Biochemical effects of glyphosate based herbicide, Excel Mera 71 on enzyme activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), lipid peroxidation (LPO), catalase (CAT), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and protein content on teleostean fishes

Effects of glyphosate based herbicide, Excel Mera 71 at a dose of 17.20mg/l on enzyme activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), lipid peroxidation (LPO), catalase (CAT), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and protein content were measured in different tissues of two Indian air-breathing teleosts, Anabas testudineus (Bloch) and Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch) during an exposure period of 30 days under laboratory condition. AChE activity was significantly increased in all the investigated tissues of both fish species and maximum elevation was observed in brain of H. fossilis, while spinal cord of A. testudineus showed minimum increment. Fishes showed significant increase LPO levels in all the tissues; highest was observed in gill of A. testudineus but lowest LPO level was observed in muscle of H. fossilis. CAT was also enhanced in both the fishes, while GST activity in liver diminished substantially and minimum was observed in liver of A. testudineus. Total protein content showed decreased value in all the tissues, maximum reduction was observed in liver and minimum in brain of A. testudineus and H. fossilis respectively. The results indicated that Excel Mera 71 caused serious alterations in the enzyme activities resulting into severe deterioration of fish health; so, AChE, LPO, CAT and GST can be used as suitable indicators of herbicidal toxicity.

Prospective Case-Control Study to Evaluate the Role of Glutathione S Transferases (GSTT1 and GSTM1) Gene Deletion in Breast Carcinoma and Its Prognostic Significance

Breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer death in women with the incidence rising in young women. GST gene polymorphisms are significant because of their role in the detoxification of both environmental carcinogens and also cytotoxic drugs used in therapy for breast cancer. The present study has been designed to identify the role of polymorphisms in GSTT1 and GSTM1 genes in the risk of development of breast cancer, in the prognostication of breast cancer, and in the prediction of response towards chemotherapy. Ninety-nine patients with breast cancer and 100 healthy controls with no history of cancer were taken from blood donors after informed consent. Epidemiological and clinical data was collected from participants and 5 ml of peripheral venous blood was collected for genotype analysis. Null genotype of GSTT1 was detected in 51.04 % of the controls in comparison to 20.2 % of patients with carcinoma breast, which was found to be statistically significant (OR 4.18; 95 % CI 2.01-8.75; P = 0.0001). GSTM1 gene deletion was also significantly more common among controls (60 %) than in patients with breast cancer (33 %) (OR 4.57; 95 % CI 2.20-9.51; P = 0.0001). Tumors more than 5 cm in size had greater tendency for GSTM1 gene expression (P value = 0.019), but other clinicopathological parameters did not show any correlation. GSTT1 and GSTM1 genes status did not show any association with response to chemotherapy. The results indicated the null genotype of both GSTT1 and GSTM1 to be protective for the development of carcinoma breast. None of the known etiological factors have any correlation with GSTT1 and GSTM1 gene deletion. Patients with small tumor size expressed GSTM1 gene deletion. Other tumor characteristics and clinicopathological parameters did not have any correlation with gene deletion.

A light in the darkness: new biotransformation genes, antioxidant parameters and tissue-specific responses in oysters exposed to phenanthrene

Phenanthrene (PHE), a major component of crude oil, is one of the most abundant polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in aquatic ecosystems, and is readily bioavailable to marine organisms. Understanding the toxicity of PAHs in animals requires knowledge of the systems for xenobiotic biotransformation and antioxidant defence and these are poorly understood in bivalves. We report, for the first time, new transcripts and tissue-specific transcription in gill and digestive gland from the oyster Crassostrea brasiliana following 24h exposure to 100 and 1000μgL(-1) PHE, a model PAH. Six new cytochrome P450 (CYP) and four new glutathione S-transferase (GST) genes were analysed by means of quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). Different antioxidant endpoints, including both enzymatic and non-enzymatic parameters, were assessed as potential biomarkers of oxidative stress. GST activity was measured as an indicator of phase II biotransformation. Rapid clearance of PHE was associated with upregulation of both phase I and II genes, with more pronounced effects in the gill at 1000μgL(-1) PHE. After 24h of exposure, PHE also caused impairment of the antioxidant system, decreasing non-protein thiols and glutathione levels. On the other hand, no change in antioxidant enzymes was observed. PHE treatment (100μgL(-1)) significantly decreased GST activity in the gill of exposed oysters. Both CYP and GST were transcribed in a tissue-specific manner, reflecting the importance of the gill in the detoxification of PAHs. Likewise, the antioxidant parameters followed a similar pattern. The data provide strong evidence that these genes play key roles in C. brasiliana biotransformation of PHE and highlight the importance of gill in xenobiotic metabolism.

Combination of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract and docosahexaenoic acid-rich oil increases the hepatic detoxification by GST mediated GSH conjugation in a lipidic postprandial state

The ingestion of dietary lipids leads to oxidative stress. This postprandial oxidative stress may potentiate the adverse effects of postprandial hyperlipidaemia. Proanthocyanidins have been shown to alleviate oxidative stress and hypertriglyceridaemia associated with the postprandial state. Additionally, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) also have beneficial effects on lipoprotein metabolism and oxidative stress. The present study was designed to investigate the possible additive effects in liver of an acute dose of grape seed proanthocyanidins extract (GSPE) and oil rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA-OR) on lipidic postprandial oxidative stress in Wistar rats. GSPE+DHA-OR modifies the hepatic antioxidant enzymatic activities (GST and GPx), clearly showing that this combination increases the detoxification of postprandial xenobiotics via the GST action mediated hepatic GSH conjugation. In conclusion, this study provides evidence that the combination of GSPE and DHA-OR ameliorate the transient imbalance between the lipid hydroperoxide level and antioxidant status related to a lipidic postprandial state.

Polymorphism of GST and FTO Genes in Risk Prediction of Cataract among a North Indian Population

BACKGROUND

The present study was carried out to investigate the association of GST and FTO gene polymorphisms with cataract cases and controls.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 131 cases and 126 controls. GST and FTO gene polymorphisms were evaluated by PCR-RFLP.

RESULTS

The frequency of the GSTM1-positive and GSTT1-positive in cataract cases were 62.13% and 86.40% while in the controls it was 46.39% and 95.87% with odds ratios of 1.9 (95% CI, 1.08-3.32; p value 0.025) and 0.27 (95% CI, 0.09-0.86; p value, 0.019) respectively. There was a statistically significant association between the GSTM1 null genotype and the risk of cataract development with an odds ratio of 0.43 (95% CI, 0.24-0.76; p value, 0.003). Significant differences were obtained in the frequencies of FTO AA and TT genotype (p = 0.023 and 0.023) between cases and controls.

CONCLUSION

The present study suggested that GSTM1, GSTT1 and FTO gene polymorphisms are associated with increased risk for cataract in North Indian populations. Due to the limited sample size, the finding on GST and FTO gene polymorphisms need further investigation.

7-Dehydrocholesterol metabolites produced by sterol 27-hydroxylase (CYP27A1) modulate liver X receptor activity

7-Dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC) is a common precursor of vitamin D3 and cholesterol. Although various oxysterols, oxygenated cholesterol derivatives, have been implicated in cellular signaling pathways, 7-DHC metabolism and potential functions of its metabolites remain poorly understood. We examined 7-DHC metabolism by various P450 enzymes and detected three metabolites produced by sterol 27-hydroxylase (CYP27A1) using high-performance liquid chromatography. Two were further identified as 25-hydroxy-7-DHC and 26/27-hydroxy-7-DHC. These 7-DHC metabolites were detected in serum of a patient with Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. Luciferase reporter assays showed that 25-hydroxy-7-DHC activates liver X receptor (LXR) α, LXRβ and vitamin D receptor and that 26/27-hydroxy-7-DHC induces activation of LXRα and LXRβ, although the activities of both compounds on LXRs were weak. In a mammalian two-hybrid assay, 25-hydroxy-7-DHC and 26/27-hydroxy-7-DHC induced interaction between LXRα and a coactivator fragment less efficiently than a natural LXR agonist, 22(R)-hydroxycholesterol. These 7-DHC metabolites did not oppose agonist-induced LXR activation and interacted directly to LXRα in a manner distinct from a potent agonist. These findings indicate that the 7-DHC metabolites are partial LXR activators. Interestingly, 25-hydroxy-7-DHC and 26/27-hydroxy-7-DHC suppressed mRNA expression of sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c, an LXR target gene, in HepG2 cells and HaCaT cells, while they weakly increased mRNA levels of ATP-binding cassette transporter A1, another LXR target, in HaCaT cells. Thus, 7-DHC is catabolized by CYP27A1 to metabolites that act as selective LXR modulators.

Rosacea: current state of epidemiology

Case definitions are critical in epidemiologic research. However, modern disease indicators must now consider complex data from gene-based research along with traditional clinical parameters. Rosacea is a skin disorder with multiple signs and symptoms. In individuals, these features may be multiple or one may predominate. While studies on the epidemiology of rosacea have previously been sparse, there has been a recent increase in research activity. A broader body of epidemiological information that includes a greater variety of countries beyond Northern Europe and general population-based demographics is needed. As there are operational issues in current case definitions of rosacea subtypes--rationalization and standardization--universal consistent applications in future research is also imperative. Further improvement in disease definition combining new research information along with clinical pragmatism should increase the accuracy of rosacea case ascertainment and facilitate further epidemiological research.

