Effect of CB1 Receptor Deficiency on Mitochondrial Quality Control Pathways in Gastrocnemius Muscle

Simple Summary The cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1) is a primary cannabinoid receptor prominently found in the central nervous system and peripheral tissues, notably skeletal muscle. Muscle tissue CB1 is located on the cell and mitochondrial membrane. This study investigates how this receptor contributes to mitochondrial homeostasis in gastrocnemius muscle. The results indicate that CB1 absence induces a shift from fast-twitch to slow-twitch fibers, coupled with increased oxidative capacity and alterations in the antioxidant defense systems. Analysis of mitochondrial quality control (MQC) shows enhanced biogenesis, fusion, mitophagy, and UPRmt. Our study reveals the multifaceted impact of CB1 absence on the mitochondrial homeostasis of gastrocnemius muscle.Abstract This study aims to explore the complex role of cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1) signaling in the gastrocnemius muscle, assessing physiological processes in both CB1+/+ and CB1-/- mice. The primary focus is to enhance our understanding of how CB1 contributes to mitochondrial homeostasis. At the tissue level, CB1-/- mice exhibit a substantial miRNA-related alteration in muscle fiber composition, characterized by an enrichment of oxidative fibers. CB1 absence induces a significant increase in the oxidative capacity of muscle, supported by elevated in-gel activity of Complex I and Complex IV of the mitochondrial respiratory chain. The increased oxidative capacity is associated with elevated oxidative stress and impaired antioxidant defense systems. Analysis of mitochondrial biogenesis markers indicates an enhanced capacity for new mitochondria production in CB1-/- mice, possibly adapting to altered muscle fiber composition. Changes in mitochondrial dynamics, mitophagy response, and unfolded protein response (UPR) pathways reveal a dynamic interplay in response to CB1 absence. The interconnected mitochondrial network, influenced by increased fusion and mitochondrial UPR components, underlines the dual role of CB1 in regulating both protein quality control and the generation of new mitochondria. These findings deepen our comprehension of the CB1 impact on muscle physiology, oxidative stress, and MQC processes, highlighting cellular adaptability to CB1-/-. This study paves the way for further exploration of intricate signaling cascades and cross-talk between cellular compartments in the context of CB1 and mitochondrial homeostasis.