Direct antioxidant properties of methotrexate: Inhibition of malondialdehyde-acetaldehyde-protein adduct formation and superoxide scavenging

Methotrexate (MTX) is an immunosuppressant commonly used for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Recent observations have shown that patients treated with MTX also exhibit a reduced risk for the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Although MTX reduces systemic inflammation and tissue damage, the mechanisms by which MTX exerts these beneficial effects are not entirely known. We have previously demonstrated that protein adducts formed by the interaction of malondialdehyde (MDA) and acetaldehyde (AA), known as MAA-protein adducts, are present in diseased tissues of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or CVD. In previously reported studies, MAA-adducts were shown to be highly immunogenic, supporting the concept that MAA-adducts not only serve as markers of oxidative stress but may have a direct role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases. Because MAA-adducts are commonly detected in diseased tissues and are proposed to mitigate disease progression in both RA and CVD, we tested the hypothesis that MTX inhibits the generation of MAA-protein adducts by scavenging reactive oxygen species. Using a cell free system, we found that MTX reduces MAA-adduct formation by approximately 6-fold, and scavenges free radicals produced during MAA-adduct formation. Further investigation revealed that MTX directly scavenges superoxide, but not hydrogen peroxide. Additionally, using the Nrf2/ARE luciferase reporter cell line, which responds to intracellular redox changes, we observed that MTX inhibits the activation of Nrf2 in cells treated with MDA and AA. These studies define previously unrecognized mechanisms by which MTX can reduce inflammation and subsequent tissue damage, namely, scavenging free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, and inhibiting MAA-adduct formation.

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MTX is commonly used to treat RA and is being tested in CVD patients.

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MDA and AA are produced during lipidperoxidation and can interact to form MAA-adducts.

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MAA-adducts are found in atheromas and in diseased synovial tissue of RA patients.

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MTX scavenges the free radical O_2⁻ and prevents the formation of MAA-adducts.

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Scavenging O_2⁻ may be a mechanism by which MTX reduces inflammation and disease.

Selective Nrf2 Gene Deletion in the Rostral Ventrolateral Medulla Evokes Hypertension and Sympathoexcitation in Mice

Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a master transcriptional regulator of redox homeostasis that impacts antioxidant gene expression. Central oxidative stress and reduced antioxidant enzyme expression in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) contributed to sympathoexcitation in chronic heart failure. In the current study, we hypothesized that deletion of Nrf2 in the RVLM would increase sympathetic drive and blood pressure. Experiments were performed in Nrf2-floxed mice treated with microinjection of lentiviral-Cre-GFP or lentiviral-GFP into the RVLM. Two weeks after viral administration, Nrf2 message, protein, oxidative stress, cardiovascular function, and sympathetic outflow were evaluated. We found that (1) Nrf2 mRNA and protein in the RVLM were significantly lower in Cre mice compared with control GFP mice. Nrf2-targeted antioxidant enzymes were downregulated, whereas reactive oxygen species were elevated. (2) Blood pressure measurements indicated that Cre mice displayed a significant increase in blood pressure (mean arterial pressure, 123.7±3.8 versus 100.2±2.2 mm Hg; P<0.05, n=6), elevated urinary norepinephrine (NE) concentration (456.4±16.9 versus 356.5±19.9 ng/mL; P<0.05, n=6), and decreased spontaneous baroreflex gain (up sequences, 1.66±0.17 versus 3.61±0.22 ms/mm Hg; P<0.05, n=6; down sequences, 1.89±0.12 versus 2.98±0.19 ms/mm Hg; P<0.05, n=6). (3) Cre mice displayed elevated baseline renal sympathetic nerve activity and impaired inducible baroreflex function. These data suggest that Nrf2 gene deletion in the RVLM elevates blood pressure, increases sympathetic outflow, and impairs baroreflex function potentially by impaired antioxidant enzyme expression.

Mitochondrial Superoxide Signaling Contributes to Norepinephrine-Mediated T-Lymphocyte Cytokine Profiles

Norepinephrine (NE) produces multifaceted regulatory patterns in T-lymphocytes. Recently, we have shown that NE utilizes redox signaling as evidenced by increased superoxide (O2●-) causally linked to the observed changes in these cells; however, the source of this reactive oxygen species (ROS) remains elusive. Herein, we hypothesized that the source of increased O2●- in NE-stimulated T-lymphocytes is due to disruption of mitochondrial bioenergetics. To address this hypothesis, we utilized purified mouse splenic CD4+ and CD8+ T-lymphocytes stimulated with NE and assessed O2●- levels, mitochondrial metabolism, cellular proliferation, and cytokine profiles. We demonstrate that the increase in O2●- levels in response to NE is time-dependent and occurs at later points of T-lymphocyte activation. Moreover, the source of O2●- was indeed the mitochondria as evidenced by enhanced MitoSOX Red oxidation as well as abrogation of this signal by the addition of the mitochondrial-targeted O2●--scavenging antioxidant MitoTempol. NE-stimulated T-lymphocytes also demonstrated decreased mitochondrial respiratory capacity, which suggests disruption of mitochondrial metabolism and the potential source of increased mitochondrial O2●-. The effects of NE in regards to redox signaling appear to be adrenergic receptor-dependent as specific receptor antagonists could reverse the increase in O2●-; however, differential receptors regulating these processes were observed in CD4+ versus CD8+ T-lymphocytes. Finally, mitochondrial O2●- was shown to be mechanistic to the NE-mediated T-lymphocyte phenotype as supplementation of MitoTempol could reverse specific changes in cytokine expression observed with NE treatment. Overall, these studies indicate that mitochondrial metabolism and O2●--mediated redox signaling play a regulatory role in the T-lymphocyte response to NE.

