Modulation of cellular signaling pathways in P23H rhodopsin photoreceptors

We previously reported activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) in P23H rhodopsin (RHO) retinas with autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (ADRP). Knowing that the UPR can trigger Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum and regulate cellular signaling we examined the level of Ca2+-regulated proteins. We also looked for changes in the expression of Bcl2 family proteins, autophagy proteins and the mTOR/AKT pathways, as well as for the induction of mitochondria-associated apoptosis in the P23H RHO retina. Our data demonstrated that the elevation of calpain and caspase-12 activity was concomitantly observed with a decrease in the BCL2-XL/BAX ratio and an increase in mTor levels in the P23H-3 RHO retina suggesting a vulnerability of P23H RHO photoreceptors to apoptosis. The translocation of BAX to the mitochondria, as well as the release of cytochrome C and AIF into the cytosol supports this conclusion and indicates the involvement of mitochondria-induced apoptosis in the progression of ADRP. The level of autophagy proteins in general was found to be decreased in the P21–P30 P23H RHO retina. Injections of rapamycin, however, protected the P23H RHO rod photoreceptors from experiencing physiological decline. Despite this fact, the downregulation of mTOR did not alter the level of autophagy proteins. Our results imply that in addition to activation of the UPR during ADRP progression, photoreceptors also experience alterations in major proapoptotic pathways.