Genetic polymorphism and function of glutathione S-transferases in tumor drug resistance

Metabolism and Bioactivation of Fluorochloridone, a Novel Selective Herbicide, in Vivo and in Vitro

Fluorochloridone (FLC) is a herbicide used worldwide that is thought to be safe. However, due to its potential genotoxicity, cytotoxicity, and even systematic toxicity, there are increasing concerns about human exposure to this compound. Thus, the metabolism and bioactivation of FLC was investigated. After oral administration to mice, 27 metabolites were identified by ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-quadrupole time-of-flight-mass spectrometry and with further structural identification by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Hydroxylation and oxidative dechlorination were the major phase I pathways, while glutathione (GSH) and N-acetylcysteine conjugations were two major phase II pathways, indicating the formation of a reactive intermediate. In vitro microsomal and cytosolic studies revealed that a GSH conjugate (M13) was the predominant metabolite of FLC formed through a nucleophilic SN2 substitution of 3-Cl by GSH; this pathway is NADPH independent and accelerated by glutathione S-transferase (GST). Further, a kinetic study showed that M13 formation in both human liver microsomes and cytosols obeyed typical Michaelis-Menten kinetics. The maximum clearance (Vmax/Km) of GSH conjugation in human liver microsomes was approximately 5.5-fold higher than human liver cytosol, thus implying that microsomal GST was mainly responsible for M13 formation. These findings are important for understanding the potential hazard of human exposure to FLC.

The pharmacogenomics of osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma (OS), the most common malignant tumor of bone, is presently treated with multidrug neoadjuvant chemotherapy protocols, which allow to cure 60-65% of patients but also induce toxicity events that cannot be predicted or efficiently prevented. The identification and validation of pharmacogenomic biomarkers is, therefore, absolutely warranted to provide the bases for planning personalized treatments with the aim to increase the therapeutic benefits and to avoid or limit unnecessary toxicities. As several targeted therapies against molecular and immunological markers in OS are presently under clinical investigation, it may be speculated that some new agents for innovative treatments may emerge in the next years. However, the real improvement of therapeutic perspectives for OS is strictly connected to the identification of pharmacogenomic biomarkers that may stratify patients in responders or non-responders and identify those individuals with higher susceptibility to treatment-associated toxicity. This review provides an overview of the pharmacogenomic biomarkers identified so far in OS, which appear to be promising candidates for a translation to clinical practice, after further investigation and/or prospective validation.

Association of GSTT1 and GSTM1 gene polymorphisms with coronary artery disease in North Indian Punjabi population: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Glutathione S-transferases are metabolic enzymes which are responsible for detoxification of endogenous (products of oxidative stress) as well as exogenous (drugs, pesticides, herbicides, environmental pollutants and carcinogens) products. Dysfunctional detoxification enzymes are responsible for the production of oxidative stress; a major contributor to the development of coronary artery disease (CAD).

OBJECTIVES

The present case-control study aimed to investigate the association of GSTT1 and GSTM1 gene polymorphisms with CAD.

METHODS

In the present study, 200 patients diagnosed with CAD and 200 age, sex and population subgroup matched healthy controls were enrolled. The GSTT1 and GSTM1 gene polymorphisms were examined using multiplex PCR.

RESULTS

The frequency of GSTT1 null genotype was significantly (p=0.038) lower in patients with CAD (6.00%) than in controls (12.50%). The GSTT1 null genotype showed protection against CAD (OR=0.45, 95% CI 0.22 to 0.92, p=0.028). The frequency of GSTM1 null genotype was significantly (p=0.004) higher in patients (31%) compared with controls (18%). The GSTM1 null genotype conferred twofold increased risk of developing CAD (OR=2.05, 95% CI 1.28 to 3.27, p=0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

The results concluded that the GSTT1 null genotype showed protection against CAD while the GSTM1 null genotype might be involved in the pathogenesis and development of CAD.

GSTM1 Gene Polymorphism is Implicated in Increased Susceptibility to Prostate Cancer in Caucasians and Asians

Published reports on the relationship between GSTM1 gene polymorphisms and prostate cancer risk are heterogeneous in their conclusions, and the significance of these polymorphisms is still debated. This meta-analysis was performed to attempt to combine comparable studies, thereby increasing sample size and statistical significance in order to obtain a better evaluation of the association between GSTM1 polymorphisms and prostate cancer risk. The association investigations were identified from PubMed, Cochrane Library, and China Biological Medicine Database on March 1, 2014. Forty-three reports were recruited into this meta-analysis that contained data from 6741 patients and 9053 controls. There was a marked association between the GSTM1 null genotype and prostate cancer risk in the overall population (odds ratio = 1.39, 95% confidence interval: 1.21-1.60, P <00001), caucasians (odds ratio = 1.48, 95% confidence interval: 1.23-1.79, P <0001) and Asians (odds ratio = 1.62, 95% confidence interval: 1.16-2.27, P = .005). However, the GSTM1 null genotype was not associated with prostate cancer risk in Africans (odds ratio = 0.77, 95% confidence interval: 0.53-1.13, P = 0.19) and African Americans (odds ratio = 1.00, 95% confidence interval: 0.69-1.45, P = 0.99). In conclusion, GSTM1 null genotype was a risk factor to predict the prostate cancer risk in the overall population, Caucasians, and Asians. Although compelling, limitations inherent to meta-analysis, study design of the individual studies, and most importantly, possible gene-gene and gene-environment interactions, as well as the potential involvement of glutathione S-transferases in multiple cellular processes make drawing definite conclusions difficult.

Expression Profile of Genes Related to Drug Metabolism in Human Brain Tumors

BACKGROUND

Endogenous and exogenous compounds as well as carcinogens are metabolized and detoxified by phase I and II enzymes, the activity of which could be crucial to the inactivation and hence susceptibility to carcinogenic factors. The expression of these enzymes in human brain tumor tissue has not been investigated sufficiently. We studied the association between tumor pathology and the expression profile of seven phase I and II drug metabolizing genes (CYP1A1, CYP1B1, ALDH3A1, AOX1, GSTP1, GSTT1 and GSTM3) and some of their proteins.

METHODS

Using qRT-PCR and western blotting analysis the gene and protein expression in a cohort of 77 tumors were investigated. The major tumor subtypes were meningioma, astrocytoma and brain metastases, -the later all adenocarcinomas from a lung primary.

