous WAT due to up-regulation of UCP-1, which thereby protects female mice from HFD-induced obesity. GPR30 is a negative regulator of thermogenesis, which at least partially contributes to the reduced adiposity in the GPRKO female mice. Our findings provide insight into the mechanism by which GPR30 regulates fat metabolism and adiposity in female mice exposed to excess calories, which may be instrumental in the development of new therapeutic strategies for obesity.

Taurine enhances physical performance; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. This study examined the effect of taurine on the overtime dynamics of blood glucose concentration (BGC) during endurance exercise in rats. Male F344 rats were subjected to transient treadmill exercise until exhaustion following 3 weeks of taurine supplementation or non-supplementation (TAU and CON groups). Every 10 min during exercise, BGC was measured in blood collected through cannulation of the jugular vein. Gluconeogenesis-, lipolysis-, and fatty acid oxidation-related factors in the plasma, liver, and skeletal muscles were also analyzed after 120-min run. Exercise time to exhaustion was significantly longer with taurine supplementation. BGC in the two groups significantly increased by 40 min and gradually and significantly decreased toward the respective exhaustion point. The decline in BGC from the peak at 40 min was significantly slower in the TAU group. The time when the once-increased BGC regressed to the 0-time level was significantly and positively correlated with exercise time until exhaustion. At the 120-min point, where the difference in BGC between the two groups was most significant, plasma free fatty acid concentration and acetyl-carnitine and N-acetyltaurine concentrations in skeletal muscle were significantly higher in the TAU group, whereas glycogen and glucogenic amino acid concentrations and G6Pase activity in the liver were not different between the two groups. Taurine supplementation enhances endurance capacity by delaying the decrease in BGC toward exhaustion through increases of lipolysis in adipose tissues and fatty acid oxidation in skeletal muscles during endurance exercise.

Altered energy metabolism within tubular cells plays a key role in determining the outcome following acute kidney injury (AKI) and is thought to mediate the severity of the injury as well as the degree of resultant fibrosis. Despite the high prevalence of acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease with permanent fibrosis of kidney tissue, there is a paucity of therapies available for the prevention of AKI. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) has a key role in regulating both fatty acid oxidation and glycolysis, the primary methods of energy generation within the kidney, through its actions on the acetyl-CoA-carboxylase (ACC) and phosphofructokinase (PFK) pathways. When activated by cellular energy depletion, AMPK phosphorylates its substrates leading to inhibition of energy-consuming and promotion of energy-producing pathways. AMPK activators, such as metformin, have previously shown to be protective in models of kidney fibrosis, however clinical use of metformin in human AKI is limited by lactic acidosis. This thesis seeks to further examine the mechanisms of AMPK activators through which they have beneficial effects against kidney fibrosis. The importance of metformin’s effects on glycolysis was examined using an inactivating knock-in mutation of a key regulatory point in glycolysis. 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase (PFKFB) has a critical role in regulating the activity of phosphofructokinase-1 (PFK-1), the key rate-limiting step in glycolysis. Mice with inactivating mutations of the phosphorylation binding sites of PFKFB2 (PFKFB2 KI mice), the predominant isoform of PFKFB within the kidney, were examined in a unilateral ureteric obstruction (UUO) model of fibrosis with and without added metformin. Mice undergoing UUO had decreased amounts of fibrosis, as measured by Western Blot and PCR markers of alpha-smooth muscle actin and fibronectin when treated with metformin. This effect was preserved in the PFKFB2 KI likely due to ongoing effects

Liraglutide, an anti-diabetic drug and agonist of the glucagon-like peptide one receptor (GLP1R), has recently been approved to treat obesity in individuals with or without type 2 diabetes. Despite its extensive metabolic benefits, the mechanism and site of action of liraglutide remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that liraglutide is shuttled to target cells in the mouse hypothalamus by specialized ependymoglial cells called tanycytes, bypassing the blood-brain barrier. Selectively silencing GLP1R in tanycytes or inhibiting tanycytic transcytosis by botulinum neurotoxin expression not only hampers liraglutide transport into the brain and its activation of target hypothalamic neurons, but also blocks its anti-obesity effects on food intake, body weight and fat mass, and fatty acid oxidation. Collectively, these striking data indicate that the liraglutide-induced activation of hypothalamic neurons and its downstream metabolic effects are mediated by its tanycytic transport into the mediobasal hypothalamus, strengthening the notion of tanycytes as key regulators of metabolic homeostasis.

Thermogenic adipocytes possess a promising approach to combat obesity with its capability promoting energy metabolism. We previously discovered that deletion of GPR30 (GPRKO), a presumably membrane-associated estrogen receptor, protected female mice from developing obesity, glucose intolerance, and insulin resistance when challenged with a high-fat diet (HFD). In vivo, the metabolic phenotype of wild type (WT) and GPRKO female mice were measured weekly. Acute cold tolerance test was performed. Ex vivo, mitochondrial respiration of brown adipose tissue (BAT) was analyzed from diet-induced obese female mice of both genotypes. In vitro, stromal vascular fractions (SVF) were isolated for beige adipocyte differentiation to investigate the role of GPR30 in thermogenic adipocyte. Deletion of GPR30 protects female mice from hypothermia and the mitochondria in BAT are highly energetic in GPRKO animals while the WT mitochondria remain in a relatively quiescent stage. Consistently, GPR30 deficiency enhances beige adipocyte differentiation in white adipose tissue (WAT) and activates the thermogenic browning of subcutaneous WAT due to up-regulation of UCP-1, which thereby protects female mice from HFD-induced obesity. GPR30 is a negative regulator of thermogenesis, which at least partially contributes to the reduced adiposity in the GPRKO female mice. Our findings provide insight into the mechanism by which GPR30 regulates fat metabolism and adiposity in female mice exposed to excess calories, which may be instrumental in the development of new therapeutic strategies for obesity.

Nonalcoholic-fatty-liver-disease (NAFLD) is the result of imbalances in hepatic lipid partitioning and is linked to dietary factors. We demonstrate that conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) when given to mice as a dietary supplement, induced an enlarged liver, hepatic steatosis, and increased plasma levels of fatty acid (FA), alanine transaminase, and triglycerides. The progression of NAFLD and insulin resistance was reversed by GW6471 a small-molecule antagonist of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα). Transcriptional profiling of livers revealed that the genes involved in FA oxidation and lipogenesis as two core gene programs controlled by PPARα in response to CLA and GW6471 including Acaca and Acads. Bioinformatic analysis of PPARα ChIP-seq data set and ChIP-qPCR showed that GW6471 blocks PPARα binding to Acaca and Acads and abolishes the PPARα-mediated local histone modifications of H3K27ac and H3K4me1 in CLA-treated hepatocytes. Thus, our findings reveal a dual role of PPARα in the regulation of lipid homeostasis and highlight its druggable nature in NAFLD.

In order for the heart to maintain its continuous mechanical work and provide the systolic movement to uphold coronary blood flow, substantial synthesis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is required. Under normal conditions cardiac tissue utilizes roughly 70% fatty acids (FA), and 30% glucose for the production of ATP; however, during impaired metabolic conditions like insulin resistance and diabetes glucose metabolism is dysregulated and FA account for 99% of energy production. One of the major consequences of a shift in FA metabolism in cardiac tissue is an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipotoxicity, which ultimately lead to mitochondrial dysfunction. Thyroid hormones (TH) have direct effects on cardiac function and glucose metabolism during impaired metabolic conditions suggesting that TH may improve glucose metabolism in an insulin resistant condition. None-classical TH signaling in the heart has shown to phosphorylate protein kinase B (Akt) and increase activity of phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K), which are critical mediators in the insulin-stimulated glucose uptake pathway. Studies on peripheral tissues such as skeletal muscle and adipocytes have demonstrated TH treatment improved glucose intolerance in a diabetic model and increased insulin-regulated glucose transporter (GLUT4) mRNA levels. GLUT4 is a downstream target of thyroid response element (TRE), which demonstrates that THs regulate glucose via GLUT4. Elevated 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (T3) increased glucose oxidation rate and decreased the glycolytic intermediate, fructose 6-phosphate (F6P) in cardiomyocytes, in addition to increasing mitochondrial biogenesis and pyruvate transport across the mitochondrial membrane. These findings along with a few other studies on T3 treatment in cardiac tissue suggest TH may improve glucose metabolism in an insulin resistant model and ameliorate the effects of diabetes and metabolic syndrome. This review highlights the potential benefits of exogenous TH

Mitochondria are dynamic, interactive organelles that connect cellular signaling and whole-cell homeostasis. This "mitochatting" allows the cell to receive information about the mitochondria's condition before accommodating energy demands. Mitofusin 2 (Mfn2), an outer mitochondrial membrane fusion protein specializes in mediating mitochondrial homeostasis. Early studies defined the biological significance of Mfn2, while latter studies highlighted its role in substrate metabolism. However, determining Mfn2 potential to contribute to energy homeostasis needs study. This review summarizes current literature on mitochondrial metabolic processes, dynamics, and evidence of interactions among Mfn2 and regulatory processes that may link Mfn2's role in maintaining mitochondrial function and substrate metabolism.

