Oestrogenic Regulation of Mitochondrial Dynamics.

Biological sex influences disease development and progression. The steroid hormone 17β-oestradiol (E2), along with its receptors, is expected to play a major role in the manifestation of sex differences. E2 exerts pleiotropic effects in a system-specific manner. Mitochondria are one of the central targets of E2, and their biogenesis and respiration are known to be modulated by E2. More recently, it has become apparent that E2 also regulates mitochondrial fusion-fission dynamics, thereby affecting cellular metabolism. The aim of this article is to discuss the regulatory pathways by which E2 orchestrates the activity of several components of mitochondrial dynamics in the cardiovascular and nervous systems in health and disease. We conclude that E2 regulates mitochondrial dynamics to maintain the mitochondrial network promoting mitochondrial fusion and attenuating mitochondrial fission in both the cardiovascular and nervous systems.

1. Introduction

Biological sex plays a major role in disease development and treatment responses [1,2,3,4,5,6]. This is true for a wide range of diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, as well as nervous system-related diseases (neuropsychiatric, neurological and neurodegenerative disorders) [7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14]. In addition to sex chromosomes and (epi)genetic factors [1,7,8,15], steroid hormones are expected to be one of the main factors that drive differences between the sexes. In particular, 17β-oestradiol (E2) and its receptors (ER) are thought to play a major role [16,17,18,19,20,21].

E2 biosynthesis primarily occurs in the gonads. Consequently, in pre-menopausal women, E2 is produced mainly by the ovaries. However, production of E2 may continue post menopause, as there are extra-ovarian sources of E2. These include the adipose, breast and adrenal tissues, bone, heart, brain and skin, where aromatase can be produced [22]. In addition, the testes and prostate are production sites of E2 through the local conversion of androgenic precursors by the aromatase enzyme. Following production, E2 is released into the bloodstream, where it diffuses across the cellular plasma membrane binding to different intracellular receptors, including ERα, ERβ and G protein-coupled oestrogen receptor (GPER), to elicit its effects. A wide range of E2/ER effects have been studied in the cardiovascular and nervous systems [23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30,31,32,33,34,35,36,37,38,39,40], which can be sex-dependent [18,22,41,42,43,44,45,46] and demonstrate the modulatory role of E2 in these systems.

E2 induces its diverse effects by modulating numerous signalling pathways. Mitochondria are one of the essential cellular organelles for the induction of E2 effects [47]. Regulation of mitochondrial metabolism [24,48], cell death [49,50] and quality control [51,52] are a few examples by which E2 regulates cellular homeostasis. In this article, we discuss the mechanisms of E2 actions and its effects on mitochondrial function. We then specifically focus on the interplay of E2 with mitochondrial function and dynamics in the cardiovascular and neurological systems and explore the involvement of E2 in mitochondrial dynamics in the heart–brain axis (HBA).

2. E2 Regulation of Mitochondrial Function and Turnover

2.1. E2 Effects on Mitochondrial Respiration

Mitochondria are crucial for cellular metabolism, where most of the cellular ATP is produced [53]. Mitochondrial catabolic processes, such as glycolysis and β-oxidation, either directly produce reducing agents, including NADH and FADH2, or indirectly by supplementing the mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid cycle with pyruvate or acetyl-CoA. The reducing agents are then used to feed electrons to complexes I and II of the electron transport chain for oxidative phosphorylation. The electron transfer results in outward movements of protons across the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM) through different respiratory complexes. This results in the formation of an electrical gradient across the mitochondrial membrane that is necessary for ATP synthesis [54].

E2 regulation of mitochondrial function often requires its interaction with its receptors (Figure 1). Apart from GPER, which is localised in the endoplasmic reticulum (ERT) or plasma membrane, other ERs are additionally localised on the surface of mitochondria and are expressed in a tissue-dependent manner [55]. ERα and ERβ have been found in cardiomyocytes and neurons [56,57]. However, the presence of ERβ in cardiomyocytes, particularly in mitochondria, has been disputed [58]. Nevertheless, ERβ seems to be the main ER present in mitochondria, as demonstrated by immunohistochemistry, immunocytochemistry and immunoblots, using a large panel of antibodies [26]. In addition, studies indicating its functional activity there have been reported [24].

Figure 1

E2 regulation of mitochondrial function and turnover. Several signalling proteins contribute to the effects of E2 on mitochondrial respiration, biogenesis, mitophagy and cell death. Abbreviations: Aif1: Apoptotic-inducing factor 1, E2: 17β-Oestradiol, ERα: oestrogen receptor α, ERβ: oestrogen receptor β, Erk: extracellular signal-regulated kinase, Mapk: mitogen-activated-protein-kinase, MPTP: mitochondria permeability transition pore, Nfκb: Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, Nrf1: nuclear receptor factor, Pgc-1α: proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator 1-α, Pgc-1β: proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator 1-β, PI3K: phosphatidylinositol-3-OH kinase, Sp1: stimulating protein-1 and Tfam: mitochondrial transcription factor A.

The E2–ER interaction either follows a direct regulation of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) via E2 response element sites or indirect activation of proteins, such as nuclear receptor factor 2 (Nrf2), which binds to the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator (Pgc) 1α transcription factor [59]. Pgc-1α then interacts with nuclear receptor factor 1 (Nrf1), which promotes mitochondrial transcription factor A (Tfam) expression, and regulates mitochondrial protein synthesis and respiration [60,61,62]. In line with this notion, E2 uptake in male athletes resulted in higher levels of skeletal muscle PGC-1α and medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (β-oxidation substrate), as well as greater lipid oxidation compared with the placebo [60]. Similarly, in cerebrovascular tissues of ovariectomised (OVX) rats, E2 treatment enhanced mitochondrial respiration via increase of mitochondrial cytochrome C and complex IV through the function of Nrf2 [56]. Together, these studies reveal the significance of E2 in promoting the performance of mitochondrial respiration.

2.2. E2 Effects on Mitophagy

In order to work in an optimal manner, the mitochondrial network eliminates dysfunctional mitochondria from the cell through the mechanism of mitophagy, while it generates new mitochondria via the process of biogenesis (discussed later). Removal of mitochondria involves receptor-mediated mitophagy either via Bnip3/Nix or Fundc1 or ubiquitin-mediated mitophagy via Parkin and Pink1. In the first type, Bnip3 or Fundc1 travel to the surface of mitochondria [63]. The phosphorylation of Bnip3 at its serine 212 site and its subsequent dimerization at the outer mitochondrial membrane (OMM) are essential for its mitophagic activity [64]. Comparatively, under basal conditions, Src and CK2 kinases phosphorylate Fundc1 at its tyrosine 18 and serine 13 sites, respectively, and allow its association with mitochondrial fusion protein optic atrophy 1 (Opa1) via its lysine 70 site [63,65,66]. Under stress conditions, such as hypoxia, dephosphorylation of Fundc1 via Pgams5 phosphatase and its dissociation from Opa1 allow Fundc1 translocation to the OMM to instigate mitochondrial fragmentation [66]. Both Bnip3 and Fundc1 act as a receptor for microtubule-associated proteins 1A/1B light chain 3B (LC3) or GABAPAR proteins that ultimately facilitate mitophagosome formation [63]. In Parkin-Pink1-dependent mitophagy, the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential triggers Pink1-induced phosphorylation of ubiquitin. The phosphorylation of ubiquitin allows Parkin translocation to the OMM. Parkin phosphorylation at its serine 65 by Pink1 then allows its conformational changes and subsequent ubiquitylation of several proteins on the OMM before mitophagosome formation [67].

E2 interacts with components of both receptor- and ubiquitin-mediated mitophagy. Under stress conditions, such as hypoxia, Bnip3 interferes with the activity of the anti-apoptotic Bcl2 and Rheb proteins, which activate a mitophagic inhibitor known as mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) [68]. E2/ERα signalling has been observed to normalise mitophagy and rescue cardiac H9C2 cells overexpressing Bnip3, by actively competing with Bnip3 to bind to Bcl2 and Rheb. E2/ERα was also postulated to reduce the intracellular levels of Bnip3 via Sp1 and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NfκB) transcription factors [69]. Similarly, in amyloid-beta (Aβ)-induced cytotoxicity, E2 treatment lowers Bnip3 levels in primary cerebrocortical neuronal cells [70]. E2 can also rely on ERβ to reduce Bnip3 through the action of hypoxia-inducing factor 1 α (Hif1-α) [71]. Relatively, in E2-treated OVX mice subjected to ischaemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), GPER activation reduced Parkin translocation to the OMM, thereby decreasing mitophagy. Inhibition of Pink-Parkin-related mitophagy, in line with the induction of Mapk/Erk, has been observed to reduce cardiac infarct size, independent of the PI3k/Akt pathway in E2-treated OVX mice [72]. Collectively, E2 modulates diverse signalling pathways to regulate mitophagy based on cellular homeostasis.

2.3. E2 Effects on Mitochondrial Biogenesis

Proteins that actively participate in the regulation of mitochondrial metabolism, including Pgc-1α, Pgc-1β, Nrf1, Nrf2, Tfam and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ), act cooperatively to regulate mitochondrial biogenesis [73]. E2 can have both direct and indirect effects on mitochondrial biogenesis. OVX mice exhibit a marked downregulation of Pgc-1α and Tfam. E2 treatment restored Tfam, as well as Pgc-1α levels, in part via upregulation of Sirt1 and Sirt3, which are known to deacetylate and enhance Pgc-1α activity [74]. E2 treatment in OVX rats increased Pgc-1β levels, which in turn activated Tfam and Nrf1 and improved mitochondrial respiration and biogenesis in the liver and cerebral blood vessels [75,76]. In addition, E2 treatment can increase GPER levels, while simultaneously increasing Pgc-1α levels. Interestingly, GPER agonist G-1 was able to mimic these effects (Figure 1). However, no effects on biogenesis markers were observed following ERα or ERβ agonists (PTT and DPN, respectively) treatment, thereby suggesting that the effects of E2 on the biogenesis of cardiac mitochondria are GPER-dependent [77].

2.4. E2 Effects on Mitochondrial-Associated Cell Death

The induction of numerous cell death pathways begins from mitochondria. After receiving cell death-associated stimuli, members of the Bcl2 family of proteins translocate to the surface of mitochondria to form a pore. This then causes mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilisation and the release of apoptotic-inducing factor 1 (Aif1), cytochrome C and SMAC proteins into the cytosol. These proteins then activate caspases and nucleases, which ultimately induce apoptosis [78]. Aif1 translocation for the induction of apoptotic-like cell death also occurs in parthanatos. Here, hyperactivation of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (Parp1) allows Aif1 translocation to the cell nucleus triggering nuclease activation, which subsequently causes DNA fragmentation and cell death [79]. Necrotic cell death involves the formation of necrosomes via receptor-interacting protein (Rip) kinases, including Rip1 and Rip3. Necrosome formation, along with a drop in mitochondrial membrane potential, induces the opening of a small pore, known as the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP), which increases the mitochondrial permeability to cause swelling, ultimately leading to cell death [80]. The extent of necrosis differs between males and females, as female mitochondria have higher Ca2+ capacity and as a result, present less Ca2+-induced swelling and MPTP [81]. The E2 protection against MPTP opening has been observed to occur mainly through the function of ERβ [82]. In neurons and cardiomyocytes, E2 treatment activates the pro-survival PI3K/Akt pathway to prevent ischaemia-induced apoptosis [83,84]. The effect of E2 under hypoxic conditions includes the activation of Hif1-α by ERβ, which decreases apoptotic pore-forming Bax and Bak protein levels [71]. E2 treatment can also inhibit the DNA binding of NfκB in cardiomyocytes via ERα and ERβ, thereby preventing inflammation-related apoptosis [85]. Conversely, E2 can also stimulate apoptosis in the hypothalamus regulating the ratio of dopaminergic neurons [86]. Unlike the other two cell death pathways, E2 relies on the action of ERα to reduce Parp1 activation following oxidative stress [87]. Therefore, E2 exerts regulatory effects on a range of cell death pathways that affect mitochondria by utilising different receptors.

3. Mitochondrial Dynamics

3.1. Mitochondrial Fusion

Mitochondria are active organelles that constantly change shape via fusion and fission processes, collectively known as mitochondrial dynamics, to respond to cellular demands. Several dynamin-related GTPases orchestrate mitochondrial dynamics. Neighbouring mitochondria merge their membrane and fuse using the OMM proteins Mfn1 and Mfn2, as well as the short and long isoforms of the protein Opa1 that reside in the IMM [88]. Mitochondrial fusion is essential for mtDNA repair, stability and replication [89,90], UV and starvation-induced hyperfusion [91], network distribution, cell survival and embryonic development [92]. The action of mitofusins begins by reducing the strength of the OMM lipid layer via their Heptad-Repeat 1 domain. The Heptad-Repeat 2 domain then uses GTP to bring the OMM of adjacent mitochondria together to fulfil the OMM fusion with the action of other mitofusin domains [93]. Downstream of mitofusins, mitoguardin proteins, Miga1 and Miga2, interact with MitoPLD and lead to its dimerization [94]. MitoPLD then forms phosphatidic acid phospholipids by using cardiolipin to facilitate membrane fusion [95].

The fusion of the IMM relies on the activity of the Opa1 protein. The proteolytic cleavage of Opa1 results in the formation of long Opa1 (L-Opa1) and short Opa1 (S-Opa1) isoforms [96]. Both isoforms hydrolyse GTP to create homo- and heterotypic complexes to tether the mitochondrial IMM to the OMM [97]. Opa1 also requires Mfn1 to perform the IMM fusion, but the type of Opa1 isoforms that interrelate with Mfn1 and their route of interaction remain unknown [98]. The GTPase action of Opa1 is stimulated by the action of cardiolipin, which allows the complete fusion of the mitochondrial membrane [99].

Post-translational modifications of Opa1 are crucial for the formation of different Opa1 isoforms and its ability to execute fusion. Oma1 and Yme1l are two of the most important protein modifiers of Opa1. Yme1l is a metalloproteinase that acts on the S2 cleavage site of Opa1 [100]. Oma1 processes the cleavage of the S1 site of Opa1 to mediate the formation of S-Opa1 [101]. The balance between the availability of S-Opa1 and L-Opa1 is maintained by the regulatory action of Yme1l on the mature form of Oma1 [102]. This equilibrium is altered under hypoxic conditions, where Oma1 upregulation increases the S-Opa1 isoform and ultimately causes marked fragmentation [103]. In addition, prohibitin (Phb) participates in maintaining the pool of mitochondrial Opa1 isoforms. The defect in Phb decreases the levels of L-Opa1 in IMM, which induces fragmentation [104]. Collectively, the complex pool of proteins that reside in OMM and IMM function together to allow mitochondrial fusion to take place.

3.2. Mitochondrial Fission

The segregation of mitochondria from their network is vital for quality control, intracellular dispersion, cell division and death [105,106,107]. Physiological fission starts by sets of constrictions of the mitochondrial inner compartment termed CoMIC that are maintained by the action of S-Opa1. These IMM constrictions are formed by the influx of Ca2+ from the ERT, which in turn prompt mitochondrial membrane depolarisation [108]. The oligomerisation and translocation of dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) to the ERT-constricted region of OMM is the next step in the process of fission [109]. These regions are created by the inverted formin 2 and spire 1c, which prepare the assembly of F-actin to recruit Drp1 [110,111,112]. The constriction regions are also marked by lysosomal GTP-bound Rab7. Before the OMM translocation of Drp1, fission factor 1 (Fis1) recruits TBC1D15 GTPase to the constriction region and releases lysosomes from mitochondria [113]. Several receptor proteins, including Fis1, mitochondrial fission factor (Mff), as well as Mid49 and Mid51, actively participate in the recruitment of Drp1 [114]. Mid49/51 are suggested to bind to cardiolipin at the OMM/IMM interface and allow the initial recruitment of Drp1 dimers. The tethering of OMM and IMM is achieved by the function of Opa1 [108]. Once bound to the surface of OMM, Drp1 also interacts with Mff to form a higher-order oligomeric complex [115]. The pool of cardiolipin at the OMM then allows the fully assembled Drp1 to instigate OMM fission [116]. Subsequently, S-Opa1 processes IMM fission [100]. Recruitment of Golgi phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate [PI(4)P] vesicles to the mitochondrial-ERT constriction site has been suggested to be necessary for the progression of fission following Drp 1 action [117]. Additionally, the final steps of mitochondrial division include the action of Dynamin-2, which performs membrane scission and separates the two mitochondria [118]. Despite the comprehensiveness of these findings, the exact nature of S-Opa1, Drp1, PI(4)P and Dynamin-2 cooperation to conclude the final steps of fission is inconclusive. It is noteworthy to mention that Fis1 is also capable of mediating fission independent of Drp1. This action of Fis1 relies on its inhibitory effect on the GTPase activity of mitochondrial fusion proteins [119]. However, further research is required to elucidate whether this type of fission also requires ERT and the aforementioned processes. Besides, it would be intriguing to assess the effects of dual Drp1 and Fis1 knock out (KO) in mitochondrial fission and explore any additional protein machinery that may be involved in this process. One of the potential candidates is Bcl2-L-13, which has been observed to induce fission in a Drp1-independent manner [120]. In this context, additional work is required to understand whether its mechanism of action requires Fis1 or any other alternative fission proteins.

3.3. Mitochondrial Fusion and Fission in the Cardiovascular System

Mitochondria occupy around 30% of the cardiomyocyte volume and play a significant role in calcium buffering and β-oxidation required for cardiac contractility, as well as cell death [121]. Investigations on cardiac cells lacking OMM fusion proteins, including Mfn1 and Mfn2, have found surprising effects regarding the linkage of mitochondrial morphology and function. For instance, cardiac-specific ablation of Mfn1 triggers mitochondrial fragmentation. However, its absence does not produce significant changes in cardiomyocyte function [122]. Comparatively, cardiac-specific deletion of Mfn2 causes mitochondrial fragmentation, while enlarging the overall volume of cardiac mitochondria [123,124]. Unlike Mfn1, the absence of Mfn2 in aged animals causes hypertrophy and contractile dysfunction, which are additionally attributed to the pleiotropic role of Mfn2 in mitochondria-sarcoplasmic reticulum tethering [125]. The tethering function of Mfn2 maintains sarcoplasmic reticulum inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate-related mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake to regulate ATP production and cardiac contractility [126]. In comparison with Mfn1 or Mfn2 KO, deletion of both Mfn1 and Mfn2 instigates the depression of cardiac function by reducing stroke volume and output. These effects occur due to altered mitochondrial morphology, diminished state 3 respiration and abrogated mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake in cardiac-specific mitofusin 1/2 double KO mice [127]. The Opa1 gene is abundantly expressed in the heart and its participation in cristae integrity and cell death makes it a necessary gene for embryonic development [128,129]. Opa1+/− mice have marked mitochondrial enlargement, which increases their Ca2+ retention capacity. Altered Ca2+ handling, in turn, delays the onset of MPTP opening in these hearts. Despite normal respiration and cardiac function in young mice, Opa1+/− cardiac mitochondria have an attenuated energy transfer system to supply the myosin ATPase [129]. This ultimately causes left ventricular dilation and reduced fractional shortening in aged mice [130]. Collectively, the findings in mitofusin and Opa1-deficient mice directly link mitochondrial fusion to cardiac function.

Similar to mitochondrial fusion proteins, cardiac-specific ablation of Drp1 has demonstrated the necessity of mitochondrial fission in the heart [131,132]. The indispensable role of Drp1 in cardiac development can be appreciated by the embryonic lethality of Drp1−/− mice. In the conditional model of Drp1loxp/loxp mice, major clustering of mitochondria, with disparate morphology, occurs in the intracellular space [133]. In addition to impaired fission, this morphological heterogeneity also occurs due to the presence of abrupt mitophagy in Drp1−/− cardiomyocytes [132]. These mitochondria also have a reduced mtDNA copy number, deficient respiration and cristae deformities, which mainly stem from the lack of L-Opa1. These mitochondrial malfunctions, along with disorganised myofibrils, cause a marked dilation of the left ventricle and a subsequent reduction in fractional shortening [133]. Therefore, the balance of mitochondrial morphology that is modulated by endogenous Drp1 is critical for normal cardiac function.

3.4. E2 Effects on Mitochondrial Fusion and Fission in the Cardiovascular System

E2 modulates mitochondrial dynamics exerting regulatory effects in numerous cardiovascular diseases by modifying both fusion and fission proteins. For instance, upon E2 exposure, Mfn2 S-nitrosylation in endothelial cells induces mitochondrial changes that contribute to vascular functions [134]. Hearts of OVX mice have reduced Pgc-1α levels, which in turn may affect the production of both mitochondrial fusion and fission proteins [135,136]. E2 function on cardiac mitochondria has been observed to incorporate ERβ (Figure 2). Female mice develop more pronounced exercise-induced physiological hypertrophy following eight weeks of voluntary cage wheel running in comparison with male mice. These effects were mediated via ERβ and the activation of Mapk/Erk and AKT [137]. Interestingly, exercise led to a shift from large towards smaller mitochondria and a significant reduction in Mfn2 levels only in female mice [137].

Figure 2

Effects of E2 on mitochondrial dynamics in the cardiovascular system. E2–ERβ interaction modulates the proteins of mitochondrial dynamics in a direct or indirect manner, thereby eliciting effects on cardiovascular (patho)physiology. Abbreviations: Drp1: dynamin-related protein 1, E2: 17β-Oestradiol, ERβ: oestrogen receptor β, Erk: extracellular signal-regulated kinase, Fis1: fission factor 1, INR: insulin resistance, IRI: ischaemia-reperfusion injury, Mapk: mitogen-activated-protein-kinase, Mfn1: mitofusin 1, Mfn2: mitofusin 2, MPTP: mitochondria permeability transition pore, Opa1: optic atrophy 1, PI3K: phosphatidylinositol-3-OH kinase, Phb: prohibitin and ROS: reactive oxygen species.

In ischaemic injury, ERβ has been observed to rely on Notch 1 signalling upstream of Akt [138]. E2 activation of PI3K/Akt pathway following IRI has been documented to reduce the levels of Fis1 protein and may promote Mfn1-dependent fusion [139,140]. ERβ may also regulate the function of Phb in the setting of IRI. ERβ downregulates the levels of microRNA-361 (mir-361), which is known for reducing the production of Phb, triggering mitochondrial fragmentation following IRI [141,142]. However, while there is some knowledge about the E2-dependent regulation of mitochondrial fission, the effects of E2 on components of mitochondrial fusion during IRI are incompletely understood. In addition, whether components of mitochondrial dynamics play any role in the occurrence of various cell death modalities, including ferroptosis, parthanatos and oxeiptosis, in the setting of IRI, as well as any regulatory effects of E2, remain largely unexplored.

OVX rats receiving a high-fat diet (HFD) have been found to develop insulin resistance, abrupt Ca2+ signalling and cardiometabolic dysfunction. These abnormalities occurred in correlation with the impairment of mitochondrial function and dynamics, including mitochondrial fragmentation (due to upregulation of phosphorylated Drp1), increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and higher sensitisation to MPTP stimuli. These effects were partially alleviated by the administration of E2 [143]. In addition, no changes were observed in the levels of mitochondrial fusion proteins, including Opa1, Mfn1 and Mfn2, which suggests preferential effects of E2 on mitochondrial fission in the setting of HFD-induced insulin resistance [143]. Moreover, E2 may participate in anti-thrombotic effects of Opa1. Male and female platelet-specific Opa1 KO have a decrease and increase in platelet-mediated occlusion of the carotid artery, respectively, and this effect was lost in gonadectomized females [144]. Altogether, the effects of E2 in various cardiovascular diseases often involve the inhibition of mitochondrial fission or preservation of mitochondrial shape.