RESULTS

Meningeal tumors showed higher expression levels for AOX1, CYP1B1, GSTM3 and GSTP1. For AOX1, GSTM and GSTP1 this could be verified on a protein level as well. A negative correlation between the WHO degree of malignancy and the strength of expression was identified on both transcriptional and translational level for AOX1, GSTM3 and GSTP1, although the results could have been biased by the prevalence of meningiomas and glioblastomas in the inevitably bipolar distribution of the WHO grades. A correlation between the gene expression and the protein product was observed for AOX1, GSTP1 and GSTM3 in astrocytomas.

CONCLUSIONS

The various CNS tumors show different patterns of drug metabolizing gene expression. Our results suggest that the most important factor governing the expression of these enzymes is the histological subtype and to a far lesser extent the degree of malignancy itself.

Phosphorylation of Glutathione S-Transferase P1 (GSTP1) by Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Promotes Formation of the GSTP1-c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) Complex and Suppresses JNK Downstream Signaling and Apoptosis in Brain Tumor Cells

Under normal physiologic conditions, the glutathione S-transferase P1 (GSTP1) protein exists intracellularly as a dimer in reversible equilibrium with its monomeric subunits. In the latter form, GSTP1 binds to the mitogen-activated protein kinase, JNK, and inhibits JNK downstream signaling. In tumor cells, which frequently are characterized by constitutively high GSTP1 expression, GSTP1 undergoes phosphorylation by epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) at tyrosine residues 3, 7, and 198. Here we report on the effect of this EGFR-dependent GSTP1 tyrosine phosphorylation on the interaction of GSTP1 with JNK, on the regulation of JNK downstream signaling by GSTP1, and on tumor cell survival. Using in vitro and in vivo growing human brain tumors, we show that tyrosine phosphorylation shifts the GSTP1 dimer-monomer equilibrium to the monomeric state and facilitates the formation of the GSTP1-JNK complex, in which JNK is functionally inhibited. Targeted mutagenesis and functional analysis demonstrated that the increased GSTP1 binding to JNK results from phosphorylation of the GSTP1 C-terminal Tyr-198 by EGFR and is associated with a >2.5-fold decrease in JNK downstream signaling and a significant suppression of both spontaneous and drug-induced apoptosis in the tumor cells. The findings define a novel mechanism of regulatory control of JNK signaling that is mediated by the EGFR/GSTP1 cross-talk and provides a survival advantage for tumors with activated EGFR and high GSTP1 expression. The results lay the foundation for a novel strategy of dual EGFR/GSTP1 for treating EGFR+ve, GSTP1 expressing GBMs.

Role of pharmacogenetics of drug-metabolizing enzymes in treating osteosarcoma

INTRODUCTION

Drug-metabolizing enzymes (DMEs) biotransform several toxins and xenobiotics in both tumor and normal cells, resulting in either their detoxification or their activation. Since DMEs also metabolize several chemotherapeutic drugs, they can significantly influence tumor response to chemotherapy and susceptibility of normal tissues to collateral toxicity of anticancer treatments.

AREAS COVERED

This review discusses the pharmacogenetics of DMEs involved in the metabolism of drugs which constitute the backbone of osteosarcoma (OS) chemotherapy, highlighting what is presently known for this tumor and their possible impact on the modulation of future treatment approaches.

EXPERT OPINION

Achieving further insight into pharmacogenetic markers and biological determinants related to treatment response in OS may ultimately lead to individualized treatment regimens, based on a combination of genotype and tumor characteristics of each patient.

Glutathione-S-Transferase Deletions and Non-arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy

In this study, we aimed at investigating the association between glutathione-S-transferase (GSTM1 and GSTT1) deletion genotypes and susceptibility to non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). We hope our findings may contribute to the understanding NAION pathogenesis and provide some clues for the prevention and treatment of optic diseases. The NAION group contains 113 subjects (33 males and 80 females, mean age 55.3 ± 9.8). And 98 subjects were enrolled in the control group (32 males and 66 females, mean age 56.7 ± 10.2). The individuals involved in the study were matched by gender and age to obtain two homogenous groups. GSTM1- and GSTT1- genotype and the combined genotype were investigated. The genotype distributions in NAION patients were compared with those in the controls. Significantly altered intraocular pressure (IOP) and cup-to-disc ratio (CDR) was detected between NAION patients and controls. An increased risk of NAION was observed among individuals with GSTM1- (P < 0.001). No significant difference was confirmed for GSTT1- (P = 0.290). Individuals with GSTM1-/GSTT1- have a higher susceptibility to NAION (P < 0.001); the GSTM1-/GSTT1+ genotype also had a significantly higher frequency in patients than in controls (P = 0.004). But the genotype of GSTM1+/GSTT1- seems to have no connection with NAION (P = 0.476). In conclusion, in this study, we confirmed the connection between NAION and GSTM1- genotype. But no significant association was observed between GSTT1- genotype and NAION susceptibility. In further analysis regarding combined genotype, a trend of protective effect was detected for GSTT1+ genotype. It is indicated by our result that oxidative compounds might play an important part in the pathogenesis of NAION.

The activation of the Nrf2/ARE pathway in HepG2 hepatoma cells by phytochemicals and subsequent modulation of phase II and antioxidant enzyme expression

Previous studies have shown that naturally occurring phytochemicals, indole-3-carbinol, phenethyl isothiocyanate, protocatechuic acid, and tannic acid increased the activity and protein level of hepatic phase II enzymes in animal models. In order to further explore the mechanism of this activity, we investigated the effect of these compounds on the activation of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-regulated transcription in human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells. Treatment with all the tested compounds resulted in the translocation from the cytosol and nuclear accumulation of active phosphorylated Nrf2. Furthermore, phenethyl isothiocyanate and indole-3-carbinol increased the transcript and protein levels of GSTA, GSTP, GSTM, GSTT, and NQO1. On the other hand, protocatechuic and tannic acids enhanced only the expression of GSTA, GSTM, and GSTT. The expression of genes encoding antioxidant enzymes CAT, SOD, GR, and GPx was increased after the treatment with all the tested phytochemicals. These results indicate that isothiocyanates/indoles and protocatechuic and tannic acids induce phase II and antioxidant gene expression in HepG2 cells through the Nrf2-Keap1-ARE signaling pathway. Moreover, the results of this study confirmed that the degradation products of glucosinolates are more effective inducers of phase II and antioxidant enzymes than protocatechuic and tannic acids.