Liposome-entrapped GABA modulates the expression of nNOS in NG108-15 cells

BACKGROUND

Liposomes are concentric lipid vesicles that allow a sustained release of entrapped substances. GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid) is the most prevalent inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.

NEW METHOD

Using GABA-containing liposomes (GL) prepared by the freeze-thawing method, we determined the effect of sustained release of GABA on expression of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and GABA_A receptor (GABA_AR) in an in vitro neuronal model.

RESULTS

Neuronal cell line NG108-15 treated with different doses of GL during 24h showed an increase in expression of GABA_AR (54 and 50% with 10 and 20ng doses, respectively) and nNOS (138, 157 and 165% with 20, 50 and 100ng doses, respectively) compared with cells treated with empty liposomes (EL). Additionally, cells treated with 50ng of GL showed an increase in GABA_AR (23%) after 1h followed by an increase in nNOS (55, 46 and 55%) at 8, 12 and 24h time points, respectively. Immunofluorescence experiments confirmed an increase in nNOS (134%) and basal intracellular levels of nitric oxide (84%) after GL treatment. Further, treatment of cells with GL showed a decrease in expression of a protein inhibitor of nNOS (PIN) (26, 66 and 57% with 20, 50 and 100ng doses respectively) compared with control.

COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS

This is first demonstration for the development of GL that allows sustained slow release of this neurotransmitter.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that a slow release of GABA can change the expression of nNOS possibly via alteration in PIN levels in neuronal cells.

The LysR-type transcriptional regulator, CidR, regulates stationary phase cell death in Staphylococcus aureus

The Staphylococcus aureus LysR-type transcriptional regulator, CidR, activates the expression of two operons including cidABC and alsSD that display pro- and anti-death functions, respectively. Although several investigations have focused on the functions of different genes associated with these operons, the collective role of the CidR regulon in staphylococcal physiology is not clearly understood. Here we reveal that the primary role of this regulon is to limit acetate-dependent potentiation of cell death in staphylococcal populations. Although both CidB and CidC promote acetate generation and cell death, the CidR-dependent co-activation of CidA and AlsSD counters the effects of CidBC by redirecting intracellular carbon flux towards acetoin formation. From a mechanistic standpoint, we demonstrate that CidB is necessary for full activation of CidC, whereas CidA limits the abundance of CidC in the cell.

Overexpression of copper/zinc superoxide dismutase in the median preoptic nucleus improves cardiac function after myocardial infarction in the rat

Previous reports indicate that overexpression of copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD), an intracellular superoxide (O2 (•-) ) scavenging enzyme, in the brain subfornical organ improves cardiac function in a mouse model of heart failure (HF). A downstream hypothalamic site, the MnPO, may act as a relay centre for O2 (•-) to serve as a mediator in the pathophysiology of HF. To test the hypothesis that elevated O2 (•-) in the MnPO contributes to the pathophysiology of HF and decreased cardiac function, we injected adenovirus encoding CuZnSOD (AdCuZnSOD, n=7) or control empty adenovirus vector (AdEmpty, n=7) into the MnPO of normal rats. Subsequently, rats were subjected to coronary artery ligation to create a myocardial infarct (MI) of the left ventricle. Cardiac function was monitored via echocardiography. Upon completion, rat brains were examined for CuZnSOD expression in MnPO via immunofluorescence and histopathological analyses of cardiac infarct size were conducted. Baseline (EF) ejection fractions (%) of AdCuZnSOD and AdEmpty rats were 73 ± 1 and 71 ± 1, respectively. Two weeks after MI, EF was significantly decreased in both groups of rats (AdCuZnSOD: 51 ± 3, AdEmpty: 46 ± 1). In contrast, by 4 weeks post MI, EF had improved to 64 ± 2 in AdCuZnSOD rats, yet was only 52 ± 1 in AdEmpty rats, and this was accompanied by lower plasma noradrenaline levels in AdCuZnSOD rats (0.49 ± 0.19 ng/mL) compared to AdEmpty rats (1.20 ± 0.32 ng/mL). In conclusion, despite decreases in EF early after MI, overexpression of CuZnSOD in the MnPO was related to an improvement in left ventricular function and concomitant decreased plasma noradrenaline levels 4 weeks post MI.

Redox status in workers occupationally exposed to long-term low levels of ionizing radiation: A pilot study

OBJECTIVES

Reactive oxygen species (ROS), including superoxide (O2(•-)), play an important role in the biological effects of ionizing radiation. The human body has developed different antioxidant systems to defend against excessive levels of ROS. The aim of the present study is to investigate the redox status changes in the blood of radiologic technologists and compare these changes to control individuals.

METHODS

We enrolled 60 medical workers: 20 occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation (all radiologic technologists), divided in three subgroups: conventional radiography (CR), computerized tomography (CT), and interventional radiography (IR) and 40 age- and gender-matched unexposed controls. Levels of O2(•-) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in blood were measured as an index of redox status, as were the activities of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase. Redox status was also assessed by measuring levels of reduced and oxidized glutathione (GSH, GSSG, respectively).

RESULTS

Levels of O2(•-) and MDA, and SOD activity in the blood of IR and CT-exposed subjects were significantly higher than both the CR-exposed subjects and control individuals. However, there were no statistically significant differences in the levels of catalase, GSH and ratio of GSH/GSSG between exposed workers and control individuals.

DISCUSSION

This study suggests that healthcare workers in CT and IR occupationally exposed to radiation have an elevated circulating redox status as compared to unexposed individuals.