3.5. Mitochondrial Fusion and Fission in the Nervous System

Neuronal function is heavily dependent on the function of mitochondria. The generation of ATP for axonal and synaptic function, Ca2+-buffering following synaptic neurotransmission and the initiation of cell death are some of the main activities of mitochondria in neurons (reviewed in [145]). Neuronal polarity allows different parts of neurons to have specialised function, structure and mitochondrial distribution. The metabolic state and energy expenditure of different parts of neurons is often provided by mitochondrial transport through these different sections [146]. Mitochondrial transport and localisation in neurons are controlled by the function of mitochondrial fusion and fission proteins. The lack of functional Drp1 has been demonstrated to lower the density of dendritic mitochondria and to disturb mitochondrial movement [147]. In parallel, the overexpression of Opa1 does not alter the density of dendritic mitochondria, while it induces mitochondrial fragmentation. Hence, the alteration of balance of mitochondrial fusion/fission proteins can interfere with dendritic spine formation [147]. CA1 neurons of Opa1+/− mice display reduced spine density. Interestingly, Opa1+/− CA1 neurons of female mice have significantly shorter dendrites and lower ATP production compared with male mice, which together contribute to a distinct form of memory loss [148,149]. The lack of Opa1 has been demonstrated to induce mitochondrial respiratory defects and mitochondrial fragmentation, as well as a reduction in mitochondrial density of neuronal axons in Drosophila larvae. These defects could be rescued by the downregulation of Drp1 [150]. Furthermore, Drp1−/− mice die shortly after birth due to neuronal defects. Embryonic stem cells derived from Drp1−/− mice show pronounced mitochondrial filamentation and are more sensitive to staurosporine-mediated apoptosis [151]. Synapses of mutant Drp1 neurons exhibit marked depletion of mitochondria and while being functional at basal states, they fail to maintain neurotransmission following high-frequency stimulation [152]. The sensitivity to apoptosis and neuronal dysfunction in Drp1-depleted neurons can be due to the increased mitochondrial ROS production in hyperfused mitochondria and diminished mitophagy, as well as the loss of mitochondrial respiratory function [153].

Mitofusins also participate in neuronal homeostasis. Unlike Mfn1, ablation of Mfn2 in mice interferes with the growth of Purkinje cells and hampers cerebellum development [154]. In addition, the absence of Mfn2 reduces mitochondrial density in axons and lowers the formation of functional neurons that have fully developed neuronal cell bodies in hippocampal and cortical neurons. In parallel, increased oxidative stress and subsequent apoptosis augment neurodegeneration in the hippocampus and cortex of Mfn2 KO mice [155]. Although deletion of Mfn1 has been observed to be dispensable for the function of Purkinje cells and midbrain dopamine neurons, the increase in its levels in Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2A disease can alleviate motor neuron defects in Mfn2-mutant mice, preventing neurodegeneration and restoring motor function [154,156,157]. Collectively, these studies unravel the importance of balanced mitochondrial dynamics in neuronal function and development.

3.6. E2 Effects on Mitochondrial Fusion and Fission in the Nervous System

E2 contributes to neuronal health and function via direct and indirect modulation of mitochondrial dynamics. Ovariectomy and ageing increase mitochondrial fragmentation and the formation of doughnut-shaped mitochondria in monkey prefrontal cortex synapses. This effect was correlated with the loss of working memory and was reversed by E2 treatment [158]. Astrocytes are specialized glial cells present in the central nervous system. These cells regulate numerous cellular functions, including proliferation and cell death, all of which are essential for optimal neuronal function. Cortical astrocytes of male and female mice react differently to E2 in vitro. E2 treatment promotes apoptotic cell death in male astrocytes, while it prevents it in female astrocytes. This effect was attributed to changes in mitochondrial fusion and fission proteins, whereby E2 treatment increased the levels of Mfn2, Drp1 and Fis1 but reduced Mfn1 levels in male astrocytes. The reduction of Mfn1 was correlated with a reduction the levels of anti-apoptotic Bcl2 in these cells [159]. However, the exact mechanism of E2 function on the protein machinery of mitochondrial dynamics in different cells of the nervous system is yet to be fully explored.

