Fas-induced caspase denitrosylation

Redox-based protein modifications: the missing link in plant immune signalling

Activation of plant immunity is associated with dramatic changes in the cellular redox status. Both oxidative and reductive bursts have been described that trigger a set of down stream responses resulting in reprogramming of the transcriptome and establishment of disease resistance. Nonetheless, how these redox changes are sensed and signal to downstream regulators remained a missing link in studies of plant immunity. Emerging evidence now indicates that pathogen-induced changes in the cellular redox environment are sensed by reactive cysteine residues of key regulatory proteins. Varying degrees of reversible, oxidative cysteine modifications control the activity, localization, protein-interaction and stability of regulatory proteins. These diverse effects on protein function make post-translational redox-based modifications potent modulators of plant immunity.

The role of nitric oxide in prostaglandin biology; update

The biosynthesis of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin share many similarities. Two major forms of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX) have been identified: constitutive versus inducible. In general, the constitutive form functions in housekeeping and physiologic roles whereas the inducible form is up-regulated by mitogenic or inflammatory stimuli and is responsible for pathophysiological responses. The cross talk between the COX and NOS pathways was initially reported in 1993 and since then, numerous studies have been undertaken to delineate the functional consequences of this interaction as well as the potential mechanism by which each pathway interacts. This review will focus in particular on recent advances in this field that extend our understanding of these two pathways under various systems.

Protein S-nitrosylation: role for nitric oxide signaling in neuronal death

BACKGROUND

One of the signaling mechanisms mediated by nitric oxide (NO) is through S-nitrosylation, the reversible redox-based modification of cysteine residues, on target proteins that regulate a myriad of physiological and pathophysiological processes. In particular, an increasing number of studies have identified important roles for S-nitrosylation in regulating cell death.

SCOPE OF REVIEW

The present review focuses on different targets and functional consequences associated with nitric oxide and protein S-nitrosylation during neuronal cell death.

MAJOR CONCLUSIONS

S-Nitrosylation exhibits double-edged effects dependent on the levels, spatiotemporal distribution, and origins of NO in the brain: in general Snitrosylation resulting from the basal low level of NO in cells exerts anti-cell death effects, whereas S-nitrosylation elicited by induced NO upon stressed conditions is implicated in pro-cell death effects.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

Dysregulated protein S-nitrosylation is implicated in the pathogenesis of several diseases including degenerative diseases of the central nervous system (CNS). Elucidating specific targets of S-nitrosylation as well as their regulatory mechanisms may aid in the development of therapeutic intervention in a wide range of brain diseases.

Homeostatic NMDA receptor down-regulation via brain derived neurotrophic factor and nitric oxide-dependent signalling in cortical but not in hippocampal neurons

Nitric oxide (NO) has been proposed to down-regulate NMDA receptors (NMDA-Rs) in a homeostatic manner. However, NMDA-R-dependent NO synthesis also can cause excitotoxic cell death. Using bicuculline-stimulated hippocampal and cortical cell cultures, we have addressed the role of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor-NO pathway in NMDA-R down-regulation. This pathway protected cortical cells from NMDA-induced death and led to NMDA-R inhibition. In contrast, no evidence was gained for the presence of this protective pathway in hippocampal neurons, in which NMDA-induced NO synthesis was confirmed to be toxic. Therefore, opposing effects of NO depended on the activation of different signalling pathways. The pathophysiological relevance of this observation was investigated in synaptosomes and post-synaptic densities isolated from rat hippocampi and cerebral cortices following kainic acid-induced status epilepticus. In cortical, but not in hippocampal synaptosomes, brain-derived neurotrophic factor induced NO synthesis and inhibited NMDA-R currents present in isolated post-synaptic densities. In conclusion, we identified a NO-dependent homeostatic response in the rat cerebral cortex induced by elevated activity. A low performance of this pathway in brain areas including the hippocampus may be related to their selective vulnerability in pathologies such as temporal lobe epilepsy.

