Clark-type Electrode Research Articles

Measurement of Algal Photosynthesis Using a Clark-Type O2 Electrode.

The Clark-type electrode can be used to assess the rates of photosynthesis by detecting changes in O2 concentration in a culture. This chapter describes a method for a liquid phase measurement of light and dissolved inorganic carbon-dependent photosynthesis using the model green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. The technique can be used to evaluate the presence or efficiency of carbon-concentrating mechanisms.

Male and Female Mitochondria Respond Differently after Exercising in Acute Hypoxia.

The use of hypoxic devices among athletes who train in normobaric hypoxia has become increasingly popular; however, the acute effects on heart and brain metabolism are not yet fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the mitochondrial bioenergetics in trained male and female Wistar rats after acute hypoxia training. The experimental plan included exercising for 30 min on a treadmill in a Plexiglas cage connected to a hypoxic generator set at 12.5% O2 or in normoxia. After the exercise, the rats were sacrificed, and their mitochondria were isolated from their brains and hearts. The bioenergetics for each complex of the electron transport chain was tested using a Clark-type electrode. The results showed that following hypoxia training, females experienced impaired oxidative phosphorylation through complex II in heart subsarcolemmal mitochondria, while males had an altered ADP/O in heart interfibrillar mitochondria, without any change in oxidative capacity. No differences from controls were evident in the brain, but an increased electron transport system efficiency was observed with complex I and IV substrates in males. Therefore, the study's findings suggest that hypoxia training affects the heart mitochondria of females more than males. This raises a cautionary flag for female athletes who use hypoxic devices.

High-throughput method for Oxygen Consumption Rate measurement (OCR) in plant mitochondria

BackgroundConventional methods to measure oxygen consumption, such as Clark-type electrodes, have limitations such as requiring a large amount of starting material. Moreover, commercially available kits for high-throughput methods are usually optimized for animal cells and mitochondria. Here, we present a novel method to measure the oxygen consumption rate using a high-throughput assay in isolated mitochondria of European beech seeds. To perform the measurements, we adapted the Agilent Seahorse XF Cell Mito Stress Test Kit protocol for measurements on plant mitochondria.ResultsThe optimized protocol for OCR measurement of mitochondria isolated from beech seeds allowed the observation of storage period-dependent gradual decreases in non-phosphorylating respiration, phosphorylating respiration and maximal FCCP-stimulated respiration. The longer the seeds were stored, the greater the impairment of respiratory function.ConclusionsThanks to this method it is possible to minimize the amount of plant material and conduct research to obtain information on the respiratory condition and activity of plant mitochondria, including the efficiency of oxidative phosphorylation and the maximum oxidative capacity of the respiratory chain. We demonstrated that the improved protocol is suitable for study of plant material.

Direct measurement of oxygen reduction reactions at neurostimulation electrodes

Objective. Electric stimulation delivered by implantable electrodes is a key component of neural engineering. While factors affecting long-term stability, safety, and biocompatibility are a topic of continuous investigation, a widely-accepted principle is that charge injection should be reversible, with no net electrochemical products forming. We want to evaluate oxygen reduction reactions (ORR) occurring at different electrode materials when using established materials and stimulation protocols. Approach. As stimulation electrodes, we have tested platinum, gold, tungsten, nichrome, iridium oxide, titanium, titanium nitride, and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate). We use cyclic voltammetry and voltage-step amperometry in oxygenated versus inert conditions to establish at which potentials ORR occurs, and the magnitudes of diffusion-limited ORR currents. We also benchmark the areal capacitance of each electrode material. We use amperometric probes (Clark-type electrodes) to quantify the O2 and H2O2 concentrations in the vicinity of the electrode surface. O2 and H2O2 concentrations are measured while applying DC current, or various biphasic charge-balanced pulses of amplitude in the range 10–30 µC cm−2/phase. To corroborate experimental measurements, we employ finite element modelling to recreate 3D gradients of O2 and H2O2. Main results. All electrode materials support ORR and can create hypoxic conditions near the electrode surface. We find that electrode materials differ significantly in their onset potentials for ORR, and in the extent to which they produce H2O2 as a by-product. A key result is that typical charge-balanced biphasic pulse protocols do lead to irreversible ORR. Some electrodes induce severely hypoxic conditions, others additionally produce an accumulation of hydrogen peroxide into the mM range. Significance. Our findings highlight faradaic ORR as a critical consideration for neural interface devices and show that the established biphasic/charge-balanced approach does not prevent irreversible changes in O2 concentrations. Hypoxia and H2O2 can result in different (electro)physiological consequences.

