Placental mitochondrial calcium uniporter modulates offspring susceptibility to metabolic dysfunction

Abstract

Mitochondria are crucial for regulating metabolism, but their role in the placenta and how they may shape offspring metabolism and long-term health remains unclear, despite being commonly associated with pregnancy complications. To investigate this, we used a genetic model with placenta-specific deletion of the mitochondrial calcium uniporter (Pl-MCUKO) and assessed the metabolic trajectory of adult offspring. We found that, at baseline, female placental trophoblasts in wild-type animals exhibited higher respiration rates than males. MCU deletion impaired mitochondrial function specifically in female placentas and was accompanied by distinct changes in the metabolomic profiles of protein and lipid metabolism. Transcriptome analysis revealed reduced placental cellular growth pathways, consistent with smaller placentas and reduced embryonic body weights in Pl-MCUKO. Although in utero MCU deletion affected fetal growth, it was insufficient to cause permanent postnatal changes in body weight, as these deficits normalized in adulthood, with normal glucose homeostasis in Pl-MCUKO offspring. However, when challenged with a high-fat diet, Pl-MCUKO females exhibited reduced weight gain, improved glucose and insulin tolerance, smaller fat depots, and increased ambulatory activity compared to controls. This improved metabolic profile was associated with reduced pancreatic β-cell mass but preserved β-cell function. These findings provide direct evidence that placental mitochondrial function can influence the long-term metabolic health of female offspring by modulating key metabolic tissues.

Keywords: DOHaD; Metabolic health; Mitochondria; Mitochondrial calcium uniporter; Obesity; Placenta; Sexual dimorphism.