Thiopurines induce oxidative stress in T-lymphocytes: a proteomic approach

Thiopurines are extensively used immunosuppressants for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The polymorphism of thiopurine S-methyltransferase (TPMT) influences thiopurine metabolism and therapy outcome. We used a TPMT knockdown (kd) model of human Jurkat T-lymphocytes cells to study the effects of treatment with 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP) and 6-thioguanine (6-TG) on proteome and phosphoproteome. We identified thirteen proteins with altered expression and nine proteins with altered phosphorylation signals. Three proteins (THIO, TXD17, and GSTM3) with putative functions in cellular oxidative stress responses were altered by 6-TG treatment and another protein PRDX3 was differentially phosphorylated in TPMT kd cells. Furthermore, reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay results were consistent with a significant induction of oxidative stress by both TPMT knockdown and thiopurine treatments. Immunoblot analyses showed treatment altered expression of key antioxidant enzymes (i.e., SOD2 and catalase) in both wt and kd groups, while SOD1 was downregulated by 6-TG treatment and TPMT knockdown. Collectively, increased oxidative stress might be a mechanism involved in thiopurine induced cytotoxicity and adverse effects (i.e., hepatotoxicity) and an antioxidant cotherapy might help to combat this. Results highlight the significance of oxidative stress in thiopurines' actions and could have important implications for the treatment of IBD patients.

GSTM1 Null Genotype and GSTP1 Ile105Val Polymorphism Are Associated with Alzheimer's Disease: a Meta-Analysis

Published studies on the associations between glutathione S-transferase (GST) polymorphisms and Alzheimer's disease reported controversial findings. A meta-analysis of published studies was performed to assess the associations between polymorphisms of GSTM1, GSTT1 and GSTP1, and Alzheimer's disease. PubMed, Embase, and other databases were searched for case-control on the associations between polymorphisms of GSTM1, GSTT1 and GSTP1, and Alzheimer's disease. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were used to assess the associations. Eleven articles were finally included into the meta-analysis, including eight studies on GSTM1 null genotype, six studies on GSTT1 null genotype, and six studies on GSTP1 Ile105Val polymorphism. Overall, GSTM1 null genotype was associated with increased risk of Alzheimer's disease (fixed effect OR = 1.34, 95% CI 1.10-1.64, P = 0.004). GSTT1 null genotype was not associated with risk of Alzheimer's disease (random effect OR = 1.15, 95% CI 0.68-1.92, P = 0.60). Besides, GSTP1 Ile105Val polymorphism was significantly associated with increased risk of Alzheimer's disease (Val vs Ile: OR = 1.45, 95% CI 1.05-1.99, P = 0.023; ValVal vs IleIle: OR = 1.87, 95% CI 1.30-2.69, P = 0.001; ValVal vs IleIle + IleVal: OR = 1.76, 95% CI 1.24-2.51, P = 0.002). No obvious risk of publication bias was observed in the meta-analysis. GSTM1 null genotype and GSTP1 Ile105Val polymorphism are associated with increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. More studies with large sample size are needed to validate the findings in the meta-analysis.

Novel isatin derivatives of podophyllotoxin: synthesis and cytotoxic evaluation against human leukaemia cancer cells as potent anti-MDR agents

Compound8cexhibited cytotoxicity at nanomolar range; induced G2/M cell cycle arrest accompanied by apoptosis and down-regulated the levels of Pgp, MRP-1 and GST-π.

Piperlongumine selectively kills cancer cells and increases cisplatin antitumor activity in head and neck cancer

Adaptation to cellular stress is not a vital function of normal cells but is required of cancer cells, and as such might be a sensible target in cancer therapy. Piperlongumine is a naturally occurring small molecule selectively toxic to cancer cells. This study assesses the cytotoxicity of piperlongumine and its combination with cisplatin in head-and-neck cancer (HNC) cells in vitro and in vivo. The effect of piperlongumine, alone and in combination with cisplatin, was assessed in human HNC cells and normal cells by measuring growth, death, cell cycle progression, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and protein expression, and in tumor xenograft mouse models. Piperlongumine killed HNC cells regardless of p53 mutational status but spared normal cells. It increased ROS accumulation in HNC cells, an effect that can be blocked by the antioxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine. Piperlongumine induced selective cell death in HNC cells by targeting the stress response to ROS, leading to the induction of death pathways involving JNK and PARP. Piperlongumine increased cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity in HNC cells in a synergistic manner in vitro and in vivo. Piperlongumine might be a promising small molecule with which to selectively kill HNC cells and increase cisplatin antitumor activity by targeting the oxidative stress response.

Genetic polymorphisms in Glutathione S-transferase Omega (GSTO) and cancer risk: a meta-analysis of 20 studies

Glutathione S-transferase Omega (GSTO) plays an important role in the development of cancer. Recently, a number of studies have investigated the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms on GSTO and susceptibility to cancer; however, the results remain inconclusive. We performed a meta-analysis of 20 studies, involving 4770 cases and 5701 controls to identify the strength of association by pooled odds ratios (ORs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Overall, the pooled results revealed a significantly increased risk of susceptibility for GSTO2 polymorphism (GG vs. AA: OR = 1.20, 95%CI: 1.02-1.41, Pheterogeneity = 0.116), but no significant association was found for GSTO1 polymorphism. Subgroup analysis showed that GSTO2 polymorphism significantly increased cancer risk in Caucasian population (GG vs. AA: OR = 1.32, 95%CI 1.06-1.64, Pheterogeneity = 0.616) and GSTO2 polymorphism was significantly associated with elevated risk of breast cancer (GG vs. AA OR = 1.37, 95%CI: 1.06-1.77; Pheterogeneity = 0.281). This meta-analysis demonstrates that GSTO2 polymorphism may significantly increase cancer risk in Caucasian population and is associated with elevated risk of breast cancer; while GSTO1 polymorphism is not associated with cancer risk.

