Rbm46 inhibits reactive oxygen species in mouse embryonic stem cells through modulating BNIP3-mediated mitophagy

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) exhibit a metabolic preference for glycolysis over oxidative phosphorylation to meet their substantial adenosine triphosphate (ATP) demands during self-renewal. This metabolic choice inherently maintains low mitochondrial activity and minimal reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Nonetheless, the intricate molecular mechanisms governing the restraint of ROS production and the mitigation of cellular damage remain incompletely elucidated. In this study, we reveal the pivotal role of RNA-binding motif protein 46 (RBM46) in ESCs, acting as a direct post transcriptional regulator of ROS levels by modulating BCL2/adenovirus E1B 19 kDa protein-interacting protein 3 (Bnip3) mRNA expression. Rbm46 knockout lead to diminished mitochondrial autophagy, culminating in elevated ROS within ESCs, disrupting the delicate balance required for healthy self-renewal. These findings provide insights into a novel mechanism governing ROS regulation in ESCs.