Metformin Collaborates With PINK1/Mfn2 Overexpression Prevented Isoproterenol-Induced Cardiomyocyte Injury By Improving Mitochondrial Function
Abstract Background: Both mitochondrial quality control and energy metabolism are critical in maintaining the physiological function of cardiomyocytes. Previous studies indicated that PGC-1α is a transcription co-activator in promoting mitochondrial energy metabolism which would be beneficial for cardiomyocytes. However, PGC-1α overexpression in heart tissues could also result in the development of cardiomyopathy. This discrepancy in vivo and in vitro might be due to neglecting the elimination of damaged mitochondrial. Thus, an integration strategy of mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy might be beneficial.Methods: We studied the function of PINK1 in mitophagy in isoproterenol (Iso)-induced cardiomyocyte injury. Adenovirus was used to provoke an overexpression of the PINK1/Mfn2 protein. Mitochondrial morphology was examined via electron microscopy and confocal microscopy. Cardiomyocytes injury were measured by mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis. Metformin was used to increase mitochondrial biogenesis, the level of which was detected via immunoblotting. Additionally, mitochondrial respiratory function was measured by ATP production and oxygen consumption rate (OCR). Results: Cardiomyocytes treated with Iso had high levels of PINK1 and low levels of Mfn2 in a time-dependent manner. PINK1 overexpression promoted mitophagy, alleviated Iso-induced reduction in MMP, reduced ROS production and the apoptotic rate. In addition to increasing mitophagy, metformin could promote mitochondrial biogenensis and the overexpression of Mfn2 induce mitochondrial fusion. Moreover, metformin treatment and PINK1/Mfn2 overexpression reduced the mitochondrial dysfunction by inhibiting the generation of ROS, and leading to an increase in both ATP production and mitochondrial membrane potential in Iso-induced cardiomyocytes injury. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that a combination strategy may help ameliorate myocardial injury through mitophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis.