Covalent peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma adduction by nitro-fatty acids: selective ligand activity and anti-diabetic signaling actions

Inhibition of Mycobacterium tuberculosis PknG by non-catalytic rubredoxin domain specific modification: reaction of an electrophilic nitro-fatty acid with the Fe-S center

PknG from Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a Ser/Thr protein kinase that regulates key metabolic processes within the bacterial cell as well as signaling pathways from the infected host cell. This multidomain protein has a conserved canonical kinase domain with N- and C-terminal flanking regions of unclear functional roles. The N-terminus harbors a rubredoxin-like domain (Rbx), a bacterial protein module characterized by an iron ion coordinated by four cysteine residues. Disruption of the Rbx-metal binding site by simultaneous mutations of all the key cysteine residues significantly impairs PknG activity. This encouraged us to evaluate the effect of a nitro-fatty acid (9- and 10-nitro-octadeca-9-cis-enoic acid; OA-NO2) on PknG activity. Fatty acid nitroalkenes are electrophilic species produced during inflammation and metabolism that react with nucleophilic residues of target proteins (i.e., Cys and His), modulating protein function and subcellular distribution in a reversible manner. Here, we show that OA-NO2 inhibits kinase activity by covalently adducting PknG remote from the catalytic domain. Mass spectrometry-based analysis established that cysteines located at Rbx are the specific targets of the nitroalkene. Cys-nitroalkylation is a Michael addition reaction typically reverted by thiols. However, the reversible OA-NO2-mediated nitroalkylation of the kinase results in an irreversible inhibition of PknG. Cys adduction by OA-NO2 induced iron release from the Rbx domain, revealing a new strategy for the specific inhibition of PknG. These results affirm the relevance of the Rbx domain as a target for PknG inhibition and support that electrophilic lipid reactions of Rbx-Cys may represent a new drug strategy for specific PknG inhibition.

Nitro-fatty acids: formation, redox signaling, and therapeutic potential

SIGNIFICANCE

Nitrated derivatives of unsaturated fatty acids (nitro-fatty acids) are being formed and detected in human plasma, cell membranes, and tissue, triggering signaling cascades via covalent and reversible post-translational modifications of susceptible nucleophilic amino acids in transcriptional regulatory proteins and enzymes.

RECENT ADVANCES

Nitro-fatty acids modulate metabolic as well as inflammatory signaling pathways, including the p65 subunit of nuclear factor κB and the transcription factor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ. Moreover, nitro-fatty acids can activate heat shock as well as phase II antioxidant responses. As electrophiles, they also activate the Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 pathway.

CRITICAL ISSUES

We first discuss the mechanisms of nitro-fatty acid formation as well as their key chemical and biochemical properties, including their capacity to release nitric oxide and exert antioxidant actions. The electrophilic properties of nitro-fatty acids to activate anti-inflammatory signaling pathways are discussed in detail. A critical issue is the influence of nitroarachidonic acid on prostaglandin endoperoxide H synthases, modulating inflammatory processes through redirection of arachidonic acid metabolism and signaling.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Based on this information, we analyze in vivo data supporting nitro-fatty acids as promising pharmacological tools to prevent inflammatory diseases associated with oxidative and nitrative stress conditions. A key future issue is to evaluate whether nitro-fatty acid supplementation would be useful for human diseases linked to inflammation as well as their potential toxicity when administered by long periods of time.

Combined losartan and nitro-oleic acid remarkably improves diabetic nephropathy in mice

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a leading cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The inhibitors of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) can alleviate some of the symptoms of DN but fail to stop the progression to ESRD. Our previous studies demonstrate renoprotective action of nitro-oleic acid (OA-NO2) in several rodent models of renal disease. Here we examined the therapeutic potential and the underlying mechanism of combination of losartan and OA-NO2 in db/db mice. OA-NO2 was infused at 5 mg·kg(-1)·day(-1) via osmotic minipump, and losartan was incorporated into diet at 10 mg·kg(-1)·day(-1), each administered alone or in combination for 2 wk. Diabetic db/db mice developed progressive albuminuria and glomerulosclerosis, accompanied by podocytes loss, increased indexes of renal fibrosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Treatment of the diabetic mice with OA-NO2 or losartan alone moderately ameliorated kidney injury; however, the combined treatment remarkably reduced albuminuria, restored glomerular filtration barrier structure, and attenuated glomerulosclerosis, accompanied with significant suppression of renal oxidative stress and inflammation. These data demonstrate that combination of losartan and OA-NO2 effectively reverses renal injury in DN.

Modulation of nitro-fatty acid signaling: prostaglandin reductase-1 is a nitroalkene reductase

Inflammation, characterized by the activation of both resident and infiltrated immune cells, is accompanied by increased production of oxidizing and nitrating species. Nitrogen dioxide, the proximal nitrating species formed under these conditions, reacts with unsaturated fatty acids to yield nitroalkene derivatives. These electrophilic products modulate protein function via post-translational modification of susceptible nucleophilic amino acids. Nitroalkenes react with Keap1 to instigate Nrf2 signaling, activate heat shock response gene expression, and inhibit NF-κB-mediated signaling, inducing net anti-inflammatory and tissue-protective metabolic responses. We report the purification and characterization of a NADPH-dependent liver enzyme that reduces the nitroalkene moiety of nitro-oleic acid, yielding the inactive product nitro-stearic acid. Prostaglandin reductase-1 (PtGR-1) was identified as a nitroalkene reductase by protein purification and proteomic studies. Kinetic measurements, inhibition studies, immunological and molecular biology approaches as well as clinical analyses confirmed this identification. Overexpression of PtGR-1 in HEK293T cells promoted nitroalkene metabolism to inactive nitroalkanes, an effect that abrogated the Nrf2-dependent induction of heme oxygenase-1 expression by nitro-oleic acid. These results situate PtGR-1 as a critical modulator of both the steady state levels and signaling activities of fatty acid nitroalkenes in vivo.

Lipoxidation adducts with peptides and proteins: deleterious modifications or signaling mechanisms?

Protein lipoxidation refers to the modification by electrophilic lipid oxidation products to form covalent adducts, which for many years has been considered as a deleterious consequence of oxidative stress. Oxidized lipids or phospholipids containing carbonyl moieties react readily with lysine to form Schiff bases; alternatively, oxidation products containing α,β-unsaturated moieties are susceptible to nucleophilic attack by cysteine, histidine or lysine residues to yield Michael adducts, overall corresponding to a large number of possible protein adducts. The most common detection methods for lipoxidized proteins take advantage of the presence of reactive carbonyl groups to add labels, or use antibodies. These methods have limitations in terms of specificity and identification of the modification site. The latter question is satisfactorily addressed by mass spectrometry, which enables the characterization of the adduct structure. This has allowed the identification of lipoxidized proteins in physiological and pathological situations. While in many cases lipoxidation interferes with protein function, causing inhibition of enzymatic activity and increased immunogenicity, there are a small number of cases where lipoxidation results in gain of function or activity. For certain proteins lipoxidation may represent a form of redox signaling, although more work is required to confirm the physiological relevance and mechanisms of such processes. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Posttranslational Protein modifications in biology and Medicine.

A PPARγ ligand present in Actinidia fruit (Actinidia chrysantha) is identified as dilinolenoyl galactosyl glycerol

Activity-guided fractionation of Actinidia fruit species, including Kiwifruit, has identified DLGG (dilinolenoyl galactosyl glycerol) as a potent PPARγ (peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor γ) ligand. DLGG is a type of MGDG (monogalactosyl diacylglycerol) and is present in all chloroplasts, and therefore all green fruits and vegetables. PPARγ is a ligand-activated transcription factor that regulates glucose metabolism and inflammation. An ethyl acetate extract of Actinidia chrysantha was fractionated by HPLC and the PPARγ-binding activity was detected by FP (fluorescence polarization). Linoleic and α-linolenic acids in A. chrysantha were readily detected as PPARγ ligands. Slow-binding PPARγ ligands were detected in several hydrophobic fractions. High-resolution MS identified DLGG as one of these ligands and confirmed that its binding is non-covalent. DLGG is a slow-binding PPARγ ligand with an IC₅₀ of 1.64 μM, ±0.093 achieved after 45 min equilibration. DLGG is the first example of a form of DAG (diacylglycerol) that is a PPARγ ligand. In addition, DLGG is the first reported glycolipid ligand for PPARγ and also the first non-covalent, slow-binding PPARγ ligand.

Characterization and quantification of endogenous fatty acid nitroalkene metabolites in human urine

The oxidation and nitration of unsaturated fatty acids transforms cell membrane and lipoprotein constituents into mediators that regulate signal transduction. The formation of 9-NO2-octadeca-9,11-dienoic acid and 12-NO2-octadeca-9,11-dienoic acid stems from peroxynitrite- and myeloperoxidase-derived nitrogen dioxide reactions as well as secondary to nitrite disproportionation under the acidic conditions of digestion. Broad anti-inflammatory and tissue-protective responses are mediated by nitro-fatty acids. It is now shown that electrophilic fatty acid nitroalkenes are present in the urine of healthy human volunteers (9.9 ± 4.0 pmol/mg creatinine); along with electrophilic 16- and 14-carbon nitroalkenyl β-oxidation metabolites. High resolution mass determinations and coelution with isotopically-labeled metabolites support renal excretion of cysteine-nitroalkene conjugates. These products of Michael addition are in equilibrium with the free nitroalkene pool in urine and are displaced by thiol reaction with mercury chloride. This reaction increases the level of free nitroalkene fraction >10-fold and displays a K(D) of 7.5 × 10(-6) M. In aggregate, the data indicates that formation of Michael adducts by electrophilic fatty acids is favored under biological conditions and that reversal of these addition reactions is critical for detecting both parent nitroalkenes and their metabolites. The measurement of this class of mediators can constitute a sensitive noninvasive index of metabolic and inflammatory status.

PPARγ as a sensor of lipase activity and a target for the lipase inhibitor orlistat

A PPARγ fluorescence polarization (FP) assay was used to measure the release of fatty acid products from triglyceride emulsions during digestion with pancreatic and yeast lipases in a real-time, homogenous assay. Using the same FP assay we show the anti-obesity drug Orlistat is a PPARγ ligand with an IC₅₀ of 2.84 ± 0.16 μM. Analytical Mass Spectrometry confirms that Orlistat does not bind covalently to PPARγ. The PPARγ FP assay is shown to be a simple method for measuring real-time lipase activity using a number of triglyceride substrates including olive oil and grape seed oil emulsions. Incubation of Orlistat with the human intestinal epithelial cell line Caco-2, at concentrations of 1 - 100 μM, leads to induction of genes regulated by PPARγ. At 100 μM Orlistat, transcription of β-defensin 1 (hDB1) & Adipose Differentiation Related Protein (ADRP) increase by up to 2.6 fold and 6.8 fold, respectively. Although at 1 μM and 100 μM Orlistat did not significantly increase defensin protein synthesis, at 10 μM Orlistat induced a 1.5 fold increase in hDB1 protein secretion in the human colonic adenocarcinoma cell line HT-29. Thus Orlistat is similar to the anti-diabetic drug Rosiglitazone in its ability to induce defensin gene expression. The antimicrobial peptide β-defensin 1 protects against pathogenic micro-organisms in the gut and PPARγ suppresses inflammatory gene expression. These may be beneficial side effects of Orlistat consumption on gut epithelial cells.

Electrophilic nitro-fatty acids inhibit vascular inflammation by disrupting LPS-dependent TLR4 signalling in lipid rafts

AIMS

Electrophilic fatty acid nitroalkene derivatives, products of unsaturated fatty acid nitration, exert long-term cardiovascular protection in experimental models of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. The goal of this study is to examine the effects of nitro-fatty acids in the regulation of upstream signalling events in nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation and determine whether low-dose acute administration of nitro-fatty acids reduces vascular inflammation in vivo.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Using NF-κB-luciferase transgenic mice, it was determined that pre-emptive treatment with nitro-oleic acid (OA-NO2), but not oleic acid (OA) inhibits lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced NF-κB activation both in vivo and in isolated macrophages. Acute intravenous administration of OA-NO2 was equally effective to inhibit leukocyte recruitment to the vascular endothelium assessed by intravital microscopy and significantly reduces aortic expression of adhesion molecules. An acute treatment with OA-NO2 in vivo yielding nanomolar concentrations in plasma, is sufficient to inhibit LPS-induced Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-induced cell surface expression in leukocytes and NF-κB activation. In vitro experiments reveal that OA-NO2 suppresses LPS-induced TLR4 signalling, inhibitor of κB (IκBα) phosphorylation and ubiquitination, phosphorylation of the IκB kinase (IKK), impairing the recruitment of the TLR4 and TNF receptor associated factor 6 (TRAF6) to the lipid rafts compartments.

CONCLUSION

These studies demonstrate that acute administration of nitro-fatty acids is effective to reduce vascular inflammation in vivo. These findings reveal a direct role of nitro-fatty acids in the disruption of the TLR4 signalling complex in lipid rafts, upstream events of the NF-κB pathway, leading to resolution of pro-inflammatory activation of NF-κB in the vasculature.

Molecular pathogenesis of pulmonary arterial hypertension

Recent clinical and experimental studies are redefining the cellular and molecular bases of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The genetic abnormalities first identified in association with the idiopathic form of PAH--together with a vast increase in our understanding of cell signaling, cell transformation, and cell-cell interactions; gene expression; microRNA processing; and mitochondrial and ion channel function--have helped explain the abnormal response of vascular cells to injury. Experimental and clinical studies now converge on the intersection and interactions between a genetic predisposition involving the BMPR2 signaling pathway and an impaired metabolic and chronic inflammatory state in the vessel wall. These deranged processes culminate in an exuberant proliferative response that occludes the pulmonary arterial (PA) lumen and obliterates the most distal intraacinar vessels. Here, we describe emerging therapies based on preclinical studies that address these converging pathways.

Conjugated linoleic acid is a preferential substrate for fatty acid nitration

The oxidation and nitration of unsaturated fatty acids by oxides of nitrogen yield electrophilic derivatives that can modulate protein function via post-translational protein modifications. The biological mechanisms accounting for fatty acid nitration and the specific structural characteristics of products remain to be defined. Herein, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is identified as the primary endogenous substrate for fatty acid nitration in vitro and in vivo, yielding up to 10(5) greater extent of nitration products as compared with bis-allylic linoleic acid. Multiple enzymatic and cellular mechanisms account for CLA nitration, including reactions catalyzed by mitochondria, activated macrophages, and gastric acidification. Nitroalkene derivatives of CLA and their metabolites are detected in the plasma of healthy humans and are increased in tissues undergoing episodes of ischemia reperfusion. Dietary CLA and nitrite supplementation in rodents elevates NO(2)-CLA levels in plasma, urine, and tissues, which in turn induces heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression in the colonic epithelium. These results affirm that metabolic and inflammatory reactions yield electrophilic products that can modulate adaptive cell signaling mechanisms.

Redox mechanisms in regulation of adipocyte differentiation: beyond a general stress response

In this review, we summarize advances in our understanding of redox-sensitive mechanisms that regulate adipogenesis. Current evidence indicates that reactive oxygen species may act to promote both the initiation of adipocyte lineage commitment of precursor or stem cells, and the terminal differentiation of preadipocytes to mature adipose cells. These can involve redox regulation of pathways mediated by receptor tyrosine kinases, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), PPARγ coactivator 1α (PGC-1α), AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein β (C/EBPβ). However, the precise roles of ROS in adipogenesis in vivo remain controversial. More studies are needed to delineate the roles of reactive oxygen species and redox signaling mechanisms, which could be either positive or negative, in the pathogenesis of obesity and related metabolic disorders.

Nitro-fatty acids as novel electrophilic ligands for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors

Lipid nitration has been observed during oxidative/nitrative stress conditions generating a variety of biomolecules capable of modulating cellular responses. This concept has grown as a result of studies with nitro-derivatives of long-chain unsaturated fatty acids containing a nitroalkene group (nitro-fatty acids). This review focuses on the interactions of nitro-fatty acids with members of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) family. These nuclear receptors belong to a superfamily of ligand-activated transcription factors, which serve as sensors of lipophilic molecules and regulate the expression of a set of genes involved in glucose and lipid metabolism. Here we discuss how nitro-fatty acids bind and activate PPARs, including the current knowledge of the molecular interactions and cell signaling events involved as well as their therapeutic potential associated with chronic inflammation and metabolic disorders.

Cell signalling by reactive lipid species: new concepts and molecular mechanisms

The process of lipid peroxidation is widespread in biology and is mediated through both enzymatic and non-enzymatic pathways. A significant proportion of the oxidized lipid products are electrophilic in nature, the RLS (reactive lipid species), and react with cellular nucleophiles such as the amino acids cysteine, lysine and histidine. Cell signalling by electrophiles appears to be limited to the modification of cysteine residues in proteins, whereas non-specific toxic effects involve modification of other nucleophiles. RLS have been found to participate in several physiological pathways including resolution of inflammation, cell death and induction of cellular antioxidants through the modification of specific signalling proteins. The covalent modification of proteins endows some unique features to this signalling mechanism which we have termed the ‘covalent advantage’. For example, covalent modification of signalling proteins allows for the accumulation of a signal over time. The activation of cell signalling pathways by electrophiles is hierarchical and depends on a complex interaction of factors such as the intrinsic chemical reactivity of the electrophile, the intracellular domain to which it is exposed and steric factors. This introduces the concept of electrophilic signalling domains in which the production of the lipid electrophile is in close proximity to the thiol-containing signalling protein. In addition, we propose that the role of glutathione and associated enzymes is to insulate the signalling domain from uncontrolled electrophilic stress. The persistence of the signal is in turn regulated by the proteasomal pathway which may itself be subject to redox regulation by RLS. Cell death mediated by RLS is associated with bioenergetic dysfunction, and the damaged proteins are probably removed by the lysosome-autophagy pathway.

