Nox4 NAD(P)H oxidase mediates Src-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of PDK-1 in response to angiotensin II: role in mesangial cell hypertrophy and fibronectin expression

Redox circuitries driving Src regulation

SIGNIFICANCE

Here, we review recent advances with regard to the role of Src kinase in the regulation of cytoskeleton organization, cell adhesion, and motility, focusing on redox circuitries engaging this kinase for anchorage and motility, control of cell survival to anoikis, as well as metabolic deregulation, all features belonging to the new hallmarks of cancer.

RECENT ADVANCES

Several recent insights have reported that, alongside the well-known phosphorylation/dephosphorylation control, cysteine oxidation is a further mechanism of enzyme activation for both c-Src kinase and its oncogenic counterparts. Indeed, mounting evidence portrays redox regulation of Src kinase as a compulsory outcome in growth factors/cytokines signaling, integrin engagement, motility and invasiveness of tissues, receptor cross-talking at plasmamembrane, as well as during carcinogenesis and progression toward tumor malignancy or fibrotic disease. In addition, the kinase is an upstream regulator of NADPH oxidase-driven oxidants, a critical step for invadopodia formation and metastatic spread.

CRITICAL ISSUES

Not satisfactorily unraveled yet, the exact role of Src kinase in redox cancer biology needs to be implemented with studies that are aimed at clarifying (i) the exact hierarchy between oxidants sources, Src redox-dependent activation and the regulation of cell motility, and (ii) the actual susceptibility of invading cells to redox-based treatments, owing to the well-recognized ability of cancer cells to find new strategies to adapt to new environments.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Once these critical issues are addressed, redox circuitries involving Src kinase should potentially be used as both biomarkers and targets for personalized therapies in the fight against cancer or fibrotic diseases.

Increase in AMPK brought about by cocoa is renoprotective in experimental diabetes mellitus by reducing NOX4/TGFβ-1 signaling

The aims of the present study were to investigate, in diabetes mellitus (DM), the mechanism of NOX4 up-regulation, its link with 5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) inactivation and transforming growth factor (TGF) ß-1 signaling in determining the accumulation of kidney extracellular matrix (ECM), and the possible action of cocoa enriched with polyphenols (CH) in these events. After 16 weeks of DM, spontaneously hypertensive rats showed increased kidney TGFβ-1 levels and expression of phosphorylated smad2, collagen IV and fibronectin in parallel with elevated NOX4 expression and reduced phosphorylated AMPK. CH treatment in diabetic rats prevented all of these abnormalities. In immortalized human mesangial cells exposed to high glucose (HG), or TGFβ-1, CH, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate blocker, or silencing NOX4 ameliorated enhanced phosphorylated smad2 and collagen IV. Reduction in phosphorylated AMPK induced by HG or TGFβ-1 was ameliorated by CH or activation of AMPK, which reduced phosphorylation of smad2 and collagen IV via reduction in NOX4 expression. The effects of CH were abolished by AMPK blockade. These results suggest that inactivation in AMPK leads to NOX4 up-regulation, activation of TGFβ-1 signaling and increased ECM accumulation. Additionally, increased TGF-ß1 per se leads to the amplification of ECM production by reducing AMPK and promoting the activation of NOX4. It is suggested that the activation of AMPK by CH followed by reduction in NOX4/TGFβ-1 signaling may have a therapeutic potential in diabetic nephropathy.

Redox signaling as a therapeutic target to inhibit myofibroblast activation in degenerative fibrotic disease

Degenerative fibrotic diseases encompass numerous systemic and organ-specific disorders. Despite their associated significant morbidity and mortality, there is currently no effective antifibrotic treatment. Fibrosis is characterized by the development and persistence of myofibroblasts, whose unregulated deposition of extracellular matrix components disrupts signaling cascades and normal tissue architecture leading to organ failure and death. The profibrotic cytokine transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) is considered the foremost inducer of fibrosis, driving myofibroblast differentiation in diverse tissues. This review summarizes recent in vitro and in vivo data demonstrating that TGF β-induced myofibroblast differentiation is driven by a prooxidant shift in redox homeostasis. Elevated NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4)-derived hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) supported by concomitant decreases in nitric oxide (NO) signaling and reactive oxygen species scavengers are central factors in the molecular pathogenesis of fibrosis in numerous tissues and organs. Moreover, complex interplay between NOX4-derived H2O2 and NO signaling regulates myofibroblast differentiation. Restoring redox homeostasis via antioxidants or NOX4 inactivation as well as by enhancing NO signaling via activation of soluble guanylyl cyclases or inhibition of phosphodiesterases can inhibit and reverse myofibroblast differentiation. Thus, dysregulated redox signaling represents a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of wide variety of different degenerative fibrotic disorders.

Nox2-induced production of mitochondrial superoxide in angiotensin II-mediated endothelial oxidative stress and hypertension

AIMS

Angiotensin II (AngII)-induced superoxide (O2(•-)) production by the NADPH oxidases and mitochondria has been implicated in the pathogenesis of endothelial dysfunction and hypertension. In this work, we investigated the specific molecular mechanisms responsible for the stimulation of mitochondrial O2(•-) and its downstream targets using cultured human aortic endothelial cells and a mouse model of AngII-induced hypertension.

RESULTS

Western blot analysis showed that Nox2 and Nox4 were present in the cytoplasm but not in the mitochondria. Depletion of Nox2, but not Nox1, Nox4, or Nox5, using siRNA inhibits AngII-induced O2(•-) production in both mitochondria and cytoplasm. Nox2 depletion in gp91phox knockout mice inhibited AngII-induced cellular and mitochondrial O2(•-) and attenuated hypertension. Inhibition of mitochondrial reverse electron transfer with malonate, malate, or rotenone attenuated AngII-induced cytoplasmic and mitochondrial O2(•-) production. Inhibition of the mitochondrial ATP-sensitive potassium channel (mitoK(+)ATP) with 5-hydroxydecanoic acid or specific PKCɛ peptide antagonist (EAVSLKPT) reduced AngII-induced H2O2 in isolated mitochondria and diminished cytoplasmic O2(•-). The mitoK(+)ATP agonist diazoxide increased mitochondrial O2(•-), cytoplasmic c-Src phosphorylation and cytoplasmic O2(•-) suggesting feed-forward regulation of cellular O2(•-) by mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS). Treatment of AngII-infused mice with malate reduced blood pressure and enhanced the antihypertensive effect of mitoTEMPO. Mitochondria-targeted H2O2 scavenger mitoEbselen attenuated redox-dependent c-Src and inhibited AngII-induced cellular O2(•-), diminished aortic H2O2, and reduced blood pressure in hypertensive mice.

INNOVATION AND CONCLUSIONS

These studies show that Nox2 stimulates mitochondrial ROS by activating reverse electron transfer and both mitochondrial O2(•-) and reverse electron transfer may represent new pharmacological targets for the treatment of hypertension.

Src tyrosine kinase mediates platelet-derived growth factor BB-induced and redox-dependent migration in metanephric mesenchymal cells

The adult kidney is derived from the interaction between the metanephric blastema and the ureteric bud. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) receptor β is essential for the development of the mature glomerular tuft, as mice deficient for this receptor lack mesangial cells. This study investigated the role of Src tyrosine kinase in PDGF-mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and migration of metanephric mesenchymal cells (MMCs). Cultured embryonic MMCs from wild-type and PDGF receptor-deficient embryos were established. Migration was determined via wound-healing assay. Unlike PDGF AA, PDGF BB-induced greater migration in MMCs with respect to control. This was abrogated by neutralizing an antibody to PDGF BB. Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitors suppressed PDGF BB-induced migration. Conversely, mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MEK) inhibitors had no effect. Src inhibitors inhibited PDGF-induced cell migration, PI3K activity, and Akt phosphorylation. Adenoviral dominant negative Src (AD DN Src) abrogated PDGF BB-induced Akt phosphorylation. Hydrogen peroxide stimulated cell migration. PDGF BB-induced wound closure was inhibited by the antioxidants N-acetyl-l-cysteine, tiron, and the flavoprotein inhibitor diphenyleneiodonium. These cells express the NADPH oxidase homolog Nox4. Inhibiting Nox4 with antisense oligonucleotides or small interfering RNA (siRNA) suppressed PDGF-induced wound closure. Inhibition of Src with siRNA reduced PDGF BB-induced ROS generation as assessed by 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate fluorescence. Furthermore, PDGF BB-stimulated ROS generation and migration were similarly suppressed by Ad DN Src. In MMCs, PDGF BB-induced migration is mediated by PI3K and Src in a redox-dependent manner involving Nox4. Src may be upstream to PI3K and Nox4.

