Changes in redox and endoplasmic reticulum homeostasis are related to congenital generalized lipodystrophy type 2

Abstract CGL type 2 is a rare autosomal recessive syndrome characterized by an almost complete lack of body fat. CGL is caused by loss-of-function mutations in both alleles of the BSCL2 gene that codifies to seipin. Subjects often show hyperglycemia, decreased HDL-c, and hypoadiponectinemia. These laboratory findings are important triggers for changes in redox and ER homeostasis. Therefore, our aim was to investigate whether these intracellular mechanisms are associated with this syndrome. We collected blood from people from Northeastern Brazil with 0, 1, and 2 mutant alleles for the rs786205071 in the BSCL2 gene. Through the qPCR technique, we evaluated the expression of genes responsible for triggering the antioxidant response, DNA repair, and ER stress in leukocytes. Colorimetric tests were applied to quantify lipid peroxidation and to evaluate the redox status of glutathione, as well as to access the panorama of energy metabolism. Long extension PCR was performed to observe leukocyte mitochondrial DNA lesions, and the immunoblot technique to investigate plasma adiponectin concentrations. Subjects with the rs786205071 in both BSCL2 alleles showed increased transcription of NFE2L2, APEX1, and OGG1 in leukocytes, as well as high concentrations of malondialdehyde and the GSSG:GSH ratio in plasma. We also observed increase of mitochondrial DNA lesions and XBP1 splicing, as well as a decrease in adiponectin and HDL-c. Our data suggest the presence of lipid lesions due to changes in redox homeostasis in that group, associated with increased levels of mitochondrial DNA damage and transcriptional activation of genes involved with antioxidant response and DNA repair.