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) hyperactivation and enhanced NRAS expression drive acquired vemurafenib resistance in V600E BRAF melanoma cells

Although targeting the V600E activating mutation in the BRAF gene, the most common genetic abnormality in melanoma, has shown clinical efficacy in melanoma patients, response is, invariably, short lived. To better understand mechanisms underlying this acquisition of resistance to BRAF-targeted therapy in previously responsive melanomas, we induced vemurafenib resistance in two V600E BRAF+ve melanoma cell lines, A375 and DM443, by serial in vitro vemurafenib exposure. The resulting approximately 10-fold more vemurafenib-resistant cell lines, A375rVem and D443rVem, had higher growth rates and showed differential collateral resistance to cisplatin, melphalan, and temozolomide. The acquisition of vemurafenib resistance was associated with significantly increased NRAS levels in A375rVem and D443rVem, increased activation of the prosurvival protein, AKT, and the MAPKs, ERK, JNK, and P38, which correlated with decreased levels of the MAPK inhibitor protein, GSTP1. Despite the increased NRAS, whole exome sequencing showed no NRAS gene mutations. Inhibition of all three MAPKs and siRNA-mediated NRAS suppression both reversed vemurafenib resistance significantly in A375rVem and DM443rVem. Together, the results indicate a mechanism of acquired vemurafenib resistance in V600E BRAF+ve melanoma cells that involves increased activation of all three human MAPKs and the PI3K pathway, as well as increased NRAS expression, which, contrary to previous reports, was not associated with mutations in the NRAS gene. The data highlight the complexity of the acquired vemurafenib resistance phenotype and the challenge of optimizing BRAF-targeted therapy in this disease. They also suggest that targeting the MAPKs and/or NRAS may provide a strategy to mitigate such resistance in V600E BRAF+ve melanoma.

Cytoprotective and regulatory functions of glutathione S-transferases in cancer cell proliferation and cell death

PURPOSE

Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) family of enzymes is best known for their cytoprotective role and their involvement in the development of anticancer drug resistance. Recently, emergence of non-detoxifying properties of GSTs has provided them with significant biological importance. Addressing the complex interactions of GSTs with regulatory kinases will help in understanding its precise role in tumor pathophysiology and in designing GST-centered anticancer strategies.

METHODS

We reviewed all published literature addressing the detoxification and regulatory roles of GSTs in the altered biology of cancer and evaluating novel agents targeting GSTs for cancer therapy.

RESULTS

The role of GSTs, especially glutathione S-transferase P1 isoform in tumoral drug resistance, has been the cause of intense debate. GSTs have been demonstrated to interact with different protein partners and modulate signaling pathways that control cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. These specific functions of GSTs could lead to the development of new therapeutic approaches and to the identification of some interesting candidates for preclinical and clinical development. This review focuses on the crucial role played by GSTs in the development of resistance to anticancer agents and the major findings regarding the different modes of action of GSTs to regulate cell signaling.

Pharmacogenetics research on chemotherapy resistance in colorectal cancer over the last 20 years

During the past two decades the first sequencing of the human genome was performed showing its high degree of inter-individual differentiation, as a result of large international research projects (Human Genome Project, the 1000 Genomes Project International HapMap Project, and Programs for Genomic Applications NHLBI-PGA). This period was also a time of intensive development of molecular biology techniques and enormous knowledge growth in the biology of cancer. For clinical use in the treatment of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC), in addition to fluoropyrimidines, another two new cytostatic drugs were allowed: irinotecan and oxaliplatin. Intensive research into new treatment regimens and a new generation of drugs used in targeted therapy has also been conducted. The last 20 years was a time of numerous in vitro and in vivo studies on the molecular basis of drug resistance. One of the most important factors limiting the effectiveness of chemotherapy is the primary and secondary resistance of cancer cells. Understanding the genetic factors and mechanisms that contribute to the lack of or low sensitivity of tumour tissue to cytostatics is a key element in the currently developing trend of personalized medicine. Scientists hope to increase the percentage of positive treatment response in CRC patients due to practical applications of pharmacogenetics/pharmacogenomics. Over the past 20 years the clinical usability of different predictive markers has been tested among which only a few have been confirmed to have high application potential. This review is a synthetic presentation of drug resistance in the context of CRC patient chemotherapy. The multifactorial nature and volume of the issues involved do not allow the author to present a comprehensive study on this subject in one review.

Glutathione S-transferase Mu-1 gene polymorphism in Egyptian patients with idiopathic male infertility

The aim of this study was to examine whether an association exists between glutathione S-transferase Mu-1 (GSTM1) gene polymorphism and idiopathic male infertility. Sixty men with primary idiopathic infertility and 60 fertile men, serving as controls, were recruited for the study. The polymorphism was analysed using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique. The frequency of GSTM1 null genotype was observed to be higher in infertile men 40% in comparison with 33.3% in the fertile men, but this difference was not statistically significant. There was statistically significant difference between cases and controls as regards GSTM1 genotype distribution ((MC) P = 0.006*) in GSTM1-positive men. Patients with the GSTM1 null genotype had significantly lower sperm concentrations and total sperm count when compared with patients with GSTM1-positive genotype. In the control group, men with GSTM1 null genotype had significantly lower sperm concentrations but not total sperm count when compared with men with GSTM1-positive genotype. The results of this study suggest a possible negative effect of GSTM1 null genotype on the spermatogenic potential of the testis.

Metabolism of cisplatin in the organs of Rattus norvegicus: role of Glutathione S-transferase P1

Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) play an important role in the biotransformation of endogenous compounds and xenobiotics as well as in the metabolic inactivation of pharmacologically active substances, including anticancer drugs. Using cisplatin as the prototype drug, we investigated if any correlation exists between GSH levels, GSTs/GSTP1 activity and the fate of cisplatin in different organs of Rattus norvegicus. GSH-cisplatin complex was prepared, purified by anion-exchange chromatography and subjected to mass spectroscopic analysis which confirmed the structure to be diglutathione-monoplatinum (diglutathionylplatinum). Purified diglutathionylplatinum was used to quantify metabolite formed in different tissue homogenates. Specific GSTP1 activity was found to be highest in kidneys, which correlated positively with the levels of metabolite formed in renal tissues. Altogether, our results showed that cisplatin metabolism in different organs of rats correlated positively with specific GSTP1 activities and this enzyme may be a critical determinant of extent of cellular uptake or retention of cisplatin in renal and liver tissues.