Impact of CYP1A1, GSTM1, and GSTT1 polymorphisms in overall and specific prostate cancer survival

OBJECTIVE

Prognostic biomarkers that distinguish between patients with good or poor outcome can be used to guide decisions of whom to treat and how aggressively. In this sense, several groups have proposed genetic polymorphisms as potential susceptibility and prognostic biomarkers; however, their validity has not been proven. Thus, the main goal of the present work was to investigate the potential role of single and combined CYP1A1, GSTM1, and GSTT1 genotypes as modifiers of cancer survival in Chilean patients with prostate cancer.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

A total of 260 histologically confirmed patients were recruited from a voluntary screening, and genomic DNA was obtained from their blood samples for genotyping analyses to detect the CYP1A1*2A polymorphism and GSTM1 and GSTT1 deletions. The progression of illness and mortality were estimated with a median follow-up of 8.82 years. Adjusted estimated genotype risks were evaluated by hazard ratio and 95% CI using the Cox proportional model. In addition, the Kaplan-Meier survival method and log-rank test were used to evaluate patient survival with regard to genotype.

RESULTS

The 9-year overall and specific survival rates were 67.6% and 36.6% in the GSTT1null group, 67.6% and 58.7% in the GSTM1non-null group, 69.0% and 51.6% in the *1A/*2A group, 63.9% and 61.5% in the *2A/*2A group vs. 76.2% and 62.3% in the GSTT1non-null group, 82.3% and 50% in the GSTM1null group, and 83.7% and 56.3% in the *1A/*1A group, respectively. The hazard ratios and the Kaplan-Meier curve results demonstrate that the GSTM1non-null, GSTT1null, and CYP1A1*2A genotypes are significantly associated with mortality. Our study has two main limitations: a relatively small sample size and a low global mortality percentage (25.4%); thus, we need to continue the follow-up to confirm these findings.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the GSTM1non-null, GSTT1null, and CYP1A1*2A genotypes may be good prognosis markers, particularly in patients with high-risk tumors.

Lycopene treatment prevents hematological, reproductive and histopathological damage induced by acute zearalenone administration in male Swiss mice

Zearalenone (ZEA) is a mycotoxin commonly found as a contaminant in cereals. ZEA toxicity targets mainly the reproductive system, and oxidative stress plays an etiological role in its toxic effects. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of lycopene, a potent carotenoid antioxidant, on markers of oxidative stress in liver, kidney and testes, and on reproductive, hematological and histopathological parameters after ZEA administration. Adult Swiss albino male mice received lycopene (20mg/kg, p.o.) for ten days before a single oral administration of ZEA (40mg/kg, p.o.), and 48h thereafter tissues (liver, kidney, testes and blood) were collected for biochemical, hematological and histological analyses. Lycopene prevented ZEA-induced changes in hematological parameters (increased number of leukocytes, segmented neutrophils, sticks, eosinophils and monocytes and decreased number of red blood cells (RBC), number of lymphocytes and platelets). Moreover, lycopene prevented the reduction in the number and motility of spermatozoa and the testicular tissue damage induced by ZEA. In addition, lycopene prevented the decrease in glutathione-S-transferase activity in kidney and testes and increased glutathione-S-transferase activity per se in the liver, kidneys and testes as well as superoxide dismutase activity in the liver. In summary, lycopene was able to prevent ZEA-induced acute toxic effects in male mice, suggesting that this antioxidant carotenoid may represent a promising prophylactic strategy against ZEA toxicity.

Increased level of organochlorine pesticides in chronic kidney disease patients of unknown etiology: role of GSTM1/GSTT1 polymorphism

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) of unknown etiology represents about 16% of CKD patients in Indian subcontinents and 10% worldwide. The aetiology of CKD of unknown etiology remains unclear though epidemiological studies indicate the involvement of the environmental toxins. Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) have been detected in general population in India. It is possible that polymorphism of xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes (XMEs) may play an important role in this process. In this we intend to find out blood levels of OCPs in CKD patients of unknown etiology and to evaluate the consequence of glutathione S-transferase (GST) gene polymorphism on the same. We have assessed 270 CKD patients and 270 age-sex-matched healthy controls for this study. The blood OCP levels were analyzed by gas chromatograph. GSTM1, GSTT1 genotyping were carried out by multiplex PCR. Blood levels of HCH, endosulfan and total pesticides were significantly higher in CKD patients and negatively correlated with eGFR. The combined frequency of GSTM1(-)/GSTT1(-) genotype increased the risk of CKD by 1.8-fold as compared to healthy controls. To find out the dependence of blood OCPs level on genotype, we carried out logistic regression analysis and results revealed that GSTM1(-)/GSTT1(-) genotype associated significantly with a number of OCPs namely γ-HCH, p,p'-DDT and total pesticides. Polymorphism of XMEs not only increased accumulation of pesticides but also aggravates kidney dysfunction as evident from significant decrease in eGFR.

Co-exposure of the organic nanomaterial fullerene C₆₀ with benzo[a]pyrene in Danio rerio (zebrafish) hepatocytes: evidence of toxicological interactions

Compounds from the nanotechnology industry, such as carbon-based nanomaterials, are strong candidates to contaminate aquatic environments because their production and disposal have exponentially grown in a few years. Previous evidence shows that fullerene C60, a carbon nanomaterial, can facilitate the intake of metals or PAHs both in vivo and in vitro, potentially amplifying the deleterious effects of these toxicants in organisms. The present work aimed to investigate the effects of fullerene C60 in a Danio rerio (zebrafish) hepatocyte cell lineage exposed to benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) in terms of cell viability, oxidative stress parameters and BaP intracellular accumulation. Additionally, a computational docking was performed to investigate the interaction of the fullerene C60 molecule with the detoxificatory and antioxidant enzyme πGST. Fullerene C60 provoked a significant (p<0.05) loss in cellular viability when co-exposed with BaP at 0.01, 0.1 and 1.0 μg/L, and induced an increase (p<0.05) in BaP accumulation in the cells after 3 and 4h of exposure. The levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cells exposed to BaP were diminished (p<0.05) by the fullerene addition, and the increase of the GST activity observed in the BaP-only treated cells was reduced to the basal levels by co-exposure to fullerene. However, despite the potential of the fullerene molecule to inhibit π GST activity, demonstrated by the computational docking, the nanomaterial did not significantly (p>0.05) alter the enzyme activity when added to GST purified extracts from the zebrafish hepatocyte cells. These results show that fullerene C60 can increase the intake of BaP into the cells, decreasing cell viability and impairing the detoxificatory response by phase II enzymes, such as GST, and this latter effect should be occurring at the transcriptional level.

The biophysical and biochemical properties of the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) protein

AIRE (for autoimmune regulator) is a multidomain protein that performs a fundamental function in the thymus and possibly in the secondary lymphoid organs: the regulation, especially in the sense of activation, of the process of gene transcription in cell lines deputed to the presentation of self-antigens to the maturing T lymphocytes. The apoptosis of the elements bearing T-cell receptors with critical affinity for the exhibited self-antigens prevents the escape of autoreactive clones and represents a simple and efficient mechanism of deletional self-tolerance. However, AIRE action relies on an articulated complex of biophysical and biochemical properties, in most cases attributable to single subspecialized domains. Here a thorough review of the matter is presented, with a privileged look at the pathogenic changes of AIRE that interfere with such properties and lead to the impairment in its chief function.

The adverse effects of phoxim exposure in the midgut of silkworm, Bombyx mori

The silkworm is an important economic insect. Poisoning of silkworms by organophosphate pesticides causes tremendous loss to the sericulture. In this study, Solexa sequencing technology was performed to profile the gene expression changes in the midgut of silkworms in response to 24h of phoxim exposure and the impact on detoxification, apoptosis and immune defense were addressed. The results showed that 254 genes displayed at least 2.0-fold changes in expression levels, with 148 genes up-regulated and 106 genes down-regulated. Cytochrome P450 played an important role in detoxification. Histopathology examination and transmission electron microscope revealed swollen mitochondria and disappearance of the cristae of mitochondria, which are the important features in insect apoptotic cells. Cytochrome C release from mitochondria into the cytoplasm was confirmed. In addition, the Toll and immune deficiency (IMD) signal pathways were all inhibited using qRT-PCR. Our results could help better understand the impact of phoxim exposure on silkworm.

Studies on the expression of linalool synthase using a promoter-β-glucuronidase fusion in transgenic Artemisia annua

Artemisinin, an antimalarial endoperoxide sesquiterpene, is synthesized in glandular trichomes of Artemisia annua L. A number of other enzymes of terpene metabolism utilize intermediates of artemisinin biosynthesis, such as isopentenyl and farnesyl diphosphate, and may thereby influence the yield of artemisinin. In order to study the expression of such enzymes, we have cloned the promoter regions of some enzymes and fused them to β-glucuronidase (GUS). In this study, we have investigated the expression of the monoterpene synthase linalool synthase (LIS) using transgenic A. annua carrying the GUS gene under the control of the LIS promoter. The 652bp promoter region was cloned by the genome walker method. A number of putative cis-acting elements were predicted indicating that the LIS is driven by a complex regulation mechanism. Transgenic plants carrying the promoter-GUS fusion showed specific expression of GUS in T-shaped trichomes (TSTs) but not in glandular secretory trichomes, which is the site for artemisinin biosynthesis. GUS expression was observed at late stage of flower development in styles of florets and in TSTs and guard cells of basal bracts. GUS expression after wounding showed that LIS is involved in plant responsiveness to wounding. Furthermore, the LIS promoter responded to methyl jasmonate (MeJA). These results indicate that the promoter carries a number of cis-acting regulatory elements involved in the tissue-specific expression of LIS and in the response of the plant to wounding and MeJA treatment. Southern blot analysis indicated that the GUS gene was integrated in the A. annua genome as single or multi copies in different transgenic lines. Promoter activity analysis by qPCR showed that both the wild-type and the recombinant promoter are active in the aerial parts of the plant while only the recombinant promoter was active in roots. Due to the expression in TSTs but not in glandular trichomes, it may be concluded that LIS expression will most likely have little or no effect on artemisinin production.

Reprint of: Nrf2/ARE-mediated antioxidant actions of pro-electrophilic drugs

Living cells maintain a balance between oxidation and reduction, and perturbations of this redox balance are thought to contribute to various diseases. Recent attempts to regulate redox state have focused on electrophiles (EPs), which activate potent cellular defense systems against oxidative stress. One example of this approach is exemplified by carnosic acid (CA) and carnosol (CS), compounds that are found in the herb rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis). Importantly, CA and CS themselves are not electrophilic, but in response to oxidation, become electrophilic, and then activate the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE (antioxidant-response element) transcription pathway to synthesize endogenous antioxidant "phase 2"enzymes. As a result of our efforts to develop these compounds as therapeutics for brain health, we have formulated two innovative criteria for drug development: the first concept is the use of pro-electrophilic drugs (PEDs) that are innocuous in and of themselves; and the second concept involves the use of compounds that are pathologically activated therapeutics (PATs); i.e., these small molecules are chemically converted to their active form by the very oxidative stress that they are designed to then combat. The chemical basis for PED and PAT drugs is embodied in the ortho- and para-hydroquinone electrophilic cores of the molecules, which are oxidized by the Cu(2+)/Cu(+) cycling system (or potentially by other transition metals). Importantly, this cycling pathway is under stringent regulation by the cell redox state. We propose that redox-dependent quinone formation is the predominant mechanism for formation of PED and PAT drugs from their precursor compounds. In fact, redox-dependent generation of the active form of drug from the "pro-form" distinguishes this therapeutic approach from traditional EPs such as curcumin, and results in a decrease in clinical side effects at therapeutic concentrations, e.g., lack of reaction with other thiols such as glutathione (GSH), which can result in lowering GSH and inducing oxidative stress in normal cells. We consider this pro-drug quality of PED/PAT compounds to be a key factor for generating drugs to be used to combat neurodegenerative diseases that will be clinically tolerated. Given the contribution of oxidative stress to the pathology of multiple neurodegenerative diseases, the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE pathway represents a promising drug target for these PED/PAT agents.

The effects of dietary restriction on oxidative stress in rodents

Oxidative stress is observed during aging and in numerous age-related diseases. Dietary restriction (DR) is a regimen that protects against disease and extends life span in multiple species. However, it is unknown how DR mediates its protective effects. One prominent and consistent effect of DR in a number of systems is the ability to reduce oxidative stress and damage. The purpose of this review is to comprehensively examine the hypothesis that dietary restriction reduces oxidative stress in rodents by decreasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and increasing antioxidant enzyme activity, leading to an overall reduction of oxidative damage to macromolecules. The literature reveals that the effects of DR on oxidative stress are complex and likely influenced by a variety of factors, including sex, species, tissue examined, types of ROS and antioxidant enzymes examined, and duration of DR. Here we present a comprehensive review of the existing literature on the effect of DR on mitochondrial ROS generation, antioxidant enzymes, and oxidative damage. In a majority of studies, dietary restriction had little effect on mitochondrial ROS production or antioxidant activity. On the other hand, DR decreased oxidative damage in the majority of cases. Although the effects of DR on endogenous antioxidants are mixed, we find that glutathione levels are the most likely antioxidant to be increased by dietary restriction, which supports the emerging redox-stress hypothesis of aging.

Dose-dependent bioavailability indicators for curcumin and two of its novel derivatives

Novel water-soluble curcumin derivatives have been developed to overcome low in vivo bioavailability of curcumin. The aim of this work is to assess the potential utility of certain downstream targets as bioavailability indicators of systemic activity of pure curcumin and two novel water-soluble curcumin derivatives (NCD) by constructing dose-dependent response curves and to prove whether this novel curcumin derivatives retained, improved, or abolished biological activity of pure curcumin when applied in vivo. Pure curcumin (CUR), curcumin-carboxy derivative (NCD-1), and curcumin protein conjugate (NCD-2) were administered orally to rats at escalating doses: 37, 74, 148, and 296 μM/kg body weight, respectively. Plasma levels of GST activity, cavernous tissue levels of cGMP, and enzymatic activity of both HO-1 and GST were assessed one and half and 24 hours after oral administration of curcumin formulae. This study showed that there was a progressive elevation of cavernous tissue levels of cGMP and enzymatic activity of both HO-1 and GST in a dose-dependent manner that was maintained for 24 h with CUR, NCD-1, and NCD-2. Plasma GST activity was decreased by the lowest doses on the curve. The three dose-dependent bioavailability indicators as surrogates of curcumin and two of its novel derivatives are valid in the studied range of concentration and extended time. The novel curcumin derivatives still conserve with improvement the biological activity of natural curcumin when applied in vivo.

Proteomic investigation of response to FORL infection in tomato roots

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-lycopersici (FORL) leading to fusarium crown and root rot is considered one of the most destructive tomato soilborne diseases occurring in greenhouse and field crops. In this study, response to FORL infection in tomato roots was investigated by differential proteomics in susceptible (Monalbo) and resistant (Momor) isogenic tomato lines, thus leading to identify 33 proteins whose amount changed depending on the pathogen infection, and/or on the two genotypes. FORL infection induced accumulation of pathogen-related proteins (PR proteins) displaying glucanase and endochitinases activity or involved in redox processes in the Monalbo genotype. Interestingly, the level of the above mentioned PR proteins was not influenced by FORL infection in the resistant tomato line, while other proteins involved in general response mechanisms to biotic and/or abiotic stresses showed significant quantitative differences. In particular, the increased level of proteins participating to arginine metabolism and glutathione S-transferase (GST; EC 2.5.1.18) as well as that of protein LOC544002 and phosphoprotein ECPP44-like, suggested their key role in pathogen defence.

The role of ROS signaling in cross-tolerance: from model to crop

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are key signaling molecules produced in response to biotic and abiotic stresses that trigger a variety of plant defense responses. Cross-tolerance, the enhanced ability of a plant to tolerate multiple stresses, has been suggested to result partly from overlap between ROS signaling mechanisms. Cross-tolerance can manifest itself both as a positive genetic correlation between tolerance to different stresses (inherent cross-tolerance), and as the priming of systemic plant tolerance through previous exposure to another type of stress (induced cross-tolerance). Research in model organisms suggests that cross-tolerance could be used to benefit the agronomy and breeding of crop plants. However, research under field conditions has been scarce and critical issues including the timing, duration, and intensity of a stressor, as well as its interactions with other biotic and abiotic factors, remain to be addressed. Potential applications include the use of chemical stressors to screen for stress-resistant genotypes in breeding programs and the agronomic use of chemical inducers of plant defense for plant protection. Success of these applications will rely on improving our understanding of how ROS signals travel systemically and persist over time, and of how genetic correlations between resistance to ROS, biotic, and abiotic stresses are shaped by cooperative and antagonistic interactions within the underlying signaling pathways.

The thioredoxin antioxidant system

The thioredoxin (Trx) system, which is composed of NADPH, thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), and thioredoxin, is a key antioxidant system in defense against oxidative stress through its disulfide reductase activity regulating protein dithiol/disulfide balance. The Trx system provides the electrons to thiol-dependent peroxidases (peroxiredoxins) to remove reactive oxygen and nitrogen species with a fast reaction rate. Trx antioxidant functions are also shown by involvement in DNA and protein repair by reducing ribonucleotide reductase, methionine sulfoxide reductases, and regulating the activity of many redox-sensitive transcription factors. Moreover, Trx systems play critical roles in the immune response, virus infection, and cell death via interaction with thioredoxin-interacting protein. In mammalian cells, the cytosolic and mitochondrial Trx systems, in which TrxRs are high molecular weight selenoenzymes, together with the glutathione-glutaredoxin (Grx) system (NADPH, glutathione reductase, GSH, and Grx) control the cellular redox environment. Recently mammalian thioredoxin and glutathione systems have been found to be able to provide the electrons crossly and to serve as a backup system for each other. In contrast, bacteria TrxRs are low molecular weight enzymes with a structure and reaction mechanism distinct from mammalian TrxR. Many bacterial species possess specific thiol-dependent antioxidant systems, and the significance of the Trx system in the defense against oxidative stress is different. Particularly, the absence of a GSH-Grx system in some pathogenic bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and Staphylococcus aureus makes the bacterial Trx system essential for survival under oxidative stress. This provides an opportunity to kill these bacteria by targeting the TrxR-Trx system.

