Increased expression of SLC25A1/CIC in the mouse results in an autistic-like phenotype with altered white matter microstructure and neuron morphology

ABSTRACT: Ne-lysine acetylation within the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a recently characterized protein quality control system that positively selects properly folded glycoproteins in the early secretory pathway. Overexpression of the ER acetyl-CoA transporter AT-1 in mouse forebrain neurons results in increased dendritic branching, spine formation, and an autistic-like phenotype that is attributed to altered glycoprotein flux through the secretory pathway. AT-1 overexpressing neurons maintain the cytosolic pool of acetyl-CoA by upregulation of SLC25A1, the mitochondrial citrate/malate antiporter, and ATP citrate lyase (ACLY), which converts cytosolic citrate into acetyl-CoA. All three genes have been associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), suggesting that aberrant cytosolic to ER flux of acetyl-CoA can be a mechanistic driver for the development of ASD. We therefore generated a SLC25A1 neuron transgenic (nTg) mouse, which displayed autistic-like behaviors with a jumping stereotypy. The mice exhibited increased steady-state levels of citrate and acetyl-CoA, disrupted white matter integrity with activated microglia, and altered synaptic plasticity and morphology. Finally, acetylomic and proteomic analysis revealed differential adaptations in the hippocampus and cortex. Overall, our study reinforces the connection between aberrant cytosol-to-ER flux of acetyl-CoA flux and the development of an autistic-like phenotype.

INSTRUMENT(S): Q Exactive HF

ORGANISM(S): Mus Musculus (mouse)

TISSUE(S): Brain

SUBMITTER: Min Ma  

LAB HEAD: Lingjun Li

PROVIDER: PXD025415 | Pride | 2022-02-26

REPOSITORIES: Pride