Inhibition of Src kinase blocks high glucose-induced EGFR transactivation and collagen synthesis in mesangial cells and prevents diabetic nephropathy in mice

Chronic exposure to high glucose leads to diabetic nephropathy characterized by increased mesangial matrix protein (e.g., collagen) accumulation. Altered cell signaling and gene expression accompanied by oxidative stress have been documented. The contribution of the tyrosine kinase, c-Src (Src), which is sensitive to oxidative stress, was examined. Cultured rat mesangial cells were exposed to high glucose (25 mmol/L) in the presence and absence of Src inhibitors (PP2, SU6656), Src small interfering RNA (siRNA), and the tumor necrosis factor-α-converting enzyme (TACE) inhibitor, TAPI-2. Src was investigated in vivo by administration of PP2 to streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic DBA2/J mice. High glucose stimulated Src, TACE, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2, p38), and collagen IV accumulation in mesangial cells. PP2 and SU6656 blocked high glucose-stimulated phosphorylation of Src Tyr-416, EGFR, and MAPKs. These inhibitors and Src knockdown by siRNA, as well as TAPI-2, also abrogated high glucose-induced phosphorylation of these targets and collagen IV accumulation. In STZ-diabetic mice, albuminuria, increased Src pTyr-416, TACE activation, ERK and EGFR phosphorylation, glomerular collagen accumulation, and podocyte loss were inhibited by PP2. These data indicate a role for Src in a high glucose-Src-TACE-heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-EGFR-MAPK-signaling pathway to collagen accumulation. Thus, Src may provide a novel therapeutic target for diabetic nephropathy.

Nox4 NADPH oxidase mediates peroxynitrite-dependent uncoupling of endothelial nitric-oxide synthase and fibronectin expression in response to angiotensin II: role of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species

Activation of glomerular mesangial cells (MCs) by angiotensin II (Ang II) leads to extracellular matrix accumulation. Here, we demonstrate that, in MCs, Ang II induces endothelial nitric-oxide synthase (eNOS) uncoupling with enhanced generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decreased production of NO. Ang II promotes a rapid increase in 3-nitrotyrosine formation, and uric acid attenuates Ang II-induced decrease in NO bioavailability, demonstrating that peroxynitrite mediates the effects of Ang II on eNOS dysfunction. Ang II rapidly up-regulates Nox4 protein. Inhibition of Nox4 abolishes the increase in ROS and peroxynitrite generation as well as eNOS uncoupling triggered by Ang II, indicating that Nox4 is upstream of eNOS. This pathway contributes to Ang II-mediated fibronectin accumulation in MCs. Ang II also elicits an increase in mitochondrial abundance of Nox4 protein, and the oxidase contributes to ROS production in mitochondria. Overexpression of mitochondrial manganese superoxide dismutase prevents the stimulatory effects of Ang II on mitochondrial ROS production, loss of NO availability, and MC fibronectin accumulation, whereas manganese superoxide dismutase depletion increases mitochondrial ROS, NO deficiency, and fibronectin synthesis basally and in cells exposed to Ang II. This work provides the first evidence that uncoupled eNOS is responsible for Ang II-induced MC fibronectin accumulation and identifies Nox4 and mitochondrial ROS as mediators of eNOS dysfunction. These data shed light on molecular processes underlying the oxidative signaling cascade engaged by Ang II and identify potential targets for intervention to prevent renal fibrosis.

Nox4 and diabetic nephropathy: with a friend like this, who needs enemies?

Oxidative stress has been linked to the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy, a complication of diabetes in the kidney. NADPH oxidases of the Nox family are a major source of reactive oxygen species in the diabetic kidney and are critical mediators of redox signaling in glomerular and tubulointerstitial cells exposed to the diabetic milieu. Here, we present an overview of the current understanding of the roles of Nox catalytic and regulatory subunits in the processes that control mesangial cell, podocyte, and tubulointerstitial cell injury induced by hyperglycemia and other predominant factors enhanced in the diabetic milieu, including the renin-angiotensin system and transforming growth factor-β. The role of the Nox isoform Nox4 in the redox processes that alter renal biology in diabetes is highlighted.

Mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I is inactivated by NADPH oxidase Nox4

ROS (reactive oxygen species) generated by NADPH oxidases play an important role in cellular signal transduction regulating cell proliferation, survival and differentiation. Nox4 (NADPH oxidase 4) induces cellular senescence in human endothelial cells; however, intracellular targets for Nox4 remained elusive. In the present study, we show that Nox4 induces mitochondrial dysfunction in human endothelial cells. Nox4 depletion induced alterations in mitochondrial morphology, stabilized mitochondrial membrane potential and decreased production of H(2)O(2) in mitochondria. High-resolution respirometry in permeabilized cells combined with native PAGE demonstrated that Nox4 specifically inhibits the activity of mitochondrial electron transport chain complex I, and this was associated with a decreased concentration of complex I subunits. These data suggest a new pathway by which sustained Nox4 activity decreases mitochondrial function.

Sestrin 2 and AMPK connect hyperglycemia to Nox4-dependent endothelial nitric oxide synthase uncoupling and matrix protein expression

Mesangial matrix accumulation is an early feature of glomerular pathology in diabetes. Oxidative stress plays a critical role in hyperglycemia-induced glomerular injury. Here, we demonstrate that, in glomerular mesangial cells (MCs), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) is uncoupled upon exposure to high glucose (HG), with enhanced generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decreased production of nitric oxide. Peroxynitrite mediates the effects of HG on eNOS dysfunction. HG upregulates Nox4 protein, and inhibition of Nox4 abrogates the increase in ROS and peroxynitrite generation, as well as the eNOS uncoupling triggered by HG, demonstrating that Nox4 functions upstream from eNOS. Importantly, this pathway contributes to HG-induced MC fibronectin accumulation. Nox4-mediated eNOS dysfunction was confirmed in glomeruli of a rat model of type 1 diabetes. Sestrin 2-dependent AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation attenuates HG-induced MC fibronectin synthesis through blockade of Nox4-dependent ROS and peroxynitrite generation, with subsequent eNOS uncoupling. We also find that HG negatively regulates sestrin 2 and AMPK, thereby promoting Nox4-mediated eNOS dysfunction and increased fibronectin. These data identify a protective function for sestrin 2/AMPK and potential targets for intervention to prevent fibrotic injury in diabetes.

Nox as a target for diabetic complications

Oxidative stress has been linked to the pathogenesis of the major complications of diabetes in the kidney, the heart, the eye or the vasculature. NADPH oxidases of the Nox family are a major source of ROS (reactive oxygen species) and are critical mediators of redox signalling in cells from different organs afflicted by the diabetic milieu. In the present review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge related to the understanding of the role of Nox in the processes that control cell injury induced by hyperglycaemia and other predominant factors enhanced in diabetes, including the renin–angiotensin system, TGF-β (transforming growth factor-β) and AGEs (advanced glycation end-products). These observations support a critical role for Nox homologues in diabetic complications and indicate that NADPH oxidases are an important therapeutic target. Therefore the design and development of small-molecule inhibitors that selectively block Nox oxidases appears to be a reasonable approach to prevent or retard the complications of diabetes in target organs. The bioefficacy of these agents in experimental animal models is also discussed in the present review.

ADAM17 mediates Nox4 expression and NADPH oxidase activity in the kidney cortex of OVE26 mice

Matrix protein accumulation is a prominent feature of diabetic nephropathy that contributes to renal fibrosis and decline in renal function. The pathogenic mechanisms of matrix accumulation are incompletely characterized. We investigated if the matrix metalloprotease a disintegrin and metalloprotease1 7 (ADAM17), known to cleave growth factors and cytokines, is activated in the kidney cortex of OVE26 type 1 diabetic mice and the potential mechanisms by which ADAM17 mediates extracellular matrix accumulation. Protein expression and activity of ADAM17 were increased in OVE26 kidney cortex. Using a pharmacological inhibitor to ADAM17, TMI-005, we determined that ADAM17 activation results in increased type IV collagen, Nox4, and NADPH oxidase activity in the kidney cortex of diabetic mice. In cultured mouse proximal tubular epithelial cells (MCTs), high glucose increases ADAM17 activity, Nox4 and fibronectin expression, cellular collagen content, and NADPH oxidase activity. These effects of glucose were inhibited when cells were pretreated with TMI-005 and/or transfected with small interfering ADAM17. Collectively, these data indicate a novel mechanism whereby hyperglycemia in diabetes increases extracellular matrix protein expression in the kidney cortex through activation of ADAM17 and enhanced oxidative stress through Nox enzyme activation. Additionally, our study is the first to provide evidence that Nox4 is downstream of ADAM17.