Dysregulated Mitochondrial Respiration Occurs With Aging

Numerous metabolic changes occur in skeletal muscle with aging. At the crossroads of these changes lies the cellular energy highway, the mitochondrial reticulum. Aging is associated with altered patterns of mitochondrial dynamics and morphology, which are thought to be primarily driven by mitochondrial fragmentation. This fragmentation phenomenon may also lead to altered mitochondrial respiration with aging. We used a mouse model and measured parameters of respiration in muscle mitochondrial preparations to evaluate the hypothesis of aging‐related effects on metabolism and energy substrate partitioning. Mixed skeletal muscle of C57/Bl6 mice (n=32) was excised from single hind‐limbs of young males (YM) (n=8), old males (OM) (n=8), young females (YF) (n=8) and old females (OF) (n=8). Tissues were homogenized in an isotonic solution supplemented with 0.15% protease inhibitor. Mitochondria were isolated by differential centrifugation and their concentrations were determined by BCA analysis. Isolated mitochondria (0.1mg of mitochondria/mL of respiration medium) were then respired using a Clarke‐Type Electrode at 25°C with 100 nM of ADP and either 10 mM Pyruvate+ 2.5 mM Malate (P+M) or 40 uM Palmitoyl‐L‐Carnitine+ 1 mM Malate (PC+M) as substrates. Respiratory Control Ratios (RCR) were calculated as the quotient of State 3 (ADP‐stimulated respiration) and State 4 (recovery rate post ATP synthesis) respiratory rates (State 3/State 4) and compared between substrate and age. ADP to oxygen ratios (P:O) were calculated by dividing the amount of ADP added to the respiratory chamber by the oxygen consumption rate (nmol of O2/mg of mitochondria/minute) of state 3 respiration. RCR in both P+M and PC+M significantly decreased with aging [P+M (p<0.05): YM (4.1±0.9) vs. OM (2.7±1.1); YF (5.1±1.4) vs. OF (3.2±2)] [PC+M (p<0.05): YM (4.2±0.9) vs. OM (2.4±0.7); YF (3.4.±0.5) vs. OF (2.2±0.9)]. P:O in both P+M and PC+M did not significantly change with aging [P+M: (p=0.69): YM (2.9±0.3) vs. OM (2.9±0.2); YF: (p=0.07): (3±0.1) vs. OF (2.9±0.1)] [PC+M:(p=0.65); YM (2.9±0.4) vs. OM (2.9±0.3); (p=0.22): YF (2.9±0.2) vs. OF (2.7±0.3)]. While there were no significant changes in the P:O the age related decreases in the RCR were characterized by a lower capacity to respire derivatives of both CHO and FA. Decreased State 3 respiration and RCR typically corresponds to loss of respiratory capacity and loosening of coupling efficiency. Because exercise increases mitochondrial function and biogenesis it may be prudent to study older animals after exercise training. We plan to further investigate the structural changes in the mitochondrial reticulum and proteome that may be altering mitochondrial function in aging.

Characterizing the Electron Transport Chain: Functional Approach Using Extracellular Flux Analyzer on Mouse Tissue Samples.

The Seahorse Extracellular Flux Analyzer enables the high-throughput characterization of oxidative phosphorylation capacity based on the electron transport chain organization and regulation with relatively small amount of material. This development over the traditional polarographic Clark-type electrode approaches make it possible to analyze the respiratory features of mitochondria isolated from tissue samples of particular animal models. Here we provide a description of an optimized approach to carry out multi-well measurement of O2 consumption, with the Agilent Seahorse XFe96 analyzer on mouse brain and muscles to determine the tissue-specific oxidative phosphorylation properties. Protocols include the preparation of the tissue samples, isolation of mitochondria, and analysis of their function; in particular, the preparation and optimization of the reagents and samples.