Total synthesis and dual PPARα/γ agonist effects of amorphastilbol and its synthetic derivatives

Amorphastilbol (APH-1), isolated from a Robinia pseudoacacia var. umbraculifer [corrected] seed extract, is a biologically interesting natural trans-stilbene compound with dual peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) α/γ agonist activity. After total synthesis of APH-1 and its derivatives by Pd-catalyzed Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling of a common (E)-styryl bromide intermediate and various aromatic trifluoroborate compounds, we biologically evaluated APH-2-APH-12 for PPAR agonist activity. APH-4 and APH-11 were effective PPARα/γ transcriptional activators, compared with APH-1. Therefore, we suggest that APH-4 and APH-11 are novel dual PPARα/γ agonists and are potentially useful for treating type 2 diabetes by enhancing glucose and lipid metabolism.

PPARs: fatty acid sensors controlling metabolism

The peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARs) are nuclear receptors that play key roles in the regulation of lipid metabolism, inflammation, cellular growth, and differentiation. The receptors bind and are activated by a broad range of fatty acids and fatty acid derivatives and they thereby serve as major transcriptional sensors of fatty acids. Here we review the function, regulation, and mechanism of the different PPAR subtypes with special emphasis on their role in the regulation of lipid metabolism.

New insights into the role of fatty acids in the pathogenesis and resolution of inflammatory bowel disease

Dietary and endogenously modified lipids modulate inflammation by functioning as intra- and intercellular signaling molecules. Proinflammatory lipid mediators such as the eicosanoids compete against the signaling actions of newly discovered modified fatty acids that act to resolve inflammation. In inflammatory bowel disease, multiple aberrancies in lipid metabolism have been discovered, which shed further light on the pathogenesis of intestinal inflammation. Mechanisms by which lipids modulate inflammation, abnormalities of lipid metabolism in the setting of inflammatory bowel disease, and potential therapeutic application of lipid derivatives in this setting are discussed.

Oxidases and peroxidases in cardiovascular and lung disease: new concepts in reactive oxygen species signaling

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in numerous physiological and pathophysiological responses. Increasing evidence implicates ROS as signaling molecules involved in the propagation of cellular pathways. The NADPH oxidase (Nox) family of enzymes is a major source of ROS in the cell and has been related to the progression of many diseases and even environmental toxicity. The complexity of this family's effects on cellular processes stems from the fact that there are seven members, each with unique tissue distribution, cellular localization, and expression. Nox proteins also differ in activation mechanisms and the major ROS detected as their product. To add to this complexity, mounting evidence suggests that other cellular oxidases or their products may be involved in Nox regulation. The overall redox and metabolic status of the cell, specifically the mitochondria, also has implications on ROS signaling. Signaling of such molecules as electrophilic fatty acids has an impact on many redox-sensitive pathologies and thus, as anti-inflammatory molecules, contributes to the complexity of ROS regulation. This review is based on the proceedings of a recent international Oxidase Signaling Symposium at the University of Pittsburgh's Vascular Medicine Institute and Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology and encompasses further interaction and discussion among the presenters.

Phenotypic modulation of macrophages in response to plaque lipids

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The accumulation of macrophages in the vascular wall is a hallmark of atherosclerosis. The biological properties of atherosclerotic plaque macrophages determine lesion size, composition, and stability. In atherosclerotic plaques, macrophages encounter a microenvironment that comprises a variety of lipid oxidation products, each of which has diverse biological effects. In this review, we summarize recent advances in our understanding of the effects of plaque lipids on macrophage phenotypic polarization.

RECENT FINDINGS

Atherosclerotic lesions in mice and in humans contain various macrophage phenotypes, which play different roles in mediating inflammation, the clearance of dead cells, and possibly resolution. Macrophages alter their phenotype and biological function in response to plaque lipids through the upregulation of specific sets of genes. Interaction of oxidized lipids with pattern recognition receptors and activation of the inflammasome by cholesterol crystals drive macrophages toward an inflammatory M1 phenotype. A new phenotype, Mox, develops when oxidized phospholipids activate stress response genes via Nrf2. Other lipid mediators such as nitrosylated-fatty acids and omega-3 fatty acid-derived products polarize plaque macrophages toward anti-inflammatory and proresolving phenotypes.

SUMMARY

A deeper understanding of how lipids that accumulate in atherosclerotic plaques affect macrophage phenotype and function and thus atherosclerotic lesion development and stability will help to devise novel strategies for intervention.

Nitroalkene fatty acids mediate activation of Nrf2/ARE-dependent and PPARγ-dependent transcription by distinct signaling pathways and with significantly different potencies

Naturally occurring nitroalkene fatty acids (NAs) derived from oleic (NO(2)-OA) and linoleic (NO(2)-LA) acids mediate a variety of cellular responses. We examined the signaling pathways involved in NA activation of Nrf2/ARE-dependent versus PPARγ/PPRE-dependent transcription in human MCF7 breast cancer cells. Additionally, we compared the relative potencies of NO(2)-OA and NO(2)-LA in activating these two transcriptional programs. Here it is demonstrated that, in addition to the direct adduct formation of NA with the Nrf2 inhibitory protein, Keap1, shown by others, NA activation of Nrf2/ARE-mediated transcription results from increased nuclear Nrf2 levels and depends upon activation of the PI3K/AKT and PKC, but not ERK and JNK MAPK, signaling pathways. Examination of the relationship between NA stimulation of the Nrf2/ARE versus PPARγ/PPRE transcriptional programs revealed concentration-dependent activation of distinct signaling pathways that were readily distinguished by selective attenuation of Nrf2/ARE-dependent, but not PPARγ-dependent, transcription by inhibitors of PI3K and PKC. Moreover, measurable, statistically significant activation of PPARγ/PPRE-dependent transcription occurred at nanomolar concentrations of NAs-the 12-NO(2) isomer of NO(2)-LA showing the most potent activity-whereas significant activation of Nrf2/ARE-dependent transcription occurred at much higher NA concentrations (≥3 μM) with the NO(2)-OA isomers the most potent. These findings have implications for the physiological roles of NAs, suggesting that, at concentrations likely to be encountered in vivo, their direct activation of PPARγ transcription will dominate over their electrophilic activation of Nrf2 antioxidant/protective responses.

Disruption of PPARγ/β-catenin-mediated regulation of apelin impairs BMP-induced mouse and human pulmonary arterial EC survival

Reduced bone morphogenetic protein receptor 2 (BMPR2) expression in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) can impair pulmonary arterial EC (PAEC) function. This can adversely affect EC survival and promote SMC proliferation. We hypothesized that interventions to normalize expression of genes that are targets of BMPR2 signaling could restore PAEC function and prevent or reverse PAH. Here we have characterized, in human PAECs, a BMPR2-mediated transcriptional complex between PPARγ and β-catenin and shown that disruption of this complex impaired BMP-mediated PAEC survival. Using whole genome-wide ChIP-Chip promoter analysis and gene expression microarrays, we delineated PPARγ/β-catenin-dependent transcription of target genes including APLN, which encodes apelin. We documented reduced PAEC expression of apelin in PAH patients versus controls. In cell culture experiments, we showed that apelin-deficient PAECs were prone to apoptosis and promoted pulmonary arterial SMC (PASMC) proliferation. Conversely, we established that apelin, like BMPR2 ligands, suppressed proliferation and induced apoptosis of PASMCs. Consistent with these functions, administration of apelin reversed PAH in mice with reduced production of apelin resulting from deletion of PPARγ in ECs. Taken together, our findings suggest that apelin could be effective in treating PAH by rescuing BMPR2 and PAEC dysfunction.

Nitroalkylation--a redox sensitive signaling pathway

Redox-sensitive posttranslational modification emerged as important signaling mechanisms. Besides other posttranslational modifications nitroalkylation by nitrated fatty acids mediate favorable anti-inflammatory effects. This review gives an overview of the generation and the reactivity of nitrated fatty acids. Additionally, it provides insights into the so far described pathways regulated by nitrated fatty acids. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Regulation of Cellular Processes by S-nitrosylation.

Nitration of tryptophan in ribosomal proteins is a novel post-translational modification of differentiated and naïve PC12 cells

Neuron growth factor (NGF) signaling in PC12 cell, which is derived from pheochromocytoma of rat adrenal medulla, induces expression of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and nitric oxide (NO) production. Subsequently, NO causes differentiation of PC12 cell to neuronal cell with morphological changes, such as neurite extension. In this study, we showed that 6-nitrotryptophan-containing proteins were produced in PC12 cell (naïve PC12 cell) and/or NGF-induced PC12 cell (differentiated PC12 cell). Western blot analysis of the protein extract of naïve PC12 cell and differentiated PC12 cell using anti 6-nitrotryptophan antibody showed several immunoreactive bands, which were subsequently subjected to trypsin digestion and LC-ESI-MS-MS analysis. The peptides from five ribosomal proteins, namely, 60S ribosomal protein L7 (Trp154), 60S acidic ribosomal protein P1 (Trp43), 40S ribosomal protein S2 (Trp60), 40S ribosomal protein S6 (Trp45), and 40S ribosomal protein S19 (Trp52), were identified as nitrotryptophan residue-containing proteins with significant ion score levels (p<0.05). Among these, tryptophan nitration was observed only in differentiated PC12 cell for S19 protein, and only in naïve PC12 cell for L7 protein. Tryptophan nitration of the other ribosomal proteins P1, S2, and S6 was observed in both naive and differentiated PC12 cells. The positive signal of nitrotryptophan-containing proteins in the Western blotting around 16 kDa (Band 1), which includes 40S ribosomal protein S19, was suppressed by treatment with NOS inhibitor, L-NAME. The tryptophan nitration of 40S ribosomal protein was not observed by LC-ESI-MS-MS analysis of this sample. This is the first study to identify several specific sites of nitrated tryptophan on proteins not only in viable culture cells but also in a physiological process: cell differentiation.