Prolonged fasting activates Nrf2 in post-weaned elephant seals

Elephant seals naturally experience prolonged periods of absolute food and water deprivation (fasting). In humans, rats and mice, prolonged food deprivation activates the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and increases oxidative damage. In elephant seals, prolonged fasting activates RAS without increasing oxidative damage likely due to an increase in antioxidant defenses. The mechanism leading to the upregulation of antioxidant defenses during prolonged fasting remains elusive. Therefore, we investigated whether prolonged fasting activates the redox-sensitive transcription factor Nrf2, which controls the expression of antioxidant genes, and if such activation is potentially mediated by systemic increases in RAS. Blood and skeletal muscle samples were collected from seals fasting for 1, 3, 5 and 7 weeks. Nrf2 activity and nuclear content increased by 76% and 167% at week 7. Plasma angiotensin II (Ang II) and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) were 5000% and 250% higher at week 7 than at week 1. Phosphorylation of Smad2, an effector of Ang II and TGF signaling, increased by 120% at week 7 and by 84% in response to intravenously infused Ang II. NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4) mRNA expression, which is controlled by smad proteins, increased 430% at week 7, while Nox4 protein expression, which can activate Nrf2, was 170% higher at week 7 than at week 1. These results demonstrate that prolonged fasting activates Nrf2 in elephant seals and that RAS stimulation can potentially result in increased Nox4 through Smad phosphorylation. The results also suggest that Nox4 is essential to sustain the hormetic adaptive response to oxidative stress in fasting seals.

Recruitment of Nox4 to a plasma membrane scaffold is required for localized reactive oxygen species generation and sustained Src activation in response to insulin-like growth factor-I

Nox4-derived ROS is increased in response to hyperglycemia and is required for IGF-I-stimulated Src activation. This study was undertaken to determine the mechanism by which Nox4 mediates sustained Src activation. IGF-I stimulated sustained Src activation, which occurred primarily on the SHPS-1 scaffold protein. In vitro oxidation experiments indicated that Nox4-derived ROS was able to oxidize Src when they are in close proximity, and Src oxidation leads to its activation. Therefore we hypothesized that Nox4 recruitment to the plasma membrane scaffold SHPS-1 allowed localized ROS generation to mediate sustained Src oxidation and activation. To determine the mechanism of Nox4 recruitment, we analyzed the role of Grb2, a component of the SHPS-1 signaling complex. We determined that Nox4 Tyr-491 was phosphorylated after IGF-I stimulation and was responsible for Nox4 binding to the SH2 domain of Grb2. Overexpression of a Nox4 mutant, Y491F, prevented Nox4/Grb2 association. Importantly, it also prevented Nox4 recruitment to SHPS-1. The role of Grb2 was confirmed using a Pyk2 Y881F mutant, which blocked Grb2 recruitment to SHPS-1. Cells expressing this mutant had impaired Nox4 recruitment to SHPS-1. IGF-I-stimulated downstream signaling and biological actions were also significantly impaired in Nox4 Y491F-overexpressing cells. Disruption of Nox4 recruitment to SHPS-1 in aorta from diabetic mice inhibited IGF-I-stimulated Src oxidation and activation as well as cell proliferation. These findings provide insight into the mechanism by which localized Nox4-derived ROS regulates the sustained activity of a tyrosine kinase that is critical for mediating signal transduction and biological actions.

Increased oxidative stress in the nucleus caused by Nox4 mediates oxidation of HDAC4 and cardiac hypertrophy

RATIONALE

Oxidation of cysteine residues in class II histone deacetylases (HDACs), including HDAC4, causes nuclear exit, thereby inducing cardiac hypertrophy. The cellular source of reactive oxygen species responsible for oxidation of HDAC4 remains unknown.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated whether nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 4 (Nox4), a major nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase, mediates cysteine oxidation of HDAC4.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Phenylephrine (100 μmol/L), an α1 adrenergic agonist, induced upregulation of Nox4 (1.5-fold; P<0.05) within 5 minutes, accompanied by increases in O(2)(-) (3.5-fold; P<0.01) from the nuclear membrane and nuclear exit of HDAC4 in cardiomyocytes. Knockdown of Nox4, but not Nox2, attenuated O(2)(-) production in the nucleus and prevented phenylephrine-induced oxidation and nuclear exit of HDAC4. After continuous infusion of phenylephrine (20 mg/kg per day) for 14 days, wild-type and cardiac-specific Nox4 knockout mice exhibited similar aortic pressures. Left ventricular weight/tibial length (5.7±0.2 versus 6.4±0.2 mg/mm; P<0.05) and cardiomyocytes cross-sectional area (223±13 versus 258±12 μm(2); P<0.05) were significantly smaller in cardiac-specific Nox4 knockout than in wild-type mice. Nuclear O(2)(-)production in the heart was significantly lower in cardiac-specific Nox4 knockout than in wild-type mice (4116±314 versus 7057±1710 relative light unit; P<0.05), and cysteine oxidation of HDAC4 was decreased. HDAC4 oxidation and cardiac hypertrophy were also attenuated in cardiac-specific Nox4 knockout mice 2 weeks after transverse aortic constriction.

CONCLUSIONS

Nox4 plays an essential role in mediating cysteine oxidation and nuclear exit of HDAC4, thereby mediating cardiac hypertrophy in response to phenylephrine and pressure overload.

Role of H(2)O(2) in hypertension, renin-angiotensin system activation and renal medullary disfunction caused by angiotensin II

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Activation of the intrarenal renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and increased renal medullary hydrogen peroxide (H(2) O(2) ) contribute to hypertension. We examined whether H(2) O(2) mediated hypertension and intrarenal RAS activation induced by angiotensin II (Ang II).

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Ang II (200 ng·kg(-1) ·min(-1) ) or saline were infused in Sprague Dawley rats from day 0 to day 14. Polyethylene glycol (PEG)-catalase (10 000 U·kg(-1) ·day(-1) ) was given to Ang II-treated rats, from day 7 to day 14. Systolic blood pressure was measured throughout the study. H(2) O(2) , angiotensin AT(1) receptor and Nox4 expression and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation were evaluated in the kidney. Plasma and urinary H(2) O(2) and angiotensinogen were also measured.

KEY RESULTS

Ang II increased H(2) O(2) , AT(1) receptor and Nox4 expression and NF-κB activation in the renal medulla, but not in the cortex. Ang II raised plasma and urinary H(2) O(2) levels, increased urinary angiotensinogen but reduced plasma angiotensinogen. PEG-catalase had a short-term antihypertensive effect and transiently suppressed urinary angiotensinogen. PEG-catalase decreased renal medullary expression of AT(1) receptors and Nox4 in Ang II-infused rats. Renal medullary NF-κB activation was correlated with local H(2) O(2) levels and urinary angiotensinogen excretion. Loss of antihypertensive efficacy was associated with an eightfold increase of plasma angiotensinogen.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The renal medulla is a major target for Ang II-induced redox dysfunction. H(2) O(2) appears to be the key mediator enhancing intrarenal RAS activation and decreasing systemic RAS activity. The specific control of renal medullary H(2) O(2) levels may provide future grounds for the treatment of hypertension.

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis: evidence for oxidative stress and bone marrow-derived fibrocytes in skin, liver, and heart lesions using a 5/6 nephrectomy rodent model

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is associated with gadolinium-based magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast exposure in the setting of acute or chronic renal compromise. It has been proposed that circulating fibrocytes mediate the disease. A study was conducted to determine whether bone marrow-derived fibroblast precursors are involved in contributing to organ fibrosis in MRI contrast-treated rodents with renal insufficiency. Rats status post 5/6 nephrectomy underwent bone marrow transplant from human placental alkaline phosphatase (hPAP)-expressing donors. After engraftment, animals were treated with gadolinium-based MRI contrast (2.5 mmol/kg IP), during weekdays for 4 weeks, or an equivalent volume of normal saline. Dermal cellularity in the contrast-treated group was fourfold that of control. Skin cells from the contrast-treated group demonstrated greater hPAP expression with co-expression of pro-collagen I and α-smooth muscle actin-positive stress fibers. Donor and host cells expressed CD34. Dihydroethidium staining of skin was greater in the contrast-treated animals, indicating oxidative stress. This was abrogated when the animals were co-administered the superoxide dismutase mimetic tempol. In conclusion, a bone marrow-derived cell population is increased in the dermis of MRI contrast-treated rodents. The cell markers are consistent with fibrocytes mediating the disease. These changes correlate with oxidative stress and expression of Nox4, suggestive of a novel therapeutic target. Elucidation of the mechanisms of MRI contrast-induced fibrosis may aid in discovering therapies to this devastating disease.

