HIF2α regulates the synthesis and release of epinephrine in the adrenal medulla

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

Abstract

Abstract: The adrenal gland and its hormones regulate numerous fundamental biological processes; however, the impact of hypoxia signaling on adrenal function remains poorly understood. Here, we reveal that deficiency of HIF (hypoxia inducible factors) prolyl hydroxylase domain protein-2 (PHD2) in the adrenal medulla of mice results in HIF2α-mediated reduction in phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PNMT) expression, and consequent reduction in epinephrine synthesis. Simultaneous loss of PHD2 in renal erythropoietin (EPO)-producing cells (REPCs) stimulated HIF2α-driven EPO overproduction, excessive RBC formation (erythrocytosis), and systemic hypoglycemia, which is necessary and sufficient to enhance exocytosis of epinephrine from the adrenal medulla. Based on these results, we propose that the PHD2-HIF2α axis in the adrenal medulla regulates the synthesis of epinephrine, whereas in REPCs, it indirectly induces the release of this hormone. Our findings are also highly relevant to the testing of small molecule PHD inhibitors in phase III clinical trials for patients with renal anemia. Key messages: HIF2α and not HIF1α modulates PNMT during epinephrine synthesis in chromaffin cells.The PHD2-HIF2α-EPO axis induces erythrocytosis and hypoglycemia.Reduced systemic glucose facilitates exocytosis of epinephrine from adrenal gland.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1655-1666
Number of pages12
JournalJournal of molecular medicine
Volume99
Issue number11
Publication statusPublished - Nov 2021
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

PubMed 34480587
ORCID /0000-0002-6932-333X/work/142239670
ORCID /0000-0003-2514-9429/work/148606797

Keywords

Keywords

  • Catecholamines, Glucose, Hypoxia inducible factor, Oxygen sensors

Library keywords