Stimulation of σ1-receptor restores abnormal mitochondrial Ca2 + mobilization and ATP production following cardiac hypertrophy

BackgroundWe previously reported that the σ1-receptor (σ1R) is down-regulated following cardiac hypertrophy and dysfunction in transverse aortic constriction (TAC) mice. Here we address how σ1R stimulation with the selective σ1R agonist SA4503 restores hypertrophy-induced cardiac dysfunction through σ1R localized in the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR).MethodsWe first confirmed anti-hypertrophic effects of SA4503 (0.1–1 μM) in cultured cardiomyocytes exposed to angiotensin II (Ang II). Then, to confirm the ameliorative effects of σ1R stimulation in vivo, we administered SA4503 (1.0 mg/kg) and the σ1R antagonist NE-100 (1.0 mg/kg) orally to TAC mice for 4 weeks (once daily).Resultsσ1R stimulation with SA4503 significantly inhibited Ang II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Ang II exposure for 72 h impaired phenylephrine (PE)-induced Ca2 + mobilization from the SR into both the cytosol and mitochondria. Treatment of cardiomyocytes with SA4503 largely restored PE-induced Ca2 + mobilization into mitochondria. Exposure of cardiomyocytes to Ang II for 72 h decreased basal ATP content and PE-induced ATP production concomitant with reduced mitochondrial size, while SA4503 treatment completely restored ATP production and mitochondrial size. Pretreatment with NE-100 or siRNA abolished these effects. Chronic SA4503 administration also significantly attenuated myocardial hypertrophy and restored ATP production in TAC mice. SA4503 administration also decreased hypertrophy-induced impairments in LV contractile function.Conclusionsσ1R stimulation with the specific agonist SA4503 ameliorates cardiac hypertrophy and dysfunction by restoring both mitochondrial Ca2 + mobilization and ATP production via σ1R stimulation.General significanceOur observations suggest that σ1R stimulation represents a new therapeutic strategy to rescue the heart from hypertrophic dysfunction.

► The σ1R agonist, SA4503 inhibits cardiac hypertrophy and contractile dysfunction.
► SΑ4503 ameliorates mitochondrial membrane potential and downregulation of mitodfusin-2 and GRP75.
► SA4503 rescues IP3R-mediated SR-mitochondrial Ca2 + mobilization following hypertrophy.
► SA4503 rescues mitochondrial ATP production following hypertrophy.