Nonstructural proteins of Torque teno sus virus 2 from O2AUG: prediction to experimental validation

The expression profiles of nonstructural proteins (NSPs) in Torque teno sus virus 2 (TTSuV2) have not yet been characterized. Here, we determined the coding sequences of the TTSuV2 NSPs ORF2, ORF2/2, and ORF2/2/3 by overlapping polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and subsequent expression in bacterial and mammalian cells. We generated two monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), 2E5 and 6F8, from mice immunized with mixed Escherichia coli expressing His-tagged ORF2 and ORF2/2. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and western blot analysis revealed that, 2E5 mAbs bound to the consensus sequences of ORF2, ORF2/2, and ORF2/2/3, while 6F8 recognized the common sequences of ORF2/2 and ORF2/2/3. Immunofluorescence assay (IFA) revealed that ORF2 was localized in the cytoplasm, ORF2/2, in the nucleus but not the nucleolus, and ORF2/2/3, in the peri-nuclear region. To identify the expression profiles of TTSuV NSPs, a circular TTSuV2_ZJ (GenBank: KF660540) genomic DNA clone was constructed and transfected into HEK293T and HeLa cells. Splicing mRNAs and the expression and localization of ORF2/2 and ORF2/2/3 were identified by RT-PCR, western blot analysis, and IFA, respectively. However, ORF2 was not detected either at the RNA or protein level. Our study is the first to provide experimental evidence of the existence of ORF2/2 and ORF2/2/3 at the protein level. Moreover, the mAbs have potential applications in future research on TTSuV2 viral protein function and diagnosis of related diseases.

Luteolin sensitizes the antiproliferative effect of interferon α/β by activation of Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription pathway signaling through protein kinase A-mediated inhibition of protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP-2 in cancer cells

New negative regulators of interferon (IFN) signaling, preferably with tissue specificity, are needed to develop therapeutic means to enhance the efficacy of type I IFNs (IFN-α/β) and reduce their side effects. We conducted cell-based screening for IFN signaling enhancer and discovered that luteolin, a natural flavonoid, sensitized the antiproliferative effect of IFN-α in hepatoma HepG2 cells and cervical carcinoma HeLa cells. Luteolin promoted IFN-β-induced Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway activation by enhancing the phosphorylation of Jak1, Tyk2, and STAT1/2, thereby promoting STAT1 accumulation in the nucleus and endogenous IFN-α-regulated gene expression. Of interest, inhibition of phosphodiesterase (PDE) abolished the effect of IFN-β and luteolin on STAT1 phosphorylation. Luteolin also increased the cAMP-degrading activity of PDE bound with type I interferon receptor 2 (IFNAR2) and decreased the intracellular cAMP level, indicating that luteolin may act on the JAK/STAT pathway via PDE. Protein kinase A (PKA) was found to negatively regulate IFN-β-induced JAK/STAT signaling, and its inhibitory effect was counteracted by luteolin. Pull-down and immunoprecipitation assays revealed that type II PKA interacted with IFNAR2 via the receptor for activated C-kinase 1 (RACK-1), and such interaction was inhibited by luteolin. Src homology domain 2 containing tyrosine phosphatase-2 (SHP-2) was further found to mediate the inhibitory effect of PKA on the JAK/STAT pathway. These data suggest that PKA/PDE-mediated cAMP signaling, integrated by RACK-1 to IFNAR2, may negatively regulate IFN signaling through SHP-2. Inhibition of this signaling may provide a new way to sensitize the efficacy of IFN-α/β.

Comparative gene expression analysis of Dtg, a novel target gene of Dpp signaling pathway in the early Drosophila melanogaster embryo

In the early Drosophila melanogaster embryo, Dpp, a secreted molecule that belongs to the TGF-β superfamily of growth factors, activates a set of downstream genes to subdivide the dorsal region into amnioserosa and dorsal epidermis. Here, we examined the expression pattern and transcriptional regulation of Dtg, a new target gene of Dpp signaling pathway that is required for proper amnioserosa differentiation. We showed that the expression of Dtg was controlled by Dpp and characterized a 524-bp enhancer that mediated expression in the dorsal midline, as well as, in the differentiated amnioserosa in transgenic reporter embryos. This enhancer contained a highly conserved region of 48-bp in which bioinformatic predictions and in vitro assays identified three Mad binding motifs. Mutational analysis revealed that these three motifs were necessary for proper expression of a reporter gene in transgenic embryos, suggesting that short and highly conserved genomic sequences may be indicative of functional regulatory regions in D. melanogaster genes. Dtg orthologs were not detected in basal lineages of Dipterans, which unlike D. melanogaster develop two extra-embryonic membranes, amnion and serosa, nevertheless Dtg orthologs were identified in the transcriptome of Musca domestica, in which dorsal ectoderm patterning leads to the formation of a single extra-embryonic membrane. These results suggest that Dtg was recruited as a new component of the network that controls dorsal ectoderm patterning in the lineage leading to higher Cyclorrhaphan flies, such as D. melanogaster and M. domestica.

SREBP-2 negatively regulates FXR-dependent transcription of FGF19 in human intestinal cells

Sterol regulatory element-binding protein-2 (SREBP-2) is a basic helix-loop-helix-leucine zipper transcription factor that positively regulates transcription of target genes involved in cholesterol metabolism. In the present study, we have investigated a possible involvement of SREBP-2 in human intestinal expression of fibroblast growth factor (FGF)19, which is an endocrine hormone involved in the regulation of lipid and glucose metabolism. Overexpression of constitutively active SREBP-2 decreased FGF19 mRNA levels in human colon-derived LS174T cells. In reporter assays, active SREBP-2 overexpression suppressed GW4064/FXR-mediated increase in reporter activities in regions containing the IR-1 motif (+848 to +5200) in the FGF19 gene. The suppressive effect disappeared in reporter activities in the region containing the IR-1 motif when the mutation was introduced into the IR-1 motif. In electrophoretic mobility shift assays, binding of the FXR/retinoid X receptor α heterodimer to the IR-1 motif was attenuated by adding active SREBP-2, but SREBP-2 binding to the IR-1 motif was not observed. In chromatin immunoprecipitation assays, specific binding of FXR to the IR-1-containing region of the FGF19 gene (+3214 to +3404) was increased in LS174T cells by treatment with cholesterol and 25-hydroxycholesterol. Specific binding of SREBP-2 to FXR was observed in glutathione-S-transferase (GST) pull-down assays. These results suggest that SREBP-2 negatively regulates the FXR-mediated transcriptional activation of the FGF19 gene in human intestinal cells.

N-terminus regulation of VMAT2 mediates methamphetamine-stimulated efflux

The 20 amino acid (AA) N-terminus of the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) was examined as a regulator of VMAT2 function. Removal of the first 16 or 19 AAs of the N-terminus resulted in a molecule with reduced ability to sequester [(3)H]-5HT. A glutathione-S-transferase-construct of the N-terminus underwent phosphorylation in the presence of PKC at serines 15 and 18. These putative phosphorylation sites were examined for effects on function. Phospho-mimetic substitution of serines 15 and 18 with aspartate in the full-length VMAT2 resulted in reduced [(3)H]-5HT sequestration and reduced methamphetamine (METH)-stimulated efflux of preloaded [(3)H]-5HT. In contrast, mutation of serines 15 and 18 to alanines maintained intact net substrate sequestration but eliminated METH-stimulated efflux of pre-accumulated [(3)H]-5HT. In summary, these data suggest a model in which the VMAT2 N-terminus regulates monoamine sequestration.

Nuclear import of cutaneous beta genus HPV8 E7 oncoprotein is mediated by hydrophobic interactions between its zinc-binding domain and FG nucleoporins

We have previously discovered and characterized the nuclear import pathways for the E7 oncoproteins of mucosal alpha genus HPVs, type 16 and 11. Here we investigated the nuclear import of cutaneous beta genus HPV8 E7 protein using confocal microscopy after transfections of HeLa cells with EGFP-8E7 and mutant plasmids and nuclear import assays in digitonin-permeabilized HeLa cells. We determined that HPV8 E7 contains a nuclear localization signal (NLS) within its zinc-binding domain that mediates its nuclear import. Furthermore, we discovered that a mostly hydrophobic patch 65LRLFV69 within the zinc-binding domain is essential for the nuclear import and localization of HPV8 E7 via hydrophobic interactions with the FG nucleoporins Nup62 and Nup153. Substitution of the hydrophobic residues within the 65LRLFV69 patch to alanines, and not R66A mutation, disrupt the interactions between the 8E7 zinc-binding domain and Nup62 and Nup153 and consequently inhibit nuclear import of HPV8 E7.