N-Acetylcysteine reduces hyperacute intermittent hypoxia-induced sympathoexcitation in human subjects

NEW FINDINGS

What is the central question of this study? This study evaluated the following central question: does N-acetylcysteine (N-AC), an antioxidant that readily penetrates the blood-brain barrier, have the capability to reduce the increase in sympathetic nerve activity observed during hyperacute intermittent hypoxia? What is the main finding and its importance? We demonstrate that N-AC decreases muscle sympathetic nerve activity in response to hyperacute intermittent hypoxia versus placebo control. This finding suggests that antioxidants, such as N-AC, have therapeutic potential in obstructive sleep apnoea. This investigation tested the following hypotheses: that (i) N-acetylcysteine (N-AC) attenuates hyperacute intermittent hypoxia-induced sympathoexcitation, (ii) without elevating superoxide measured in peripheral venous blood. Twenty-eight healthy human subjects were recruited to the study. One hour before experimentation, each subject randomly ingested either 70 mg kg(-1) of N-AC (n = 16) or vehicle placebo (n = 12). Three-lead ECG and arterial blood pressure, muscle sympathetic nerve activity (n = 17) and whole-blood superoxide concentration (using electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy; n = 12) were measured. Subjects underwent a 20 min hyperacute intermittent hypoxia training (hAIHT) protocol that consisted of cyclical end-expiratory apnoeas with 100% nitrogen. N-AC decreased muscle sympathetic nerve activity after hAIHT compared with placebo (P < 0.02). However, N-AC did not alter superoxide concentrations in venous blood compared with placebo (P > 0.05). Moreover, hAIHT did not increase superoxide concentrations in the peripheral circulation as measured by electron paramagnetic resonance (P > 0.05). Based on these findings, we contend that (i) hAIHT and (ii) the actions of N-AC in hAIHT are primarily mediated centrally rather than peripherally, although central measurements of reactive oxygen species are difficult to obtain in human subjects, thus making this assertion difficult to verify. This investigation suggests the possibility of developing a pharmaceutical therapy to inhibit the sympathoexcitation associated with obstructive sleep apnoea.

Angiotensin II-Induced Hypertension Is Attenuated by Overexpressing Copper/Zinc Superoxide Dismutase in the Brain Organum Vasculosum of the Lamina Terminalis

Angiotensin II (AngII) can access the brain via circumventricular organs (CVOs), including the subfornical organ (SFO) and organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis (OVLT), to modulate blood pressure. Previous studies have demonstrated a role for both the SFO and OVLT in the hypertensive response to chronic AngII, yet it is unclear which intracellular signaling pathways are involved in this response. Overexpression of copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD) in the SFO has been shown to attenuate the chronic hypertensive effects of AngII. Presently, we tested the hypothesis that elevated levels of superoxide (O2 (∙-)) in the OVLT contribute to the hypertensive effects of AngII. To facilitate overexpression of superoxide dismutase, adenoviral vectors encoding human CuZnSOD or control adenovirus (AdEmpty) were injected directly into the OVLT of rats. Following 3 days of control saline infusion, rats were intravenously infused with AngII (10 ng/kg/min) for ten days. Blood pressure increased 33 ± 8 mmHg in AdEmpty rats (n = 6), while rats overexpressing CuZnSOD (n = 8) in the OVLT demonstrated a blood pressure increase of only 18 ± 5 mmHg after 10 days of AngII infusion. These results support the hypothesis that overproduction of O2 (∙-) in the OVLT plays an important role in the development of chronic AngII-dependent hypertension.

Sympathetic-mediated activation versus suppression of the immune system: consequences for hypertension

It is generally well-accepted that the immune system is a significant contributor in the pathogenesis of hypertension. Specifically, activated and pro-inflammatory T-lymphocytes located primarily in the vasculature and kidneys appear to have a causal role in exacerbating elevated blood pressure. It has been proposed that increased sympathetic nerve activity and noradrenaline outflow associated with hypertension may be primary contributors to the initial activation of the immune system early in the disease progression. However, it has been repeatedly demonstrated in many different human and experimental diseases that sympathoexcitation is immunosuppressive in nature. Moreover, human hypertensive patients have demonstrated increased susceptibility to secondary immune insults like infections. Thus, it is plausible, and perhaps even likely, that in diseases like hypertension, specific immune cells are activated by increased noradrenaline, while others are in fact suppressed. We propose a model in which this differential regulation is based upon activation status of the immune cell as well as the resident organ. With this, the concept of global immunosuppression is obfuscated as a viable target for hypertension treatment, and we put forth the concept of focused organ-specific immunotherapy as an alternative option.

Nanoformulated copper/zinc superoxide dismutase attenuates vascular cell activation and aortic inflammation in obesity

OBJECTIVE

Endothelial cell (EC) oxidative stress can lead to vascular dysfunction which is an underlying event in the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The lack of a potent and bioavailable anti-oxidant enzyme is a major challenge in studies on antioxidant therapy. The objective of this study is to determine whether copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD or SOD1) after nanoformulation (nanoSOD) can effectively reduce EC oxidative stress and/or vascular inflammation in obesity.

METHODS

Human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) were treated with native- or nanoSOD for 6 h followed by treatment with linoleic acid (LA), a free fatty acid, for 6-24 h. To determine the in vivo relevance, the effectiveness of nanoSOD in reducing vascular cell activation was studied in a mouse model of diet-induced obesity.