Short-chain aurachin D derivatives are selective inhibitors of E.\xa0coli cytochrome bd-I and bd-II oxidases

Cytochrome bd-type oxidases play a crucial role for survival of pathogenic bacteria during infection and proliferation. This role and the fact that there are no homologues in the mitochondrial respiratory chain qualify cytochrome bd as a potential antimicrobial target. However, few bd oxidase selective inhibitors have been described so far. In this report, inhibitory effects of Aurachin C (AurC-type) and new Aurachin D (AurD-type) derivatives on oxygen reductase activity of isolated terminal bd-I, bd-II and bo3 oxidases from Escherichia coli were potentiometrically measured using a Clark-type electrode. We synthesized long- (C10, decyl or longer) and short-chain (C4, butyl to C8, octyl) AurD-type compounds and tested this set of molecules towards their selectivity and potency. We confirmed strong inhibition of all three terminal oxidases for AurC-type compounds, whereas the 4(1H)-quinolone scaffold of AurD-type compounds mainly inhibits bd-type oxidases. We assessed a direct effect of chain length on inhibition activity with highest potency and selectivity observed for heptyl AurD-type derivatives. While Aurachin C and Aurachin D are widely considered as selective inhibitors for terminal oxidases, their structure–activity relationship is incompletely understood. This work fills this gap and illustrates how structural differences of Aurachin derivatives determine inhibitory potency and selectivity for bd-type oxidases of E. coli.

Lung branching morphogenesis is accompanied by temporal metabolic changes towards a glycolytic preference

BackgroundLung branching morphogenesis is characterized by epithelial-mesenchymal interactions that ultimately define the airway conducting system. Throughout this process, energy and structural macromolecules are necessary to sustain the high proliferative rates. The extensive knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying pulmonary development contrasts with the lack of data regarding the embryonic lung metabolic requirements. Here, we studied the metabolic profile associated with the early stages of chicken pulmonary branching.MethodsIn this study, we used an ex vivo lung explant culture system and analyzed the consumption/production of extracellular metabolic intermediates associated with glucose catabolism (alanine, lactate, and acetate) by 1H-NMR spectroscopy in the culture medium. Then, we characterized the transcript levels of metabolite membrane transporters (glut1, glut3, glut8, mct1, mct3, mct4, and mct8) and glycolytic enzymes (hk1, hk2, pfk1, ldha, ldhb, pdha, and pdhb) by qPCR. ldha and ldhb mRNA spatial localization was determined by in situ hybridization. Proliferation was analyzed by directly assessing DNA synthesis using an EdU-based assay. Additionally, we performed western blot to analyze LDHA and LDHT protein levels. Finally, we used a Clark-Type Electrode to assess the lung explant's respiratory capacity.ResultsGlucose consumption decreases, whereas alanine, lactate, and acetate production progressively increase as branching morphogenesis proceeds. mRNA analysis revealed variations in the expression levels of key enzymes and transporters from the glycolytic pathway. ldha and ldhb displayed a compartment-specific expression pattern that resembles proximal–distal markers. In addition, high proliferation levels were detected at active branching sites. LDH protein expression levels suggest that LDHB may account for the progressive rise in lactate. Concurrently, there is a stable oxygen consumption rate throughout branching morphogenesis.ConclusionsThis report describes the temporal metabolic changes that accompany the early stages of chicken lung branching morphogenesis. Overall, the embryonic chicken lung seems to shift to a glycolytic lactate-based metabolism as pulmonary branching occurs. Moreover, this metabolic rewiring might play a crucial role during lung development.

Mechanism of NO Decay in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells: Role of Cytoglobin and Identification of its Cellular Reducing System

Background In smooth muscle, cytoglobin (Cygb) functions as a potent nitric oxide (NO) dioxygenase and regulates NO metabolism and vascular tone. However, major questions remain regarding which cellular reducing systems regulate Cygb-mediated NO metabolism. Therefore, we performed studies to assess the intracellular concentrations of Cygb and its reducing systems in vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs), and their role in the process of NO decay. Methods Cygb and its reducing systems, cytochrome B5 reductase (B5R), cytochrome B5 (B5) and cytochrome P450 reductase (CPR) were measured in aortic SMCs. Murine aortic smooth muscle cells (SMCs) were purchased from American Type Culture Collection (ATCC; CRL-2797™) and passaged. For depleting Cygb, B5R or B5, siRNAs were used. SMCs were transfected with Cygb siRNA, B5R siRNA, B5 siRNA or CPR siRNA using Lipofectamine RNAiMAX (Invitrogen). The rate of NO metabolism by normal SMCs of different cell numbers was assessed using a Clark-type NO electrode (NOCHM-4, WPI) utilizing two ports on the side wall of a four-port water-jacketed electrochemical chamber (NOCHM-4, WPI) and additionally another oxygen electrode was placed through second port on the side wall of the chamber. For protein assays, Cygb, B5R and B5 were expressed and purified using reported procedures. Quantitative immunoblotting was used to estimate the cellular concentrations of Cygb and each reducing system protein from comparison to standards of known concentration for each purified protein. Results Intracellular Cygb concentration was estimated as 3.5 µM, while B5R, B5, and CPR were 0.88, 0.38 and 0.15 µM, respectively. NO decay in SMCs was measured following bolus addition of 1 µM NO to air-equilibrated cells. The NO dioxygenation rate (VNO) with 3.5 x 106 cells•ml-1 was 12.7 ± 0.3 nM•s-1. siRNA-mediated knockdown experiments indicated that ~78% of NO metabolism in SMCs was Cygb-dependent. Of this, ~87 % was B5R- and B5-dependent. CPR knockdown resulted in a small decrease in VNO, while depletion of ascorbate had no effect. Kinetic analysis of VNO for the B5R/B5/Cygb system with variation of B5 or B5R concentrations from their SMC levels showed that VNO exhibits apparent Michaelis-Menten behavior for B5 and B5R. In contrast, linear variation was seen with change in Cygb concentration. Conclusions B5R/B5 was demonstrated to be the major reducing system supporting Cygb-mediated NO metabolism in SMCs and studies were performed to experimentally model and predict the alterations of VNO with changes in cellular B5R/B5/Cygb levels.