Modulation of mitochondrial functions by the indirect antioxidant sulforaphane: a seemingly contradictory dual role and an integrative hypothesis

The chemotherapeutic isothiocyanate sulforaphane (SFN) was early linked to anticarcinogenic and antiproliferative activities. Soon after, this compound, derived from cruciferous vegetables, became an excellent and useful trial for anti-cancer research in experimental models including growth tumor, metastasis, and angiogenesis. Many subsequent reports showed modifications in mitochondrial signaling, functionality, and integrity induced by SFN. When cytoprotective effects were found in toxic and ischemic insult models, seemingly contradictory behaviors of SFN were discovered: SFN was inducing deleterious changes in cancer cell mitochondria that eventually would carry the cell to death via apoptosis and also was protecting noncancer cell mitochondria against oxidative challenge, which prevented cell death. In both cases, SFN exhibited effects on mitochondrial redox balance and phase II enzyme expression, mitochondrial membrane potential, expression of the family of B cell lymphoma 2 homologs, regulation of proapoptotic proteins released from mitochondria, activation/inactivation of caspases, mitochondrial respiratory complex activities, oxygen consumption and bioenergetics, mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening, and modulation of some kinase pathways. With the ultimate findings related to the induction of mitochondrial biogenesis by SFN, it could be considered that SFN has effects on mitochondrial dynamics that explain some divergent points. In this review, we list the reports involving effects on mitochondrial modulation by SFN in anti-cancer models as well as in cytoprotective models against oxidative damage. We also attempt to integrate the data into a mechanism explaining the various effects of SFN on mitochondrial function in only one concept, taking into account mitochondrial biogenesis and dynamics and making a comparison with the theory of reactive oxygen species threshold of cell death. Our interest is to achieve a complete view of cancer and protective therapies based on SFN that can be extended to other chemotherapeutic compounds with similar characteristics. The work needed to test this hypothesis is quite extensive.

Impaired synthesis and antioxidant defense of glutathione in the cerebellum of autistic subjects: alterations in the activities and protein expression of glutathione-related enzymes

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder associated with social deficits and behavioral abnormalities. Recent evidence in autism suggests a deficit in glutathione (GSH), a major endogenous antioxidant. It is not known whether the synthesis, consumption, and/or regeneration of GSH is affected in autism. In the cerebellum tissues from autism (n=10) and age-matched control subjects (n=10), the activities of GSH-related enzymes glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), glutathione reductase (GR), and glutamate cysteine ligase (GCL) involved in antioxidant defense, detoxification, GSH regeneration, and synthesis, respectively, were analyzed. GCL is a rate-limiting enzyme for GSH synthesis, and the relationship between its activity and the protein expression of its catalytic subunit GCLC and its modulatory subunit GCLM was also compared between the autistic and the control groups. Results showed that the activities of GPx and GST were significantly decreased in autism compared to that of the control group (P<0.05). Although there was no significant difference in GR activity between autism and control groups, 40% of autistic subjects showed lower GR activity than 95% confidence interval (CI) of the control group. GCL activity was also significantly reduced by 38.7% in the autistic group compared to the control group (P=0.023), and 8 of 10 autistic subjects had values below 95% CI of the control group. The ratio of protein levels of GCLC to GCLM in the autism group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P=0.022), and GCLM protein levels were reduced by 37.3% in the autistic group compared to the control group. A positive strong correlation was observed between GCL activity and protein levels of GCLM (r=0.887) and GCLC (r=0.799) subunits in control subjects but not in autistic subjects, suggesting that regulation of GCL activity is affected in autism. These results suggest that enzymes involved in GSH homeostasis have impaired activities in the cerebellum in autism, and lower GCL activity in autism may be related to decreased protein expression of GCLM.

CYP345E2, an antenna-specific cytochrome P450 from the mountain pine beetle, Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins, catalyses the oxidation of pine host monoterpene volatiles

The mountain pine beetle (MPB, Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins) is a significant pest of western North American pine forests. This beetle responds to pheromones and host volatiles in order to mass attack and thus overcome the terpenoid chemical defences of its host. The ability of MPB antennae to rapidly process odorants is necessary to avoid odorant receptor saturation and thus the enzymes responsible for odorant clearance are an important aspect of host colonization. An antenna-specific cytochrome P450, DponCYP345E2, is the most highly expressed transcript in adult MPB antenna. In in vitro assays with recombinant enzyme, DponCYP345E2 used several pine host monoterpenes as substrates, including (+)-(3)-carene, (+)-β-pinene, (-)-β-pinene, (+)-limonene, (-)-limonene, (-)-camphene, (+)-α-pinene, (-)-α-pinene, and terpinolene. The substrates were epoxidized or hydroxylated, depending upon the substrate. To complement DponCYP345E2, we also functionally characterized the NADPH-dependent cytochrome P450 reductase and the cytochrome b5 from MPB. DponCYP345E2 is the first cytochrome P450 to be functionally characterized in insect olfaction and in MPB.

Interactions of betulinic acid with xenobiotic metabolizing and antioxidative enzymes in DMBA-treated Sprague Dawley female rats

Cancer chemoprevention is related to classical epidemiology and involves the use of agents that inhibit, delay, or reverse the carcinogenesis that occurs as a result of accumulation of mutations and increased proliferation. Betulinic acid is known for its cytotoxic effects against a panel of cancer cell lines. In the present study, interactions of betulinic acid (BA) with xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes including mixed function oxidases (cytochrome b5, P420, P450, NADPH cytochrome P450 reductase, and NADH cytochrome b5 reductase), phase II enzymes (GST, DT-diaphorase, γ-glutamyl transpeptidase), LDH, antioxidative enzymes (glutathione reductase, SOD, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, and guaiacol peroxidase), and lipid peroxidation are studied alone as well as in the presence of 7,12 dimethylbenzanthracene (DMBA)--a potent carcinogen using Sprague Dawley female rats. The effect of BA on reduced glutathione content and protein content is also taken into consideration. It has been found that administration of BA decreased the level of mixed function oxidases that are involved in the conversion of carcinogen to electrophile, elevated the level of phase II enzymes which participated in the removal of electrophiles by sulfation, conjugation etc. It has been found that BA effectively removed or neutralized the reactive species by the action of phase II enzymes and such an effect was reflected from the specific activities of antioxidative enzymes which were found to be lower as compared to positive control (DMBA-treated group) and in some cases even that of untreated control. BA was also found to have a pronounced effect in protecting the animals from lipid peroxidation as evident from the reduced levels of TBARS, conjugated diene, and lipid hydroperoxide formation. This study highlights the role of BA in modulating the activities of xenobiotic and antioxidative enzymes that have putative roles in cancer initiation and proliferation.

Eucommia ulmoides Oliv.: ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and pharmacology of an important traditional Chinese medicine

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. (Family Eucommiaceae), also known as Dù-zhòng (Chinese: ), Tuchong (in Japanese), is the sole species of the genus Eucommia. The leaf, stem, and bark as well as staminate flower of Eucommia ulmoides have been traditionally used to cure many diseases in China, Japan, Korea, among others. The aim of this review is to comprehensively outline the botanical description, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, biological activities, and toxicology of Eucommia ulmoides and to discuss possible trends for further study of Eucommia ulmoides.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information on Eucommia ulmoides was gathered via the internet (using Pub Med, Elsevier, Baidu Scholar, Google Scholar, Medline Plus, ACS, CNKI, and Web of Science) and from books in local libraries.

RESULTS

One-hundred twelve compounds of Eucommia ulmoides, including the main active constituents, lignans and iridoids, have been isolated and identified. In vitro and in vivo studies indicated that monomer compounds and extracts from Eucommia ulmoides possess wide-ranging pharmacological actions, especially in treating hypertension, hyperlipemia, diabetes, obesity, sexual dysfunction, osteoporosis, Alzheimer's disease, aging, lupus-like syndrome, and immunoregulation.

CONCLUSIONS

Eucommia ulmoides has been used as a source of traditional medicine and as a beneficial health food. Phytochemical and pharmacological studies of Eucommia ulmoides have received much interest, and extracts and active compounds continue to be isolated and proven to exert various effects. Further toxicity and clinical studies are warranted to establish more detailed data on crude extracts and pure compounds, enabling more convenient preparations for patients. Therefore, this review on the ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, biological activities, and toxicity of Eucommia ulmoides will provide helpful data for further studies as well as the commercial exploitation of this traditional medicine.

A novel upregulation of glutathione peroxidase 1 by knockout of liver-regenerating protein Reg3β aggravates acetaminophen-induced hepatic protein nitration

Murine regenerating islet-derived 3β (Reg3β) represents a homologue of human hepatocarcinoma-intestine-pancreas/pancreatic-associated protein and enhances mouse susceptibility to acetaminophen (APAP)-induced hepatotoxicity. Our objective was to determine if and how knockout of Reg3β (KO) affects APAP (300 mg/kg, ip)-mediated protein nitration in mouse liver. APAP injection produced greater levels of hepatic protein nitration in the KO than in the wild-type mice. Their elevated protein nitration was alleviated by a prior injection of recombinant mouse Reg3β protein and was associated with an accelerated depletion of the peroxynitrite (ONOO(-)) scavenger glutathione by an upregulated hepatic glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPX1) activity. The enhanced GPX1 production in the KO mice was mediated by an 85% rise (p<0.05) in the activity of selenocysteine lyase (Scly), a key enzyme that mobilizes Se for selenoprotein biosynthesis. Knockout of Reg3β enhanced AP-1 protein and its binding activity to the Scly gene promoter, upregulating its gene transcription. However, knockout of Reg3β did not affect gene expression of other key factors for selenoprotein biosynthesis. In conclusion, our findings unveil a new metabolic role for Reg3β in protein nitration and a new biosynthesis control of GPX1 by a completely "unrelated" regenerating protein, Reg3β, via transcriptional activation of Scly in coping with hepatic protein nitration. Linking selenoproteins to tissue regeneration will have profound implications in understanding the mechanism of Se functions and physiological coordination of tissue regeneration with intracellular redox control.

