Altered cellular homeostasis in murine MPS i fibroblasts: Evidence of cell-specific physiopathology

Abstract

Mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I), a rare autosomal recessive disease, is caused by a deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme alfa-l-iduronidase. Impaired enzyme activity promotes glycosaminoglycans accumulation in several tissues and organs, leading to complex multisystemic complications. Several studies using animal models indicated different intracellular pathways involving MPS I physiopathology; however, the exact mechanisms underlying this syndrome are still not understood. Previous results from our group showed alterations in ionic homeostasis and cell viability of splenocytes and macrophages in Idua−/− mice. In the present study, we found altered intracellular ionic homeostasis in a different cell type (fibroblasts) from the same murine model. Idua−/− fibroblasts from 3-month-old mice presented higher cytoplasmatic and endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ concentration, lower levels of mitochondrial Ca2+ and mitochondrial membrane potential and higher cytoplasmatic pH when compared to Idua+/+ animals. Also, Idua−/− fibroblasts were more resistant to the apoptotic induction with staurosporine, indicating a possible resistance to apoptotic induction in those cells. In addition, despite the intracellular ionic imbalance, no significant alterations were found in apoptosis and autophagy in Idua−/− fibroblasts, which implies that the ionic alterations did not activate those pathways. The investigation of mechanisms underlying the cellular physiopathology of lysosomal diseases is crucial for a better understanding about the progression of these diseases. Since splenocytes, macrophages, and fibroblasts have different embryonic origins and distinct structural and functional features, potentially altered signaling pathways found in a cell-specific manner in an alfa-l-iduronidase-deficient environment provide additional understanding of the clinical multisystemic presentation of this disease and provide new basis for improved therapeutic approaches.