Mitochondria are dynamic, interactive organelles that connect cellular signaling and whole-cell homeostasis. This "mitochatting" allows the cell to receive information about the mitochondria's condition before accommodating energy demands. Mitofusin 2 (Mfn2), an outer mitochondrial membrane fusion protein specializes in mediating mitochondrial homeostasis. Early studies defined the biological significance of Mfn2, while latter studies highlighted its role in substrate metabolism. However, determining Mfn2 potential to contribute to energy homeostasis needs study. This review summarizes current literature on mitochondrial metabolic processes, dynamics, and evidence of interactions among Mfn2 and regulatory processes that may link Mfn2's role in maintaining mitochondrial function and substrate metabolism.

[EN] Objective: Neddylation is a druggable and reversible ubiquitin-like post-translational modification upregulated in many diseases, including liver fibrosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and more recently, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Herein, we propose to address the effects of neddylation inhibition and the underlying mechanisms in pre-clinical models of NAFLD. Methods: Hepatic neddylation measured by immunohistochemical analysis and NEDD8 serum levels measured by ELISA assay were evaluated in NAFLD clinical and pre-clinical samples. The effects of neddylation inhibition by using a pharmacological small inhibitor, MLN4924, or molecular approaches were assessed in isolated mouse hepatocytes and pre-clinical mouse models of diet-induced NAFLD, male adult C57BL/6 mice, and the AlfpCre transgenic mice infected with AAV-DIO-shNedd8. Results: Neddylation inhibition reduced lipid accumulation in oleic acid-stimulated mouse primary hepatocytes and ameliorated liver steatosis, preventing lipid peroxidation and inflammation in the mouse models of diet-induced NAFLD. Under these conditions, increased Deptor levels and the concomitant repression of mTOR signaling were associated with augmented fatty acid oxidation and reduced lipid content. Moreover, Deptor silencing in isolated mouse hepatocytes abolished the anti-steatotic effects mediated by neddylation inhibition. Finally, serum NEDD8 levels correlated with hepatic neddylation during the disease progression in the clinical and pre-clinical models

[EN] Objective: Neddylation is a druggable and reversible ubiquitin-like post-translational modification upregulated in many diseases, including liver fibrosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and more recently, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Herein, we propose to address the effects of neddylation inhibition and the underlying mechanisms in pre-clinical models of NAFLD. Methods: Hepatic neddylation measured by immunohistochemical analysis and NEDD8 serum levels measured by ELISA assay were evaluated in NAFLD clinical and pre-clinical samples. The effects of neddylation inhibition by using a pharmacological small inhibitor, MLN4924, or molecular approaches were assessed in isolated mouse hepatocytes and pre-clinical mouse models of diet-induced NAFLD, male adult C57BL/6 mice, and the AlfpCre transgenic mice infected with AAV-DIO-shNedd8. Results: Neddylation inhibition reduced lipid accumulation in oleic acid-stimulated mouse primary hepatocytes and ameliorated liver steatosis, preventing lipid peroxidation and inflammation in the mouse models of diet-induced NAFLD. Under these conditions, increased Deptor levels and the concomitant repression of mTOR signaling were associated with augmented fatty acid oxidation and reduced lipid content. Moreover, Deptor silencing in isolated mouse hepatocytes abolished the anti-steatotic effects mediated by neddylation inhibition. Finally, serum NEDD8 levels correlated with hepatic neddylation during the disease progression in the clinical and pre-clinical models

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is rising with significant cost and burden to our health system. Renal fibrosis is the common outcome of CKD independent of the underlying aetiologies. Changes in energy metabolism are emerging as a key contributor to renal fibrosis. Expression of genes regulating fatty acid and carbohydrate metabolism is reduced in the fibrotic kidney. Metabolic reprogramming has been reported in several models of renal disease, although its exact mechanism remains obscure. We aimed to determine the role of phosphorylation events that control fatty acid oxidation (FAO) and glycolysis in renal fibrosis. The folic acid nephropathy (FAN) and unilateral ureteric obstruction (UUO) models were induced in mice with knock-in (KI) mutations of phosphorylation sites (phosphosites) in acetyl CoA carboxylase 1 and 2 (ACC 1/2 KI mice), the major regulator of FAO, and 6-phosphofructo-2kinase/fructose-2,6-biphosphatase (PFKFB2 KI mice), the major regulator of glycolysis. Metformin, which activates 5'-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) to increase phosphorylation of ACC, was administered to mice with FAN. ACC Ser79 phosphorylation was reduced in folate-treated tubular epithelial cells (p<0.01) and WT mice with FAN (p<0.05). Mutation of these sites in ACC1/2 KI mice with FAN or UUO caused lipid accumulation (Oil Red O p<0.01), increased triglyceride (p<0.01), increased collagen (PicroSirius red p<0.001; Masson’s Trichrome p<0.01; qRT-PCR p<0.01) and increased A-SMA (Western blot p<0.05; qRT-PCR p<0.01). Metformin administration was associated with reduced fibrosis (PicroSirius red p<0.01) and reduced lipid accumulation (Oil Red O p<0.05) in WT mice, but not in ACC1/2KI mice. Phosphorylation of the kidney isoform, PFKFB2, on residues Ser466 and Ser483 stimulates glycolysis. PFKFB2 KI mice have inactivating mutations at these phosphosites. Primary cultures of renal tubular epithelial cells from PFKFB2 KI mice had reduced ability to stimulate glycolysis

In order for the heart to maintain its continuous mechanical work and provide the systolic movement to uphold coronary blood flow, substantial synthesis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is required. Under normal conditions cardiac tissue utilizes roughly 70% fatty acids (FA), and 30% glucose for the production of ATP; however, during impaired metabolic conditions like insulin resistance and diabetes glucose metabolism is dysregulated and FA account for 99% of energy production. One of the major consequences of a shift in FA metabolism in cardiac tissue is an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipotoxicity, which ultimately lead to mitochondrial dysfunction. Thyroid hormones (TH) have direct effects on cardiac function and glucose metabolism during impaired metabolic conditions suggesting that TH may improve glucose metabolism in an insulin resistant condition. None-classical TH signaling in the heart has shown to phosphorylate protein kinase B (Akt) and increase activity of phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K), which are critical mediators in the insulin-stimulated glucose uptake pathway. Studies on peripheral tissues such as skeletal muscle and adipocytes have demonstrated TH treatment improved glucose intolerance in a diabetic model and increased insulin-regulated glucose transporter (GLUT4) mRNA levels. GLUT4 is a downstream target of thyroid response element (TRE), which demonstrates that THs regulate glucose via GLUT4. Elevated 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (T3) increased glucose oxidation rate and decreased the glycolytic intermediate, fructose 6-phosphate (F6P) in cardiomyocytes, in addition to increasing mitochondrial biogenesis and pyruvate transport across the mitochondrial membrane. These findings along with a few other studies on T3 treatment in cardiac tissue suggest TH may improve glucose metabolism in an insulin resistant model and ameliorate the effects of diabetes and metabolic syndrome. This review highlights the potential benefits of exogenous TH

Mitochondria are dynamic, interactive organelles that connect cellular signaling and whole-cell homeostasis. This "mitochatting" allows the cell to receive information about the mitochondria's condition before accommodating energy demands. Mitofusin 2 (Mfn2), an outer mitochondrial membrane fusion protein specializes in mediating mitochondrial homeostasis. Early studies defined the biological significance of Mfn2, while latter studies highlighted its role in substrate metabolism. However, determining Mfn2 potential to contribute to energy homeostasis needs study. This review summarizes current literature on mitochondrial metabolic processes, dynamics, and evidence of interactions among Mfn2 and regulatory processes that may link Mfn2's role in maintaining mitochondrial function and substrate metabolism.