In the setting of ischaemia, E2 treatment has been observed to upregulate the levels of total Drp1 in OVX rats with middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Although E2 treatment alleviated MCAO symptoms in OVX animals, no further explanation was given for the connection between the upregulation of Drp1 and MCAO [160]. Relatively, hypoxic ischaemic male and female brain hemispheres have exhibited increased mitochondrial fragmentation. Mitochondrial fragmentation rescues the female brain following hypoxic ischaemia, as it promotes mitophagy, preventing apoptosis [161]. Conversely, E2 treatment in combination with Schwann cell transplantation promotes recovery following hypoxic ischaemic spinal cord injury via reduction of Fis1 and upregulation of Mfn1 and Mfn2 proteins (see Figure 3). Alteration of mitochondrial fusion proteins also increases the levels of sodium oxide dismutase (Sod), thereby indirectly demonstrating that enhancement of mitochondrial fusion may negatively regulate intracellular ROS during spinal cord injury [162]. Glutamate-induced excitotoxicity, which can occur as a result of hypoxic ischaemia, increases the phosphorylation of Drp1 at its serine 616 and promotes mitochondrial fragmentation and MPTP opening in HT22 hippocampal cells. E2 treatment blocks glutamate-induced excitotoxicity. This effect has been attributed to the utilisation of the Akt pathway promoting the survival of HT22 hippocampal cells [163,164].

Figure 3

Effects of E2 on mitochondrial dynamics in pathologies of the nervous system. E2-associated signalling via its receptors or drugs that promote E2 production lead to the attenuation of fission and the promotion of fusion. Abbreviations: Aβ: amyloid-beta protein, Akap1: activates kinase anchoring protein 1, Drp1: dynamin-related protein 1, E2: 17β-Oestradiol, ERβ: oestrogen receptor β, Fis1: fission factor 1, Mfn1: mitofusin 1, Mfn2: mitofusin 2, MPTP: mitochondria permeability transition pore, Opa1: optic atrophy 1, Pka: protein kinase A and Sod: sodium oxide dismutase.

E2 and its receptors may also provide therapeutic benefits in other diseases. Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy leads to significant vision loss. Treatment of Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy osteosarcoma-derived cybrid cells with an ER antagonist (ICI 182780) leads to excessive ROS production, mitochondrial membrane dissipation and cell death. These effects were correlated with marked mitochondrial fragmentation and could be rescued by E2 treatment [165]. ERβ associates and activates the kinase-anchoring protein 1 (Akap1), which in turn binds to Pka and anchors this protein to the OMM. Pka then phosphorylates Drp1 at serine 637 and inhibits its fission activity. In a model of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) involving primary hippocampal neurons, Aβ treatment increases mitochondrial fission, disturbs mitochondrial transport and mitochondrial oxygen consumption rate. An ERβ agonist (DPN) reversed the effects of Aβ and promoted the phosphorylation of Drp1 by Pka, which in turn induced mitochondrial elongation and prevented Aβ neurotoxicity [166]. Chronic E2 deficiency in letrozole-treated or OVX mice carrying the β-amyloid precursor protein transgene causes mitochondrial respiratory defects and mitochondrial fragmentation in residential central nervous system macrophage populations (microglia). This is due to the increase in Drp1 and decrease in Opa1 levels, which ultimately promote microglia activation [167,168]. Exogenous E2 administration can reverse these effects and prevent microglial activation [168]. Targeted therapeutics against AD also benefit from the link between E2 and mitochondrial dynamics. For instance, in a 3xTg-AD mouse model, which develops early AD-like symptoms, Liraglutide restored glucose metabolism and brain E2 levels. This, in turn, reversed the decrease and increase in the levels of Opa1 and Fis1, respectively, and normalised brain oxidative markers [169]. Therefore, E2-mediated preservation of mitochondrial shape, as well as the reduction of mitochondrial fission, may offer therapeutic benefit in neurological and neurodegenerative diseases.

4. Potential Interplay of E2 and Mitochondrial Dynamics in the Heart–Brain Axis

The bidirectional synergistic relationship between the cardiovascular and nervous systems and their respective homeostasis have been recently put forward in the concept of HBA [170,171]. This axis incorporates the effects of cardiovascular diseases on the nervous system and effects of neurological disorders on the cardiovascular system. The effects of cardiovascular disease on the nervous system have been widely studied. However, the effects of neurological disorders on the cardiovascular system are poorly understood. Various pathologies of the nervous system can lead to a wide range of alterations in function and structure of the cardiovascular system, ranging from transient and benign electrographic changes to myocardial injury, cardiomyopathy and even cardiac death [170].

For instance, patients develop electrocardiographic abnormalities and left ventricular dysfunction following brain injury [172]. Production of higher levels of Aβ increases the susceptibility to AD in patients suffering from hypertension [173]. Individuals who experience myocardial infarction have a higher risk of developing vascular dementia [174]. Similarly, acute stroke has been suggested to increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases [175]. While neurotransmitters, such as catecholamines, participate in the HBA (reviewed in [176]), the exact signalling pathways of HBA under normal and diseased conditions remain unknown.

