Deletion of Letmd1 leads to the disruption of mitochondrial function in brown adipose tissue

Human cervical cancer oncogene (HCCR-1), also named as LETMD1, is an LETM-domain containing outer mitochondrial membrane protein which plays an important role in carcinogenesis. The present study found that the loss of Letmd1 in mice led to severe abnormities, such as brown adipose tissue (BAT) whitening, impaired thermogenesis of both BAT and beige fat, cold intolerance, diet-induced obesity, glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. Mechanically, the deletion of Letmd1 in BAT caused decreased level of both mitochondrial and intracellular Ca2 thorn . The reduced intracellular Ca2 thorn could suppress the fission of mitochondria and ultimately lead to the disruption of BAT thermogenesis by regulating mitochondrial structures and functions. This study indicates that LETMD1 played a crucial role in BAT thermogenesis and energy homeostasis through regulating mitochondrial structures and functions, which provides a novel insight into therapeutic target exploration from oncogenes for metabolic disorders.(c) 2022 Elsevier B.V. and Societe Francaise de Biochimie et Biologie Moleculaire (SFBBM). All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study found that LETMD1 plays a crucial role in the thermogenesis and energy homeostasis of brown adipose tissue. By regulating mitochondrial structures and functions, LETMD1 can affect mitochondrial fission and the concentration of Ca2+, thereby influencing the thermogenesis of brown adipose tissue.