RESULTS

We noted that nanoSOD was more effectively taken up by ECs than native SOD. Western blot analysis further confirmed that the intracellular accumulation of SOD1 protein was greatly increased upon nanoSOD treatment. Importantly, nanoSOD pretreatment led to a significant decrease in LA-induced oxidative stress in ECs which was associated with a marked increase in SOD enzyme activity in ECs. In vivo studies showed a significant decrease in markers of EC/vascular cell activation and/or inflammation in visceral adipose tissue (VAT), thoracic aorta, and heart collected from nanoSOD-treated mice compared to obese control mice. Interestingly, the expression of metallothionein 2, an antioxidant gene was significantly increased in nanoSOD-treated mice.

CONCLUSION

Our data show that nanoSOD is very effective in delivering active SOD to ECs and in reducing EC oxidative stress. Our data also demonstrate that nanoSOD will be a useful tool to reduce vascular cell activation in VAT and aorta in obesity which, in turn, can protect against obesity-associated CVD, in particular, hypertension.

Abstract 120: Increased Mitochondrial Superoxide in the Brain, but not Periphery, Sensitizes Mice to Angiotensin II-Mediated Hypertension

Mitochondrial superoxide (O 2 [[Unable to Display Character: &#9679;]]- ) is a critical signaling intermediate in angiotensin II (AngII)-dependent hypertension. However, it remains unknown if increased mitochondrial O 2 [[Unable to Display Character: &#9679;]]- flux in the absence of hypertensive stimuli is sufficient to affect blood pressure. We hypothesized that elevated levels of systemic mitochondrial O 2 [[Unable to Display Character: &#9679;]]- leads to increased blood pressure and exacerbates AngII-induced hypertension. To test this, we utilized a conditional mouse model of manganese superoxide dismutase knock-out (MnSOD lox/lox ), which we have shown amplifies steady-state mitochondrial O 2 [[Unable to Display Character: &#9679;]]- levels in all cell types examined. When combining the MnSOD lox/lox mouse with a tamoxifen-inducible cre recombinase expressed by the systemic ROSA26 promoter, MnSOD was knocked-down (30-98%, p<0.05) in peripheral organs after intraperitoneal tamoxifen administration. However, no changes in MnSOD protein levels were observed in the brain. Interestingly, mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate were unaffected by the loss of MnSOD in these peripheral tissues, and moreover, upon subcutaneous infusion with AngII (400 ng/kg/min) both wild-type and MnSOD knock-down mice exhibited a similar increase in MAP. Due to these unexpected results, we examined the role of elevated mitochondrial O 2 [[Unable to Display Character: &#9679;]]- levels specifically in the brain subfornical organ (SFO) by targeting the loss of MnSOD to this critical AngII-sensitive region. We observed a 60% decrease of MnSOD (p<0.05) with concomitant increase in mitochondrial O 2 [[Unable to Display Character: &#9679;]]- , as measured by MitoSox Red fluorescence, in the SFO following adenovirus-mediated gene transfer of cre recombinase to the SFO in MnSOD lox/lox mice. Intriguingly, these mice demonstrated no change in baseline MAP (92.8 ± 0.4 mmHg in knock-down vs. 93.1 ± 0.4 mmHg in control mice), but did show a significant elevation in MAP upon peripheral AngII infusion (MAP max = 137.8 ± 2.7 mmHg in knock-down vs. 128.3 ± 3.3 mmHg in control mice, p<0.05). Taken together, our data suggest that increased mitochondrial O 2 [[Unable to Display Character: &#9679;]]- in the absence of hypertensive stimuli is not sufficient to alter baseline hemodynamics, but dysregulation of mitochondrial redox status in the SFO may be a predisposition to increased responsiveness to hypertensive stimuli, such as AngII.

Redox-regulated suppression of splenic T-lymphocyte activation in a model of sympathoexcitation

Sympathoexcitation, increased circulating norepinephrine, and elevated levels of reactive oxygen species are driving forces underlying numerous cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension. However, the effects of elevated norepinephrine and subsequent reactive oxygen species production in splenic T-lymphocytes during hypertension are not currently understood. We hypothesized that increased systemic levels of norepinephrine inhibits the activation of splenic T-lymphocytes via redox signaling. To address this hypothesis, we examined the status of T-lymphocyte activation in spleens of a mouse model of sympathoexcitation-driven hypertension (ie, norepinephrine infusion). Splenic T-lymphocytes from norepinephrine-infused mice demonstrated decreased proliferation accompanied by a reduction in interferon gamma and tumor necrosis factor-α production as compared with T-lymphocytes from saline-infused mice. Additionally, norepinephrine directly inhibited splenic T-lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine production ex vivo in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, norepinephrine caused an increase in G1 arrest in norepinephrine-treated T-lymphocytes, and this was accompanied by a decrease in pro-growth cyclin D3, E1, and E2 mRNA expression. Interestingly, norepinephrine caused an increase in cellular superoxide, which was shown to be partially causal to the inhibitory effects of norepinephrine, as antioxidant supplementation (ie, Tempol) to norepinephrine-infused mice moderately restored T-lymphocyte growth and proinflammatory cytokine production. Our findings indicate that suppression of splenic T-lymphocyte activation occurs in a norepinephrine-driven model of hypertension due to, at least in part, an increase in superoxide. We speculate that further understanding of how norepinephrine mediates its inhibitory effects on splenic T-lymphocytes may elucidate novel pathways for therapeutic mimicry to suppress T-lymphocyte-mediated inflammation in an array of diseases.