Role of TLR4/NADPH oxidase/ROS-activated p38 MAPK in VCAM-1 expression induced by lipopolysaccharide in human renal mesangial cells

Background

In bacteria-induced glomerulonephritis, Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) activation by lipopolysaccharide (LPS, a key component of the outer membranes of Gram-negative bacteria) can increase oxidative stress and the expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), which recruits leukocytes to the glomerular mesangium. However, the mechanisms underlying VCAM-1 expression induced by LPS are still unclear in human renal mesangial cells (HRMCs).

Results

We demonstrated that LPS induced VCAM-1 mRNA and protein levels associated with an increase in the promoter activity of VCAM-1, determined by Western blot, RT-PCR, and promoter assay. LPS-induced responses were inhibited by transfection with siRNAs of TLR4, myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), Nox2, Nox4, p47^phox, c-Src, p38 MAPK, activating transcription factor 2 (ATF2), and p300 or pretreatment with the inhibitors of reactive oxygen species (ROS, edaravone), NADPH oxidase [apocynin (APO) or diphenyleneiodonium chloride (DPI)], c-Src (PP1), p38 MAPK (SB202190), and p300 (GR343). LPS induced NADPH oxidase activation, ROS production, and p47^phox translocation from the cytosol to the membrane, which were reduced by PP1 or c-Src siRNA. We observed that LPS induced TLR4, MyD88, c-Src, and p47^phox complex formation determined by co-immunoprecipitation and Western blot. We further demonstrated that LPS stimulated ATF2 and p300 phosphorylation and complex formation via a c-Src/NADPH oxidase/ROS/p38 MAPK pathway. Up-regulation of VCAM-1 led to enhancing monocyte adhesion to HRMCs challenged with LPS, which was inhibited by siRNAs of c-Src, p47^phox, p38 MAPK, ATF2, and p300 or pretreatment with an anti-VCAM-1 neutralizing antibody.

Conclusions

In HRMCs, LPS-induced VCAM-1 expression was, at least in part, mediated through a TLR4/MyD88/ c-Src/NADPH oxidase/ROS/p38 MAPK-dependent p300 and ATF2 pathway associated with recruitment of monocyte adhesion to kidney. Blockade of these pathways may reduce monocyte adhesion via VCAM-1 suppression and attenuation of the inflammatory responses in renal diseases.

Phosphoinositide-dependent kinase-1 and protein kinase Cδ contribute to endothelin-1 constriction and elevated blood pressure in intermittent hypoxia

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with cardiovascular complications including hypertension. Previous findings from our laboratory indicate that exposure to intermittent hypoxia (IH), to mimic sleep apnea, increases blood pressure in rats. IH also increases endothelin-1 (ET-1) constrictor sensitivity in a protein kinase C (PKC) δ-dependent manner in mesenteric arteries. Because phosphoinositide-dependent kinase-1 (PDK-1) regulates PKCδ activity, we hypothesized that PDK-1 contributes to the augmented ET-1 constrictor sensitivity and elevated blood pressure following IH. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to either sham or IH (cycles between 21% O(2)/0% CO(2) and 5% O(2)/5% CO(2)) conditions for 7 h/day for 14 or 21 days. The contribution of PKCδ and PDK-1 to ET-1-mediated vasoconstriction was assessed in mesenteric arteries using pharmacological inhibitors. Constrictor sensitivity to ET-1 was enhanced in arteries from IH-exposed rats. Inhibition of PKCδ or PDK-1 blunted ET-1 constriction in arteries from IH but not sham group rats. Western analysis revealed similar levels of total and phosphorylated PDK-1 in arteries from sham and IH group rats but decreased protein-protein interaction between PKCδ and PDK-1 in arteries from IH- compared with sham-exposed rats. Blood pressure was increased in rats exposed to IH, and treatment with the PDK-1 inhibitor OSU-03012 [2-amino-N-{4-[5-(2-phenanthrenyl)-3-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-pyrazol-1-yl]-phenyl}-acetamide] (33 mg/day) lowered blood pressure in IH but not sham group rats. Our results suggest that exposure to IH unmasks a role for PDK-1 in regulating ET-1 constrictor sensitivity and blood pressure that is not present under normal conditions. These novel findings suggest that PDK-1 may be a uniquely effective antihypertensive therapy for OSA patients.

Therapeutic targeting of redox signaling in myofibroblast differentiation and age-related fibrotic disease

Myofibroblast activation plays a central role during normal wound healing. Whereas insufficient myofibroblast activation impairs wound healing, excessive myofibroblast activation promotes fibrosis in diverse tissues (including benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH) leading to organ dysfunction and also promotes a stromal response that supports tumor progression. The incidence of impaired wound healing, tissue fibrosis, BPH, and certain cancers strongly increases with age. This paper summarizes findings from in vitro fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation systems that serve as cellular models to study fibrogenesis of diverse tissues. Supported by substantial in vivo data, a large body of evidence indicates that myofibroblast differentiation induced by the profibrotic cytokine transforming growth factor beta is driven by a prooxidant shift in redox homeostasis due to elevated production of NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4)-derived hydrogen peroxide and supported by concomitant decreases in nitric oxide/cGMP signaling and reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging enzymes. Fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation can be inhibited and reversed by restoring redox homeostasis using antioxidants or NOX4 inactivation as well as enhancing nitric oxide/cGMP signaling via activation of soluble guanylyl cyclases or inhibition of phosphodiesterases. Current evidence indicates the therapeutic potential of targeting the prooxidant shift in redox homeostasis for the treatment of age-related diseases associated with myofibroblast dysregulation.

Nox4 involvement in TGF-beta and SMAD3-driven induction of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and migration of breast epithelial cells

The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the development of increased cell plasticity that occurs normally during wound healing and embryonic development and can be coopted for cancer invasion and metastasis. TGF-beta induces EMT but the mechanism is unclear. Our studies suggest that Nox4, a member of the NADPH oxidase (Nox) family, is a source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) affecting cell migration and fibronectin expression, an EMT marker, in normal and metastatic breast epithelial cells. We found that TGF-beta induces Nox4 expression (mRNA and protein) and ROS generation in normal (MCF10A) and metastatic (MDA-MB-231) human breast epithelial cells. Conversely, cells expressing a dominant-negative form of Nox4 or Nox4-targeted shRNA showed significantly lower ROS production on TGF-beta treatment. Expression of a constitutively active TGF-beta receptor type I significantly increased Nox4 promoter activity, mRNA and protein expression, and ROS generation. Nox4 transcriptional regulation by TGF-beta was SMAD3 dependent based on the effect of constitutively active SMAD3 increasing Nox4 promoter activity, whereas dominant-negative SMAD3 or SIS3, a SMAD3-specific inhibitor, had the opposite effect. Furthermore, Nox4 knockdown, dominant-negative Nox4 or SMAD3, or SIS3 blunted TGF-beta induced wound healing and cell migration, whereas cell proliferation was not affected. Our experiments further indicate that Nox4 plays a role in TGF-beta regulation of fibronectin mRNA expression, based on the effects of dominant-negative Nox4 in reducing fibronectin mRNA in TGF-beta-treated MDA-MB-231and MCF10A cells. Collectively, these data indicate that Nox4 contributes to NADPH oxidase-dependent ROS production that may be critical for the progression of the EMT in breast epithelial cells, and thereby has therapeutic implications.

Aiding and abetting roles of NOX oxidases in cellular transformation

NADPH oxidases of the NADPH oxidase (NOX) family are dedicated reactive oxygen species-generating enzymes that broadly and specifically regulate redox-sensitive signalling pathways that are involved in cancer development and progression. They act at specific cellular membranes and microdomains through the activation of oncogenes and the inactivation of tumour suppressor proteins. In this Review, we discuss primary targets and redox-linked signalling systems that are influenced by NOX-derived ROS, and the biological role of NOX oxidases in the aetiology of cancer.