Measurement of Mitochondrial Respiration ‐ Comparison of Two Respirometers: MitoCellMt200A versus O2k

Background Mitochondrial function is a critical determinant of cardiomyocyte survival after ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) and thus an important target of cardioprotection. A reliable measurement of mitochondrial respiration is therefore essential for cardioprotection research. Methods Mitochondria were isolated by differential centrifugation from naïve rat hearts (n=8-14) or isolated buffer-perfused rat hearts subjected to 30 min global zero-flow ischemia and 10 min reperfusion (n=8-14). Mitochondrial respiration was measured in 100 µg/ml mitochondria at 37°C during magnetic stirring using two different Clark-type electrode respirometers, the MitoCellMt200A from Strathkelvin (Glasgow, UK) and the O2k from Oroboros (Innsbruck, AT). Two different respiration buffers (incubation buffer and MiR05 buffer) were used as recommended: in mmol/L; incubation buffer: 125.0 KCl, 10.0 3-(N-morpholino) propane sulfonoic acid, 2.0 MgCl2, 5.0 KH2PO4, and 0.2 ethylene glycol tetra-acetic acid; MiR05 buffer: 0.5 ethylene glycol tetra-acetic acid, 3.0 MgCl2, 60.0 lactobionic acid, 20.0 taurine, 10.0 KH2PO4, 20.0 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazine ethane sulfonic acid, and 110.0 D-sucrose. Glutamate and malate (5.0 mmol/L, each) were added as complex I substrates. Complex I respiration was measured after adding adenosine diphosphate (ADP, 1.0 mmol/L). Complex IV respiration was stimulated by adding N,N,N′,N′-tetra-methyl-p-phenylene diamine (TMPD, 300 µmol/L) and ascorbate (3 mmol/L). Mitochondrial respiration was normalized to mitochondrial protein content. Results Baseline, ADP-stimulated complex I and complex IV respiration were higher in mitochondria isolated from naïve rat hearts than in those isolated from rat hearts, which had undergone global zero-flow ischemia and reperfusion - independently of the used respirometers and the used respiration buffers (see Table 1). Baseline respiration was l higher in the MitoCellMt200A respirometer - independently of the respiration buffer used (see Table 1). ADP-stimulated complex I respiration was comparable between the respirometers, whereas the MiR05 buffer resulted in higher respiration than the incubation buffer (see Table 1). Complex IV respiration, as an indicator for equal loading of the chambers with viable mitochondria, was comparable between the respirometers and the buffers but, as expected, reduced after ischemia/reperfusion (see Table 1). Conclusion Independently of the Clark-type electrode respirometers or respiration buffers used, we identify a reduction of mitochondrial respiration after myocardial I/R. However, the respiration buffer composition determines the magnitude of mitochondrial ADP-stimulated complex I respiration. A lower sensitivity of the MitoCellMt200A respirometer in comparison to the O2k high-resolution respirometer at low oxygen consumption may affect the accuracy of baseline respiration measurements.

