Mitochondria-derived peptide MOTS-c alleviates hyperoxia-induced bronchopulmonary dysplasia in neonatal mice by

Dan Chen1, Mei-Hui Zhou1, Wei-Ying Zhu2

  • 1Department of Physiopathology, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China.

Insights

Mitochondria-derived peptide MOTS-c, reduced in hyperoxia-induced bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), alleviates lung injury. Its protective effects against oxidative stress and inflammation in BPD are dependent on the Nrf2 pathway.

Area of Science:

  • Biomedical research
  • Molecular biology
  • Pulmonary medicine

Background:

  • Oxidative stress is a key factor in bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) pathogenesis.
  • MOTS-c, a mitochondria-derived peptide, shows promise in treating oxidative stress-related diseases.
  • The role of MOTS-c in hyperoxia-induced BPD is currently unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the therapeutic potential and underlying mechanisms of MOTS-c in a murine model of hyperoxia-induced BPD.
  • To determine if MOTS-c supplementation can mitigate BPD-related lung damage.
  • To elucidate the molecular pathways involved in MOTS-c's protective effects.

Main Methods:

  • A murine model of hyperoxia-induced BPD was established using 70% O2.
  • MOTS-c levels were measured in hyperoxia-exposed mice.
  • Exogenous MOTS-c was administered to assess its effects on BPD symptoms, lung histology, and pulmonary vascularization.
  • In vitro studies using hyperoxia-stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) evaluated cell viability, death, and tube formation.
  • The role of the Nrf2 pathway was assessed using an Nrf2 inhibitor (ML385) and Nrf2-deficient mice.

Main Results:

  • MOTS-c levels were decreased in hyperoxia-induced BPD mice.
  • MOTS-c supplementation improved growth, reduced alveolar simplification, and corrected pulmonary vascular abnormalities in BPD mice.
  • In vitro, MOTS-c enhanced HUVEC viability, reduced cell death, and promoted tube formation.
  • MOTS-c significantly inhibited inflammation and oxidative stress both in vivo and in vitro.
  • The protective effects of MOTS-c were dependent on Nrf2 activation, as they were abolished by Nrf2 inhibition or deficiency.

Conclusions:

  • MOTS-c demonstrates significant protective effects against hyperoxia-induced lung injury in a murine BPD model.
  • The therapeutic benefits of MOTS-c, including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and pro-angiogenic actions, are mediated through the Nrf2 pathway.
  • MOTS-c represents a promising therapeutic candidate for treating hyperoxia-induced BPD due to its antioxidant properties.