m6A methyltransferase METTL3 contributes to sympathetic hyperactivity post-MI via promoting TRAF6-dependent mitochondrial ROS production

Abstract

Objectives: N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most prevalent post-translational modification in eukaryotic mRNA. Recently, m6A editing modified by methyltransferase-like enzyme 3 (METTL3), the core m6A methyltransferase, has been demonstrated to be involved in cardiac sympathetic hyperactivity. This study aimed to clarify the effects and underlying mechanisms of METTL3 in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) in mediating sympathetic activity following myocardial infarction (MI).

Methods: We established rat MI models by left anterior descending coronary artery ligation. m6A quantification was performed.The expression of METTL3 and its downstream gene, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6), were determined. The functional role of METTL3 in sympathetic hyperactivity and electrical conduction stability were verified by assessing renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA), norepinephrine (NE) levels, and programmed electrical stimulation. Rescue experiments were also conducted. The mechanism by which m6A is involved in mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mROS) production, mediated by TRAF6/ECSIT pathway, was explored in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treated primary microglial cells.

Results: METTL3 was predominantly localized in the microglia and significantly increased within the PVN at 3 days post-MI. Inhibition of METTL3 decreased m6A levels, TRAF6 expression, and mROS production; downregulated sympathoexcitation, indicated by attenuated NE concentration and RSNA; decreased the incidence of ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation; and improved cardiac function. Mechanistically, downregulation of METTL3 prevented TRAF6 translocation to the mitochondria in the microglia and subsequent TRAF6/ECSIT pathway activation, resulting in decreased mROS production.

Conclusions: This study demonstrates that METTL3-mediated m6A modification promotes sympathetic hyperactivity through TRAF6/ECSIT pathway and mitochondrial oxidative stress in the PVN, thereby leading to ventricular arrhythmias post-MI.

Keywords: METTL3; Myocardial infarction; PVN; Sympathetic hyperactivity; TRAF6/ECSIT pathway; m6A.