Objective: Neddylation is a druggable and reversible ubiquitin-like post-translational modification upregulated in many diseases, including liver fibrosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and more recently, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Herein, we propose to address the effects of neddylation inhibition and the underlying mechanisms in pre-clinical models of NAFLD. Methods: Hepatic neddylation measured by immunohistochemical analysis and NEDD8 serum levels measured by ELISA assay were evaluated in NAFLD clinical and pre-clinical samples. The effects of neddylation inhibition by using a pharmacological small inhibitor, MLN4924, or molecular approaches were assessed in isolated mouse hepatocytes and pre-clinical mouse models of diet-induced NAFLD, male adult C57BL/6 mice, and the AlfpCre transgenic mice infected with AAV-DIO-shNedd8. Results: Neddylation inhibition reduced lipid accumulation in oleic acid-stimulated mouse primary hepatocytes and ameliorated liver steatosis, preventing lipid peroxidation and inflammation in the mouse models of diet-induced NAFLD. Under these conditions, increased Deptor levels and the concomitant repression of mTOR signaling were associated with augmented fatty acid oxidation and reduced lipid content. Moreover, Deptor silencing in isolated mouse hepatocytes abolished the anti-steatotic effects mediated by neddylation inhibition. Finally, serum NEDD8 levels correlated with hepatic neddylation during the disease progression in the clinical and pre-clinical models. Conclusions: Overall, the upregulation of Deptor, driven by neddylation inhibition, is proposed as a novel effective target and therapeutic approach to tackle NAFLD

[EN] Objective: Neddylation is a druggable and reversible ubiquitin-like post-translational modification upregulated in many diseases, including liver fibrosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and more recently, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Herein, we propose to address the effects of neddylation inhibition and the underlying mechanisms in pre-clinical models of NAFLD. Methods: Hepatic neddylation measured by immunohistochemical analysis and NEDD8 serum levels measured by ELISA assay were evaluated in NAFLD clinical and pre-clinical samples. The effects of neddylation inhibition by using a pharmacological small inhibitor, MLN4924, or molecular approaches were assessed in isolated mouse hepatocytes and pre-clinical mouse models of diet-induced NAFLD, male adult C57BL/6 mice, and the AlfpCre transgenic mice infected with AAV-DIO-shNedd8. Results: Neddylation inhibition reduced lipid accumulation in oleic acid-stimulated mouse primary hepatocytes and ameliorated liver steatosis, preventing lipid peroxidation and inflammation in the mouse models of diet-induced NAFLD. Under these conditions, increased Deptor levels and the concomitant repression of mTOR signaling were associated with augmented fatty acid oxidation and reduced lipid content. Moreover, Deptor silencing in isolated mouse hepatocytes abolished the anti-steatotic effects mediated by neddylation inhibition. Finally, serum NEDD8 levels correlated with hepatic neddylation during the disease progression in the clinical and pre-clinical models

Aim This study explored hypoglycaemia and metabolic crises, including hyperketosis, in patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Methods The study comprised four adolescents aged 15-17 and six adults aged 19-37 with SMA type II and eight adult controls aged 21-41, who were recruited by the Rigshospitalet, Denmark, from May 1st to October 30th 2017. We used stable isotope technique and indirect calorimetry to investigate fat and glucose metabolism during a 24-h fast or until hypoglycaemia occurred. Results All patients with SMA II developed moderate to severe hyperketosis and 60% had symptoms of hypoglycaemia or blood glucose levels below 3 mmol/L. None of the controls developed hyperketosis or hypoglycaemia. Plasma bicarbonate decreased, in line with increased ketone bodies, indicating the start of metabolic acidosis in patients with SMA II. Increased fat production and utilisation were seen in healthy controls during the fasting period, but were absent in patients with SMA II, indicating blunted fat oxidation. Conclusion Low skeletal muscle mass was the best explanation for why patients with SMA II had an increased risk of hypoglycaemia, hyperketosis, metabolic acidosis and disturbed fat and glucose metabolism during fasting. These risks have implications for children facing surgery and those with severe illnesses.

The study of placental lipid metabolism in uncomplicated pregnancies has not been developed in the literature to date. Its importance lies in expanding the knowledge of placental function to enable comparison with pathological pregnancies in future research. The aim of the present study was to compare the lipid metabolic activity and storage of the maternal and fetal sides of the placenta in healthy pregnancies. Moreover, we compare singleton vs. twin pregnancies to determine if placental metabolic needs differ. We analyzed placental explants from uncomplicated pregnancies, 20 from singleton and 8 from bichorial-biamniotic twin pregnancies (n = 28). Six cotyledon fragments were collected from each placenta at different distances from the umbilical cord, three close to the chorionic plate (hereinafter, we will refer to them as “fetal side”) and another three close to the anchoring villi into the decidua basalis (referred to as “maternal side”). The samples were analyzed for quantitative assay placental fatty acid oxidation (FAO) and esterification (FAE) activities and triglyceride levels. The location of lipid storage in the chorionic villi was assessed by Oil red-O staining. Placental fatty acid oxidation did not show differences when comparing the maternal and fetal sides of the placenta or between single and twin pregnancies. When comparing placental sides, FAE was increased twofold in the maternal side compared to the fetal side of the placenta (P = 0.013). The tendency for lipogenesis in the placenta was exemplified by the FAE/FAO ratio, which was a 37.1% higher on the maternal side (P = 0.019). Despite this, triglyceride levels were five times higher in the fetal side than in the maternal one (P = 0.024). When analyzing singleton vs. twins, FAE was superior in the fetal side in multiple pregnancies (× 2.6, P = 0.007) and the FAE/FAO ratio was significantly higher in twins than in singleton pregnancies, on both sides of the placenta. Despite this finding, trigly

For millions of years, endogenous retroelements have remained transcriptionally silent within mammalian genomes by epigenetic mechanisms. Modern anticancer therapies targeting the epigenetic machinery awaken retroelement expression, inducing antiviral responses that eliminate tumors through mechanisms not completely understood. Here, we find that massive binding of epigenetically activated retroelements by RIG-I and MDA5 viral sensors promotes ATP hydrolysis and depletes intracellular energy, driving tumor killing independently of immune signaling. Energy depletion boosts compensatory ATP production by switching glycolysis to mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, thereby reversing the Warburg effect. However, hyperfunctional succinate dehydrogenase in mitochondrial electron transport chain generates excessive oxidative stress that unleashes RIP1-mediated necroptosis. To maintain ATP generation, hyperactive mitochondrial membrane blocks intrinsic apoptosis by increasing BCL2 dependency. Accordingly, drugs targeting BCL2 family proteins and epigenetic inhibitors yield synergistic responses in multiple cancer types. Thus, epigenetic therapy kills cancer cells by rewiring mitochondrial metabolism upon retroelement activation, which primes mitochondria to apoptosis by BH3-mimetics. SIGNIFICANCE: The state of viral mimicry induced by epigenetic therapies in cancer cells remodels mitochondrial metabolism and drives caspase-independent tumor cell death, which sensitizes to BCL2 inhibitor drugs. This novel mechanism underlies clinical efficacy of hypomethylating agents and venetoclax in acute myeloid leukemia, suggesting similar combination therapies for other incurable cancers.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains a major epidemiological, clinical, and biomedical challenge. During CKD, renal tubular epithelial cells (TECs) present a persistent inflammatory and profibrotic response. Fatty acid oxidation (FAO), the main source of energy for TECs, is reduced in kidney fibrosis and contributes to its pathogenesis. To determine whether gain of function in FAO (FAO-GOF) could protect from fibrosis, we generated a conditional transgenic mouse model with overexpression of the fatty acid shuttling enzyme carnitine palmitoyl-transferase 1A (CPT1A) in TECs. Cpt1a-knockin (CPT1A-KI) mice subjected to 3 models of renal fibrosis (unilateral ureteral obstruction, folic acid nephropathy [FAN], and adenine-induced nephrotoxicity) exhibited decreased expression of fibrotic markers, a blunted proinflammatory response, and reduced epithelial cell damage and macrophage influx. Protection from fibrosis was also observed when Cpt1a overexpression was induced after FAN. FAO-GOF restored oxidative metabolism and mitochondrial number and enhanced bioenergetics, increasing palmitate oxidation and ATP levels, changes that were also recapitulated in TECs exposed to profibrotic stimuli. Studies in patients showed decreased CPT1 levels and increased accumulation of shortand middle chain acylcarnitines, reflecting impaired FAO in human CKD. We propose that strategies based on FAO-GOF may constitute powerful alternatives to combat fibrosis inherent to CKD.