The lack of E2 and its regulatory effects on components of mitochondrial dynamics may be associated with worse outcomes in the HBA (Figure 4). OVX mice lacking the integral component of mitochondrial potassium ATP channel known as SRU2 subunit have decreased levels of Opa1, ERα and ERβ and display significant left ventricular dysfunction, as well as larger infarcts compared with their WT littermates. E2 treatment was insufficient to reverse these effects in SRU2 KO hearts, thereby suggesting that the E2 preservation of mitochondrial dynamics in the setting of IRI incorporates the N-glycosylation of the mitochondrial potassium ATP channels. Interestingly, KO mice demonstrated enrichment in pathways related to neurodegeneration post IRI, thereby linking the effects of E2 on mitochondrial dynamics with the potential induction of neurological dysfunction and neurodegeneration [177].

Figure 4

The significance of E2 regulation of mitochondrial dynamics in the heart–brain axis (HBA). Current literature points towards the attenuating effects of E2 on mitochondrial fission. In particular, Drp1 inhibition is involved in the effects of E2 in HBA, as the absence of E2 leads to increased fission or decreased fusion. These alterations then promote cardiovascular diseases that are linked to Alzheimer’s disease. On the other hand, the presence of E2 may potentially inhibit the fission activity of Drp1 to prevent cardiovascular diseases that stem from neurological pathologies.

One of the major comorbidities that affect cardiac function is diabetes. E2 has been found to be involved in the development of insulin resistance and obesity. OVX Wistar rats that were given a HFD had faster weight gain in comparison with intact rats receiving a HFD or normal diet, or OVX rats receiving a normal diet. In addition, compared with control rats, all other groups developed insulin resistance. HFD OVX rats developed the worst cardiac dysfunction with both systolic and diastolic hypertension, as well as reduced fractional shortening compared with the other groups. Cardiac dysfunction occurred as a result of mitochondrial impairment, whereby cardiac mitochondria of HFD OVX mice had the highest levels of ROS production, mitochondrial swelling and sensitivity to apoptotic cell death compared with the other groups. The mitochondrial abnormalities in this group occurred in parallel to increased mitochondrial fission due to upregulated phosphorylation of Drp1 at its serine 616 residue, thereby linking the E2 deprivation-induced mitochondrial fission to the development of diabetes-related cardiac symptoms [178]. As there is a causal link between the development of AD from hypertension, it is plausible to consider the potential involvement of E2 and Drp1 interaction in the pathogenesis of AD that stems from the diabetes-related cardiac dysfunction [179,180].

Comparatively, the interplay of E2 with components of mitochondrial dynamics may also participate in neurological and neurodegenenerative diseases that cause cardiac disorders. For instance, in Takotsubo syndrome, a potent release of catecholamine from adrenal glands and postganglionic neurons of the sympathetic nervous system into the bloodstream mediates the induction of cardiomyopathy. While the underlying pathogenesis of this syndrome remains unknown, its occurrence is higher in postmenopausal women [181,182]. A study on human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes demonstrated that catecholamine treatment induced arrhythmia in these cells via β-adrenergic receptors and upregulation of cellular ROS levels. E2 treatment reduced ROS levels and β-adrenergic receptor activity, thereby inhibiting the toxic effects of catecholamine release [183]. Catecholamine has been demonstrated to cause cardiomyocyte death via MPTP opening. The mechanism of catecholamine-mediated cell death incorporates the elevation of ROS and phosphorylation of Drp1 protein at its serine 616 site via CamKII, thereby suggesting a potential role of mitochondria fission in the induction of Takotsubo syndrome [184]. Considering the inhibitory effect of E2 on Drp1 phosphorylation, E2 may reverse catecholamine-induced cardiotoxicity via downregulation of the Drp1-induced fission. These results hint towards the potential significance of E2 modulation of Drp1 and mitochondrial fission in HBA-related pathologies. However, further research is necessary to delineate the exact participation of mitochondrial fusion and fission components in this concept. Overall, the impact of E2, as well as biological sex, on HBA dysfunction opens unexpected new avenues for further research and the management of both male and female patients.

5. Conclusions

E2 exerts direct and indirect effects to regulate mitochondrial dynamics in both the cardiovascular and nervous systems. The effects of E2 mainly encompass the attenuation of mitochondrial fission by targeting Drp1, as well as the preservation of mitochondrial fusion proteins. This cross-talk between E2 and components of mitochondrial dynamics is necessary for cell survival. Finally, the interplay of E2 with mitochondrial dynamics may be a potential therapeutic target in cardiovascular diseases and nervous system-related disorders, as well as in the context of HBA. However, further research is required to shed light into the exact nature of this and to better understand the underlying mechanisms.