Nitric oxide signaling: classical, less classical, and nonclassical mechanisms

Although nitric oxide (NO) was identified more than 150 years ago and its effects were clinically tested in the form of nitroglycerine, it was not until the decades of 1970-1990 that it was described as a gaseous signal transducer. Since then, a canonical pathway linked to cyclic GMP (cGMP) as its quintessential effector has been established, but other modes of action have emerged and are now part of the common body of knowledge within the field. Classical (or canonical) signaling involves the selective activation of soluble guanylate cyclase, the generation of cGMP, and the activation of specific kinases (cGMP-dependent protein kinases) by this cyclic nucleotide. Nonclassical signaling alludes to the formation of NO-induced posttranslational modifications (PTMs), especially S-nitrosylation, S-glutathionylation, and tyrosine nitration. These PTMs are governed by specific biochemical mechanisms as well as by enzymatic systems. In addition, a less classical but equally important pathway is related to the interaction between NO and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase, which might have important implications for cell respiration and intermediary metabolism. Cross talk trespassing these necessarily artificial conceptual boundaries is progressively being identified and hence an integrated systems biology approach to the comprehension of NO function will probably emerge in the near future.

Quantification of cysteinyl S-nitrosylation by fluorescence in unbiased proteomic studies

Cysteinyl S-nitrosylation has emerged as an important post-translational modification affecting protein function in health and disease. Great emphasis has been placed on global, unbiased quantification of S-nitrosylated proteins because of physiologic and oxidative stimuli. However, current strategies have been hampered by sample loss and altered protein electrophoretic mobility. Here, we describe a novel quantitative approach that uses accurate, sensitive fluorescence modification of cysteine S-nitrosylation that leaves electrophoretic mobility unaffected (SNOFlo) and introduce unique concepts for measuring changes in S-nitrosylation status relative to protein abundance. Its efficacy in defining the functional S-nitrosoproteome is demonstrated in two diverse biological applications: an in vivo rat hypoxia-ischemia/reperfusion model and antimicrobial S-nitrosoglutathione-driven transnitrosylation of an enteric microbial pathogen. The suitability of this approach for investigating endogenous S-nitrosylation is further demonstrated using Ingenuity Pathways analysis that identified nervous system and cellular development networks as the top two networks. Functional analysis of differentially S-nitrosylated proteins indicated their involvement in apoptosis, branching morphogenesis of axons, cortical neurons, and sympathetic neurites, neurogenesis, and calcium signaling. Major abundance changes were also observed for fibrillar proteins known to be stress-responsive in neurons and glia. Thus, both examples demonstrate the technique's power in confirming the widespread involvement of S-nitrosylation in hypoxia-ischemia/reperfusion injury and in antimicrobial host responses.

Exercise protects against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury via stimulation of β(3)-adrenergic receptors and increased nitric oxide signaling: role of nitrite and nitrosothiols

RATIONALE

Exercise training confers sustainable protection against ischemia-reperfusion injury in animal models and has been associated with improved survival following a heart attack in humans. It is still unclear how exercise protects the heart, but it is apparent that endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and nitric oxide (NO) play a role.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the role of β(3)-adrenergic receptors (β(3)-ARs), eNOS activation, and NO metabolites (nitrite and nitrosothiols) in the sustained cardioprotective effects of exercise.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Here we show that voluntary exercise reduces myocardial injury in mice following a 4-week training period and that these protective effects can be sustained for at least 1 week following the cessation of the training. The sustained cardioprotective effects of exercise are mediated by alterations in the phosphorylation status of eNOS (increase in serine 1177 and decrease in threonine 495), leading to an increase in NO generation and storage of NO metabolites (nitrite and nitrosothiols) in the heart. Further evidence revealed that the alterations in eNOS phosphorylation status and NO generation were mediated by β(3)-AR stimulation and that in response to exercise a deficiency of β(3)-ARs leads to an exacerbation of myocardial infarction following ischemia-reperfusion injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings clearly demonstrate that exercise protects the heart against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury by stimulation of β(3)-ARs and increased cardiac storage of nitric oxide metabolites (ie, nitrite and nitrosothiols).