Role of Nox4 in murine models of kidney disease

Nox4 is a hydrogen peroxide-producing NADPH oxidase highly expressed in the kidney which has been linked to epithelial cell injury and diabetic-induced cellular dysfunction in cultured cells. The role of the enzyme for renal pathology in vivo, however, is unclear. To address this, three experimental animal models of renal injury (streptozotocin diabetes I, unilateral ureteral ligation (UUO), and 5/6 nephrectomy (5/6Nx)) were studied in either Nox4-inducible (Nox4(*/*)) or constitutive knockout (Nox4(-/-)) mice. Nox4 contributed more than 80% of diphenylene iodonium-sensitive H(2)O(2) formation of freshly isolated tubules determined by Amplex Red assay. In streptozotocin diabetes, acute deletion of Nox4 by tamoxifen-activated cre-recombinase increased albuminuria, whereas matrix deposition was similar between WT and Nox4(*/*) mice. Interestingly, renal Nox4 expression, mainly localized to tubular cells, decreased in the course of diabetes and this was not associated with a compensatory upregulation of Nox1 or Nox2. In the UUO model, renal expression of ICAM1, connective tissue growth factor, and fibronectin were higher in kidneys of Nox4(*/*) than control mice. Also in this model, levels of Nox4 decreased in the course of the disease. In the 5/6Nx model, which was performed in SV129 and SV129-Nox4(-/-) mice, no difference in the development of hypertension and albuminuria was found between the strains. Collectively, the first in vivo data of the kidney do not support the view that Nox4 is a main driver of renal disease. It rather appears that under specific conditions Nox4 may even slightly limit injury and disease progression.

Angiotensin II stimulates superoxide production in the thick ascending limb by activating NOX4

Angiotensin II (ANG II) stimulates production of superoxide (O(2)(-)) by NADPH oxidase (NOX) in medullary thick ascending limbs (TALs). There are three isoforms of the catalytic subunit (NOX1, 2, and 4) known to be expressed in the kidney. We hypothesized that NOX2 mediates ANG II-induced O(2)(-) production by TALs. To test this, we measured NOX1, 2, and 4 mRNA and protein by RT-PCR and Western blot in TAL suspensions from rats and found three catalytic subunits expressed in the TAL. We measured O(2)(-) production using a lucigenin-based assay. To assess the contribution of NOX2, we measured ANG II-induced O(2)(-) production in wild-type and NOX2 knockout mice (KO). ANG II increased O(2)(-) production by 346 relative light units (RLU)/mg protein in the wild-type mice (n = 9; P < 0.0007 vs. control). In the knockout mice, ANG II increased O(2)(-) production by 290 RLU/mg protein (n = 9; P < 0.007 vs. control). This suggests that NOX2 does not contribute to ANG II-induced O(2)(-) production (P < 0.6 WT vs. KO). To test whether NOX4 mediates the effect of ANG II, we selectively decreased NOX4 expression in rats using an adenovirus that expresses NOX4 short hairpin (sh)RNA. Six to seven days after in vivo transduction of the kidney outer medulla, NOX4 mRNA was reduced by 77%, while NOX1 and NOX2 mRNA was unaffected. In control TALs, ANG II stimulated O(2)(-) production by 96%. In TALs transduced with NOX4 shRNA, ANG II-stimulated O(2)(-) production was not significantly different from the baseline. We concluded that NOX4 is the main catalytic isoform of NADPH oxidase that contributes to ANG II-stimulated O(2)(-) production by TALs.

The NOX toolbox: validating the role of NADPH oxidases in physiology and disease

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are cellular signals but also disease triggers; their relative excess (oxidative stress) or shortage (reductive stress) compared to reducing equivalents are potentially deleterious. This may explain why antioxidants fail to combat diseases that correlate with oxidative stress. Instead, targeting of disease-relevant enzymatic ROS sources that leaves physiological ROS signaling unaffected may be more beneficial. NADPH oxidases are the only known enzyme family with the sole function to produce ROS. Of the catalytic NADPH oxidase subunits (NOX), NOX4 is the most widely distributed isoform. We provide here a critical review of the currently available experimental tools to assess the role of NOX and especially NOX4, i.e. knock-out mice, siRNAs, antibodies, and pharmacological inhibitors. We then focus on the characterization of the small molecule NADPH oxidase inhibitor, VAS2870, in vitro and in vivo, its specificity, selectivity, and possible mechanism of action. Finally, we discuss the validation of NOX4 as a potential therapeutic target for indications including stroke, heart failure, and fibrosis.

Targeting NOX enzymes in pulmonary fibrosis

Oxidative stress has been associated with a number of human fibrotic diseases, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Oxidative stress is most often defined as an imbalance between the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in excess of the capacity of cells/tissues to detoxify or scavenge them. Additionally, the regulated production of ROS participates in cellular signaling. Therapeutic strategies to treat IPF have, thus far, focused on augmenting anti-oxidant capacity. Recent studies have demonstrated a critical role for ROS-generating enzymatic systems, specifically, NADPH oxidase (NOX) family oxidoreductases in fibrotic processes. In this review, we examine the evidence for NOX isoforms in the generation and perpetuation of fibrosis, and the potential to target this gene family for the treatment of IPF and related fibrotic disorders.

Systemic upregulation of NADPH oxidase in diet-induced obesity in rats

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase is upregulated in a variety of tissues in obesity. It is still unclear as to whether NADPH oxidase upregulation in a specific tissue is part of a systemic response. Here we analyzed the expression pattern of NADPH oxidase in vascular, adipose, and kidney tissues in a rat model of diet-induced obesity. After weaning, rats were fed either a normal or high-fat diet for 12 weeks. The high-fat diet resulted in 20% increased body weight. In the aorta, Nox4 expression was increased by three-fold in obese rats. Upregulations of p22phox and p47phox in adipose, and Nox4, p22phox, and p47phox in kidney were observed in obesity. Marked increases in plasma leptin and insulin were observed, with more modest changes in adiponectin in obese rats. The average systolic blood pressure in the obese group was 11 mmHg higher than that of lean rats (P < 0.005). There was a significant correlation between blood pressure and aortic Nox4 expression (P < 0.01). In cultured vascular smooth muscle cells, adiponectin reduced the expression of Nox4 in a protein kinase A-dependent manner. Our results suggest that upregulation of NADPH oxidase in multiple tissues during obesity appears to be a systemic response. At least in vitro, adiponectin may have a protective antioxidant role by suppressing vascular NADPH oxidase expression. The association between NADPH oxidase Nox4 expression in the vasculature and the elevated blood pressure in obesity requires further investigation.

Hyperglycemia enhances IGF-I-stimulated Src activation via increasing Nox4-derived reactive oxygen species in a PKCζ-dependent manner in vascular smooth muscle cells

IGF-I-stimulated sarcoma viral oncogene (Src) activation during hyperglycemia is required for propagating downstream signaling. The aim of the current study was to determine the mechanism by which hyperglycemia enhances IGF-I-stimulated Src activation and the role of NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4) and protein kinase C ζ (PKCζ) in mediating this response in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Nox4 expression was analyzed in VSMCs exposed to hyperglycemia. The role of Nox4-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) in IGF-I-stimulated Src activation was investigated via knockdown of Nox4. Different isoforms of PKC were screened to investigate their role in hyperglycemia-induced Nox4. The oxidation of Src was shown to be a prerequisite for its activation in response to IGF-I during hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia induced Nox4, but not Nox1, and p22 phagocyte oxidase (p22phox) expression and IGF-I stimulated Nox4/p22phox complex formation, leading to increased ROS generation. Knockdown of Nox4 prevented ROS generation and impaired the oxidation and activation of Src in response to IGF-I, whereas knockdown of Nox1 had no effect. PKCζ was shown to mediate the hyperglycemia-induced increase in Nox4 expression. The key observations in cultured VSMCs were confirmed in the diabetic mice. Nox4-derived ROS is responsible for the enhancing effect of hyperglycemia on IGF-I-stimulated Src activation, which in turn amplifies IGF-I-linked downstream signaling and biological actions.