Rapid metabolism of exogenous angiotensin II by catecholaminergic neuronal cells in culture media

Angiotensin II (AngII) acts on central neurons to increase neuronal firing and induce sympathoexcitation, which contribute to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases including hypertension and heart failure. Numerous studies have examined the precise AngII-induced intraneuronal signaling mechanism in an attempt to identify new therapeutic targets for these diseases. Considering the technical challenges in studying specific intraneuronal signaling pathways in vivo, especially in the cardiovascular control brain regions, most studies have relied on neuronal cell culture models. However, there are numerous limitations in using cell culture models to study AngII intraneuronal signaling, including the lack of evidence indicating the stability of AngII in culture media. Herein, we tested the hypothesis that exogenous AngII is rapidly metabolized in neuronal cell culture media. Using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, we measured levels of AngII and its metabolites, Ang III, Ang IV, and Ang-1-7, in neuronal cell culture media after administration of exogenous AngII (100 nmol/L) to a neuronal cell culture model (CATH.a neurons). AngII levels rapidly declined in the media, returning to near baseline levels within 3 h of administration. Additionally, levels of Ang III and Ang-1-7 acutely increased, while levels of Ang IV remained unchanged. Replenishing the media with exogenous AngII every 3 h for 24 h resulted in a consistent and significant increase in AngII levels for the duration of the treatment period. These data indicate that AngII is rapidly metabolized in neuronal cell culture media, and replenishing the media at least every 3 h is needed to sustain chronically elevated levels.

Impaired dynamic cerebral autoregulation at rest and during isometric exercise in type 2 diabetes patients

Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients (T2D) have elevated risk of stroke, suggesting that cerebrovascular function is impaired. Herein, we examined dynamic cerebral autoregulation (CA) at rest and during exercise in T2D patients and determined whether underlying systemic oxidative stress is associated with impairments in CA. Middle cerebral artery blood velocity and arterial blood pressure (BP) were measured at rest and during 2-min bouts of low- and high-intensity isometric handgrip performed at 20% and 40% maximum voluntary contraction, respectively, in seven normotensive and eight hypertensive T2D patients and eight healthy controls. Dynamic CA was estimated using the rate of regulation (RoR). Total reactive oxygen species (ROS) and superoxide levels were measured at rest. There were no differences in RoR at rest or during exercise between normotensive and hypertensive T2D patients. However, when compared with controls, T2D patients exhibited lower RoR at rest and during low-intensity handgrip indicating impaired dynamic CA. Moreover, the RoR was further reduced by 29 ± 4% during high-intensity handgrip in T2D patients (0.307 ± 0.012/s rest vs. 0.220 ± 0.014/s high intensity; P < 0.01), although well maintained in controls. T2D patients demonstrated greater baseline total ROS and superoxide compared with controls, both of which were negatively related to RoR during handgrip (e.g., total ROS: r = -0.71, P < 0.05; 40% maximum voluntary contraction). Collectively, these data demonstrate impaired dynamic CA at rest and during isometric handgrip in T2D patients, which may be, in part, related to greater underlying systemic oxidative stress. Additionally, dynamic CA is blunted further with high intensity isometric contractions potentially placing T2D patients at greater risk for cerebral events during such activities.

Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) Spectroscopy to Detect Reactive Oxygen Species in Staphylococcus aureus

Under aerobic conditions, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) primarily metabolizes glucose to acetic acid. Although normally S. aureus is able to re-utilize acetate as a carbon source following glucose exhaustion, significantly high levels of acetate in the culture media may not only be growth inhibitory but also potentiates cell death in stationary phase cultures by a mechanism dependent on cytoplasmic acidification. One consequence of acetic acid toxicity is the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The present protocol describes the detection of ROS in S. aureus undergoing cell death by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. Using 1-hydroxy-3-methoxycarbonyl-2,2,5,5-tetramethylpyrrolidine (CMH) as a cell permeable spin probe, we demonstrate the detection of various oxygen radicals generated by bacteria. Although standardized for S. aureus, the methods described here should be easily adapted for other bacterial species. This protocol is adapted from Thomas et al. (2014) and Thomas et al. (2010).

Abstract 253: Norepinephrine Suppresses T-lymphocyte Growth and Cytokine Production via Superoxide During Hypertension

Numerous studies have shown that pro-inflammatory cytokines produced by T-lymphocytes exacerbate hypertension. However, it is not clearly understood how endogenous pro-hypertensive stimuli such as norepinephrine (NE) directly act upon T-lymphocytes to modulate the responses of these inflammatory cells during hypertension. Herein, we hypothesized that increased systemic levels of NE directly activate T-lymphocytes during hypertension. To test this hypothesis, we examined the status of T-lymphocyte activation in the spleens of NE-infused hypertensive mice. Contrary to our hypothesis, while subcutaneous infusion of NE (3.8 μg/kg/min) significantly increased mean arterial pressure by approximately 18 ± 2 mmHg for 14-days (p<0.05 vs. saline infused), splenic T-lymphocytes demonstrated no signs of increased activation. More specifically, splenic T-lymphocytes from NE-infused mice showed an approximate 20% ± 5% (p<0.05) decrease in proliferation accompanied by a 50% ± 17% (p<0.05) and 85% ± 6% (p<0.05) reduction in interferon gamma (INFγ) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) production respectively as compared to T-lymphocytes from saline-infused mice. Additionally, NE directly inhibited naïve T-lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine production ex vivo in a dose dependent manner. Furthermore, while NE did not demonstrate any pro-apoptotic effects on T-lymphocytes, a 21% ± 2% (p<0.05 vs. saline) increase in G1 arrest was observed in NE-treated T-lymphocytes, and this was accompanied by a 60% ± 4% (p<0.05 vs. saline) decrease in pro-growth cyclin D3, E1, and E2 mRNA expression. Interestingly, NE caused a 71% ± 17% (p<0.05 vs. saline) increase in cellular superoxide (O 2 •- ) production as evidenced by dihydroethidium (DHE) oxidation, which was shown to be partially-causal to the inhibitory effects of NE as the addition of Tempol, a O 2 •- scavenger, to the drinking water of NE-infused mice was able to moderately restore T-lymphocyte growth and pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Taken together with previous studies, our data indicates that direct NE stimulation of naïve T-lymphocytes inhibits their proliferation and cytokine production in hypertension.