On-off system for PI3-kinase-Akt signaling through S-nitrosylation of phosphatase with sequence homology to tensin (PTEN)

Nitric oxide (NO) physiologically regulates numerous cellular responses through S-nitrosylation of protein cysteine residues. We performed antibody-array screening in conjunction with biotin-switch assays to look for S-nitrosylated proteins. Using this combination of techniques, we found that phosphatase with sequence homology to tensin (PTEN) is selectively S-nitrosylated by low concentrations of NO at a specific cysteine residue (Cys-83). S-nitrosylation of PTEN (forming SNO-PTEN) inhibits enzymatic activity and consequently stimulates the downstream Akt cascade, indicating that Cys-83 is a critical site for redox regulation of PTEN function. In ischemic mouse brain, we observed SNO-PTEN in the core and penumbra regions but found SNO-Akt, which is known to inhibit Akt activity, only in the ischemic core. These findings suggest that low concentrations of NO, as found in the penumbra, preferentially S-nitrosylate PTEN, whereas higher concentrations of NO, known to exist in the ischemic core, also S-nitrosylate Akt. In the penumbra, inhibition of PTEN (but not Akt) activity by S-nitrosylation would be expected to contribute to cell survival by means of enhanced Akt signaling. In contrast, in the ischemic core, SNO-Akt formation would inhibit this neuroprotective pathway. In vitro model systems support this notion. Thus, we identify unique sites of PTEN and Akt regulation by means of S-nitrosylation, resulting in an "on-off" pattern of control of Akt signaling.

SNO-ing at the nociceptive synapse?

Nitric oxide is generally considered a pronociceptive retrograde transmitter that, by activation of soluble guanylyl cyclase-mediated cGMP production and activation of cGMP-dependent protein kinase, drives nociceptive hypersensitivity. The duality of its functions, however, is increasingly recognized. This review summarizes nitric-oxide-mediated direct S-nitrosylation of target proteins that may modify nociceptive signaling, including glutamate receptors and G-protein-coupled receptors, transient receptor potential channels, voltage-gated channels, proinflammatory enzymes, transcription factors, and redoxins. S-Nitrosylation events require close proximity of nitric oxide production and target proteins and a permissive redox state in the vicinity. Despite the diversity of potential targets and effects, three major schemes arise that may affect nociceptive signaling: 1) S-Nitrosylation-mediated changes of ion channel gating properties, 2) modulation of membrane fusion and fission, and thereby receptor and channel membrane insertion, and 3) modulation of ubiquitination, and thereby protein degradation or transcriptional activity. In addition, S-Nitrosylation may alter the production of nitric oxide itself.

A peptide-based target screen implicates the protein kinase CK2 in the global regulation of caspase signaling

The convergence of caspase and protein kinase signaling pathways has become increasingly evident, as illustrated by the protection of caspase substrates from cleavage upon undergoing phosphorylation at or near to their caspase recognition motifs. To investigate the global role of phosphorylation in the regulation of caspase signaling, we designed a peptide match program to identify sequences from the human proteome that contained overlapping recognition motifs for caspases and kinases. We identified the protein kinase CK2 as the most prominent kinase with a consensus site for phosphorylation that overlapped with caspase recognition motifs. We then evaluated potential targets of CK2 and caspases by combining peptide array target screens with identification of caspase substrates. We identified numerous shared candidate targets of CK2 and caspases, including procaspase-3, which functions at a level at which both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic signals converge. Together, these data support a role for CK2-dependent phosphorylation as a global mechanism for inhibiting caspase signaling pathways.

Regulation of cardiovascular cellular processes by S-nitrosylation

BACKGROUND

Nitric oxide (NO), a highly versatile signaling molecule, exerts a broad range of regulatory influences in the cardiovascular system that extends from vasodilation to myocardial contractility, angiogenesis, inflammation, and energy metabolism. Considerable attention has been paid to deciphering the mechanisms for such diversity in signaling. S-nitrosylation of cysteine thiols is a major signaling pathway through which NO exerts its actions. An emerging concept of NO pathophysiology is that the interplay between NO and reactive oxygen species (ROS), the nitroso/redox balance, is an important regulator of cardiovascular homeostasis.

SCOPE OF REVIEW

ROS react with NO, limit its bioavailability, and compete with NO for binding to the same thiol in effector molecules. The interplay between NO and ROS appears to be tightly regulated and spatially confined based on the co-localization of specific NO synthase (NOS) isoforms and oxidative enzymes in unique subcellular compartments. NOS isoforms are also in close contact with denitrosylases, leading to crucial regulation of S-nitrosylation.