Mechanisms of Resolution of Inflammation

The inflammatory response is an integral part of the innate immune mechanism that is triggered in response to a real or perceived threat to tissue homeostasis, with a primary aim of neutralizing infectious agents and initiating repair to damaged tissue. By design, inflammation is a finite process that resolves as soon as the threat of infection abates and sufficient repair to the tissue is complete. Resolution of inflammation involves apoptosis and subsequent clearance of activated inflammatory cells – a tightly regulated event. Chronic inflammation is a characteristic feature in virtually all inflammatory diseases, including atherosclerosis, and it is becoming increasingly clear that derangement of the processes usually involved in resolution of inflammation is an underlying feature of chronic inflammatory conditions. This review will draw on evidence from a range of diseases in which dysregulated inflammation is important, with particular emphasis on cardiovascular disease.

Electrophilic fatty acids regulate matrix metalloproteinase activity and expression

Nitro-fatty acids (NO(2)-FA) are electrophilic signaling mediators formed by reactions of nitric oxide and nitrite. NO(2)-FA exert anti-inflammatory signaling actions through post-translational protein modifications. We report that nitro-oleic acid (OA-NO(2)) stimulates proMMP-7 and proMMP-9 proteolytic activity via adduction of the conserved cysteine switch domain thiolate. Biotin-labeled OA-NO(2) showed this adduction occurs preferentially with latent forms of MMP, confirming a role for thiol alkylation by OA-NO(2) in MMP activation. In addition to regulating pro-MMP activation, MMP expression was modulated by OA-NO(2) via activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ. MMP-9 transcription was decreased in phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate-stimulated THP-1 macrophages to an extent similar to that induced by the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ agonist Rosiglitazone. This was affirmed using a murine model of atherosclerosis, ApoE(-/-) mice, where in vivo OA-NO(2) administration suppressed MMP expression in atherosclerotic lesions. These findings reveal that electrophilic fatty acid derivatives can serve as effectors during inflammation, first by activating pro-MMP proteolytic activity via alkylation of the cysteine switch domain, and then by transcriptionally inhibiting MMP expression, thereby limiting the further progression of inflammatory processes.

Electrophilic nitro-fatty acids activate NRF2 by a KEAP1 cysteine 151-independent mechanism

Nitro-fatty acids (NO(2)-FAs) are electrophilic signaling mediators formed in vivo via nitric oxide (NO)- and nitrite (NO(2)(-))-dependent reactions. Nitro-fatty acids modulate signaling cascades via reversible covalent post-translational modification of nucleophilic amino acids in regulatory proteins and enzymes, thus altering downstream signaling events, such as Keap1-Nrf2-antioxidant response element (ARE)-regulated gene expression. In this study, we investigate the molecular mechanisms by which 9- and 10-nitro-octadec-9-enoic acid (OA-NO(2)) activate the transcription factor Nrf2, focusing on the post-translational modifications of cysteines in the Nrf2 inhibitor Keap1 by nitroalkylation and its downstream responses. Of the two regioisomers, 9-nitro-octadec-9-enoic acid was a more potent ARE inducer than 10-nitro-octadec-9-enoic acid. The most OA-NO(2)-reactive Cys residues in Keap1 were Cys(38), Cys(226), Cys(257), Cys(273), Cys(288), and Cys(489). Of these, Cys(273) and Cys(288) accounted for ∼50% of OA-NO(2) reactions in a cellular milieu. Notably, Cys(151) was among the least OA-NO(2)-reactive of the Keap1 Cys residues, with mutation of Cys(151) having no effect on net OA-NO(2) reaction with Keap1 or on ARE activation. Unlike many other Nrf2-activating electrophiles, OA-NO(2) enhanced rather than diminished the binding between Keap1 and the Cul3 subunit of the E3 ligase for Nrf2. OA-NO(2) can therefore be categorized as a Cys(151)-independent Nrf2 activator, which in turn can influence the pattern of gene expression and therapeutic actions of nitroalkenes.

