CARM1 phosphorylation at S595 by p38γ MAPK drives ROS-mediated cellular senescence
Yena Cho, Yong Kee Kim
Abstract
CARM1 is predominantly localized in the nucleus and plays a pivotal role in maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis by regulating gene expression. It suppresses mitochondrial biogenesis by downregulating PGC-1α and TFAM expression, while promoting mitochondrial fission through increased DNM1L expression. Under oxidative stress, CARM1 translocates to the cytoplasm, where it directly methylates DRP1 and accelerates mitochondrial fission, enhancing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Cytoplasmic localization of CARM1 is facilitated by its phosphorylation at S595 by ROS-activated p38γ MAPK, creating a positive feedback loop. Consequently, cytoplasmic CARM1 contributes to cellular senescence by altering mitochondrial dynamics and increasing ROS levels. This observation was supported by the increased cytoplasmic CARM1 levels and disrupted mitochondrial dynamics in the transformed 10T1/2 cells. Moreover, CARM1 inhibitors not only inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells but also induce apoptotic death in senescent cells. These findings highlight the potential of CARM1 inhibitors, particularly those targeting cytoplasmic functions, as novel strategies for eliminating cancer and senescent cells. • In normal conditions, CARM1 maintains mitochondrial homeostasis through transcriptional control. • Under oxidative stress, CARM1 moves to cytosol by p38γ-mediated S595 phosphorylation. • In the cytoplasm, CARM1 methylates DRP1 to promote mitochondrial fission. • The CARM1-DRP1 axis amplifies ROS production, triggering cellular senescence. • Targeting cytoplasmic CARM1 may be a novel strategy for anti-aging/cancer therapies.