MAJOR CONCLUSIONS

Nitroso/redox balance is an emerging regulatory pathway for multiple cells and tissues, including the cardiovascular system. Studies using relevant knockout models, isoform specific NOS inhibitors, and both in vitro and in vivo methods have provided novel insights into NO- and ROS-based signaling interactions responsible for numerous cardiovascular disorders.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

An integrated view of the role of nitroso/redox balance in cardiovascular pathophysiology has significant therapeutic implications. This is highlighted by human studies where pharmacologic manipulation of oxidative and nitrosative pathways exerted salutary effects in patients with advanced heart failure. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Regulation of Cellular Processes by S-nitrosylation.

Denitrosylation of S-nitrosylated OGT is triggered in LPS-stimulated innate immune response

O-linked N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase (OGT)-mediated protein O-GlcNAcylation has been revealing various aspects of functional significance in biological processes, such as cellular signaling and activation of immune system. We found that OGT is maintained as S-nitrosylated form in resting cells, and its denitrosylation is triggered in innate immune response of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated macrophage cells. S-nitrosylation of OGT strongly inhibits its catalytic activity up to more than 80% of native OGT, and denitrosylation of OGT leads to protein hyper-O-GlcNAcylation. Furthermore, blockage of increased protein O-GlcNAcylation results in significant loss of nitric oxide and cytokine production. We propose that denitrosylation of S-nitrosylated OGT is a direct mechanism for upregulation of OGT activity by which immune defense is critically controlled in LPS-stimulated innate immune response.

Activation of GluR6-containing kainate receptors induces ubiquitin-dependent Bcl-2 degradation via denitrosylation in the rat hippocampus after kainate treatment

We previously showed that Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2) is down-regulated in a kainate (KA)-induced rat epileptic seizure model. The underlying mechanism had remained largely unknown, but we here report for the first time that denitrosylation and ubiquitination are involved. Our results show that the S-nitrosylation levels of Bcl-2 are down-regulated after KA injection and that the GluR6 (glutamate receptor 6) antagonist NS102 can inhibit the denitrosylation of Bcl-2. Moreover, the ubiquitin-dependent degradation of Bcl-2 was found to be promoted after KA treatment, which could be suppressed by the proteasome inhibitor MG132 and the NO donors, sodium nitroprusside and S-nitrosoglutathione. In addition, experiments based on siRNA transfections were performed in the human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cell line to verify that the stability of Bcl-2 is causal to neuronal survival. At the same time, it was found that the exogenous NO donor GSNO could protect neurons when Bcl-2 is targeted. Subsequently, these mechanisms were morphologically validated by immunohistochemistry, cresyl violet staining, and in situ TUNEL staining to analyze the expression of Bcl-2 as well as the survival of CA1 and CA3/DG pyramidal neurons. NS102, GSNO, sodium nitroprusside, and MG132 contribute to the survival of CA1 and CA3/DG pyramidal neurons by attenuating Bcl-2 denitrosylation. Taken together, our data reveal that Bcl-2 ubiquitin-dependent degradation is induced by Bcl-2 denitrosylation during neuronal apoptosis after KA treatment.

Cardioprotective pathways during reperfusion: focus on redox signaling and other modalities of cell signaling

Post-ischemic reperfusion may result in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, reduced availability of nitric oxide (NO•), Ca(2+)overload, prolonged opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore, and other processes contributing to cell death, myocardial infarction, stunning, and arrhythmias. With the discovery of the preconditioning and postconditioning phenomena, reperfusion injury has been appreciated as a reality from which protection is feasible, especially with postconditioning, which is under the control of physicians. Potentially cooperative protective signaling cascades are recruited by both pre- and postconditioning. In these pathways, phosphorylative/dephosphorylative processes are widely represented. However, cardioprotective modalities of signal transduction also include redox signaling by ROS, S-nitrosylation by NO• and derivative, S-sulfhydration by hydrogen sulfide, and O-linked glycosylation with beta-N-acetylglucosamine. All these modalities can interact and regulate an entire pathway, thus influencing each other. For instance, enzymes can be phosphorylated and/or nitrosylated in specific and/or different site(s) with consequent increase or decrease of their specific activity. The cardioprotective signaling pathways are thought to converge on mitochondria, and various mitochondrial proteins have been identified as targets of these post-transitional modifications in both pre- and postconditioning.

