title: Characterization of Myelin Sheath F(o)F(1)-ATP synthase and its regulation by IF(1).
abstract: F(o)F(1)-ATP synthase is the nanomotor responsible for most of ATP synthesis in the cell. In physiological conditions, it carries out ATP synthesis thanks to a proton gradient generated by the respiratory chain in the inner mitochondrial membrane. We previously reported that isolated myelin vesicles (IMV) contain functional F(o)F(1)-ATP synthase and respiratory chain complexes and are able to conduct an aerobic metabolism, to support the axonal energy demand. In this study, by biochemical assay, Western Blot (WB) analysis and immunofluorescence microscopy, we characterized the IMV F(o)F(1)-ATP synthase. ATP synthase activity decreased in the presence of the specific inhibitors (olygomicin, DCCD, FCCP, valynomicin/nigericin) and respiratory chain inhibitors (antimycin A, KCN), suggesting a coupling of oxygen consumption and ATP synthesis. ATPase activity was inhibited in low pH conditions. WB and microscopy analyses of both IMV and optic nerves showed that the Inhibitor of F(1) (IF(1)), a small protein that binds the F(1) moiety in low pH when of oxygen supply is impaired, is expressed in myelin sheath. Data are discussed in terms of the role of IF(1) in the prevention of the reversal of ATP synthase in myelin sheath during central nervous system ischemic events. Overall, data are consistent with an energetic role of myelin sheath, and may shed light on the relationship among demyelination and axonal degeneration.
authors.affiliation: Biology Department, University of Genova, Italy.
authors.forename: Silvia
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Ravera
authors.forename: Isabella
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Panfoli
authors.forename: Maria Grazia
authors.initials: MG
authors.lastname: Aluigi
authors.forename: Daniela
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Calzia
authors.forename: Alessandro
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Morelli
mesh_terms: D015153:Blotting, Western; D019069:Cell Respiration; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D046529:Microscopy, Electron, Transmission; D008856:Microscopy, Fluorescence; D025261:Mitochondrial Proton-Translocating ATPases / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism*; D009186:Myelin Sheath / Q000201:enzymology / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D010101:Oxygen Consumption; D011485:Protein Binding; D011506:Proteins / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism*; D000097795:ATPase Inhibitory Protein
chemical_list: D025261:Mitochondrial Proton-Translocating ATPases; D011506:Proteins; D000097795:ATPase Inhibitory Protein