IGF-I increases the expression of fibronectin by Nox4-dependent Akt phosphorylation in renal tubular epithelial cells

Extracellular matrix accumulation contributes to the progression of chronic kidney disease. Many growth factors including insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) enhance matrix protein accumulation. Proximal tubular epithelial cells (PTCs) synthesize matrix proteins. NADPH oxidases are major sources of reactive oxygen species (ROS), important signaling molecules that mediate biological responses in a variety of cells and tissue. We investigated the mechanism by which IGF-I regulates fibronectin accumulation in PTCs and the role of a potential redox-dependent signaling pathway. IGF-I induces an increase in NADPH-dependent superoxide generation, enhances the release of hydrogen peroxide, and increases the expression of NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4) in PTCs. IGF-I also stimulates phosphorylation of Akt, and inhibition of Akt or its upstream activator phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase attenuates IGF-I-induced fibronectin accumulation. Expression of dominant negative Akt also inhibits IGF-I-induced expression of fibronectin, indicating a role for this kinase in fibronectin accumulation. Expression of dominant negative adenovirus Nox4 inhibits IGF-I-induced NADPH oxidase activity, Akt phosphorylation, and fibronectin protein expression. Moreover, transfection of small interfering RNA targeting Nox4 decreases Nox4 protein expression and blocks IGF-I-induced Akt phosphorylation and the increase in fibronectin, placing Nox4 and ROS upstream of Akt signaling pathway. To confirm the role of Nox4, PTCs were infected with adenovirus construct expressing wild-type Nox4. Ad-Nox4, but not control Ad-green fluorescent protein, upregulated Nox4 expression and increased NADPH oxidase activity as well as fibronectin expression. Taken together, these results provide the first evidence for a role of Nox4 in IGF-I-induced Akt phosphorylation and fibronectin expression in tubular epithelial cells.

Abundance of TRPC6 protein in glomerular mesangial cells is decreased by ROS and PKC in diabetes

The present study was performed to investigate the underlying mechanism, particularly the roles of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and protein kinase C (PKC), in the diabetes-induced canonical transient receptor potential 6 (TRPC6) downregulation. We found that high glucose (HG) significantly reduced TRPC6 protein expression in cultured mesangial cells (MCs). TRPC6 protein was also significantly reduced in the glomeruli but not in the heart or aorta isolated from streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. In the cultured MCs, H(2)O(2) suppressed TRPC6 protein expression in a dose- and time-dependent manner, which emulated the HG effect. Catalase as well as superoxide dismutase were able to prevent the inhibitory effect of HG on TRPC6. The antioxidant effect observed in cultured cells was also observed in diabetic rats treated with tempol for 2 wk, which exhibited a preservation of TRPC6 in the glomeruli. Specific knockdown of Nox4, a component of NADPH oxidase, increased TRPC6 protein expression. Furthermore, the PKC activator phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), but not its analog 4α-phorbol 12, 13-didecanoate (4α-PDD), suppressed TRPC6 expression, and this PMA effect was not affected by catalase. Moreover, Gö6976, but not LY333531, attenuated the negative effect of HG on TRPC6 expression. Gö6976 also inhibited H(2)O(2) effect on TRPC6. Furthermore, either knockdown of TRPC6 or HG treatment significantly decreased ANG II-stimulated MC contraction, and the HG-impaired MC contraction was rescued by overexpression of TRPC6. These results suggest that hyperglycemia in diabetes downregulated TRPC6 protein expression in MCs through a NADPH oxidase Nox4-ROS-PKC pathway, proving a mechanism for impaired MC contraction in diabetes.

Mitochondrial superoxide dismutase--signals of distinction

Mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) neutralizes the highly reactive superoxide radical (O(2)(˙-)), the first member in a plethora of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS). Over the past decades, research has extended the prevailing view of mitochondrion well beyond the generation of cellular energy to include its importance in cell survival and cell death. In the normal state of a cell, endogenous antioxidant enzyme systems maintain the level of reactive oxygen species generated by the mitochondrial respiratory chain. Mammalian mitochondria are important to the production of reactive oxygen species, which underlie oxidative damage in many pathological conditions and contribute to retrograde redox signaling from the organelle to the cytosol and nucleus. Mitochondria are further implicated in various metabolic and aging-related diseases that are now postulated to be caused by misregulation of physiological systems rather than pure accumulation of oxidative damage. Thus, the signaling mechanisms within mitochondria, and between the organelle and its environment, have gained interest as potential drug targets. Here, we discuss redox events in mitochondria that lead to retrograde signaling, the role of redox events in disease, and their potential to serve as therapeutic targets.

Physiological roles of NOX/NADPH oxidase, the superoxide-generating enzyme

NADPH oxidase is a superoxide (O₂^•−)-generating enzyme first identified in phagocytes, essential for their bactericidal activities. Later, in non-phagocytes, production of O₂^•− was also demonstrated in an NADPH-dependent manner. In the last decade, several non-phagocyte-type NADPH oxidases have been identified. The catalytic subunit of these oxidases, NOX, constitutes the NOX family. There are five homologs in the family, NOX1 to NOX5, and two related enzymes, DUOX1 and DUOX2. Transgenic or gene-disrupted mice of the NOX family have also been established. NOX/DUOX proteins possess distinct features in the dependency on other components for their enzymatic activities, tissue distributions, and physiological functions. This review summarized the characteristics of the NOX family proteins, especially focused on their functions clarified through studies using gene-modified mice.

(Pro)renin promotes fibrosis gene expression in HEK cells through a Nox4-dependent mechanism

The (pro)renin receptor (PRR) has recently been demonstrated to bind equally well renin and its precursor, prorenin, leading to a similar intracellular signaling independent of angiotensin II. In this study, we report that human embryonic kidney cells (HEK) exposed to renin or prorenin for 24 h in the presence of a blocking concentration of the angtiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor perindoprilate increased superoxide anion production as measured by luminescence (lucigenin) and electron spin resonance spectroscopy (hydroxylamine radical transition). Also, both renin and prorenin increased Nox4 expression while Nox2, p47(phox), and p67(phox) remained unchanged. In an investigation of the effects of renin and prorenin on fibrosis genes, it appeared that both proteins stimulated transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), fibronectin, and plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1) expression and therefore participated to an overall switch toward a profibrotic state of the kidney cells. When the cells were transfected with a siRNA targeting the PRR, Nox4 expression was efficiently prevented as well as the increase in superoxide production, TGF-β, fibronectin, and PAI-1. Finally, we demonstrated that transfection of the cells with a Nox4-specific small interfering (si) RNA also prevented fibrosis gene expression following treatment with renin or prorenin. The results demonstrate that renin and prorenin, through their specific membrane receptor and independently of angiotensin II, promote fibrosis gene expression via a Nox4-dependent mechanism.

Myofibroblast differentiation during fibrosis: role of NAD(P)H oxidases

Progression of fibrosis involves interstitial hypercellularity, matrix accumulation, and atrophy of epithelial structures, resulting in loss of normal function and ultimately organ failure. There is common agreement that the fibroblast/myofibroblast is the cell type most responsible for interstitial matrix accumulation and consequent structural deformations associated with fibrosis. During wound healing and progressive fibrotic events, fibroblasts transform into myofibroblasts acquiring smooth muscle features, most notably the expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin and synthesis of mesenchymal cell-related matrix proteins. In renal disease, glomerular mesangial cells also acquire a myofibroblast phenotype and synthesize the same matrix proteins. The origin of interstitial myofibroblasts during fibrosis is a matter of debate, where the cells are proposed to derive from resident fibroblasts, pericytes, perivascular adventitial, epithelial, and/or endothelial sources. Regardless of the origin of the cells, transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1) is the principal growth factor responsible for myofibroblast differentiation to a profibrotic phenotype and exerts its effects via Smad signaling pathways involving mitogen-activated protein kinase and Akt/protein kinase B. Additionally, reactive oxygen species (ROS) have important roles in progression of fibrosis. ROS are derived from a variety of enzyme sources, of which the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAD(P)H) oxidase family has been identified as a major source of superoxide and hydrogen peroxide generation in the cardiovasculature and kidney during health and disease. Recent evidence indicates that the NAD(P)H oxidase homolog Nox4 is most accountable for ROS-induced fibroblast and mesangial cell activation, where it has an essential role in TGF-β1 signaling of fibroblast activation and differentiation into a profibrotic myofibroblast phenotype and matrix production. Information on the role of ROS in mesangial cell and fibroblast signaling is incomplete, and further research on myofibroblast differentiation during fibrosis is warranted.