Toxicogenetic profile and cancer risk in Lebanese

An increasing number of genetic polymorphisms in drug-metabolizing enzymes (DME) were identified among different ethnic groups. Some of these polymorphisms are associated with an increased cancer risk, while others remain equivocal. However, there is sufficient evidence that these associations become significant in populations overexposed to environmental carcinogens. Hence, genetic differences in expression activity of both Phase I and Phase II enzymes may affect cancer risk in exposed populations. In Lebanon, there has been a marked rise in reported cancer incidence since the 1990s. There are also indicators of exposure to unusually high levels of environmental pollutants and carcinogens in the country. This review considers this high cancer incidence by exploring a potential gene-environment model based on available DME polymorphism prevalence, and their impact on bladder, colorectal, prostate, breast, and lung cancer in the Lebanese population. The examined DME include glutathione S-transferases (GST), N-acetyltransferases (NAT), and cytochromes P-450 (CYP). Data suggest that these DME influence bladder cancer risk in the Lebanese population. Evidence indicates that identification of a gene-environment interaction model may help in defining future research priorities and preventive cancer control strategies in this country, particularly for breast and lung cancer.

Polymorphisms of genes involved in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons' biotransformation and atherosclerosis

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are among the most prevalent environmental pollutants and result from the incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons (coal and gasoline, fossil fuel combustion, byproducts of industrial processing, natural emission, cigarette smoking, etc.). The first phase of xenobiotic biotransformation in the PAH metabolism includes activities of cytochrome P450 from the CYP1 family and microsomal epoxide hydrolase. The products of this biotransformation are reactive oxygen species that are transformed in the second phase through the formation of conjugates with glutathione, glucuronate or sulphates. PAH exposure may lead to PAH-DNA adduct formation or induce an inflammatory atherosclerotic plaque phenotype. Several genetic polymorphisms of genes encoded for enzymes involved in PAH biotransformation have been proven to lead to the development of diseases. Enzyme CYP P450 1A1, which is encoded by the CYP1A1 gene, is vital in the monooxygenation of lipofilic substrates, while GSTM1 and GSTT1 are the most abundant isophorms that conjugate and neutralize oxygen products. Some single nucleotide polymorphisms of the CYP1A1 gene as well as the deletion polymorphisms of GSTT1 and GSTM1 may alter the final specific cellular inflammatory respond. Occupational exposure or conditions from the living environment can contribute to the production of PAH metabolites with adverse effects on human health. The aim of this study was to obtain data on biotransformation and atherosclerosis, as well as data on the gene polymorphisms involved in biotransformation, in order to better study gene expression and further elucidate the interaction between genes and the environment.

N-acetyltransferase 2, cytochrome P4502E1 and glutathione S-transferase genotypes in antitubercular treatment-induced hepatotoxicity in North Indians

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major cause of illness and death in developing countries. Hepatotoxicity is a serious side effect of antituberculosis treatment (ATT). NAT2, CYP2E1 and glutathione S-transferase (GST) gene polymorphisms may play an important role in ATT-induced hepatotoxicity. So, elucidating the genetics involved in anti-TB drug-induced hepatotoxicity in patients would be of utmost clinical significance. Therefore, the objective of the study was to elucidate the role of NAT2, CYP2E1 and GST gene polymorphisms in ATT-induced hepatotoxicity in North Indian patients.

METHODS

Three hundred patients with pulmonary and extra-pulmonary TB were enrolled. Total genomic DNA was isolated from each patient's peripheral lymphocytes using phenol-chloroform method, and genetic polymorphic analysis for N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2), cytochrome P4502E1 (CYP2E1) and GST was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP).

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Of the 300 patients, 185 were males and 115 females. Among them, 33 males and 22 females developed ATT-induced hepatotoxicity. There were significant increases in alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and bilirubin levels in patients with ATT-induced hepatotoxicity at 1 month of treatment. NAT2 5/7 and 6/7 were significantly higher in hepatotoxicity patients as compared to the non-hepatotoxicity group. c1/c1 allele of CYP2E1 gene was lower (50·9%) in ATT-induced hepatotoxicity patients as compared to non-hepatotoxicity patients (61·2%), whereas c1/c2 and c2/c2 alleles were higher, but not statistically significant. GSTM1 was significantly higher in hepatotoxicity patients as compared to non-hepatotoxicity patients, whereas GSTT1 and GSTT1/M1 were lower, but not statistically significant.

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION

This study indicates that patients with slow-acetylator genotypes (NAT2 5/7, 6/7) and GSTM1 allele of GST enzyme were at higher risk of ATT-induced hepatotoxicity.

MRP1 overexpression determines poor prognosis in prospectively treated patients with localized high-risk soft tissue sarcoma of limbs and trunk wall: an ISG/GEIS study

Patients with localized high-risk soft tissue sarcomas (STS) of the limbs and trunk wall still have a considerable metastatic recurrence rate of more than 50%, in spite of adjuvant chemotherapy. This drug-ceiling effect of chemotherapy in sarcoma setting could be explained, at least partially, by multidrug resistance (MDR) mechanisms. The aim of this study was to ascertain whether mRNA and protein expression of ABCB1 (P-glycoprotein), ABCC1 (MRP1), and GSTA1 (glutathione S-transferase pi) was prognostic in localized high-risk STS. Immunohistochemistry and reverse transcriptase-PCR studies were performed from biopsies at the time of diagnosis. Patients of this series were prospectively enrolled into a phase III trial that compared three versus five cycles of epirubicin plus ifosfamide. The series of 102 patients found 41 events of recurrence and 37 of death with a median follow-up of 68 months. In univariate analysis, variables with a statistically significant relationship with relapse-free survival (RFS) were: MRP1 expression (5-year RFS rate of 23% in positive cases and 63% in negative cases, P = 0.029), histology (5-year RFS rate of 74% in undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma and 43% in synovial sarcoma, P = 0.028), and ABCC1 expression (5-year RFS rate of 33% in overexpression and 65% in downregulation, P = 0.012). Combined ABCC1/MRP1 was the only independent prognostic factor for both RFS (HR = 2.704, P = 0.005) and overall survival (HR = 2.208, P = 0.029). ABCC1/MRP1 expression shows robust prognostic relevance in patients with localized high-risk STS treated with anthracycline-based chemotherapy, which is the standard front line treatment in STS. This finding deserves attention as it points to a new targetable protein in STS.

Glutathione S-transferases interact with AMP-activated protein kinase: evidence for S-glutathionylation and activation in vitro

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a cellular and whole body energy sensor with manifold functions in regulating energy homeostasis, cell morphology and proliferation in health and disease. Here we apply multiple, complementary in vitro and in vivo interaction assays to identify several isoforms of glutathione S-transferase (GST) as direct AMPK binding partners: Pi-family member rat GSTP1 and Mu-family members rat GSTM1, as well as Schistosoma japonicum GST. GST/AMPK interaction is direct and involves the N-terminal domain of the AMPK β-subunit. Complex formation of the mammalian GSTP1 and -M1 with AMPK leads to their enzymatic activation and in turn facilitates glutathionylation and activation of AMPK in vitro. GST-facilitated S-glutathionylation of AMPK may be involved in rapid, full activation of the kinase under mildly oxidative physiological conditions.