Saturated fatty acids (SFAs) (the "bad" fat), especially palmitate (PA), in the human diet are blamed for potential health risks such as obesity and cancer because of SFA-induced lipotoxicity. However, epidemiological results demonstrate a latent benefit of SFAs, and it remains elusive whether a certain low level of SFAs is physiologically essential for maintaining cell metabolic hemostasis. Here, we demonstrate that although high-level PA (HPA) indeed induces lipotoxic effects in liver cells, low-level PA (LPA) increases mitochondrial functions and alleviates the injuries induced by HPA or hepatoxic agent carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). LPA treatment in mice enhanced liver mitochondrial activity and reduced CCl4 hepatotoxicity with improved blood levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and mitochondrial aspartate transaminase (m-AST). LPA-mediated mitochondrial homeostasis is regulated by CDK1-mediated SIRT3 phosphorylation, which in turn deacetylates and dimerizes CPT2 to enhance fatty acid oxidation. Thus, an advantageous effect is suggested by the consumption of LPA that augments mitochondrial metabolic homeostasis via CDK1-SIRT3-CPT2 cascade.

Purpose of Review: This review summarizes the important role that metabolism plays in driving maturation of human pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes. Recent Findings: Human pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes provide a model system for human cardiac biology. However, these models have been unable to fully recapitulate the maturity observed in the adult heart. By simulating the glucose to fatty acid transition observed in neonatal mammals, human pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes undergo structural and functional maturation also accompanied by transcriptional changes and cell cycle arrest. The role of metabolism in energy production, signaling, and epigenetic modifications illustrates that metabolism and cellular phenotype are intimately linked. Summary: Further understanding of key metabolic factors driving cardiac maturation will facilitate the generation of more mature human pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocyte models. This will increase our understanding of cardiac biology and potentially lead to novel therapeutics to enhance heart function.

Reprograming lipid metabolism, one of the major metabolic alterations in cancer, is believed to play an essential role in cancer development, but the exact molecular mechanism remains elusive. Here, we present a computational study of transcriptomic data of HCC with HCV etiology to investigate how lipid metabolism alters during HCC progression. Our analyses reveal that: (1) cancer tissue cells tend to synthesize fatty acids de novo and its phospholipid derivatives; (2) lipid catabolism and fatty acid oxidation are remarkably down-regulated in HCC; (3) the lipid metabolism in HCC is largely independent of lipids in blood circulation; (4) stage-specific co-expression networks for lipid metabolic genes were identified during HCC progression; and (5) the expression levels of several lipid metabolic genes that are differentially expressed or co-expressed specifically at the HCC stage have a strong correlation with cancer survival. Overall, the results provide detailed information about the reprogramed lipid metabolism in HCV-derived HCC. © Copyright © 2020 Liu, Liu, Cui and Xu.

Saturated fatty acids (SFAs) (the "bad" fat), especially palmitate (PA), in the human diet are blamed for potential health risks such as obesity and cancer because of SFA-induced lipotoxicity. However, epidemiological results demonstrate a latent benefit of SFAs, and it remains elusive whether a certain low level of SFAs is physiologically essential for maintaining cell metabolic hemostasis. Here, we demonstrate that although high-level PA (HPA) indeed induces lipotoxic effects in liver cells, low-level PA (LPA) increases mitochondrial functions and alleviates the injuries induced by HPA or hepatoxic agent carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). LPA treatment in mice enhanced liver mitochondrial activity and reduced CCl4 hepatotoxicity with improved blood levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and mitochondrial aspartate transaminase (m-AST). LPA-mediated mitochondrial homeostasis is regulated by CDK1-mediated SIRT3 phosphorylation, which in turn deacetylates and dimerizes CPT2 to enhance fatty acid oxidation. Thus, an advantageous effect is suggested by the consumption of LPA that augments mitochondrial metabolic homeostasis via CDK1-SIRT3-CPT2 cascade.

Die gestörte epidermale Hautbarrierefunktion bei der atopischen Dermatitis (AD) wird von einer komplexen Wechselwirkung zwischen genetischen - und Umweltfaktoren verursacht, die noch nicht vollständig entschlüsselt ist. Lipide sind wesentliche Bestandteile des Stratum Corneum (SC) und frühere Studien haben gezeigt, dass sich die Lipidzusammensetzung des SC bei Patienten mit atopischer Dermatitis von jener gesunder Personen unterscheidet. Ebenso ist eine Reduktion der Kohlenstoffkettenlänge von freien Fettsäuren und Ceramiden in der atopischen Epidermis nachgewiesen worden, die zu einer beeinträchtigten epidermalen Barrierefunktion beitragen kann. Die Ursache der Lipidanomalien im SC der atopischen Epidermis konnte jedoch bisher nicht festgestellt werden. Außerdem wurde diese Lipidabnormität bisher nicht als zelluläre und molekulare Auswirkung von Stoffwechselanforderungen in der atopischen Epidermis sind. Daher war das erste Ziel dieser Arbeit, den Lipid- und Glukosestoffwechsel in der atopischen Epidermis unter Verwendung eines Mausmodells, der Flaky Tail (ft/ft) Mäuse, zu untersuchen. Zuerst wurde das Lipidprofil der ft/ft Maus-Epidermis charakterisiert. Im zweiten Teil wurden metabolische Veränderungen und ihre mögliche Rolle bei der AD-Pathogenese detailliert entschlüsselt. Oxidativer Stress ist eine Folge von Stoffwechselstörungen und wurde daher im dritten Teil dieser Arbeit untersucht. Transmissionselektronenmikroskopie und Flüssigkeitschromatographie - Massenspektrometrieanalyse ergaben einen abnormalen Inhalt von Lamellenkörpern und eine verringerte Kettenlänge der wichtigsten strukturellen epidermalen Lipide in ft/ft Epidermis, ähnlich wie dies bei Hautläsionen von AD Patienten beobachtet wurde. Darüber hinaus zeigt die ft/ft Maus-Epidermis Veränderungen des Lipid- und Glukosestoffwechsels mit einer Hochregulierung sowohl der Lipidsynthese als auch des Lipidabbaus und einer verstärkten anaeroben Glykolyse. Die Hemmung der Glukoseaufnahme in ft/ft Epidermis, Epidermal barrier defect in atopic dermatitis (AD) results from a complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors, which have not yet been fully deciphered. Lipids are essential components of the stratum corneum (SC) barrier and previous work has shown, that lipid composition of AD skin is substantially different from that of healthy individuals. Importantly, shorter chain lipid species are more abundant, whereas longer chain lipid species are reduced in AD SC, which may significantly contribute to impaired epidermal barrier function. However, thorough understanding of lipid abnormalities in AD epidermis (ED) is still lacking. Moreover, lipid abnormalities in AD SC have never been envisioned as a cellular and molecular response to metabolic requirements in AD ED. The aim of this work was to study in-depth lipid and glucose metabolisms in AD ED by using a mouse model, the flaky tail (ft/ft) mice. In the first part of this work, the lipid profile of ft/ft mouse ED was characterized. In the second part, metabolic alterations and their potential role in AD pathogenesis were deciphered in detail. Oxidative stress is a consequence of metabolic runaway and has therefore been studied in the third part of this work. Transmission electron microscopy and liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry analysis revealed abnormal cargo composition of lamellar bodies and reduced chain-length of main epidermal lipids in ft/ft ED, similar to what has been observed in skin lesions of AD patients. Moreover, ft/ft mouse ED displays profound alterations in lipid and glucose metabolisms, with an up-regulation of both lipid synthesis and catabolism and enhanced anaerobic glycolysis. Topical inhibition of glucose uptake in ft/ft ED demonstrated that glucose is essential for keratinocyte proliferation but is not involved in local inflammatory processes. Peroxisomes are responsible for the catabolism of complex lipids. Interestingly, mRNA and protein levels, as well as the activity, Zusammenfassung in deutscher Sprache, Dissertation Medical University of Innsbruck 2021

Mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation (FAO) contributes to the proton motive force that drives ATP synthesis in many mammalian tissues. In eutherian (placental) mammals, brown adipose tissue (BAT) can also dissipate this proton gradient through uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) to generate heat, but the evolutionary events underlying the emergence of BAT are unknown. An essential step in FAO is the transport of cytoplasmic long chain acyl-coenzyme A (acyl-CoA) into the mitochondrial matrix, which requires the action of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1B (CPT1B) in striated muscle and BAT. In eutherians, the CPT1B gene is closely linked to the choline kinase beta (CHKB) gene, which is transcribed from the same DNA strand and terminates just upstream of CPT1B. CHKB is a rate-limiting enzyme in the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine (PC), a predominant mitochondrial membrane phospholipid, suggesting that the coordinated expression of CHKB and CPT1B may cooperatively enhance mitochondrial FAO. The present findings show that transcription of the eutherian CHKB and CPT1B genes is linked within a unitary epigenetic domain targeted to the CHKB gene, and that that this regulatory linkage appears to have resulted from an intergenic deletion in eutherians that significantly altered the distribution of CHKB and CPT1B expression. Informed by the timing of this event relative to the emergence of BAT, the phylogeny of CHKB-CPT1B synteny, and the insufficiency of UCP1 to account for eutherian BAT, these data support a mechanism for the emergence of BAT based on the acquisition of a novel capacity for adipocyte FAO in a background of extant UCP1.

Saturated fatty acids (SFAs) (the bad fat), especially palmitate (PA), in the human diet are blamed for potential health risks such as obesity and cancer because of SFA-induced lipotoxicity. However, epidemiological results demonstrate a latent benefit of SFAs, and it remains elusive whether a certain low level of SFAs is physiologically essential for maintaining cell metabolic hemostasis. Here, we demonstrate that although high-level PA (HPA) indeed induces lipotoxic effects in liver cells, low-level PA (LPA) increases mitochondrial functions and alleviates the injuries induced by HPA or hepatoxic agent carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). LPA treatment in mice enhanced liver mitochondrial activity and reduced CCl4 hepatotoxicity with improved blood levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and mitochondrial aspartate transaminase (m-AST). LPA-mediated mitochondrial homeostasis is regulated by CDK1-mediated SIRT3 phosphorylation, which in turn deacetylates and dimerizes CPT2 to enhance fatty acid oxidation. Thus, an advantageous effect is suggested by the consumption of LPA that augments mitochondrial metabolic homeostasis via CDK1-SIRT3-CPT2 cascade.

Die gestörte epidermale Hautbarrierefunktion bei der atopischen Dermatitis (AD) wird von einer komplexen Wechselwirkung zwischen genetischen - und Umweltfaktoren verursacht, die noch nicht vollständig entschlüsselt ist. Lipide sind wesentliche Bestandteile des Stratum Corneum (SC) und frühere Studien haben gezeigt, dass sich die Lipidzusammensetzung des SC bei Patienten mit atopischer Dermatitis von jener gesunder Personen unterscheidet. Ebenso ist eine Reduktion der Kohlenstoffkettenlänge von freien Fettsäuren und Ceramiden in der atopischen Epidermis nachgewiesen worden, die zu einer beeinträchtigten epidermalen Barrierefunktion beitragen kann. Die Ursache der Lipidanomalien im SC der atopischen Epidermis konnte jedoch bisher nicht festgestellt werden. Außerdem wurde diese Lipidabnormität bisher nicht als zelluläre und molekulare Auswirkung von Stoffwechselanforderungen in der atopischen Epidermis sind. Daher war das erste Ziel dieser Arbeit, den Lipid- und Glukosestoffwechsel in der atopischen Epidermis unter Verwendung eines Mausmodells, der Flaky Tail (ft/ft) Mäuse, zu untersuchen. Zuerst wurde das Lipidprofil der ft/ft Maus-Epidermis charakterisiert. Im zweiten Teil wurden metabolische Veränderungen und ihre mögliche Rolle bei der AD-Pathogenese detailliert entschlüsselt. Oxidativer Stress ist eine Folge von Stoffwechselstörungen und wurde daher im dritten Teil dieser Arbeit untersucht. Transmissionselektronenmikroskopie und Flüssigkeitschromatographie - Massenspektrometrieanalyse ergaben einen abnormalen Inhalt von Lamellenkörpern und eine verringerte Kettenlänge der wichtigsten strukturellen epidermalen Lipide in ft/ft Epidermis, ähnlich wie dies bei Hautläsionen von AD Patienten beobachtet wurde. Darüber hinaus zeigt die ft/ft Maus-Epidermis Veränderungen des Lipid- und Glukosestoffwechsels mit einer Hochregulierung sowohl der Lipidsynthese als auch des Lipidabbaus und einer verstärkten anaeroben Glykolyse. Die Hemmung der Glukoseaufnahme in ft/ft Epidermis, Epidermal barrier defect in atopic dermatitis (AD) results from a complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors, which have not yet been fully deciphered. Lipids are essential components of the stratum corneum (SC) barrier and previous work has shown, that lipid composition of AD skin is substantially different from that of healthy individuals. Importantly, shorter chain lipid species are more abundant, whereas longer chain lipid species are reduced in AD SC, which may significantly contribute to impaired epidermal barrier function. However, thorough understanding of lipid abnormalities in AD epidermis (ED) is still lacking. Moreover, lipid abnormalities in AD SC have never been envisioned as a cellular and molecular response to metabolic requirements in AD ED. The aim of this work was to study in-depth lipid and glucose metabolisms in AD ED by using a mouse model, the flaky tail (ft/ft) mice. In the first part of this work, the lipid profile of ft/ft mouse ED was characterized. In the second part, metabolic alterations and their potential role in AD pathogenesis were deciphered in detail. Oxidative stress is a consequence of metabolic runaway and has therefore been studied in the third part of this work. Transmission electron microscopy and liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry analysis revealed abnormal cargo composition of lamellar bodies and reduced chain-length of main epidermal lipids in ft/ft ED, similar to what has been observed in skin lesions of AD patients. Moreover, ft/ft mouse ED displays profound alterations in lipid and glucose metabolisms, with an up-regulation of both lipid synthesis and catabolism and enhanced anaerobic glycolysis. Topical inhibition of glucose uptake in ft/ft ED demonstrated that glucose is essential for keratinocyte proliferation but is not involved in local inflammatory processes. Peroxisomes are responsible for the catabolism of complex lipids. Interestingly, mRNA and protein levels, as well as the activity, Zusammenfassung in deutscher Sprache, Dissertation Medical University of Innsbruck 2021

It is well recognized that whole-body fatty acid (FA) oxidation remains increased for several hours following aerobic endurance exercise, even despite carbohydrate intake. However, the mechanisms involved herein have hitherto not been subject to a thorough evaluation. In immediate and early recovery (0-4 h), plasma FA availability is high, which seems mainly to be a result of hormonal factors and increased adipose tissue blood flow. The increased circulating availability of adipose-derived FA, coupled with FA from lipoprotein lipase (LPL)-derived very-low density lipoprotein (VLDL)-triacylglycerol (TG) hydrolysis in skeletal muscle capillaries and hydrolysis of TG within the muscle together act as substrates for the increased mitochondrial FA oxidation post-exercise. Within the skeletal muscle cells, increased reliance on FA oxidation likely results from enhanced FA uptake into the mitochondria through the carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT) 1 reaction, and concomitant AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-mediated pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) inhibition of glucose oxidation. Together this allows glucose taken up by the skeletal muscles to be directed towards the resynthesis of glycogen. Besides being oxidized, FAs also seem to be crucial signaling molecules for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling post-exercise, and thus for induction of the exercise-induced FA oxidative gene adaptation program in skeletal muscle following exercise. Collectively, a high FA turnover in recovery seems essential to regain whole-body substrate homeostasis.