Abstract 201: Overexpression of Calcium/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase II (CaMKII) Potentiates Angiotensin II (AngII)-Mediated Signaling in Neurons

AngII signaling in the brain regulates systemic cardiovascular function. AngII modulates neuronal ion channel activity and neuronal firing via reactive oxygen species (ROS) and redox-sensitive proteins. Our recent studies indicate that in neurons AngII increases activity (i.e. phosphorylation) of CaMKII, a signaling intermediate known to inhibit potassium (K+) channel current. However, the potential cross-talk between AngII, ROS, and CaMKII in modulating neuronal K+ channel activity and the in vivo central AngII-induced pressor response remains unclear. Here, we tested the hypothesis that CaMKII overexpression exacerbates the AngII-dependent inhibition of K+ channel current and the acute central AngII-induced increase in blood pressure. The neuron specific isoform of CaMKII (CaMKIIα) was cloned, and CaMKIIα adenovirus was generated (AdCaMKIIα). Adenovirus-mediated overexpression of total and active CaMKII protein were assessed in differentiated mouse catecholaminergic (CATH.a) neurons by measuring total and phosphorylated CaMKII protein levels, respectively, via Western blot analysis. To investigate the effect of CaMKIIα overexpression on K+ channel activity, CATH.a neurons were transduced with AdCaMKIIα or control adenovirus, AdEmpty, and voltage-gated K+ current (IKV) was measured by the whole cell patch-clamp technique. Baseline IKV was measured followed by 5 mins of AngII (100 nM) superfusion. AngII lowered steady-state current (ISS) and peak current (Ipeak) in AdEmpty-transduced neurons (ISS by 20 ± 4%; Ipeak by 19 ± 3%), and this inhibitory response was significantly potentiated in AdCaMKIIα-transduced neurons (ISS by 40 ± 7%; Ipeak by 41 ± 5%; p< 0.05). Preliminary in vivo studies suggest that the central AngII-induced pressor response is exacerbated in mice intracerebroventricularly injected with AdCaMKIIα as compared to control virus-injected mice. These data indicate that CaMKIIα overexpression potentiates AngII-mediated inhibition of IKv and the central AngII-induced pressor response. Future studies will investigate the ROS-mediated post-translational modifications of CaMKIIα in AngII-stimulated neurons and the contribution of these modifications to ion channel activity and blood pressure regulation.

Neuronal uptake of nanoformulated superoxide dismutase and attenuation of angiotensin II-dependent hypertension after central administration

Excessive production of superoxide (O2(-)) in the central nervous system has been widely implicated in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, including chronic heart failure and hypertension. In an attempt to overcome the failed therapeutic impact of currently available antioxidants in cardiovascular disease, we developed a nanomedicine-based delivery system for the O2(-)-scavenging enzyme copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD), in which CuZnSOD protein is electrostatically bound to a poly-l-lysine (PLL50)-polyethylene glycol (PEG) block copolymer to form a CuZnSOD nanozyme. Various formulations of CuZnSOD nanozyme are covalently stabilized by either reducible or nonreducible crosslinked bonds between the PLL50-PEG polymers. Herein, we tested the hypothesis that PLL50-PEG CuZnSOD nanozyme delivers active CuZnSOD protein to neurons and decreases blood pressure in a mouse model of angiotensin II (AngII)-dependent hypertension. As determined by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, nanozymes retain full SOD enzymatic activity compared to native CuZnSOD protein. Nonreducible CuZnSOD nanozyme delivers active CuZnSOD protein to central neurons in culture (CATH.a neurons) without inducing significant neuronal toxicity. Furthermore, in vivo studies conducted in adult male C57BL/6 mice demonstrate that hypertension established by chronic subcutaneous infusion of AngII is significantly attenuated for up to 7 days after a single intracerebroventricular injection of nonreducible nanozyme. These data indicate the efficacy of nonreducible PLL50-PEG CuZnSOD nanozyme in counteracting excessive O2(-) and decreasing blood pressure in AngII-dependent hypertensive mice after central administration. Additionally, this study supports the further development of PLL50-PEG CuZnSOD nanozyme as an antioxidant-based therapeutic option for hypertension.

A central role for carbon-overflow pathways in the modulation of bacterial cell death

Similar to developmental programs in eukaryotes, the death of a subpopulation of cells is thought to benefit bacterial biofilm development. However mechanisms that mediate a tight control over cell death are not clearly understood at the population level. Here we reveal that CidR dependent pyruvate oxidase (CidC) and α-acetolactate synthase/decarboxylase (AlsSD) overflow metabolic pathways, which are active during staphylococcal biofilm development, modulate cell death to achieve optimal biofilm biomass. Whereas acetate derived from CidC activity potentiates cell death in cells by a mechanism dependent on intracellular acidification and respiratory inhibition, AlsSD activity effectively counters CidC action by diverting carbon flux towards neutral rather than acidic byproducts and consuming intracellular protons in the process. Furthermore, the physiological features that accompany metabolic activation of cell death bears remarkable similarities to hallmarks of eukaryotic programmed cell death, including the generation of reactive oxygen species and DNA damage. Finally, we demonstrate that the metabolic modulation of cell death not only affects biofilm development but also biofilm-dependent disease outcomes. Given the ubiquity of such carbon overflow pathways in diverse bacterial species, we propose that the metabolic control of cell death may be a fundamental feature of prokaryotic development.