Nitro-fatty acids and cyclopentenone prostaglandins share strategies to activate the Keap1-Nrf2 system: a study using green fluorescent protein transgenic zebrafish

Nitro-fatty acids are electrophilic fatty acids produced in vivo from nitrogen peroxide that have many physiological activities. We recently demonstrated that nitro-fatty acids activate the Keap1-Nrf2 system, which protects cells from damage owing to electrophilic or oxidative stresses via transactivating an array of cytoprotective genes, although the molecular mechanism how they activate Nrf2 is unclear. A number of chemical compounds with different structures have been reported to activate the Keap1-Nrf2 system, which can be categorized into at least six classes based on their sensing pathways. In this study, we showed that nitro-oleic acid (OA-NO₂), one of major nitro-fatty acids, activates Nrf2 in the same manner that of a cyclopentenone prostaglandin 15-deoxy-Δ(12,14) -prostaglandin J₂ (15d-PGJ₂) using transgenic zebrafish that expresses green fluorescent protein (GFP) in response to Nrf2 activators. In transgenic embryos, GFP was induced in the whole body by treatment with OA-NO₂, 15d-PGJ₂ or diethylmaleate (DEM), but not with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), when exogenous Nrf2 and Keap1 were co-overexpressed. Induction by OA-NO₂ or 15d-PGJ₂ but not DEM was observed, even when a C151S mutation was introduced in Keap1. Our results support the contention that OA-NO₂ and 15d-PGJ₂ share an analogous cysteine code as electrophiles and also have similar anti-inflammatory roles.

Endogenous ligands for nuclear receptors: digging deeper

Nuclear receptors (NRs) are hormone-sensing transcription factors that translate dietary or endocrine signals into changes in gene expression. Therefore, the adoption of orphan NRs through the identification of their endogenous ligands is a key element for our understanding of their biology. In this minireview, we give an update on recent progress in regard to endogenous ligands for a cluster of NRs with high sequence homology, namely peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors α and γ, Rev-erbα, and related receptors. This knowledge about the nature and physiology of these ligands may create new opportunities for therapeutic drug development.

Dietary inorganic nitrate reverses features of metabolic syndrome in endothelial nitric oxide synthase-deficient mice

The metabolic syndrome is a clustering of risk factors of metabolic origin that increase the risk for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. A proposed central event in metabolic syndrome is a decrease in the amount of bioavailable nitric oxide (NO) from endothelial NO synthase (eNOS). Recently, an alternative pathway for NO formation in mammals was described where inorganic nitrate, a supposedly inert NO oxidation product and unwanted dietary constituent, is serially reduced to nitrite and then NO and other bioactive nitrogen oxides. Here we show that several features of metabolic syndrome that develop in eNOS-deficient mice can be reversed by dietary supplementation with sodium nitrate, in amounts similar to those derived from eNOS under normal conditions. In humans, this dose corresponds to a rich intake of vegetables, the dominant dietary nitrate source. Nitrate administration increased tissue and plasma levels of bioactive nitrogen oxides. Moreover, chronic nitrate treatment reduced visceral fat accumulation and circulating levels of triglycerides and reversed the prediabetic phenotype in these animals. In rats, chronic nitrate treatment reduced blood pressure and this effect was also present during NOS inhibition. Our results show that dietary nitrate fuels a nitrate-nitrite-NO pathway that can partly compensate for disturbances in endogenous NO generation from eNOS. These findings may have implications for novel nutrition-based preventive and therapeutic strategies against cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

Cyclooxygenase-2 generates anti-inflammatory mediators from omega-3 fatty acids

Electrophilic fatty acids are generated during inflammation by non-enzymatic reactions and can modulate inflammatory responses. We used a new mass spectrometry-based electrophile capture strategy to reveal the formation of electrophilic oxo-derivatives (EFOX) from the omega-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and docosapentaenoic acid (DPA). These EFOX were generated by a cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)-catalyzed mechanism in activated macrophages. Modulation of COX-2 activity by aspirin increased the rate of EFOX production and their intracellular levels. Owing to their electrophilic nature, EFOX adducted to cysteine and histidine residues of proteins and activated Nrf2-dependent anti-oxidant gene expression. We confirmed the anti-inflammatory nature of DHA- and DPA-derived EFOX by showing that they can act as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR gamma) agonists and inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokine and nitric oxide production, all within biological concentration ranges. These data support the idea that EFOX are signaling mediators that transduce the beneficial clinical effects of omega-3 fatty acids, COX-2 and aspirin.