Glutathione S-transferase mu2 suppresses cancer cell metastasis in non-small cell lung cancer

Glutathione S-transferase mu2 (GST-M2) is a phase II detoxification enzyme. Low expression of GST-M2 in lung cancers is due to hypermethylation of its promoter. Lung cancer with the GST mu-null genotype is associated with shorter survival. However, a correlation between GST-M2 and important clinical parameters, as well as the migration of GST-M2-defective cells in lung cancer, has not been established. In the present study, we investigate the role of GST-M2 in cell migration and actin disassembly in lung cancer cells. GST-M2 and CCN2 mRNA levels were significantly reduced in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tumors when compared with matched normal lung tissues in 82 patients with NSCLC. We found that high expressions of both GST-M2 and CCN2 are correlated with favorable survival of patients with lung cancer when compared with similar patients without GST-M2 or CCN2 expression. GST-M2 can induce CCN2 expression by driving the CCN2 proximal promoter. Overexpression of GST-M2 decreases the formation of filopodia, resulting in remodeling of the reorganized cytoskeletons. Overexpression of GST-M2 significantly suppressed cancer cell migration on wound-healing assay. In addition, overexpression of GST-M2 dramatically reduced tumor growth and metastasis in a xenograft mouse model. These data highlight the potential of GST-M2 as a novel tumor suppressor. GST-M2 increases the expression of CCN2 in lung cancer cells, which inhibits cancer cell migration in lung cancer and animal models.

Black soybean seed coat polyphenols prevent B(a)P-induced DNA damage through modulating drug-metabolizing enzymes in HepG2 cells and ICR mice

Black soybean seed coat is a rich source of polyphenols that have been reported to have various physiological functions. The present study investigated the potential protective effects of polyphenolic extracts from black soybean seed coat on DNA damage in human hepatoma HepG2 cells and ICR mice. The results from micronucleus (MN) assay revealed that black soybean seed coat extract (BE) at concentrations up to 25μg/mL was non-genotoxic. It is noteworthy that BE (at 4.85μg/mL) and its main components, procyanidins (PCs) and cyanidin 3-glucoside (C3G), at 10μM significantly reduced the genotoxic effect induced by benzo[a]pyrene [B(a)P]. To obtain insights into the underlying mechanism, we investigated BE and its main components on drug-metabolizing enzyme expression. The results of this study demonstrate that BE and its main components, PCs and C3G, down-regulated B(a)P-induced cytochrome P4501A1 (CYP1A1) expression by inhibiting the transformation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor. Moreover, they increased expression of detoxifying defense enzymes, glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) via increasing the binding of nuclear factor-erythroid-2-related factor 2 to antioxidant response elements. Collectively, we found that PCs and C3G, which are the main active compounds of BE, down-regulated CYP1A1 and up-regulated GST expression to protect B(a)P-induced DNA damage in HepG2 cells and ICR mice effectively.

Glutathione S-transferase P1 single nucleotide polymorphism predicts permanent ototoxicity in children with medulloblastoma

BACKGROUND

Glutathione S-transferase (GST) enzymes are involved in detoxifying chemotherapy and clearing reactive oxygen species formed by radiation. We explored the relationship between the host GSTP1 105 A > G polymorphism (rs1695), tumor GSTpi protein expression, and clinical outcomes in pediatric medulloblastoma. We hypothesized that the GSTP1 105 G-allele and increased tumor GSTpi expression would be associated with lower progression-free survival and fewer adverse events.

PROCEDURE

The study included 106 medulloblastoma/primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) patients seen at Texas Children's Cancer Center. Genotyping was performed using an Illumina HumanOmni1-Quad BeadChip and GSTpi expression was assessed using immunohistochemistry. We used the Kaplan-Meier method for survival analyses and logistic regression for toxicity comparisons.

RESULTS

Patients with a GSTP1 105 AG/GG genotype (vs. AA) or who had received high dose craniospinal radiation (≥34 Gy vs. <26 Gy) had a greater risk of requiring hearing aids than their counterparts (OR 4.0, 95% CI 1.2-13.6, and OR 3.1, 95% CI 1.1-8.8, respectively, n = 69). Additionally, there was a statistically significant interaction between these variables. Compared with the lowest risk group (GSTP1 105 AA-low dose radiation), patients with a GSTP1 105 AG/GG genotype who received high dose radiation were 8.4 times more likely to require hearing aids (95% CI 1.4-49.9, p-trend = 0.005, n = 69). When adjusted for age, cumulative cisplatin dose, and amifostine use, the association remained.

CONCLUSIONS

The GSTP1 105 G-allele is associated with permanent ototoxicity in pediatric medulloblastoma/PNET and strongly interacts with radiation dose. Patients with this allele should be considered for clinical trials employing radiation dose modifications and cytoprotectant strategies.

The interaction of the chemotherapeutic drug chlorambucil with human glutathione transferase A1-1: kinetic and structural analysis

Glutathione transferases (GSTs) are enzymes that contribute to cellular detoxification by catalysing the nucleophilic attack of glutathione (GSH) on the electrophilic centre of a number of xenobiotic compounds, including several chemotherapeutic drugs. In the present work we investigated the interaction of the chemotherapeutic drug chlorambucil (CBL) with human GSTA1-1 (hGSTA1-1) using kinetic analysis, protein crystallography and molecular dynamics. In the presence of GSH, CBL behaves as an efficient substrate for hGSTA1-1. The rate-limiting step of the catalytic reaction between CBL and GSH is viscosity-dependent and kinetic data suggest that product release is rate-limiting. The crystal structure of the hGSTA1-1/CBL-GSH complex was solved at 2.1 Å resolution by molecular replacement. CBL is bound at the H-site attached to the thiol group of GSH, is partially ordered and exposed to the solvent, making specific interactions with the enzyme. Molecular dynamics simulations based on the crystal structure indicated high mobility of the CBL moiety and stabilization of the C-terminal helix due to the presence of the adduct. In the absence of GSH, CBL is shown to be an alkylating irreversible inhibitor for hGSTA1-1. Inactivation of the enzyme by CBL followed a biphasic pseudo-first-order saturation kinetics with approximately 1 mol of CBL per mol of dimeric enzyme being incorporated. Structural analysis suggested that the modifying residue is Cys112 which is located at the entrance of the H-site. The results are indicative of a structural communication between the subunits on the basis of mutually exclusive modification of Cys112, indicating that the two enzyme active sites are presumably coordinated.