Many bacterial species including the pathogen Staphylococcus aureus are capable of adhering to surfaces and forming complex communities called biofilms. This mode of growth can be particularly challenging from an infection control standpoint, as they are often refractory to antibiotics and host immune system. Although developmental processes underlying biofilm formation are not entirely clear, recent evidence suggests that cell death of a subpopulation is crucial for its maturation. In this study we provide insight regarding the metabolic pathways that control cell death and demonstrate that acetate, a by-product of glucose catabolism, potentiates a form of cell death that exhibits physiological and biochemical hallmarks of apoptosis in eukaryotic organisms. Finally, we demonstrate that altering the ability of metabolic pathways that regulate acetate mediated cell death in S. aureus affects the outcome of biofilm-related diseases, such as infective endocarditis.

Effect of alcohol exposure on hepatic superoxide generation and hepcidin expression

AIM: To understand the role of mitochondrial-produced superoxide (O₂^•-) in the regulation of iron-regulatory hormone, hepcidin by alcohol in the liver.

METHODS: For alcohol experiments, manganese superoxide dismutase knockout mice heterozygous for Sod2 gene expression (Sod2^+/-) and age-matched littermate control mice (LMC), expressing Sod2 gene on both alleles, were exposed to either 10% (w/v) ethanol in the drinking water or plain water (control) for 7 d. Total cellular O₂^•- levels in hepatocytes isolated from the livers of mice were measured by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. The mitochondrial-targeted, O₂^•--sensitive fluorogenic probe, MitoSOX Red and flow cytometry were utilized to measure O₂^•- in mitochondria. Gene and protein expression were determined by Taqman Real-time quantitative PCR and Western blotting, respectively.

RESULTS: Sod2^+/- mice expressed 40% less MnSOD protein (SOD2) in hepatocytes compared to LMC mice. The deletion of Sod2 allele did not alter the basal expression level of hepcidin in the liver. 10% ethanol exposure for 1 wk inhibited hepatic hepcidin mRNA expression three-fold both in Sod2^+/- and LMC mice. O₂^•- levels in hepatocytes of untreated Sod2^+/- mice were three-fold higher than in untreated LMC mice, as observed by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. O₂^•- levels in mitochondria of Sod2^+/ mice were four-fold higher than in mitochondria of untreated LMC mice, as measured by MitoSOX Red fluorescence and flow cytometry. Alcohol induced a two-fold higher increase in O₂^•- levels in hepatocytes of LMC mice than in Sod2^+/- mice compared to respective untreated counterparts. In contrast, 1 wk alcohol exposure did not alter mitochondrial O₂^•- levels in both Sod2^+/- and control mice.

CONCLUSION: Mitochondrial O₂^•- is not involved in the inhibition of liver hepcidin transcription and thereby regulation of iron metabolism by alcohol. These findings also suggest that short-term alcohol consumption significantly elevates O₂^•- levels in hepatocytes, which appears not to originate from mitochondria.

Over-expressed copper/zinc superoxide dismutase localizes to mitochondria in neurons inhibiting the angiotensin II-mediated increase in mitochondrial superoxide

Angiotensin II (AngII) is the main effector peptide of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS), and contributes to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease by exerting its effects on an array of different cell types, including central neurons. AngII intra-neuronal signaling is mediated, at least in part, by reactive oxygen species, particularly superoxide (O₂^•−). Recently, it has been discovered that mitochondria are a major subcellular source of AngII-induced O₂^•−. We have previously reported that over-expression of manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), a mitochondrial matrix-localized O₂^•− scavenging enzyme, inhibits AngII intra-neuronal signaling. Interestingly, over-expression of copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD), which is believed to be primarily localized to the cytoplasm, similarly inhibits AngII intra-neuronal signaling and provides protection against AngII-mediated neurogenic hypertension. Herein, we tested the hypothesis that CuZnSOD over-expression in central neurons localizes to mitochondria and inhibits AngII intra-neuronal signaling by scavenging mitochondrial O₂^•−. Using a neuronal cell culture model (CATH.a neurons), we demonstrate that both endogenous and adenovirus-mediated over-expressed CuZnSOD (AdCuZnSOD) are present in mitochondria. Furthermore, we show that over-expression of CuZnSOD attenuates the AngII-mediated increase in mitochondrial O₂^•− levels and the AngII-induced inhibition of neuronal potassium current. Taken together, these data clearly show that over-expressed CuZnSOD in neurons localizes in mitochondria, scavenges AngII-induced mitochondrial O₂^•−, and inhibits AngII intra-neuronal signaling.

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Endogenous CuZnSOD is localized to mitochondria of AngII-sensitive neurons.

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Adenovirus-mediated over-expressed CuZnSOD is localized to neuron mitochondria.

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AngII-induced mitochondrial O₂^•− flux is attenuated by CuZnSOD over-expression.

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Over-expressed CuZnSOD reduces AngII-mediated inhibition of neuronal K⁺ current.