Electrochemical Trimethylamine N-Oxide Biosensor with Enzyme-Based Oxygen-Scavenging Membrane for Long-Term Operation under Ambient Air

An amperometric trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) biosensor is reported, where TMAO reductase (TorA) and glucose oxidase (GOD) and catalase (Cat) were immobilized on the electrode surface, enabling measurements of mediated enzymatic TMAO reduction at low potential under ambient air conditions. The oxygen anti-interference membrane composed of GOD, Cat and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel, together with glucose concentration, was optimized until the O2 reduction current of a Clark-type electrode was completely suppressed for at least 3 h. For the preparation of the TMAO biosensor, Escherichia coli TorA was purified under anaerobic conditions and immobilized on the surface of a carbon electrode and covered by the optimized O2 scavenging membrane. The TMAO sensor operates at a potential of −0.8 V vs. Ag/AgCl (1 M KCl), where the reduction of methylviologen (MV) is recorded. The sensor signal depends linearly on TMAO concentrations between 2 µM and 15 mM, with a sensitivity of 2.75 ± 1.7 µA/mM. The developed biosensor is characterized by a response time of about 33 s and an operational stability over 3 weeks. Furthermore, measurements of TMAO concentration were performed in 10% human serum, where the lowest detectable concentration is of 10 µM TMAO.

Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase in Aged Female Mice and Human Explanted Hearts Following Ischemic Injury.

Myocardial infarction (MI) accounts for a significant proportion of death and morbidity in aged individuals. The risk for MI in females increases as they enter the peri-menopausal period, generally occurring in middle-age. Cytochrome (CYP) 450 metabolizes N-3 and N-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) into numerous lipid mediators, oxylipids, which are further metabolised by soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH), reducing their activity. The objective of this study was to characterize oxylipid metabolism in the left ventricle (LV) following ischemic injury in females. Human LV specimens were procured from female patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) or non-failing controls (NFC). Female C57BL6 (WT) and sEH null mice averaging 13–16 months old underwent permanent occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) to induce myocardial infarction. WT (wild type) mice received vehicle or sEH inhibitor, trans-4-[4-(3-adamantan-1-yl-ureido)-cyclohexyloxy]-benzoic acid (tAUCB), in their drinking water ad libitum for 28 days. Cardiac function was assessed using echocardiography and electrocardiogram. Protein expression was determined using immunoblotting, mitochondrial activity by spectrophotometry, and cardiac fibre respiration was measured using a Clark-type electrode. A full metabolite profile was determined by LC–MS/MS. sEH was significantly elevated in ischemic LV specimens from patients, associated with fundamental changes in oxylipid metabolite formation and significant decreases in mitochondrial enzymatic function. In mice, pre-treatment with tAUCB or genetic deletion of sEH significantly improved survival, preserved cardiac function, and maintained mitochondrial quality following MI in female mice. These data indicate that sEH may be a relevant pharmacologic target for women with MI. Although future studies are needed to determine the mechanisms, in this pilot study we suggest targeting sEH may be an effective strategy for reducing ischemic injury and mortality in middle-aged females.

Cadmium toxicity in Salvia sclarea L.: An integrative response of element uptake, oxidative stress markers, leaf structure and photosynthesis

The herbal plant Salvia sclarea L. (clary sage) is classified to cadmium (Cd) accumulators and considered as a potential plant for phytoremediation of heavy metal polluted soil. However, the effect of Cd only treatment on the function of the photosynthetic apparatus of S. sclarea, as well as the mechanisms involved in Cd tolerance have not yet been studied in detail. This study was conducted to examine the integrative responses of S. sclarea plants exposed to a high Cd supply (100 µM) for 3 and 8 days by investigating element nutrient uptake, oxidative stress markers, pigment composition, photosynthetic performance and leaf structure. Measurements of the functional activities of photosystem I (PSI, by P700 photooxidation), photosystem II (PSII, by chlorophyll fluorescence parameters), the oxygen-evolving complex (oxygen evolution by Joliot- and Clark-type electrodes), as well as the leaf pigment and phenolic contents, were used to evaluate the protective mechanisms of the photosynthetic apparatus under Cd stress. Data suggested that the molecular mechanisms included in the photosynthetic tolerance to Cd toxicity involve strongly increased phenolic and anthocyanin contents, as well as an increased non-photochemical quenching and accelerated cyclic electron transport around PSI up to 61%, which protect the function of the photosynthetic apparatus under stress. Furthermore, the tolerance of S. sclarea to Cd stress is also associated with increased accumulation of Fe in leaves by 25%. All the above, clearly suggest that S. sclarea plants employ several different mechanisms to protect the function of the photosynthetic apparatus against Cd stress, which are discussed here.

An Improved HRPE-Based Transcriptional Output Reporter to Detect Hypoxia and Anoxia in Plant Tissue.