Glutathione S-transferase M1 and T1 genotypes and myocardial infarction

Myocardial infarction (MI), which is the most important manifestation of coronary artery disease, is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the world. Glutathione S transferases (GSTs) are enzymes responsible for the metabolism of numerous xenobiotics and are known to be polymorphic in humans. We investigated the association between the GSTM1 and GSTT1 gene polymorphisms and MI. The study consists of 296 healthy controls and 324 consecutive patients who had undergone coronary angiography for suspicion of coronary artery disease and with a past history of myocardial infarction. DNA was extracted from whole blood of patient and control. GSTM1 and GSTT1 gene polymorphisms were examined using multiplex PCR. We found that the null GSTM1 was associated with protective effect on MI, although this increase was not significant for GSTM1 (p < 0.054). However, GSTT1 genotype was associated with an increase in the risk of developing MI. In addition to after adjusting other all coronary risk factors, the interactive effect of GSTT1 null genotype remained statistically significant (p < 0.001) for MI disease but GSTM1 null genotype was not statistically significant. Patients, who smoke having the null genotypes of GSTM1, were at a higher risk for developing MI (p < 0.001, OR = 0.41, 95 % CI = 0.240-0.207). There was an effect of interaction of GSTM1 null genotype and smoking on MI development between patient and control groups (p < 0.001). Our results showed that individuals with the null genotypes for GSTM1 had protective effect, while GSTT1 was at a higher risk for MI disease. In addition, there was additional effects of smoking when smoking and non-smoking groups were compared.

GSTP1 negatively regulates Stat3 activation in epidermal growth factor signaling

Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are the enzymes that defend cells against the damage mediated by oxidant and electrophilic carcinogens. GSTπ (GSTP1) is a member of the GST family and the hypermethylation GSTP1 CpG island DNA is detected in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues, which contributes to the negative expression of GSTP1 mRNA and protein. GSTP1 expression is considered to be an early event in HCC. Stat3, a member of the signal transduction and activator of transcription (Stat) family, is important for promoting the proliferation, survival and other biological processes of cells triggered by cytokines and growth factors. Activated Stat3 may participate in oncogenesis. Previous studies have demonstrated that overexpression of phosphorylated Stat3 is important in the proliferation of HCC cells, suggesting that disturbance of the Stat3 pathway may be an early event. We hypothesize that the suppression of GSTP1 expression in HCC cells increases Stat3 activation. In order to test this hypothesis, HepG2 cells were genetically modified to transiently express high levels of GSTP1. The transient expression of GSTP1 specifically downregulated epidermal growth factor (EGF)-mediated tyrosine phosphorylation of Stat3, and subsequently suppressed the transcriptional activity of Stat3. By contrast, GSTP1 RNAi was able to lead to an increase in the phosphorylation of Stat3. In addition, overexpression of GSTP1 was capable of reducing the survival of HepG2 cells and inducing cell cycle arrest. This inhibition was mediated by a direct interaction between GSTP1 and Stat3. Overall, our results suggest that GSTP1 is important in the regulation of the transcriptional activity of Stat3, and that it is also a regulator of the cell cycle via EGF signaling.

Association of the Glutathione S-transferases M1 and T1 polymorphism with male infertility: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Genes of different pathways regulate spermatogenesis, and the complexity of the spermatogenic process indicates that polymorphisms or mutations in these genes could cause male infertility. Published data on the association between the GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphism and male infertility risk are inconclusive. To derive a more precise estimation of the relationship, a meta-analysis was performed.

METHODS

A total of 11 studies regarding GSTM1 and 9 studies regarding GSTT1 between 1999 and 2012 were identified through researching MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Chinese Biomedical Database. It was performed to obtain summary estimated odd ratios and 95 % confidence intervals of GSTM1 and GSTT1 for male infertility, with attention to study quality and publication bias.

RESULTS

Overall, a significant association was seen between GSTM1 (OR=1.20, 95 % CI=1.02-1.40, P(heterogeneity) =0.000, P=0.027) genotypes and male infertility. Significant associations were also observed in subgroups of Caucasian populations (OR=1.65, 95 %CI=1.16-2.34, P(heterogeneity) =0.006, P=0.005), but were not observed in Asian populations (OR=1.09, 95 % CI=0.72-1.65, P(heterogeneity) =0.054, P=0.697) when stratified by ethnicity. While there was no significant association was seen between GSTT1 (OR=1.00, 95 % CI=0.74-1.35, P(heterogeneity) =0.000, P=0.980) null genotypes and male infertility. Simultaneously, significant associations were not observed in subgroups of Caucasian populations (OR=0.94, 95 %CI=0.44-2.00, P(heterogeneity) =0.000, P=0.867) and Asian populations (OR=0.93, 95 % CI=0.46-1.87, P(heterogeneity) =0.002, P=0.838) when stratified by ethnicity.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest the GSTM1 null genotype contributes to male infertility susceptibility, while GSTT1 gene polymorphisms are not associated with male infertility in our study.

Selective induction of glutathione S-transferases in round spermatids from the Brown-Norway rat by the chemotherapeutic regimen for testicular cancer

Chemotherapeutic drugs can affect DNA in male germ cells, thereby impacting on the integrity of the genome transmitted to offspring. Drug metabolizing enzymes can protect cells from xenobiotic insult. We analyzed the expression pattern of such enzymes in isolated round spermatids from rats exposed to drugs used to treat testicular cancer: bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (BEP). The number of isozymes expressed and the overall relative expression values were highest for the glutathione S-transferases (GSTs). Moreover, BEP treatment significantly increased the expression of 8 GSTs and 3 aldehyde dehydrogenases. Increased expression of GST isozymes was confirmed by qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis. Although Gst genes can be targets for epigenetic modifications, promoter DNA methylation was not affected by BEP treatment. As GSTs are involved in drug resistance mechanisms, we hypothesize that BEP induction of GST expression may lead to the survival of damaged germ cells and the production of abnormal sperm.

