Effects of microgravity on osteoblast mitochondria: a proteomic and metabolomics profile

Sci Rep. 2017 Nov 13;7(1):15376. doi: 10.1038/s41598-017-15612-1.

Abstract

The response of human primary osteoblasts exposed to simulated microgravity has been investigated and analysis of metabolomic and proteomic profiles demonstrated a prominent dysregulation of mitochondrion homeostasis. Gravitational unloading treatment induced a decrease in mitochondrial proteins, mainly affecting efficiency of the respiratory chain. Metabolomic analysis revealed that microgravity influenced several metabolic pathways; stimulating glycolysis and the pentose phosphate pathways, while the Krebs cycle was interrupted at succinate-fumarate transformation. Interestingly, proteomic analysis revealed that Complex II of the mitochondrial respiratory chain, which catalyses the biotransformation of this step, was under-represented by 50%. Accordingly, down-regulation of quinones 9 and 10 was measured. Complex III resulted in up-regulation by 60%, while Complex IV was down-regulated by 14%, accompanied by a reduction in proton transport synthesis of ATP. Finally, microgravity treatment induced an oxidative stress response, indicated by significant decreases in oxidised glutathione and antioxidant enzymes. Decrease in malate dehydrogenase induced a reverse in the malate-aspartate shuttle, contributing to dysregulation of ATP synthesis. Beta-oxidation of fatty acids was inhibited, promoting triglyceride production along with a reduction in the glycerol shuttle. Taken together, our findings suggest that microgravity may suppress bone cell functions, impairing mitochondrial energy potential and the energy state of the cell.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Metabolic Networks and Pathways*
  • Metabolomics
  • Middle Aged
  • Mitochondria / metabolism*
  • Mitochondrial Proteins / metabolism*
  • Osteoblasts / cytology
  • Osteoblasts / metabolism*
  • Proteomics
  • Weightlessness*

Substances

  • Mitochondrial Proteins