Oxygen levels in plant tissues may vary, depending on metabolism, diffusion barriers, and environmental availability. Current techniques to assess the oxic status of plant cells rely primarily on invasive microoptodes or Clark-type electrodes, which are not optimally suited for experiments that require high spatial and temporal resolution. In this case, a genetically encoded oxygen biosensor is required instead. This article reports the design, test, and optimization of a hypoxia-signaling reporter, based on five-time repeated hypoxia-responsive promoter elements (HRPE) driving the expression of different reporter proteins. Specifically, this study aimed to improve its performance as a reporter of hypoxic conditions by testing the effect of different untranslated regions (UTRs) at the 5′ end of the reporter coding sequence. Next, we characterized an optimized version of the HRPE promoter (HRPE-Ω) in terms of hypoxia sensitivity and time responsiveness. We also observed that severe oxygen deficiency counteracted the reporter activity due to inhibition of GFP maturation, which requires molecular oxygen. To overcome this limitation, we therefore employed an oxygen-independent UnaG fluorescent protein-coupled to an O2-dependent mCherry fluorophore under the control of the optimized HRPE-Ω promoter. Remarkably, this sensor, provided a different mCherry/UnaG ratiometric output depending on the externally imposed oxygen concentration, providing a solution to distinguish between different degrees of tissue hypoxia. Moreover, a ubiquitously expressed UnaG-mCherry fusion could be used to image oxygen concentrations directly, albeit at a narrow range. The luminescent and fluorescent hypoxia-reporters described here can readily be used to conduct studies that involve anaerobiosis in plants.

High aerobic exercise capacity predicts increased mitochondrial response to exercise training

Abstract Low exercise capacity is a strong predictor of all-cause cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. In contrast, high exercise capacity is protective and “physical fitness” is considered beneficial. These effects seem to be mediated through mitochondrial function. Importantly, exercise capacity consists of an intrinsic (genetic) and an extrinsic (exercise, environmental) part. In humans, these two parts cannot be truly separated. The rat model of high (HCR) and low (LCR) capacity runners allows to distinguish between the two parts. We assessed mitochondrial function in this model, specifically investigating the impact of exercise training on mitochondrial respiratory capacity. HCR and LCR were divided into control and exercised groups. Exercise capacity was determined individually using a ramped test. Animals were trained five times a week for four weeks on a treadmill. Mitochondria were isolated from heart, M. gastrocnemius and liver. Citrate synthase activity and protein content were determined photometrically and respiratory capacity was measured using a Clark-type electrode. At the same age and tibia length, LCR-C were heavier and had a lower heart to body weight ratio than HCR-C. Citrate synthase activity was lower in skeletal muscle of LCR but cardiac citrate synthase was not different between sedentary HCR and LCR. Respiratory capacity in heart and liver was not different between sedentary HCR and LCR but was lower in skeletal muscle in LCR compared to HCR with all selected substrates (glutamate: 86,0±17,6 vs. 63,7±8,0; succinate: 203±19 vs. 136±17 nAO/min/mg Protein). Exercise training led to an increase in body weight in HCR but did not change body weight in LCR. Similarly, gastrocnemius and soleus weights only increased with exercise in HCR. Exercise led to an increase in citrate synthase activity in hearts of HCR (0,78±0,07 vs. 1,58±0,45 U/mg Protein) but not of LCR. Consistently, mitochondrial respiratory capacity was found increased in HCR with exercise in heart with all substrates (glutamate: 261±43 vs. 305±35; succinate 417±32 vs. 539±65 nAO/min/mg Protein). Liver was not affected by exercise. Conclusion Our data suggest that genetic predisposition for aerobic capacity additionally affects the response of mitochondria to exercise. Thus, it may be possible that the “born runner” benefits more from aerobic exercise training than the “less genetically equipped counterpart”. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

A Look into Liver Mitochondrial Dysfunction as a Hallmark in Progression of Brain Energy Crisis and Development of Neurologic Symptoms in Hepatic Encephalopathy.