Sp3 transcription factor is crucial for transcriptional activation of the human NOX4 gene

NOX is the catalytic subunit of NADPH oxidase, the superoxide-generating enzyme. Among several isoforms of NOX, NOX4 is abundantly expressed in various tissues. To clarify the mechanisms of constitutive and ubiquitous expression of NOX4, the promoter activities of the human NOX4 gene were analyzed by reporter assays. The 5'-flanking and non-coding regions of the human NOX4 gene are known to contain multiple GC bases. Among them, three GC-boxes containing putative Sp/Klf-binding sites, which were not found in rodent genes, were suggested to be essential for the basal expression of the NOX4 gene in SH-SY5Y and HEK293 cells. Electrophoresis mobility shift assays demonstrated that Sp1 and Sp3 could bind to GC-boxes at positions -239/-227 and +69/+81 in these cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays showed that Sp1 and Sp3 could also bind to GC-boxes at positions -239/-227 and +69/+81 in vivo. The promoter activity of the NOX4 gene was reduced in SH-SY5Y and HEK293 cells by transfection of an anti-Sp3 short hairpin RNA-expression plasmid. Taken together, these results suggest that Sp3 plays a key role in the expression of NOX4 in various cell lineages in humans.

NADPH oxidase-derived reactive oxygen species: involvement in vascular physiology and pathology

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are essential mediators of normal cell physiology. However, in the last few decades, it has become evident that ROS overproduction and/or alterations of the antioxidant system associated with inflammation and metabolic dysfunction are key pathological triggers of cardiovascular disorders. NADPH oxidases (Nox) represent a class of hetero-oligomeric enzymes whose primary function is the generation of ROS. In the vasculature, Nox-derived ROS contribute to the maintenance of vascular tone and regulate important processes such as cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, cytoskeletal organization, and cell migration. Under pathological conditions, excessive Nox-dependent ROS formation, which is generally associated with the up-regulation of different Nox subtypes, induces dysregulation of the redox control systems and promotes oxidative injury of the cardiovascular cells. The molecular mechanism of Nox-derived ROS generation and the means by which this class of molecule contributes to vascular damage remain debatable issues. This review focuses on the processes of ROS formation, molecular targets, and neutralization in the vasculature and provides an overview of the novel concepts regarding Nox functions, expression, and regulation in vascular health and disease. Because Nox enzymes are the most important sources of ROS in the vasculature, therapeutic perspectives to counteract Nox-dependent oxidative stress in the cardiovascular system are discussed.

Reactive oxygen species and vascular biology: implications in human hypertension

Increased vascular production of reactive oxygen species (ROS; termed oxidative stress) has been implicated in various chronic diseases, including hypertension. Oxidative stress is both a cause and a consequence of hypertension. Although oxidative injury may not be the sole etiology, it amplifies blood pressure elevation in the presence of other pro-hypertensive factors. Oxidative stress is a multisystem phenomenon in hypertension and involves the heart, kidneys, nervous system, vessels and possibly the immune system. Compelling experimental and clinical evidence indicates the importance of the vasculature in the pathophysiology of hypertension and as such much emphasis has been placed on the (patho)biology of ROS in the vascular system. A major source for cardiovascular, renal and neural ROS is a family of non-phagocytic nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidases (Nox), including the prototypic Nox2 homolog-based NADPH oxidase, as well as other Noxes, such as Nox1 and Nox4. Nox-derived ROS is important in regulating endothelial function and vascular tone. Oxidative stress is implicated in endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, hypertrophy, apoptosis, migration, fibrosis, angiogenesis and rarefaction, important processes involved in vascular remodeling in hypertension. Despite a plethora of data implicating oxidative stress as a causative factor in experimental hypertension, findings in human hypertension are less conclusive. This review highlights the importance of ROS in vascular biology and focuses on the potential role of oxidative stress in human hypertension.

PDK1 recruitment to the SHPS-1 signaling complex enhances insulin-like growth factor-i-stimulated AKT activation and vascular smooth muscle cell survival

In vascular smooth muscle cells, exposed to hyperglycemia and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), SHPS-1 functions as a scaffold protein, and a signaling complex is assembled that leads to AKT activation. However, the underlying mechanism by which formation of this complex activates the kinase that phosphorylates AKT (Thr(308)) is unknown. Therefore, we investigated the mechanism of PDK1 recruitment to the SHPS-1 signaling complex and the consequences of disrupting PDK1 recruitment for downstream signaling. Our results show that following IGF-I stimulation, PDK1 is recruited to SHPS-1, and its recruitment is mediated by Grb2, which associates with SHPS-1 via its interaction with Pyk2, a component of the SHPS-1-associated complex. A proline-rich sequence in PDK1 bound to an Src homology 3 domain in Grb2 in response to IGF-I. Disruption of Grb2-PDK1 by expression of either a Grb2 Src homology 3 domain or a PDK1 proline to alanine mutant inhibited PDK1 recruitment to SHPS-1, leading to impaired IGF-I-stimulated AKT Thr(308) phosphorylation. Following its recruitment to SHPS-1, PDK1 was further activated via Tyr(373/376) phosphorylation, and this was required for a maximal increase in PDK1 kinase activity and AKT-mediated FOXO3a Thr(32) phosphorylation. PDK1 recruitment was also required for IGF-I to prevent apoptosis that occurred in response to hyperglycemia. Assembly of the Grb2-PDK1 complex on SHPS-1 was specific for IGF-I signaling because inhibiting PDK1 recruitment to SHPS-1 had no effect on EGF-stimulated AKT Thr(308) phosphorylation. These findings reveal a novel mechanism for recruitment of PDK1 to the SHPS-1 signaling complex, which is required for IGF-I-stimulated AKT Thr(308) phosphorylation and inhibition of apoptosis.

NOX/NADPH oxidase, the superoxide-generating enzyme: its transcriptional regulation and physiological roles

NADPH oxidase is a superoxide (O(2)(-))-generating enzyme first identified in phagocytes that shows bactericidal activities. It has been reported that O(2)(-) is also produced in an NADPH-dependent manner in non-phagocytes. In the last decade, non-phagocyte-type NADPH oxidases have been identified, and the catalytic subunit NOX family has been found to be composed of five homologs, NOX1 to NOX5, and two related enzymes, DUOX1 and DUOX2. These NOX proteins have distinct features in dependency on other components for maximal enzymatic activity, tissue distribution, expressional regulation, and physiological functions. This review summarized the distinct characteristics of NOX family proteins, especially focusing on their functions and mechanisms of their expressional regulation.

Oxidative stress in obstructive nephropathy

Unilateral ureteric obstruction (UUO) is one of the most commonly applied rodent models to study the pathophysiology of renal fibrosis. This model reflects important aspects of inflammation and fibrosis that are prominent in human kidney diseases. In this review, we present an overview of the factors contributing to the pathophysiology of UUO, highlighting the role of oxidative stress.

Intrarenal suppression of angiotensin II type 1 receptor binding molecule in angiotensin II-infused mice

ATRAP [ANG II type 1 receptor (AT1R)-associated protein] is a molecule which directly interacts with AT1R and inhibits AT1R signaling. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of continuous ANG II infusion on the intrarenal expression and distribution of ATRAP and to determine the role of AT1R signaling in mediating these effects. C57BL/6 male mice were subjected to vehicle or ANG II infusions at doses of 200, 1,000, or 2,500 ng·kg(-1)·min(-1) for 14 days. ANG II infusion caused significant suppression of ATRAP expression in the kidney but did not affect ATRAP expression in the testis or liver. Although only the highest ANG II dose (2,500 ng·kg(-1)·min(-1)) provoked renal pathological responses, such as an increase in the mRNA expression of angiotensinogen and the α-subunit of the epithelial sodium channel, ANG II-induced decreases in ATRAP were observed even at the lowest dose (200 ng·kg(-1)·min(-1)), particularly in the outer medulla of the kidney, based on immunohistochemical staining and Western blot analysis. The decrease in renal ATRAP expression by ANG II infusion was prevented by treatment with the AT1R-specific blocker olmesartan. In addition, the ANG II-mediated decrease in renal ATRAP expression through AT1R signaling occurred without an ANG II-induced decrease in plasma membrane AT1R expression in the kidney. On the other hand, a transgenic model increase in renal ATRAP expression beyond baseline was accompanied by a constitutive reduction of renal plasma membrane AT1R expression and by the promotion of renal AT1R internalization as well as the decreased induction of angiotensinogen gene expression in response to ANG II. These results suggest that the plasma membrane AT1R level in the kidney is modulated by intrarenal ATRAP expression under physiological and pathophysiological conditions in vivo.