Abstract 73: Nanoformulated Copper/Zinc Superoxide Dismutase: Alternative Therapeutic Strategy for Angiotensin II-dependent Neurogenic Hypertension

Excessive production of superoxide (O2•-) in the central nervous system has been widely implicated in the pathogenesis of angiotensin II (AngII)-dependent neurogenic hypertension (HTN). Our group has tried to overcome the failed therapeutic potential of currently available antioxidants by utilizing nanoformulated copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD1), so-called SOD1 nanozymes, that specifically scavenges intracellular O2•-. These nanozymes consist of SOD1 protein wrapped with cationic block copolymers followed by covalent cross-linking of the polycation template (cl-nano). We hypothesize that cl-nano delivers active SOD1 protein to neurons and can effectively decrease blood pressure in a mouse model of AngII-dependent neurogenic HTN. As determined by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, cl-nano retains SOD1 activity and scavenges O2•- to levels comparable with native SOD1 protein in a cell-free environment (EPR arbitrary units: vehicle 1.12e6 ± 1.79e5; native SOD1 protein 4.45e4 ± 3.00e3; cl-nano 6.78e4 ± 1.74e3, p<0.05 vs. vehicle). Experiments to examine neuronal uptake of cl-nano, analyzed by western blot and SOD1 activity assays, reveal that cl-nano delivers active SOD1 to central neurons in culture (CATH.a neurons) more efficiently than native SOD1 protein following 1 hour treatment (SOD1 activity in units/mg protein: vehicle 336; native SOD1 protein 313; cl-nano 718). Furthermore, in vivo studies demonstrate that HTN established by chronic subcutaneous infusion of AngII (400 ng/kg/min) is significantly attenuated following a single intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection of cl-nano for up to 7 days (mean arterial pressure (MAP) in mmHg: pre-AngII 87 ± 3; 9 days post-AngII 138 ± 6; 7 days post-ICV injection of cl-nano 112 ± 4, p<0.05 vs. pre-ICV injection). These data provide evidence for the efficacy of nanoformulated SOD1 in counteracting excessive O2•- and decreasing MAP in AngII-dependent hypertensive mice when injected directly into the brain. Although further experiments must be performed with more clinically relevant routes of cl-nano administration, such as intravenous injection, this study supports the further development of cl-nano with SOD1 as an alternative therapeutic option for HTN.

Abstract 152: Development of a Chronic Angiotensin II (AngII)-stimulated Neuronal Cell Culture Model

Dysregulation of AngII-mediated intra-neuronal signaling contributes to the pathogenesis of hypertension. Previous studies using AngII-sensitive neuronal cell culture models suggest that AngII induces chronic changes in the expression of various cell signaling proteins, including its own receptors. However, many of these studies stimulated cultured neurons with a single administration of exogenous AngII and harvested neurons 3-24 hours later to investigate changes in mRNA and protein levels. One limitation of these “chronic” AngII stimulation studies is the lack of evidence indicating the stability of AngII in neuronal cell culture media. Here, we tested the hypothesis that exogenous AngII is rapidly metabolized in neuronal cell culture media. Further, we hypothesized that AngII receptors are differentially expressed depending on the chronicity of stimulation. AngII (100nM) was added to catecholaminergic (CATH.a) neurons in culture, media was collected 15 min - 24 hr later, and AngII levels were determined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. AngII was rapidly metabolized with media levels of AngII returning to near baseline within 3 hr of administration (baseline: 2.2 nM AngII; 15 min: 50.6 nM; 30 min: 42.9 nM; 1hr: 28.8 nM ; 3hr: 4.0 nM, n = 3-4). To begin investigating the relevance of this observation, we measured mRNA levels of AngII type 1 (AT1R) and type 2 (AT2R) receptors using real time quantitative RT-PCR in CATH.a neurons 24 hr after a single administration of AngII (100nM) or repeated administration every 3 hr. While a single administration of AngII did not alter AT1R mRNA levels, replenishing media every 3 hr with fresh AngII did induce a 20% decrease. In addition, fresh AngII every 3 hr resulted in a 41% decrease in AT2R mRNA levels; whereas, a single dose of AngII increased AT2R mRNA by 19%. These data indicate that AngII is quickly metabolized in neuronal cell culture media, and that supplementing fresh AngII every 3 hr to maintain elevated levels chronically yields different changes in AngII receptor mRNA levels as compared to a single administration. In conclusion, we suggest that to accurately model hypertension, where AngII is chronically elevated, the metabolism of AngII in a given cell culture model should first be determined.

Compartmentalized oxidative stress in dopaminergic cell death induced by pesticides and complex I inhibitors: distinct roles of superoxide anion and superoxide dismutases

The loss of dopaminergic neurons induced by the parkinsonian toxins paraquat, rotenone, and 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP(+)) is associated with oxidative stress. However, controversial reports exist regarding the source/compartmentalization of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and its exact role in cell death. We aimed to determine in detail the role of superoxide anion (O2(•-)), oxidative stress, and their subcellular compartmentalization in dopaminergic cell death induced by parkinsonian toxins. Oxidative stress and ROS formation were determined in the cytosol, intermembrane (IMS), and mitochondrial matrix compartments, using dihydroethidine derivatives and the redox sensor roGFP, as well as electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. Paraquat induced an increase in ROS and oxidative stress in both the cytosol and the mitochondrial matrix prior to cell death. MPP(+) and rotenone primarily induced an increase in ROS and oxidative stress in the mitochondrial matrix. No oxidative stress was detected at the level of the IMS. In contrast to previous studies, overexpression of manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) or copper/zinc SOD (CuZnSOD) had no effect on alterations in ROS steady-state levels, lipid peroxidation, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), and dopaminergic cell death induced by MPP(+) or rotenone. In contrast, paraquat-induced oxidative stress and cell death were selectively reduced by MnSOD overexpression, but not by CuZnSOD or manganese-porphyrins. However, MnSOD also failed to prevent ΔΨm loss. Finally, paraquat, but not MPP(+) or rotenone, induced the transcriptional activation of the redox-sensitive antioxidant response elements (ARE) and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB). These results demonstrate a selective role of mitochondrial O2(•-) in dopaminergic cell death induced by paraquat, and show that toxicity induced by the complex I inhibitors rotenone and MPP(+) does not depend directly on mitochondrial O2(•-) formation.