Altered DNA binding and amplification of human breast cancer suppressor gene BRCA1 induced by a novel antitumor compound, [Ru(η(6)-p-phenylethacrynate)Cl(2)(pta)]

The ruthenium-based complex [Ru(η(6)-p-phenylethacrynate)Cl(2)(pta)] (pta = 1,3,5-triaza-7-phosphatricyclo-[3.3.1.1]decane), termed ethaRAPTA, is an interesting antitumor compound. The elucidation of the molecular mechanism of drug activity is central to the drug development program. To this end, we have characterized the ethaRAPTA interaction with DNA, including probing the sequence specific modified DNA structural stability and DNA amplification using the breast cancer suppressor gene 1 (BRCA1) of human breast and colon adenocarcinoma cell lines as models. The preference of ethaRAPTA base binding is in the order A > G > T > C. Once modified, the ethaRAPTA-induced BRCA1 structure has higher thermal stability than the modified equivalents of its related compound, RAPTA-C. EthaRAPTA exhibits a higher efficiency than RAPTA-C in inhibiting BRCA1 amplification. With respect to both compounds, the inhibition of BRCA1 amplification is more effective in an isolated system than in cell lines. These data provide evidence that will help to understand the process of elucidating the pathways involved in the response induced by ethaRAPTA.

Glutathione S-transferase P1 gene polymorphism and bladder cancer susceptibility: an updated analysis

Studies investigating the association between glutathione S-transferase P1 (GSTP1) gene polymorphism and bladder cancer (BC) risk have reported conflicting results. In order to clarify the effect of GSTP1 polymorphism on the BC susceptibility, we conducted an updated system review of published epidemiology studies to provide more precise evidence. We performed a systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). 20 studies with 4,428 BC cases and 5,457 controls were identified. The combined analyses based on all studies showed that there was a significant difference in the genotype distribution in GSTP1(A313G) polymorphism between BC cases and controls not only in Asians (GG vs. AA + AG, OR = 1.59, 95 % CI = 1.01-2.51) but also in Caucasians (GG vs. AA + AG, OR = 1.51, 95 % CI = 1.11-2.06). Upon stratification for smoking status, we observed no statistically significant difference in genotype distribution of GSTP1 in ever-smokers. Combination of the high-risk genotypes (GSTM1 null + GSTT1 null + GSTP1 313 A/G or G/G) demonstrated further increase in the BC risk (OR = 6.64, 95 %CI = 3.63-12.16). This meta-analysis suggests that GSTP1 313 G/G polymorphism is a strong predisposing risk factor for BC.

Effect of coffee combining green coffee bean constituents with typical roasting products on the Nrf2/ARE pathway in vitro and in vivo

This study investigated Nrf2-activating properties of a coffee blend combining raw coffee bean constituents with 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid (CGA) as a lead component with typical roasting products such as N-methylpyridinium (NMP). In cell culture (HT29) the respective coffee extract (CN-CE) increased nuclear Nrf2 translocation and enhanced the transcription of ARE-dependent genes as exemplified for NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase and glutathione-S-transferase (GST)A1, reflected in the protein level by an increase in GST enzyme activity. In a pilot human intervention study (29 healthy volunteers), daily consumption of 750 mL of CN-coffee for 4 weeks increased Nrf2 transcription in peripheral blood lymphocytes on average. However, the transcriptional response pattern of Nrf2/ARE-dependent genes showed substantial interindividual variations. The presence of SNPs in the Nrf2-promoter, reported recently, as well as the detection of GSTT1*0 (null) genotypes in the study collective strengthens the hypothesis that coffee acts as a modulator of Nrf2-dependent gene response in humans, but genetic polymorphisms play an important role in the individual response pattern.

Glutathione levels in human tumors

This review summarizes clinical studies in which glutathione was measured in tumor tissue from patients with brain, breast, gastrointestinal, gynecological, head and neck and lung cancer. Glutathione tends to be elevated in breast, ovarian, head and neck, and lung cancer and lower in brain and liver tumors compared to disease-free tissue. Cervical, colorectal, gastric, and esophageal cancers show both higher and lower levels of tumor glutathione. Some studies show an inverse relationship between patient survival and tumor glutathione. Based on this survey, we recommend approaches that may improve the clinical value of glutathione as a biomarker.

Role of GSTM1 in resistance to lung inflammation

Lung inflammation resulting from oxidant/antioxidant imbalance is a common feature of many lung diseases. In particular, the role of enzymes regulated by the NF-E2-related factor 2 transcription factor has recently received increased attention. Among these antioxidant genes, glutathione S-transferase Mu 1 (GSTM1) has been most extensively characterized because it has a null polymorphism that is highly prevalent in the population and associated with increased risk of inflammatory lung diseases. Present evidence suggests that GSTM1 acts through interactions with other genes and environmental factors, especially air pollutants. Here, we review GSTM1 gene expression and regulation and summarize the findings from epidemiological, clinical, animal, and in vitro studies on the role played by GSTM1 in lung inflammation. We discuss limitations in the existing knowledge base and future perspectives and evaluate the potential of pharmacologic and genetic manipulation of the GSTM1 gene to modulate pulmonary inflammatory responses.

Constitutive expression of an antioxidant enzyme, glutathione S-transferase P1, during differentiation of human intestinal Caco-2 cells

In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanism of the constitutive expression of an antioxidant enzyme, glutathione S-transferase (GST), during differentiation of human intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cells. We observed that the class π GST isozyme (GST P1) expression correlated with the increased expression of caudal-related homeodomain protein 2 (CDX2), a member of the mammalian homeobox family of transcription factors. In addition, transfection of Caco-2 cells with the human CDX2 cDNA resulted in enhanced expression of the GST P1 gene and protein. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay demonstrated that CDX2 binds to the GST P1 promoter containing the putative consensus CDX-binding element, TTTAC, located at -247 upstream from the established site for transcription initiation. Using the dsDNA pull-down assay, it was revealed that CDX2 recognized and bound to the putative consensus CDX-binding element within the human GST P1 promoter region and that the amount of the CDX2 bound to the putative consensus CDX-binding element increased during Caco-2 cell differentiation. Furthermore, we demonstrated that CDX2 formed the transcriptional complex with Sp1 and bound to the putative consensus CDX-binding element within the human GST P1 promoter region. These data suggest that CDX2 binds to the human GST P1 promoter via complex formation with Sp1 and controls the constitutive expression of GST P1 during Caco-2 cell differentiation.