Nitric oxide-mediated inhibition of taurocholate uptake involves S-nitrosylation of NTCP

The sodium-taurocholate (TC) cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP) facilitates bile formation by mediating sinusoidal Na(+)-TC cotransport. During sepsis-induced cholestasis, there is a decrease in NTCP-dependent uptake of bile acids and an increase in nitric oxide (NO) levels in hepatocytes. In rat hepatocytes NO inhibits Na(+)-dependent uptake of taurocholate. The aim of this study was to extend these findings to human NTCP and to further investigate the mechanism by which NO inhibits TC uptake. Using a human hepatoma cell line stably expressing NTCP (HuH-NTCP), we performed experiments with the NO donors sodium nitroprusside and S-nitrosocysteine and demonstrated that NO inhibits TC uptake in these cells. Kinetic analyses revealed that NO significantly decreased the V(max) but not the K(m) of TC uptake by NTCP, indicating noncompetitive inhibition. NO decreased the amount of NTCP in the plasma membrane, providing a molecular mechanism for the noncompetitive inhibition of TC uptake. One way that NO can modify protein function is through a posttranslational modification known as S-nitrosylation: the binding of NO to cysteine thiols. Using a biotin switch technique we observed that NTCP is S-nitrosylated under conditions in which NO inhibits TC uptake. Moreover, dithiothreitol reversed NO-mediated inhibition of TC uptake and S-nitrosylation of NTCP, indicating that NO inhibits TC uptake via modification of cysteine thiols. In addition, NO treatment led to a decrease in Ntcp phosphorylation. Taken together these results indicate that the inhibition of TC uptake by NO involves S-nitrosylation of NTCP.

The SNO-proteome: causation and classifications

Cell signaling is a complex and highly regulated process. Post-translational modifications of proteins serve to sense and transduce cellular signals in a precisely coordinated manner. It is increasingly recognized that protein S-nitrosylation, the addition of a nitric oxide group to cysteine thiols, serves an important role in a wide range of signaling pathways. In spite of the large number of SNO-proteins now identified (∼1000), the observed specificity of S-nitrosylation in terms of target proteins and specific cysteines within modified proteins is incompletely understood. Here we review the progress made in S-nitrosylation detection methods that have facilitated the study of the SNO-proteome under physiological and pathophysiological conditions, and some factors important in determining the SNO-proteome. Classification schemes for emergent denitrosylases and prospective 'protein S-nitrosylases' are provided.

Analysis of nitroso-proteomes in normotensive and severe preeclamptic human placentas

Nitric oxide (NO) plays a key role in placental biology, and placental dysfunction is the main pathogenesis pathway for preeclampsia, yet the direct placental targets of NO actions have not been determined. Covalent adduction of an NO moiety to cysteines, termed S-nitrosylation (SNO), is emerging as a key route by which NO can directly modulate protein functions. This study was conducted to analyze global S-nitroso (SNO)-proteins in human placentas and to determine if their levels differ in normotensive versus severe preeclamptic placentas. Although total nitrite/nitrate increased, total levels of SNO-proteins and nitrosylated forms of endothelial NO synthase and heat shock protein 90 were decreased by preeclampsia. We further compared normotensive and preeclamptic placental nitroso-proteomes (total SNO-protein profiles) by using a biotin and CyDye switch test combined with two-dimensional fluorescence difference gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) and identified SNO-proteins by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Numerous SNO-proteins were displayed as spots on 2D-DIGE gels. One hundred spots of interest were excised; 46 spots were identified, of which 8 spots were novel SNO-proteins; levels of 15 spots were increased, and 6 spots were decreased, and the rest were unchanged by preeclampsia. Pathway analysis suggested that placental SNO-proteins are involved in regulating various cellular functions including protein synthesis, cell movement and metabolism, cell signaling, and other functions. These data therefore show for the first time that SNO is a crucial mechanism by which NO directly regulates placental proteins linked to various biological pathways. The significantly altered placental nitroso-proteome in preeclampsia suggests that SNO plays a role in the placental pathophysiology in preeclampsia.