Free radical biology for medicine: learning from nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Reactive oxygen species, when released under controlled conditions and limited amounts, contribute to cellular proliferation, senescence, and survival by acting as signaling intermediates. In past decades there has been an epidemic diffusion of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) that represents the result of the impairment of lipid metabolism, redox imbalance, and insulin resistance in the liver. To date, most studies and reviews have been focused on the molecular mechanisms by which fatty liver progresses to steatohepatitis, but the processes leading toward the development of hepatic steatosis in NAFLD are not fully understood yet. Several nuclear receptors, such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) α/γ/δ, PPARγ coactivators 1α and 1β, sterol-regulatory element-binding proteins, AMP-activated protein kinase, liver-X-receptors, and farnesoid-X-receptor, play key roles in the regulation of lipid homeostasis during the pathogenesis of NAFLD. These nuclear receptors may act as redox sensors and may modulate various metabolic pathways in response to specific molecules that act as ligands. It is conceivable that a redox-dependent modulation of lipid metabolism, nuclear receptor-mediated, could cause the development of hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance. Thus, this network may represent a potential therapeutic target for the treatment and prevention of hepatic steatosis and its progression to steatohepatitis. This review summarizes the redox-dependent factors that contribute to metabolism alterations in fatty liver with a focus on the redox control of nuclear receptors in normal liver as well as in NAFLD.

Hepatitis B virus X protein co-activates pregnane X receptor to induce the cytochrome P450 3A4 enzyme, a potential implication in hepatocarcinogenesis

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis B virus X protein is a key regulator of hepatocarcinogenesis. The pregnane X receptor is a xenobiotic nuclear receptor that plays a role in the regulation of drug-metabolizing enzymes including the cytochrome P450 3A4, an enzyme important for the bioactivation of the liver carcinogen aflatoxin B1.

AIMS

To identify novel host factor that interacts with hepatitis B virus X protein and the functional interaction between hepatitis B virus X protein and pregnane X receptor in hepatocarcinogenesis.

METHODS

Co-immunoprecipitation, glutathione S-transferase pull-down, and chromatin immunoprecipitation were utilized to assess the interaction between hepatitis B virus X protein and pregnane X receptor. The functional relevance of hepatitis B virus X protein-pregnane X receptor interaction was investigated in cell cultures and hepatocellular carcinoma samples.

RESULTS

We observed that hepatitis B virus X protein and pregnane X receptor co-localize in hepatic cells. Pregnane X receptor interacted with hepatitis B virus X protein via the ligand-binding domain of pregnane X receptor. Functionally, hepatitis B virus X protein increased the transcriptional activity of pregnane X receptor. Pregnane X receptor was able to recruit hepatitis B virus X protein to the CYP3A4 gene promoter. In clinic samples, the expression of pregnane X receptor was high in hepatitis B virus-associated liver cirrhosis and stage I hepatocellular carcinoma, but low in state II and stage III hepatocellular carcinoma.

CONCLUSION

We revealed a novel function of hepatitis B virus X protein in co-activating pregnane X receptor. The increased expression of pregnane X receptor and its target gene CYP3A4 are potential biomarkers for the early stage of hepatitis B virus-associated hepatocarcinogenesis.

Do-it-yourself histidine-tagged bovine enterokinase: a handy member of the protein engineer's toolbox

Enterokinase, a two-chain duodenal serine protease, activates trypsinogen by removing its N-terminal propeptide. Due to a clean cut after the non-primed site recognition sequence, the enterokinase light chain is frequently employed in biotechnology to separate N-terminal affinity tags from target proteins with authentic N-termini. In order to obtain large quantities of this protease, we adapted an in vitro folding protocol for a pentahistidine-tagged triple mutant of the bovine enterokinase light chain. The purified, highly active enzyme successfully processed recombinant target proteins, while the pentahistidine-tag facilitated post-cleavage removal. Hence, we conclude that producing enterokinase in one's own laboratory is an efficient alternative to the commercial enzyme.

Up-down regulation of HO-1 and iNOS gene expressions by ethyl pyruvate via recruiting p300 to Nrf2 and depriving It from p65

Ethyl pyruvate (EP), a simple ester of pyruvic acid, has been shown to exert robust neuroprotection in various neuropathological conditions, such as, cerebral ischemia and KA-induced seizure animal models. The neuroprotective effect of EP is attributable to the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and anti-apoptotic effects. In the present study, we investigated convergence of anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative functions of EP and present a novel molecular mechanism underlying anti-inflammatory effects of EP, which is conveyed by p300, a transcriptional co-activator for both Nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and p65. In BV2 cells, a microglia cell line, EP induced translocation of Nrf2 from the cytosol to the nucleus and enhanced the expression of hemeoxygenase 1 (HO-1) in a dose-dependent manner and 1h incubation with 10mM EP increased HO-1 to 4.9-fold. Nrf2 was found to translocate from the cytosol to the nucleus beginning 30 min after EP-treatment and binds to the antioxidant response element (ARE) located on HO-1 promoter. Interestingly, LPS-induced inducible NO synthase (iNOS) induction was substantially suppressed in EP-pre-treated BV2 cells and it was reverted by Nrf2 knockdown. We found that EP-induced Nrf2 accumulation in the nucleus recruits p300, a transcriptional co-activator of both Nrf2 and p65, inhibiting p65-p300 interaction. Competition between Nrf2 and p65 for p300 binding was confirmed by glutathione S-transferase (GST) pull down assay and reporter gene analysis. These results demonstrate that EP induced nuclear translocation of Nrf2 which binds to ARE along with p300 and hampers iNOS expression via depleting p300 from p65. This is a novel anti-inflammatory mechanism conveyed by EP, which enhances protective effect by converging anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects and might be applicable to various Nrf2-activating agents, such as phytochemicals.

Nrf2/ARE-mediated antioxidant actions of pro-electrophilic drugs

Living cells maintain a balance between oxidation and reduction, and perturbations of this redox balance are thought to contribute to various diseases. Recent attempts to regulate redox state have focused on electrophiles (EPs), which activate potent cellular defense systems against oxidative stress. One example of this approach is exemplified by carnosic acid (CA) and carnosol (CS), compounds that are found in the herb rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis). Importantly, CA and CS themselves are not electrophilic, but in response to oxidation, become electrophilic, and then activate the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE (antioxidant-response element) transcription pathway to synthesize endogenous antioxidant "phase 2" enzymes. As a result of our efforts to develop these compounds as therapeutics for brain health, we have formulated two innovative criteria for drug development: the first concept is the use of pro-electrophilic drugs (PEDs) that are innocuous in and of themselves; and the second concept involves the use of compounds that are pathologically activated therapeutics (PATs);i.e., these small molecules are chemically converted to their active form by the very oxidative stress that they are designed to then combat. The chemical basis for PED and PAT drugs is embodied in the ortho- and para-hydroquinone electrophilic cores of the molecules, which are oxidized by the Cu(2+)/Cu(+) cycling system (or potentially by other transition metals). Importantly, this cycling pathway is under stringent regulation by the cell redox state. We propose that redox-dependent quinone formation is the predominant mechanism for formation of PED and PAT drugs from their precursor compounds. In fact, redox-dependent generation of the active form of drug from the "pro-form" distinguishes this therapeutic approach from traditional EPs such as curcumin, and results in a decrease in clinical side effects at therapeutic concentrations, e.g., lack of reaction with other thiols such as glutathione (GSH), which can result in lowering GSH and inducing oxidative stress in normal cells. We consider this pro-drug quality of PED/PAT compoundsto be a key factor for generating drugs to be used to combat neurodegenerative diseases that will be clinically tolerated. Given the contribution of oxidative stress to the pathology of multiple neurodegenerative diseases, the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE pathway represents a promising drug target for these PED/PAT agents.

Cytosolic functions of MORC2 in lipogenesis and adipogenesis

Microrchidia (MORC) family CW-type zinc finger 2 (MORC2) has been shown to be involved in several nuclear processes, including transcription modulation and DNA damage repair. However, its cytosolic function remains largely unknown. Here, we report an interaction between MORC2 and adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-citrate lyase (ACLY), an enzyme that catalyzes the formation of acetyl-coA and plays a central role in lipogenesis, cholesterogenesis, and histone acetylation. Furthermore, we demonstrate that MORC2 promotes ACLY activation in the cytosol of lipogenic breast cancer cells and plays an essential role in lipogenesis, adipogenesis and differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytic cells. Consistently, the expression of MORC2 is induced during the process of 3T3-L1 adipogenic differentiation and mouse mammary gland development at a stage of increased lipogenesis. This observation was accompanied by a high ACLY activity. Together, these results demonstrate a cytosolic function of MORC2 in lipogenesis, adipogenic differentiation, and lipid homeostasis by regulating the activity of ACLY.