Canonical transient receptor potential 6 (TRPC6), a redox-regulated cation channel

This study examined the effect of H₂O₂ on the TRPC6 channel and its underlying mechanisms using a TRPC6 heterologous expression system. In TRPC6-expressing HEK293T cells, H₂O₂ significantly stimulated Ca²⁺ entry in a dose-dependent manner. Electrophysiological experiments showed that H₂O₂ significantly increased TRPC6 channel open probability and whole-cell currents. H₂O₂ also evoked a robust inward current in A7r5 vascular smooth muscle cells, which was nearly abolished by knockdown of TRPC6 using a small interfering RNA. Catalase substantially attenuated arginine vasopressin (AVP)-induced Ca²⁺ entry in cells co-transfected with TRPC6 and AVP V1 receptor. N-Ethylmaleimide and thimerosal were able to simulate the H₂O₂ response. Dithiothreitol or glutathione-reduced ethyl ester significantly antagonized the response. Furthermore, both N-ethylmaleimide- and H₂O₂-induced TRPC6 activations were only observed in the cell-attached patches but not in the inside-out patches. Moreover, 1-oleoyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol effect on TRPC6 was significantly greater in the presence of H₂O₂. Biotinylation assays revealed a significant increase in cell surface TRPC6 in response to H₂O₂. Similarly, in cells transfected with TRPC6-EGFP, confocal microscopy showed a significant increase in fluorescence intensity in the region of the cell membrane and adjacent to the membrane. AVP also increased the fluorescence intensity on the surface of the cells co-transfected with TRPC6-EGFP and V1 receptor, and this response was inhibited by catalase. These data indicate that H₂O₂ activates TRPC6 channels via modification of thiol groups of intracellular proteins. This cysteine oxidation-dependent pathway not only stimulates the TRPC6 channel by itself but also sensitizes the channels to diacylglycerol and promotes TRPC6 trafficking to the cell surface.

Cadmium induces Wnt signaling to upregulate proliferation and survival genes in sub-confluent kidney proximal tubule cells

Background

The class 1 carcinogen cadmium (Cd²⁺) disrupts the E-cadherin/β-catenin complex of epithelial adherens junctions (AJs) and causes renal cancer. Deregulation of E-cadherin adhesion and changes in Wnt/β-catenin signaling are known to contribute to carcinogenesis.

Results

We investigated Wnt signaling after Cd²⁺-induced E-cadherin disruption in sub-confluent cultured kidney proximal tubule cells (PTC). Cd²⁺ (25 μM, 3-9 h) caused nuclear translocation of β-catenin and triggered a Wnt response measured by TOPflash reporter assays. Cd²⁺ reduced the interaction of β-catenin with AJ components (E-cadherin, α-catenin) and increased binding to the transcription factor TCF4 of the Wnt pathway, which was upregulated and translocated to the nucleus. While Wnt target genes (c-Myc, cyclin D1 and ABCB1) were up-regulated by Cd²⁺, electromobility shift assays showed increased TCF4 binding to cyclin D1 and ABCB1 promoter sequences with Cd²⁺. Overexpression of wild-type and mutant TCF4 confirmed Cd²⁺-induced Wnt signaling. Wnt signaling elicited by Cd²⁺ was not observed in confluent non-proliferating cells, which showed increased E-cadherin expression. Overexpression of E-cadherin reduced Wnt signaling, PTC proliferation and Cd²⁺ toxicity. Cd²⁺ also induced reactive oxygen species dependent expression of the pro-apoptotic ER stress marker and Wnt suppressor CHOP/GADD153 which, however, did not abolish Wnt response and cell viability.

Conclusions

Cd²⁺ induces Wnt signaling in PTC. Hence, Cd²⁺ may facilitate carcinogenesis of PTC by promoting Wnt pathway-mediated proliferation and survival of pre-neoplastic cells.

Fibroblast growth factor 2 induces apoptosis in the early primary culture of rat cortical neurons

In the central nervous system, fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) is known to have important functions in cell survival and differentiation. In addition to its roles as a neurotrophic factor, we found that FGF2 caused cell death in the early primary culture of cortical neurons. FGF2-induced neuronal cell death showed apoptotic characters, e.g., chromatin condensation and DNA fragmentation. The ultrastructural morphology of FGF2-treated neurons indicated apoptotic features such as progressive cell shrinkage, blebbing of the plasma membrane, loss of cytosolic organelles, clumping of chromatin, and fragmentation of DNA. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors significantly rescued neurons from FGF2-induced apoptosis. FGF2 potentiated a marked influx of Ca(2+) into neurons before apoptosis. Both a calcium chelator and L-type voltage-sensitive Ca(2+) channel (L-VSCC) blockers attenuated FGF2-induced apoptosis, whereas other blockers of VSCCs such as N-type and P/Q-types did not. Blockers of L-VSCCs significantly suppressed FGF2-enhanced Ca(2+) influx into neurons. Moreover, FGF2 also generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) before apoptosis. Radical scavengers reduced not only the FGF2-generated ROS, but also the FGF2-induced Ca(2+) influx and apoptosis. In conclusion, we demonstrated that FGF2 caused apoptosis via L-VSCCs in the early neuronal culture.

NADPH oxidase 1 modulates WNT and NOTCH1 signaling to control the fate of proliferative progenitor cells in the colon

The homeostatic self-renewal of the colonic epithelium requires coordinated regulation of the canonical Wnt/beta-catenin and Notch signaling pathways to control proliferation and lineage commitment of multipotent stem cells. However, the molecular mechanisms by which the Wnt/beta-catenin and Notch1 pathways interplay in controlling cell proliferation and fate in the colon are poorly understood. Here we show that NADPH oxidase 1 (NOX1), a reactive oxygen species (ROS)-producing oxidase that is highly expressed in colonic epithelial cells, is a pivotal determinant of cell proliferation and fate that integrates Wnt/beta-catenin and Notch1 signals. NOX1-deficient mice reveal a massive conversion of progenitor cells into postmitotic goblet cells at the cost of colonocytes due to the concerted repression of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/Wnt/beta-catenin and Notch1 signaling. This conversion correlates with the following: (i) the redox-dependent activation of the dual phosphatase PTEN, causing the inactivation of the Wnt pathway effector beta-catenin, and (ii) the downregulation of Notch1 signaling that provokes derepression of mouse atonal homolog 1 (Math1) expression. We conclude that NOX1 controls the balance between goblet and absorptive cell types in the colon by coordinately modulating PI3K/AKT/Wnt/beta-catenin and Notch1 signaling. This finding provides the molecular basis for the role of NOX1 in cell proliferation and postmitotic differentiation.

Metformin induces suppression of NAD(P)H oxidase activity in podocytes

Hyperglycemia increases the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). NAD(P)H oxidase, producing superoxide anion, is the main source of ROS in diabetic podocytes and their production contributes to the development of diabetic nephropathy. We have investigated the effect of an antidiabetic drug, metformin on the production of superoxide anion in cultured podocytes and attempted to elucidate underlying mechanisms. The experiments were performed in normal (NG, 5.6mM) and high (HG, 30mM) glucose concentration. Overall ROS production was measured by fluorescence of a DCF probe. Activity of NAD(P)H oxidase was measured by chemiluminescence method. The AMP-dependent kinase (AMPK) activity was determined by immunobloting, measuring the ratio of phosphorylated AMPK to total AMPK. Glucose accumulation was measured using 2-deoxy-[1,2-(3)H]-glucose. ROS production increased by about 27% (187+/-8 vs. 238+/-9 arbitrary units AU, P<0.01) in HG. Metformin (2mM, 2h) markedly reduced ROS production by 45% in NG and 60% in HG. Metformin decreased NAD(P)H oxidase activity in NG (36%) and HG (86%). AMPK activity was increased by metformin in NG and HG (from 0.58+/-0.07 to. 0.99+/-0.06, and from 0.53+/-0.03 to 0.64+/-0.03; P<0.05). The effects of metformin on the activities of NAD(P)H oxidase and AMPK were abolished in the presence of AMPK inhibitor, compound C. We have shown that metformin decreases production of ROS through reduction of NAD(P)H oxidase activity. We also have demonstrated relationship between activity of NAD(P)H oxidase and AMPK.