Background: The relationship between liver disease and neuropathology in hepatic encephalopathy is well known, but the genesis of encephalopathy in liver failure is yet to be elucidated. Conceptually, the main cause of hepatic encephalopathy is the accumulation of brain ammonia due to impaired liver detoxification function or occurrence of portosystemic shunt. Yet, as well as taking up toxic ammonia, the liver also produces vital metabolites that ensure normal cerebral function. Given this, for insight into how perturbations in the metabolic capacity of the liver may be related to brain pathology, it is crucial to understand the extent of ammonia-related changes in the hepatic metabolism that provides respiratory fuel for the brain, a deficiency of which can give rise to encephalopathy. Methods: Hepatic encephalopathy was induced in starved rats by injection of ammonium acetate. Ammonia-induced toxicity was evaluated by plasma and freeze-clamped liver and brain energy metabolites, and mitochondrial, cytoplasmic, and microsomal gluconeogenic enzymes, including mitochondrial ketogenic enzymes. Parameters of oxidative phosphorylation were recorded polarographically with a Clark-type electrode, while other measures were determined with standard fluorometric enzymatic methods. Results: Progressive impairment of liver mitochondrial respiration in the initial stage of ammonia-induced hepatotoxicity and the subsequent energy crisis due to decreased ATP synthesis lead to cessation of gluconeogenesis and ketogenesis. Reduction in glucose and ketone body supply to the brain is a terminal event in liver toxicity, preceding the development of coma. Conclusions: Our study provides a framework to further explore the relationship between hepatic dysfunction and progression of brain energy crisis in hepatic encephalopathy.

Lactic Acidosis in the Presence of Glucose Diminishes Warburg Effect in Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells.

Lactic acidosis (3 to 40 mM, pH < 6.9) is a condition found in solid tumors because tumor cells have a high rate of glucose consumption and lactate production even in the presence of oxygen; nevertheless, the microenvironment might still provide a sufficient glucose supply. Lactic acidosis has been proposed to shift metabolism from aerobic glycolysis toward oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). We tested if lung tumor cells cultured under lactic acidosis shift their metabolism from glycolysis to OXPHOS by consuming extracellular lactate, increasing growth rate. We analyzed lung adenocarcinoma (A-549, A-427) cell lines and non-transformed fibroblast cells (MRC-5), which were cultured using RPMI-1640 medium initially containing lactate (2 mM) and glucose (10 mM), at pH 7.2 or 6.2 and oxygen tension 21% O2 (normoxia) or 2% O2 (hypoxia). We obtained growth curves, as well as glucose consumption and lactate production rates (measured during exponential growth) for each cell line. HIF-1α (Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 α), CS (citrate synthase) and AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) transcript levels were analyzed using RT-qPCR. By flow cytometry, we determined: (a) expression of glucose transporters (GLUT)1 and 4; (b) lactate transporters (MCT)1 and 4; (c) cell cycle profile, and (d) protein levels of HIF-1α, total and phosphorylated AMPK (pAMPK). Mitochondrial functionality was evaluated by measuring O2 consumption in tumor cells using polarography and a Clark-type electrode. Tumor and non-transformed cells used both aerobic glycolysis and OXPHOS for obtaining energy. As of 48 h of culture, lactate levels ranged from (4.5–14 mM), thus forming a lactic environment. Lactic acidosis diminished GLUT1/GLUT4 expression and glucose consumption in A-549, but not in A-427 cells, and induced differential expression of HIF-1α, AMPK, and CS transcripts. A-427 cells increased pAMPK and HIF-1α levels and shifted their metabolism increasing OXPHOS; thus supporting cell growth. Conversely, A-549 cells increased HIF-1α protein levels, but did not activate AMPK and diminished OXPHOS. A-549 cells survived by arresting cells in G1-phase. Our findings show that lactic acidosis diminishes Warburg effect in tumor cells, but this change does not necessarily promote a shift to OXPHOS. Hence, lung adenocarcinomas show a differential metabolic response even when they are under the same microenvironmental conditions.

The role of catalase in assimilation of exogenous methanol by Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cells

Cultivation in liquid Kessler’s medium containing 0.2 % methanol stimulated the growth of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii autotrophic batch culture. To elucidate the mechanism, we examined the effects of methanol on the enzymatic activity of catalase, catalase gene (CAT1) expression, and ultrastructure of C. reinhardtii cells. CAT1 relative expression was detected by real time RT-PCR. The cellular ultrastructure was investigated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Catalase-mediated oxygen evolution from H2O2 was assayed with a Clark-type electrode. The localization of catalase activity in C. reinhardtii cells grown in the presence of methanol was studied by a method based on cytochemical staining with 3,3'-diaminobenzidine-tetrahydrochloride (DAB). The cytochemical data obtained in this study confirmed catalase localization in mitochondria of C. reinhardtii cells. It was shown biochemically that mitochondrial catalase activity of the alga can be enhanced by methanol. CAT1 gene expression after 4 h of growth with methanol was 16-fold higher than in the control samples. Methanol addition induced quantitative changes in ultrastructure of C. reinhardtii cells: the volume of C. reinhardtii cells and fractions of cell area occupied by chloroplasts decreased, the areas of vacuoles, mitochondria, and plastoglobules increased. The results suggest that mitochondrial catalase takes part in the oxidation of methanol.