Bicyclol upregulates transcription factor Nrf2, HO-1 expression and protects rat brains against focal ischemia

Oxidative damage plays a detrimental role in the pathophysiology of cerebral ischemia and may represent a therapeutic target. The transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) controls the coordinated expression of the important antioxidant and detoxification genes through a promotor sequence termed the antioxidant response element. Bicyclol has been proved to elicit a variety of biological effects through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. But the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. In this study, the role of bicyclol in cerebral ischemia and its potential mechanism were investigated.

METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to five groups: MCAO (middle cerebral artery occlusion), Vehicle (MCAO+0.5% sodium carboxymethylcellulose), By-L (Vehicle+bicyclol 50mg/kg), By-H (Vehicle+bicyclol 100mg/kg) and Sham operated groups. Bicyclol was administered intragastrically once a day for 3 consecutive days; after 1h of bicyclol pretreatment on the third day, rat ischemic stroke was induced by MCAO. Neurological deficit, infarct volume, and brain edema were detected at 24h after stroke. Western blot and RT-qPCR were used to measure the expression of Nrf2, HO-1 and SOD1. MDA was detected by the spectrophotometer.

RESULTS

Compared with MCAO group, By-H group significantly ameliorated neurological deficit, lessened the infarct volume and brain edema, increased the expression of Nrf2, HO-1 and SOD1 (P<0.05), and decreased the content of MDA (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Bicyclol protected the rat brain from ischemic damage caused by MCAO, and this effect may be through the upregulation of the transcription factor Nrf2 expression.

Cholinesterases and neurotoxicity as highly sensitive biomarkers for an organophosphate insecticide in a freshwater gastropod (Chilina gibbosa) with low sensitivity carboxylesterases

In the Upper Valley of Río Negro and Río Neuquén in Argentina, agriculture represents the second most important economic activity. Azinphos-methyl has been found in water from this region throughout the year at a maximum concentration of 22.48 μg L(-1) during the application period. Toxicological studies on local non-target species have been performed mostly on vertebrates, while mollusks, which could be more sensitive, have not been studied so far. This work aims to characterize cholinesterase (ChE) and carboxilesterase (CE) activities of Chilina gibbosa, a freshwater gastropod native to southern Argentina and Chile. These enzymes, together with neurotoxicity signals, are evaluated herein after as sensitive biomarkers of exposure to azinphos-methyl at environmentally relevant concentrations. Effects of azinphos-methyl on antioxidant defenses: glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) are also studied in order to complete a set of biomarkers with different sensitivity and specificity, to propose C. gibbosa as a sentinel species. The highest specific activity was obtained with acetylthiocholine as substrate, followed by propionylthiocholine (83% in comparison to acetylthiocholine) and butyrylthiocholine (19%).The lowest Km and the highest efficiency for ChE were obtained with acetylthiocholine. Regarding CEs activities, a higher efficiency was obtained with p-nitrophenyl butyrate than with p-nitrophenyl acetate. Eserine produced significant inhibition of ChE activity (81% with 0.001 mM and 98% with 1mM) while iso-OMPA did not produce any significant effect on ChE. Our results show that C. gibbosa ChE is very sensitive to azinphos-methyl (CI50 0.02 μg L(-1)) while CEs are inhibited at higher concentrations (CI50 1,000 μg L(-1)). CEs have been reported to be more sensitive to OPs than ChEs in most of the aquatic invertebrates protecting the organisms from neurotoxic effects. In contrast, C. gibbosa, has ChE which are much more sensitive to azinphos-methyl than CEs and shows marked signs of neurotoxicity. Regarding antioxidant defenses, GSH levels were significantly increased by 0.02 and 20 μg L(-1) azinphos-methyl (80 and 103%, respectively), CAT activity was increased 85% only at 0.02 μg L(-1) and SOD and GST did not show any significant response. Since ChE activity, neurotoxicity signs, GSH and CAT are sensitive biomarkers of acute exposure to azinphos-methyl at environmental concentrations C. gibbosa could be included as sentinel species in monitoring programs of pesticide hazard in regions of Argentina and Chile.

Biomarkers for the evaluation of population health status 16 years after the intervention of arsenic-contaminated groundwater in Xinjiang, China

The arsenicosis endemic area in the region of Kuitun and Chepaizi, Dzungaria district, Xinjiang, People Republic of China was the first identified arsenic endemic area in China where arsenic concentration of up to 850 μg/L in the groundwater was reported. An intervention was put in place in 1985 by government to provide an alternative water source at a centralized community level. Sixteen years on since the intervention, we evaluated the health status of 178 villagers from endemic and 179 villagers from control sites. Biomarkers in their urine, included arsenic, porphyrins and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured and the prevalence of skin lesions was also assessed. The average urinary arsenic (117 ± 8.3 μg/g of creatinine) from the endemic-villages was significantly higher (p<0.001) than that of the controls (73.6 ± 3.2 μg/g of creatinine) while no significant difference was found in urinary porphyrins and malondialdehyde concentrations in the overall studies subjects from these two areas. However when the urinary arsenic was higher than 150 μg/g of creatinine, MDA and porphyrins were higher in the endemic-villagers compared to the controls. Fifty-one out of 178 people from the arsenic endemic area showed skin lesions related to arsenicosis but these were absent among villagers from the control site. Of particular concern, skin lesions related to arsenicosis were observed in 4 out of 9 subjects 16 years of age or younger who were from different villages and born after the completion of water intervention. Although sporadic exposure and/or voluntary drinking contaminated water were thought to be a contributor of arsenicosis after the water intervention, the contribution from other dietary arsenic intakes remain unclear.

Usher protein functions in hair cells and photoreceptors

The 10 different genes associated with the deaf/blind disorder, Usher syndrome, encode a number of structurally and functionally distinct proteins, most expressed as multiple isoforms/protein variants. Functional characterization of these proteins suggests a role in stereocilia development in cochlear hair cells, likely owing to adhesive interactions in hair bundles. In mature hair cells, homodimers of the Usher cadherins, cadherin 23 and protocadherin 15, interact to form a structural fiber, the tip link, and the linkages that anchor the taller stereocilia's actin cytoskeleton core to the shorter adjacent stereocilia and the elusive mechanotransduction channels, explaining the deafness phenotype when these molecular interactions are perturbed. The conundrum is that photoreceptors lack a synonymous mechanotransduction apparatus, and so a common theory for Usher protein function in the two neurosensory cell types affected in Usher syndrome is lacking. Recent evidence linking photoreceptor cell dysfunction in the shaker 1 mouse model for Usher syndrome to light-induced protein translocation defects, combined with localization of an Usher protein interactome at the periciliary region of the photoreceptors suggests Usher proteins might regulate protein trafficking between the inner and outer segments of photoreceptors. A distinct Usher protein complex is trafficked to the ribbon synapses of hair cells, and synaptic defects have been reported in Usher mutants in both hair cells and photoreceptors. This review aims to clarify what is known about Usher protein function at the synaptic and apical poles of hair cells and photoreceptors and the prospects for identifying a unifying pathobiological mechanism to explain deaf/blindness in Usher syndrome.

NAC1, A POZ/BTB protein interacts with Parkin and may contribute to Parkinson's disease

Loss-of-function in the Parkin protein is thought to play a part in causing neuronal cell death in patients with Parkinson's disease. This study explores the effect of Parkin degradation, via the overexpression of nucleus accumbens 1 (NAC1), on cell viability. It was found that NAC1 and Parkin are co-localized within the cell and interact with one another, leading to a decrease in Parkin levels. Moreover, NAC1 down-regulates Parkin by presenting it for ubiquitin-dependent proteasome degradation, which causes a decrease in proteasomal activity in neuronal cells. Consequently, this decrease in proteasomal activity leads to an increase in the cells' susceptibility to proteasome inhibition-induced toxicity. It was also found that Parkin and NAC1 are key proteins found to be present mainly in the cytoplasm and are co-localized in neurons of Parkinson's disease patients. Interestingly, mutation in the POZ/BTB domain (Q23L) of NAC1 disrupts the co-localization and interaction of NAC1 with Parkin and it further abrogates the proteasome inhibition-induced toxicity. We further observed that co-transfection of the mutant form of NAC1 with Parkin reversed the proteasome activity and 20S proteasome protein levels. These results indicate a novel interaction between NAC1 and Parkin that leads to neuronal cell death, a main characteristic in Parkinson's disease.

NS1-binding protein abrogates the elevation of cell viability by the influenza A virus NS1 protein in association with CRKL

The influenza A virus non-structural protein 1 (NS1) is a multifunctional virulence factor consisting of an RNA binding domain and several Src-homology (SH) 2 and SH3 binding motifs, which promotes virus replication in the host cell and helps to evade antiviral immunity. NS1 modulates general host cell physiology in association with various cellular molecules including NS1-binding protein (NS1-BP) and signaling adapter protein CRK-like (CRKL), while the physiological role of NS1-BP during influenza A virus infection especially in association with NS1 remains unclear. In this study, we analyzed the intracellular association of NS1-BP, NS1 and CRKL to elucidate the physiological roles of these molecules in the host cell. In HEK293T cells, enforced expression of NS1 of A/Beijing (H1N1) and A/Indonesia (H5N1) significantly induced excessive phosphorylation of ERK and elevated cell viability, while the over-expression of NS1-BP and the abrogation of CRKL using siRNA abolished such survival effect of NS1. The pull-down assay using GST-fusion CRKL revealed the formation of intracellular complexes of NS1-BP, NS1 and CRKL. In addition, we identified that the N-terminus SH3 domain of CRKL was essential for binding to NS1-BP using GST-fusion CRKL-truncate mutants. This is the first report to elucidate the novel function of NS1-BP collaborating with viral protein NS1 in modulation of host cell physiology. In addition, an alternative role of adaptor protein CRKL in association with NS1 and NS1-BP during influenza A virus infection is demonstrated.