Background Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) plays a key role in fatty acid metabolism and glucose homeostasis. In the context of dyslipemia, LRP1 is upregulated in the heart. Our aim was to evaluate the impact of cardiomyocyte LRP1 deficiency on high fat diet (HFD)-induced cardiac and metabolic alterations, and to explore the potential mechanisms involved. Methods We used TnT-iCre transgenic mice with thoroughly tested suitability to delete genes exclusively in cardiomyocytes to generate an experimental mouse model with conditional Lrp1 deficiency in cardiomyocytes (TNT-iCre+-LRP1flox/flox). Findings Mice with Lrp1-deficient cardiomyocytes (cm-Lrp1−/−) have a normal cardiac function combined with a favorable metabolic phenotype against HFD-induced glucose intolerance and obesity. Glucose intolerance protection was linked to higher hepatic fatty acid oxidation (FAO), lower liver steatosis and increased whole-body energy expenditure. Proteomic studies of the heart revealed decreased levels of cardiac pro-atrial natriuretic peptide (pro-ANP), which was parallel to higher ANP circulating levels. cm-Lrp1−/− mice showed ANP signaling activation that was linked to increased fatty acid (FA) uptake and increased AMPK/ ACC phosphorylation in the liver. Natriuretic peptide receptor A (NPR-A) antagonist completely abolished ANP signaling and metabolic protection in cm-Lrp1−/− mice. Conclusions These results indicate that an ANP-dependent axis controlled by cardiac LRP1 levels modulates AMPK activity in the liver, energy homeostasis and whole-body metabolism.

It is well recognized that whole-body fatty acid (FA) oxidation remains increased for several hours following aerobic endurance exercise, even despite carbohydrate intake. However, the mechanisms involved herein have hitherto not been subject to a thorough evaluation. In immediate and early recovery (0-4 h), plasma FA availability is high, which seems mainly to be a result of hormonal factors and increased adipose tissue blood flow. The increased circulating availability of adipose-derived FA, coupled with FA from lipoprotein lipase (LPL)-derived very-low density lipoprotein (VLDL)-triacylglycerol (TG) hydrolysis in skeletal muscle capillaries and hydrolysis of TG within the muscle together act as substrates for the increased mitochondrial FA oxidation post-exercise. Within the skeletal muscle cells, increased reliance on FA oxidation likely results from enhanced FA uptake into the mitochondria through the carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT) 1 reaction, and concomitant AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-mediated pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) inhibition of glucose oxidation. Together this allows glucose taken up by the skeletal muscles to be directed towards the resynthesis of glycogen. Besides being oxidized, FAs also seem to be crucial signaling molecules for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling post-exercise, and thus for induction of the exercise-induced FA oxidative gene adaptation program in skeletal muscle following exercise. Collectively, a high FA turnover in recovery seems essential to regain whole-body substrate homeostasis.

The trifunctional enzyme (TFE) catalyzes the last three steps of the fatty acid β-oxidation cycle. Two TFEs are present in Escherichia coli, EcTFE and anEcTFE. EcTFE is expressed only under aerobic conditions, whereas anEcTFE is expressed also under anaerobic conditions, with nitrate or fumarate as the ultimate electron acceptor. The anEcTFE subunits have higher sequence identity with the human mitochondrial TFE (HsTFE) than with the soluble EcTFE. Like HsTFE, here it is found that anEcTFE is a membrane-bound complex. Systematic enzyme kinetic studies show that anEcTFE has a preference for medium- and long-chain enoyl-CoAs, similar to HsTFE, whereas EcTFE prefers short chain enoyl-CoA substrates. The biophysical characterization of anEcTFE and EcTFE shows that EcTFE is heterotetrameric, whereas anEcTFE is purified as a complex of two heterotetrameric units, like HsTFE. The tetrameric assembly of anEcTFE resembles the HsTFE tetramer, although the arrangement of the two anEcTFE tetramers in the octamer is different from the HsTFE octamer. These studies demonstrate that EcTFE and anEcTFE have complementary substrate specificities, allowing for complete degradation of long-chain enoyl-CoAs under aerobic conditions. The new data agree with the notion that anEcTFE and HsTFE are evolutionary closely related, whereas EcTFE belongs to a separate subfamily.

Background: The initiation and development of head and neck squamous carcinoma (HNSCC) is a complicated and multistep process with unclear mechanisms, involving both genetic alternations and epigenetic modifications. CPT2 was found to function as a potential tumor suppressor in hepatocellular carcinoma and its high expression was correlated with better prognosis in colorectal cancer. However, the role of CPT2 in the development of HNSCC remains unclear. Methods: Data from the Gene Expression Omnibu (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases were utilized to analyze the CPT2 gene expression in HNSCC. TCGA-HNSC RNASeq V2 datasets of cancer patients were obtained to investigate the association between CPT2 expression and HNSCC overall survival rate. MTT, migration, Matrigel invasion, and colony-forming assays were performed to evaluate the effect of CPT2 downregulation or upregulation in SCC1 and SCC23 head and neck cancer cells. RNA-sequencing was also performed to analyze the gene expression alterations following CPT2 downregulation. Meanwhile, we also used c-Myc inhibitor to test c-Myc function on CPT2 expression.Results: Based on the data from the GEO and TCGA databases, the expression level of CPT2 was significantly downregulated in HNSCC tumor tissues, in comparison with the normal controls. After analyzing the datasets of TCGA-HNSC, we found that the patients with high CPT2 expression had better overall survival rate than those with low CPT2 expression. On one hand, knockdown of CPT2 significantly promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasion capability of SCC1 and SCC23 cells. On the other hand, overexpression of CPT2 in HNSCC cells significantly impaired the cell proliferation, migration, and invasion ability in HNSCC cells. RNA-Seq analysis following CPT2 knockdown in SCC23 cells revealed that lysosome, focal adhesion, ECM-receptor interaction, MAPK, ErbB, RIG-I-like receptor, and Toll-like receptor signaling pathways were upregulated after CPT2

Glioblastoma (GBM) remains the most common and lethal primary brain tumor in adults despite concerted efforts to establish more effective treatments. The oncogenic-associated alterations that make GBM cells metabolically distinct from surrounding tissue also represent prime targets for the development of novel therapies. Due to the interconnectivity of signaling networks and the overall heterogeneity of the disease, identifying key metabolic pathways that drive neoplastic pathogenesis is essential to establishing more effective therapeutic strategies. In this dissertation, we performed expression analysis and unbiased metabolomics to better characterize metabolic differences between a cohort of patient-derived isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) mutant and wildtype gliomasphere cultures. This analysis revealed clear, cell type-specific differences in glucose metabolism, nucleotide synthesis utilization, and DNA repair capacity following radiation that could be exploited for therapy. Furthermore, we investigated the ability of GBM cells to oxidize fatty acids (FAO) and ketone bodies to support tumor growth, while also interrogating the effectiveness of the ketogenic diet (KD) as an adjuvant therapy for GBM. We discovered extensive FAO utilization throughout the GBM metabolome, identified CPT1A as a potential therapeutic target, and determined that the KD can have adverse effects on tumor growth.

Obesity has been recognized by the World Health Organization as a global epidemic. The gut microbiota is considered as a factor involved in the regulation of numerous metabolic pathways by impacting several functions of the host. It has been suggested that probiotics can modulate host gene expression and metabolism, and thereby positively influence host adipose tissue development and obesity related-metabolic disorders. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the effect of an exopolysaccharide (EPS)-producing Bifidobacterium strain on host glucose and lipid metabolism and the gut microbial composition in a short-term diet-induced obesity (DIO) in mice. C57BL/6J male mice were randomly divided into three groups: a control group that received control standard diet, a group fed a high-fat diet (HF), and a group fed HF supplemented with Bifidobacterium animalis IPLA R1. Fasting serum insulin as well as triglycerides accumulation in the liver were significantly reduced in the group receiving B. animalis IPLA R1. The treatment with the EPS-producing B. animalis IPLA R1 tended to down-regulate the expression of host genes involved in the hepatic synthesis of fatty acids which was concomitant with an upregulation in the expression of genes related with fatty acid oxidation. B. animalis IPLA R1 not only promoted the increase of Bifidobacterium but also the levels of Bacteroides-Prevotella. Our data indicate that the EPS-producing Bifidobacterium IPLA R1 strain may have beneficial effects in metabolic disorders associated with obesity, by modulating the gut microbiota composition and promoting changes in lipids metabolism and glucose homeostasis.

