Valproate to Increase WFS-1 Expression

Publication: journals.plos.org | Publication Date: January 6, 2009

Authors: Chihiro Kakiuchi,Shinsuke Ishigaki,Christine M. Oslowski,Sonya G. Fonseca,Tadafumi Kato & Fumihiko Urano

Abstract

Background

Valproate is a standard treatment for bipolar disorder and a first-line mood stabilizer. The molecular mechanisms underlying its actions in bipolar disorder are unclear. It has been suggested that the action of valproate is linked to changes in gene expression and induction of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-response proteins.

Principal Findings

Here we show that valproate modulates the ER stress response through the regulation of WFS1, an important component for mitigating ER stress. Therapeutic concentrations of valproate induce expression of WFS1 mRNA and activate the WFS1 promoter. In addition, WFS1 forms a complex with GRP94, an ER stress-response protein, in which valproate dose-dependently enhances its dissociation from GRP94.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the therapeutic effects of valproate in bipolar disorder may be mediated by WFS1 expression and its dissociation from GRP94.

Kakiuchi C, Ishigaki S, Oslowski CM, Fonseca SG, Kato T, Urano F (2009) Valproate, a Mood Stabilizer, Induces WFS1 Expression and Modulates Its Interaction with ER Stress Protein GRP94. PLoS ONE 4(1): e4134. Retrieved February 13, 2024, from https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0004134.