Vitamin B6 deficiency in new born rats affects hepatic cardiolipin composition and oxidative phosphorylation.

Vitamin B6 deficiency during pregnancy translates into a severe vitamin B6 deficiency (plasma levels decreased by 97%) in new-born rats. Further, hallmarks are increased (+89%) concentrations of homocysteine, gross changes in gene methylation and expression, and metabolic alterations including lipid metabolism. This study focuses on determining the effects of vitamin B6-deficiency on cardiolipin composition and oxidative phosphorylation in liver. For this purpose, hepatic cardiolipin composition was analyzed by means of LC/MS/MS, and mitochondrial oxygen consumption was determined by using a Clark-type electrode in a rat model of vitamin B6 deficiency. Liver mitochondria from new-born rats with pre-term vitamin B6 deficiency responded with substantial alterations in cardiolipin composition that include the following changes in the amounts of cardiolipin incorporated fatty acids: increase in C16, decrease in C18, decrease in saturated fatty acid, as well as increase in amount of oxidized cardiolipin species. These changes were accompanied by significantly decreased capacity of oxidative phosphorylation. In conclusion, vitamin B6 deficiency in new born rats induces massive alterations of cardiolipin composition and function of liver mitochondria. These findings support the importance of sufficient periconceptional supply of vitamin B6 to prevent vitamin B6 deficiency.Impact statementVitamin B6 (VitB6) is an active co-enzyme for more than 150 enzymes and is required for a great diversity of biosynthesis and metabolic reactions. There is an increased need for VitB6 during pregnancy and sufficient supply of VitB6 is crucial for the prevention of cleft palate and neural tube defects. We show that liver mitochondria from new-born rats with pre-term VitB6 deficiency respond with substantial alterations in cardiolipin (CL) composition and in the amount of oxidized CL species. These changes are associated with a decrease in the efficiency of oxidative phosphorylation. The results of this study support the significance of sufficient supply of VitB6 during pregnancy (and periconceptional) for diminishing the number of early abortions and minimizing malformation. The established link between VitB6 deficiency, CL composition, and mitochondrial respiration/energy production provides mechanistic insight as to how the VitB6 deficiency translates into the known pathophysiological and clinically relevant conditions.

Mitochondrial Oxidative Stress Impairs Energy Metabolism and Reduces Stress Resistance and Longevity of C. elegans.

Introduction Mitochondria supply cellular energy and are key regulators of intrinsic cell death and consequently affect longevity. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is frequently used for lifespan assays. Using paraquat (PQ) as a generator of reactive oxygen species, we here describe its effects on the acceleration of aging and the associated dysfunctions at the level of mitochondria. Methods Nematodes were incubated with various concentrations of paraquat in a heat-stress resistance assay (37°C) using nucleic staining. The most effective concentration was validated under physiological conditions, and chemotaxis was assayed. Mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) was measured using rhodamine 123, and activity of respiratory chain complexes determined using a Clark-type electrode in isolated mitochondria. Energetic metabolites in the form of pyruvate, lactate, and ATP were determined using commercial kits. Mitochondrial integrity and structure was investigated using transmission electron microscopy. Live imaging after staining with fluorescent dyes was used to measure mitochondrial and cytosolic ROS. Expression of longevity- and mitogenesis-related genes were evaluated using qRT-PCR. Results PQ (5 mM) significantly increased ROS formation in nematodes and reduced the chemotaxis, the physiological lifespan, and the survival in assays for heat-stress resistance. The number of fragmented mitochondria significantly increased. The ∆Ψm, the activities of complexes I-IV of the mitochondrial respiratory chain, and the levels of pyruvate and lactate were significantly reduced, whereas ATP production was not affected. Transcript levels of genetic marker genes, atfs-1, atp-2, skn-1, and sir-2.1, were significantly upregulated after PQ incubation, which implicates a close connection between mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress response. Expression levels of aak-2 and daf-16 were unchanged. Conclusion Using paraquat as a stressor, we here describe the association of oxidative stress, restricted energy metabolism, and reduced stress resistance and longevity in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans making it a readily accessible in vivo model for mitochondrial dysfunction.