Multiple acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MADD) is an ultra-rare inborn error of mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation (FAO) and amino acid metabolism. Individual phenotypes and treatment response can vary markedly. We aimed to identify markers that predict MADD phenotypes. We performed a retrospective nationwide cohort study; then developed an MADD-disease severity scoring system (MADD-DS3) based on signs and symptoms with weighed expert opinions; and finally correlated phenotypes and MADD-DS3 scores to FAO flux (oleate and myristate oxidation rates) and acylcarnitine profiles after palmitate loading in fibroblasts. Eighteen patients, diagnosed between 1989 and 2014, were identified. The MADD-DS3 entails enumeration of eight domain scores, which are calculated by averaging the relevant symptom scores. Lifetime MADD-DS3 scores of patients in our cohort ranged from 0 to 29. FAO flux and [U-13C]C2-, C5-, and [U-13C]C16-acylcarnitines were identified as key variables that discriminated neonatal from later onset patients (all P <.05) and strongly correlated to MADD-DS3 scores (oleate: r = −.86; myristate: r = −.91; [U-13C]C2-acylcarnitine: r = −.96; C5-acylcarnitine: r =.97; [U-13C]C16-acylcarnitine: r =.98, all P <.01). Functional studies in fibroblasts were found to differentiate between neonatal and later onset MADD-patients and were correlated to MADD-DS3 scores. Our data may improve early prediction of disease severity in order to start (preventive) and follow-up treatment appropriately. This is especially relevant in view of the inclusion of MADD in population newborn screening programs.

Es stellt sich die Frage, wie diese Zellen im entzündeten Gewebe überleben können und wie sie ihren Stoffwechsel an die dortigen Bedingungen anpassen. Diese Arbeit beschreibt am Beispiel der Juvenilen Idiopathischen Arthritis (JIA) die Analyse des Stoffwechsels von CD4+ T Lymphozyten, die chronische Entzündungen antreiben undim entzündeten Gewebe lange Zeit persistieren. Pathogene CD4+ CD45RO+ PD1+ CXCR5-T Zellen wurden hierfür aus Synovialflüssigkeit von Patienten mit JIA isoliert und gezeigt, dass auch bei diesen Zellen der Stoffwechsel auf Fettsäureoxidation beruht. Wurde die Fettsäureoxidation durch Etomoxir blockiert, starben die Zellen. Die Störung des Stoffwechsels dieser Zellen könnte somit eine Option für einen neuen Therapieansatzdarstellen. Zusätzlich war die Expression des Transkriptionsfaktors Twist 1 in diesen CD4+CD45RO+ PD1+ CXCR5- T Zellen hochreguliert. Twist 1 ist ein Marker für T Lymphozyten, die in entzündetem Gewebe von Patienten mit chronisch-entzündlichen Erkrankungen der Gelenke oder des Darmes persistieren. Untersuchung in vitro ergaben außerdem, dass Twist 1 spezifisch von Th1 Lymphozyten exprimiert wird, die mehrfach restimuliert wurden. Dieser Transkriptionsfaktor wirkt einerseits der Gewebszerstörung, die von T Zellen verursacht wird, entgegen, und unterstützt anderseits die Persistenz der Zellen im Gewebe durch die Induktion der microRNA148a, die die Expression des pro-apoptotischen Proteins Bim reguliert. In dieser Arbeit zeigen wir dessen Einfluss auf die Regulation des Metabolismus von CD4+ T Lymphozyten bei chronischen Entzündungen. Dabei wird die Glycolyse verringert und vermehrt Fettsäuren synthetisiert, um die Zellen vor reaktiven oxidierenden Spezies (ROS) zu schützen. Zusätzlich konnten wir nachweisen, dass mehrfach re-stimulierte, Twist-defizienteTh1 Zellen unfähig sind, durch Fettsäureoxydation zu überleben, sondern den Stoffwechsel auf Lipid- Peroxidierung umstellen, How do CD4+ T cells adapt their metabolism for survival in the inflamed tissue? This thesis describes analysis of the metabolism of CD4 T lymphocytes driving chronic inflammation and persisting at the site of inflammation, exemplified by cells that reside in the inflamed tissue of patients with the rheumatic disease juvenile idiopathic arthritis. To specifically take aim at the CD4+ T lymphocytes persisting at the site of inflammation, it is important to determine how these cells adapt their metabolism. We show that pathogenic CD4+ CD45RO+ PD1+ CXCR5- T cells that were isolated from the synovial fluid of patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis are dependent on a fatty acid oxidation for survival ex vivo. Their survival can be blocked by blocking FAO with Etomoxir, pointing to the option of targeting such cells by metabolic interference. Furthermore, CD4+ CD45RO+ PD1+ CXCR5- T cells had upregulated expression of Twist1, a hallmark transcription factor of T lymphocytes persisting in the inflamed tissues of patients with chronic-inflammatory diseases of joints or the gut. Expression of Twist1 is specific for Th1 lymphocytes which have repeatedly been re-stimulated in vitro, or isolated from inflamed. This transcription factor dampens immunopathology caused by the T cells and supports their persistence, by inducing microRNA148a, which regulates expression of the proapoptotic protein Bim. This thesis shows, through conditional genetic inactivation of Twist1 in CD4+ T lymphocytes, that Twist1 regulates the metabolism ofCD4 T lymphocytes of chronic inflammation, by downregulating glycolysis, promoting fatty acid synthesis and protecting the cells from ROS. Additionally, we show that Twist1 deficient repeatedly reactivated murine Th1 cells are unable to survive on fatty acid oxidation and have increased levels of lipid peroxidation.

Glioblastoma (GBM) remains the most common and lethal primary brain tumor in adults despite concerted efforts to establish more effective treatments. The oncogenic-associated alterations that make GBM cells metabolically distinct from surrounding tissue also represent prime targets for the development of novel therapies. Due to the interconnectivity of signaling networks and the overall heterogeneity of the disease, identifying key metabolic pathways that drive neoplastic pathogenesis is essential to establishing more effective therapeutic strategies. In this dissertation, we performed expression analysis and unbiased metabolomics to better characterize metabolic differences between a cohort of patient-derived isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) mutant and wildtype gliomasphere cultures. This analysis revealed clear, cell type-specific differences in glucose metabolism, nucleotide synthesis utilization, and DNA repair capacity following radiation that could be exploited for therapy. Furthermore, we investigated the ability of GBM cells to oxidize fatty acids (FAO) and ketone bodies to support tumor growth, while also interrogating the effectiveness of the ketogenic diet (KD) as an adjuvant therapy for GBM. We discovered extensive FAO utilization throughout the GBM metabolome, identified CPT1A as a potential therapeutic target, and determined that the KD can have adverse effects on tumor growth.

Background: The initiation and development of head and neck squamous carcinoma (HNSCC) is a complicated and multistep process with unclear mechanisms, involving both genetic alternations and epigenetic modifications. CPT2 was found to function as a potential tumor suppressor in hepatocellular carcinoma and its high expression was correlated with better prognosis in colorectal cancer. However, the role of CPT2 in the development of HNSCC remains unclear. Methods: Data from the Gene Expression Omnibu (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases were utilized to analyze the CPT2 gene expression in HNSCC. TCGA-HNSC RNASeq V2 datasets of cancer patients were obtained to investigate the association between CPT2 expression and HNSCC overall survival rate. MTT, migration, Matrigel invasion, and colony-forming assays were performed to evaluate the effect of CPT2 downregulation or upregulation in SCC1 and SCC23 head and neck cancer cells. RNA-sequencing was also performed to analyze the gene expression alterations following CPT2 downregulation. Meanwhile, we also used c-Myc inhibitor to test c-Myc function on CPT2 expression.Results: Based on the data from the GEO and TCGA databases, the expression level of CPT2 was significantly downregulated in HNSCC tumor tissues, in comparison with the normal controls. After analyzing the datasets of TCGA-HNSC, we found that the patients with high CPT2 expression had better overall survival rate than those with low CPT2 expression. On one hand, knockdown of CPT2 significantly promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasion capability of SCC1 and SCC23 cells. On the other hand, overexpression of CPT2 in HNSCC cells significantly impaired the cell proliferation, migration, and invasion ability in HNSCC cells. RNA-Seq analysis following CPT2 knockdown in SCC23 cells revealed that lysosome, focal adhesion, ECM-receptor interaction, MAPK, ErbB, RIG-I-like receptor, and Toll-like receptor signaling pathways were upregulated after CPT2

Lack of interleukin 15 receptor alpha (IL15RA) increases spontaneous activity, exercise capacity and protects from diet-induced obesity by enhancing muscle energy metabolism, suggesting a role as exercise mimetic for IL15RA antagonists. Using controlled in vivo muscle stimulation mimicking moderate exercise in normal and Il15ra-/- mice, we mapped and contrasted the metabolic pathways activated upon stimulation or deletion of IL15RA. Stimulation caused the differential regulation of 123 out of the 321 detected metabolites (FDR ≤ 0.05 and fold change ≥ ±1.5). The main energy pathways activated were fatty acid oxidation, nucleotide metabolism, and anaplerotic reactions. Notably, resting Il15ra-/- muscles were primed in a semi-exercised state, characterized by higher pool sizes of fatty acids oxidized to support muscle activity. These studies identify the role of IL15RA in the system-wide metabolic response to exercise and should enable translational studies to harness the potential of IL15RA blockade as a novel exercise mimetic strategy.