The mitochondrial uncoupler 2,4-dinitrophenol attenuates sodium nitroprusside-induced toxicity in Drosophila melanogaster: potential involvement of free radicals

The toxicity of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) (an inducer of oxidative/nitrosative stress) and the attenuation of SNP effects by 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP) (that induces mild uncoupling of respiration) were evaluated in the Drosophila melanogaster model system. Fly larvae were raised on food supplemented with 1.0 mM SNP, 0.5 or 1.25 mM DNP, or with mixtures 1.0 mM SNP plus 0.5 or 1.25 mM DNP. Food supplementation with SNP decreased larval viability and pupation height whereas supplementation with DNP substantially reversed these changes. Biochemical analyses of oxidative stress markers and activities of antioxidant and associated enzymes were carried out on 2-day-old flies emerged from control larvae and larvae fed on food supplemented with SNP, DNP, or SNP/DNP mixtures. Larval exposure to SNP lowered activities of aconitase, while the presence of DNP reduced the negative impact of SNP by raising aconitase activity back to near control levels. Larval treatment with SNP also elevated the contents of carbonyl protein, uric acid and low molecular mass thiols and produced higher activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione S-transferase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and thioredoxin reductase in adult flies. However, the presence of DNP in the food mixtures prevented SNP-induced changes in thioredoxin reductase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities, as well as uric acid and low-molecular-mass thiol content. The potential mechanisms by which DNP exerts protective effects against SNP toxicity are discussed.

Isohydric and anisohydric strategies of wheat genotypes under osmotic stress: biosynthesis and function of ABA in stress responses

Changes in water potential (ψw), stomatal conductance, abscisic acid (ABA) accumulation, expression of the major genes involved in ABA biosynthesis, activities of abscisic aldehyde oxidase (AO, EC 1.2.3.1) and antioxidant enzymes were studied in two wheat cultivars with contrasting acclimation strategies subjected to medium strength osmotic stress (-0.976MPa) induced by polyethylene glycol (PEG 6000). Because the biosynthetic pathway of ABA involves multiple gene products, the aim of this study was to unravel how these genes are regulated in isohydric and anisohydric wheat genotypes. In the root tissues of the isohydric cultivar, Triticum aestivum cv. Kobomugi, osmotic stress increased the transcript levels of 9-cis-epoxycarotenoid dioxygenase (NCED) gene, controlling the rate limiting step of ABA biosynthesis. Moreover, this cultivar exhibited a higher basal activity and a higher induction of aldehyde oxidase isoenzymes (AAO2-AAO3), responsible for converting ABAldehyde to ABA. It was found that the fast activation of the ABA biosynthesis in the roots generated an enhanced ABA pool in the shoot, which brought about a faster closure of the stomata upon increasing osmotic stress and, as a result, the plants could maintain ψw in the tissues close to the control level. In contrast, the anisohydric genotype, cv. GK Öthalom, exhibited a moderate induction of ABA biosynthesis in the roots, leading to the maintenance but no increase in the concentration of ABA on the basis of tissue water content in the leaves. Due to the slower response of their stomata to water deficit, the tissues of cv. GK Öthalom have to acclimate to much more negative water potentials during increasing osmotic stress. A decreased activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was found in the leaves and roots of both cultivars exposed to osmotic stress, but in the roots elevated activities of catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POX), glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione transferase (GST) were detected in the isohydric cultivar, suggesting that this genotype was more successful in the elimination of reactive oxygen species caused by the stress conditions.

Dyrk1A-mediated phosphorylation of RCAN1 promotes the formation of insoluble RCAN1 aggregates

The mechanisms underlying aggregate formation in age-related neurodegenerative diseases remain not well understood. Here we investigated whether dual-specificity tyrosine-(Y)-phosphorylation-regulated kinase 1A (Dyrk1A) is involved in the formation of regulator of calcineurin 1 (RCAN1) aggregates. We show that RCAN1 self-associates and forms multimers, and that this process is promoted by the Dyrk1A-mediated phosphorylation of RCAN1 at the Thr(192) residue. Transgenic mice that overexpress the Dyrk1A exhibited lower levels of phospho-Thr(192)-RCAN1 in 10-month-old-group compared to littermate controls, when analyzed with soluble hippocampus lysates. These results suggest that the phosphorylation of RCAN1 by Dyrk1A stimulates the formation of insoluble aggregates upon aging.

Coordination of MYH DNA glycosylase and APE1 endonuclease activities via physical interactions

MutY homologue (MYH) is a DNA glycosylase which excises adenine paired with the oxidative lesion 7,8-dihydro-8-oxoguanine (8-oxoG, or G(o)) during base excision repair (BER). Base excision by MYH results in an apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) site in the DNA where the DNA sugar-phosphate backbone remains intact. A key feature of MYH activity is its physical interaction and coordination with AP endonuclease I (APE1), which subsequently nicks DNA 5' to the AP site. Because AP sites are mutagenic and cytotoxic, they must be processed by APE1 immediately after the action of MYH glycosylase. Our recent reports show that the interdomain connector (IDC) of human MYH (hMYH) maintains interactions with hAPE1 and the human checkpoint clamp Rad9-Rad1-Hus1 (9-1-1) complex. In this study, we used NMR chemical shift perturbation experiments to determine hMYH-binding site on hAPE1. Chemical shift perturbations indicate that the hMYH IDC peptide binds to the DNA-binding site of hAPE1 and an additional site which is distal to the APE1 DNA-binding interface. In these two binding sites, N212 and Q137 of hAPE1 are key mediators of the MYH/APE1 interaction. Intriguingly, despite the fact that hHus1 and hAPE1 both interact with the MYH IDC, hHus1 does not compete with hAPE1 for binding to hMYH. Rather, hHus1 stabilizes the hMYH/hAPE1 complex both in vitro and in cells. This is consistent with a common theme in BER, namely that the assembly of protein-DNA complexes enhances repair by efficiently coordinating multiple enzymatic steps while simultaneously minimizing the release of harmful repair intermediates.

A bioactive probe for glutathione-dependent antioxidant capacity in breast cancer patients: implications in measuring biological effects of arsenic compounds

INTRODUCTION

Glutathione, a major cellular non-protein thiol (NPSH), serves a central role in repairing damage induced by cancer drugs, pollutants and radiation and in the detoxification of several cancer chemotherapeutic drugs and toxins. Current methods measure glutathione levels only, which require cellular extraction, rather than the glutathione recycling dependent antioxidant activity in intact cells. Here, we present a novel method using a bioactive probe of the oxidative pentose phosphate cycle, termed the OxPhos™ test, to quantify glutathione recycling dependent antioxidant activity in whole blood and intact human and rodent cells without the need for the isolation and cytoplasm extraction of cells.

METHODS

OxPhos™ test kit (Rockland Immunochemicals, USA), which uses hydroxyethyldisulfide (HEDS) as a probe for the oxidative pentose phosphate cycle, was used in these studies. The results with OxPhos™ test kit in human blood and intact cells were compared with total thiol and high pressure liquid chromatography/electrochemical detection of HEDS metabolism.

RESULTS

The OxPhos™ test measured glutathione-dependent antioxidant activity both in intact human and rodent cells and breast cancer patient's blood with a better correlation coefficient and biological variability than the thiol assay. Additionally, human blood and mammalian cells treated with various arsenicals showed a concentration-dependent decrease in activity.

DISCUSSION

The results demonstrate the application of this test for measuring the antioxidant capacity of blood and the effects of environmental pollutants/toxins. It opens up new avenues for an easy and reliable assessment of glutathione-dependent antioxidant capacity in various diseases such as stroke, blood borne diseases, infection, cardiovascular disease and other oxidative stress related diseases and as a prognostic indicator of chemotherapy response and toxicity. The use of this approach in pharmacology/toxicology including screening drugs that improve the glutathione-dependent antioxidant capacity and not just the glutathione level is clinically relevant since mammalian cells require glutathione dependent pathways for antioxidant activity.

Is green tea a potential trigger for autoimmune hepatitis?

A case of autoimmune liver hepatitis is reported: the onset was triggered by consumption of green tea infusion in a patient taking oral contraceptives and irbesartan. We hypothesize that our patient, carrying genetic variant of hepatic metabolism making her particularly susceptible to oxidative stress, developed an abnormal response to a mild toxic insult, afforded by a combination of agents (oral contraceptives+irbesartan+green tea) that normally would not be able to cause damage. Her particular hepatic metabolism further increased the drugs' concentration, favoring the haptenization of liver proteins, eventually leading to the development of an autoimmune hepatitis.