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YTHDF2 controls hexavalent chromium-induced mitophagy through modulating Hif1α and Bnip3 decay via the m6A/mRNA
Tianjiao Li1, Yi Zheng2, Zhili Wu2
1Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Natural Products & Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
Abstract:
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the basis of spermatogenesis, and SSC homeostasis is essential for lifelong male fertility. Currently, environmental pollution remains one of the factors affecting human reproductive health. Chromium is a prevalent metal element, and excessive exposure to hexavalent chromium (Cr (VI)) can cause male reproductive disorders. Nevertheless, the toxic effects of Cr (VI) on SSCs and the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Here, we showed that Cr (VI) exposure triggered mitophagy in mouse SSCs/progenitors in a time-dependent manner. Concurrently, Cr (VI) treatment caused reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and activated the HIF1α-mediated BNIP3 expression to trigger mitophagy. In addition, Cr (VI) exposure significantly decreased the level of m6A modification. Further, we identified that YTHDF2 regulated the stability of Bnip3 and Hif1α mRNAs in an m6A-dependent manner, which was involved in Cr (VI)-induced mitophagy. Collectively, our study not only expands the mechanisms for Cr (VI)-caused male reproductive toxicity, but also provides pharmacological targets for prevention and treatment of Cr (VI)-induced male fertility impairment.