In mammalian retina, cholesterol excess is mainly metabolized to oxysterols by cytochromes P450 27A1 (CYP27A1) and 46A1 (CYP46A1) or removed on lipoprotein particles containing apolipoprotein E (APOE). In contrast, esterification by sterol-O-acyltransferase 1 (SOAT) plays only a minor role in this process. Accordingly, retinal cholesterol levels are unchanged in Soat1-/- mice but are increased in Cyp27a1-/-Cyp46a1-/- and Apoe-/- mice. Herein, we characterized Cyp27a1-/-Cyp46a1-/-Soat1-/- and Cyp27a1-/-Cyp46a1-/-Apoe-/- mice. In the former, retinal cholesterol levels, anatomical gross structure, and vasculature were normal, yet the electroretinographic responses were impaired. Conversely, in Cyp27a1-/-Cyp46a1-/-Apoe-/- mice, retinal cholesterol levels were increased while anatomical structure and vasculature were unaffected with only male mice showing a decrease in electroretinographic responses. Sterol profiling, qRT-PCR, proteomics, and transmission electron microscopy mapped potential compensatory mechanisms in the Cyp27a1-/-Cyp46a1-/-Soat1-/- and Cyp27a1-/-Cyp46a1-/-Apoe-/- retina. These included decreased cholesterol biosynthesis along with enhanced formation of intra- and extracellular vesicles, possibly a reserve mechanism for lowering retinal cholesterol. In addition, there was altered abundance of proteins in Cyp27a1-/-Cyp46a1-/-Soat1-/- mice that can affect photoreceptor function, survival, and retinal energy homeostasis (glucose and fatty acid metabolism). Therefore, the levels of retinal cholesterol do not seem to predict retinal abnormalities, and it is rather the network of compensatory mechanisms that appears to determine retinal phenotype.

We examined the role of hepatocyte micro-RNA-122 and hypothalamic neuropeptides, in weanling (21d) female rats exposed to calorie restriction induced growth restriction either prenatally (IUGR), postnatally (PNGR) or both (IPGR) vs. ad lib fed controls (CON). IUGR were hyperinsulinemic, hyperleptinemic and dyslipidemic with high circulating miR-122. In contrast, PNGR and IPGR displayed insufficient glucose, insulin and leptin amidst high ketones with a dichotomy in circulating miR-122 of PNGR

The isolation and biochemical characterization of lipid droplet (LD)-associated mitochondria revealed the capacity of the cell to produce and maintain distinct mitochondrial populations carrying disparate proteome and dissimilar capacities to oxidize fatty acids and pyruvate. With mitochondrial motility being a central parameter determining mitochondrial fusion, adherence to LDs provides a mechanism by which peridroplet mitochondria (PDM) remain segregated from cytoplasmic mitochondria (CM). The existence of metabolically distinct subpopulations provides an explanation for the capacity of mitochondria within the individual cell to be involved simultaneously in fatty acid oxidation and LD formation. The mechanisms that deploy mitochondria to the LD and the dysfunctions that result from unbalanced proportions of PDM and CM remain to be explored. Understanding the roles and regulation of mitochondrial tethering to LDs offers new points of intervention in metabolic diseases.

Es stellt sich die Frage, wie diese Zellen im entzündeten Gewebe überleben können und wie sie ihren Stoffwechsel an die dortigen Bedingungen anpassen. Diese Arbeit beschreibt am Beispiel der Juvenilen Idiopathischen Arthritis (JIA) die Analyse des Stoffwechsels von CD4+ T Lymphozyten, die chronische Entzündungen antreiben undim entzündeten Gewebe lange Zeit persistieren. Pathogene CD4+ CD45RO+ PD1+ CXCR5-T Zellen wurden hierfür aus Synovialflüssigkeit von Patienten mit JIA isoliert und gezeigt, dass auch bei diesen Zellen der Stoffwechsel auf Fettsäureoxidation beruht. Wurde die Fettsäureoxidation durch Etomoxir blockiert, starben die Zellen. Die Störung des Stoffwechsels dieser Zellen könnte somit eine Option für einen neuen Therapieansatzdarstellen. Zusätzlich war die Expression des Transkriptionsfaktors Twist 1 in diesen CD4+CD45RO+ PD1+ CXCR5- T Zellen hochreguliert. Twist 1 ist ein Marker für T Lymphozyten, die in entzündetem Gewebe von Patienten mit chronisch-entzündlichen Erkrankungen der Gelenke oder des Darmes persistieren. Untersuchung in vitro ergaben außerdem, dass Twist 1 spezifisch von Th1 Lymphozyten exprimiert wird, die mehrfach restimuliert wurden. Dieser Transkriptionsfaktor wirkt einerseits der Gewebszerstörung, die von T Zellen verursacht wird, entgegen, und unterstützt anderseits die Persistenz der Zellen im Gewebe durch die Induktion der microRNA148a, die die Expression des pro-apoptotischen Proteins Bim reguliert. In dieser Arbeit zeigen wir dessen Einfluss auf die Regulation des Metabolismus von CD4+ T Lymphozyten bei chronischen Entzündungen. Dabei wird die Glycolyse verringert und vermehrt Fettsäuren synthetisiert, um die Zellen vor reaktiven oxidierenden Spezies (ROS) zu schützen. Zusätzlich konnten wir nachweisen, dass mehrfach re-stimulierte, Twist-defizienteTh1 Zellen unfähig sind, durch Fettsäureoxydation zu überleben, sondern den Stoffwechsel auf Lipid- Peroxidierung umstellen, How do CD4+ T cells adapt their metabolism for survival in the inflamed tissue? This thesis describes analysis of the metabolism of CD4 T lymphocytes driving chronic inflammation and persisting at the site of inflammation, exemplified by cells that reside in the inflamed tissue of patients with the rheumatic disease juvenile idiopathic arthritis. To specifically take aim at the CD4+ T lymphocytes persisting at the site of inflammation, it is important to determine how these cells adapt their metabolism. We show that pathogenic CD4+ CD45RO+ PD1+ CXCR5- T cells that were isolated from the synovial fluid of patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis are dependent on a fatty acid oxidation for survival ex vivo. Their survival can be blocked by blocking FAO with Etomoxir, pointing to the option of targeting such cells by metabolic interference. Furthermore, CD4+ CD45RO+ PD1+ CXCR5- T cells had upregulated expression of Twist1, a hallmark transcription factor of T lymphocytes persisting in the inflamed tissues of patients with chronic-inflammatory diseases of joints or the gut. Expression of Twist1 is specific for Th1 lymphocytes which have repeatedly been re-stimulated in vitro, or isolated from inflamed. This transcription factor dampens immunopathology caused by the T cells and supports their persistence, by inducing microRNA148a, which regulates expression of the proapoptotic protein Bim. This thesis shows, through conditional genetic inactivation of Twist1 in CD4+ T lymphocytes, that Twist1 regulates the metabolism ofCD4 T lymphocytes of chronic inflammation, by downregulating glycolysis, promoting fatty acid synthesis and protecting the cells from ROS. Additionally, we show that Twist1 deficient repeatedly reactivated murine Th1 cells are unable to survive on fatty acid oxidation and have increased levels of lipid peroxidation.