Modulation of homocysteine toxicity by S-nitrosothiol formation: a mechanistic approach

The metabolic conversion of homocysteine (HCYSH) to homocysteine thiolactone (HTL) has been reported as the major cause of HCYSH pathogenesis. It was hypothesized that inhibition of the thiol group of HCYSH by S-nitrosation will prevent its metabolic conversion to HTL. The kinetics, reaction dynamics, and mechanism of reaction of HCYSH and nitrous acid to produce S-nitrosohomocysteine (HCYSNO) was studied in mildly to highly acidic pHs. Transnitrosation of this non-protein-forming amino acid by S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) was also studied at physiological pH 7.4 in phosphate buffer. In both cases, HCYSNO formed quantitatively. Copper ions were found to play dual roles, catalyzing the rate of formation of HCYSNO as well as its rate of decomposition. In the presence of a transition-metal ions chelator, HCYSNO was very stable with a half-life of 198 h at pH 7.4. Nitrosation by nitrous acid occurred via the formation of more powerful nitrosating agents, nitrosonium cation (NO(+)) and dinitrogen trioxide (N(2)O(3)). In highly acidic environments, NO(+) was found to be the most effective nitrosating agent with a first-order dependence on nitrous acid. N(2)O(3) was the most relevant nitrosating agent in a mildly acidic environment with a second-order dependence on nitrous acid. The bimolecular rate constants for the direct reactions of HCYSH and nitrous acid, N(2)O(3), and NO(+) were 9.0 x 10(-2), 9.50 x 10(3), and 6.57 x 10(10) M(-1) s(-1), respectively. These rate constant values agreed with the electrophilic order of these nitrosating agents: HNO(2) < N(2)O(3) < NO(+). Transnitrosation of HCYSH by GSNO produced HCYSNO and other products including glutathione (reduced and oxidized) and homocysteine-glutathione mixed disulfide. A computer modeling involving eight reactions gave a good fit to the observed formation kinetics of HCYSNO. This study has shown that it is possible to modulate homocysteine toxicity by preventing its conversion to a more toxic HTL by S-nitrosation.

Molecular mechanisms regulating myeloid-derived suppressor cell differentiation and function

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are one of the main cell populations responsible for regulating immune responses. MDSCs accumulate during tumor progression, autoimmunity, chronic infection and other pathological conditions, and can potently suppress T cell function. Recent studies have demonstrated the ability of MDSCs to modulate the activity of NK and myeloid cells and have implicated MDSCs in the induction of regulatory T cells. Here, we discuss recent findings that describe the molecular mechanisms that regulate the expansion and function of MDSCs, as well as recent attempts to use MDSCs in cell therapy for different pathologic conditions.

The role of intracellular glutathione in the progression of Chlamydia trachomatis infection

The productive internalization in the host cell of Chlamydia trachomatis elementary bodies and their infectivity depends on the degree of reduction of disulfide bonds in the outer envelope of the elementary body. We have hypothesized that the reducing agent may be intracellular glutathione (GSH). Three approaches were used to modulate the intracellular GSH concentration: (1) treatment of cells with buthionine sulfoximine, which causes irreversible inhibition of GSH biosynthesis; (2) hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidation of GSH by intracellular glutathione peroxidases; and (3) treatment of cells with N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC), a precursor of glutathione. In the first two cases, we observed a four- to sixfold inhibition of C. trachomatis infection, whereas in NAC-treated cells we detected an increase in the size of chlamydial inclusions. Using a proteomics approach, we showed that the inhibition of chlamydial infection does not combine with alterations in protein expression patterns after cell treatment. These results suggest that GSH plays a key role in the reduction of disulfide bonds in the C. trachomatis outer envelope at an initial stage of the infection.

Redox regulation of mitochondrial fission, protein misfolding, synaptic damage, and neuronal cell death: potential implications for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases

Normal mitochondrial dynamics consist of fission and fusion events giving rise to new mitochondria, a process termed mitochondrial biogenesis. However, several neurodegenerative disorders manifest aberrant mitochondrial dynamics, resulting in morphological abnormalities often associated with deficits in mitochondrial mobility and cell bioenergetics. Rarely, dysfunctional mitochondrial occur in a familial pattern due to genetic mutations, but much more commonly patients manifest sporadic forms of mitochondrial disability presumably related to a complex set of interactions of multiple genes (or their products) with environmental factors (G × E). Recent studies have shown that generation of excessive nitric oxide (NO), in part due to generation of oligomers of amyloid-β (Aβ) protein or overactivity of the NMDA-subtype of glutamate receptor, can augment mitochondrial fission, leading to frank fragmentation of the mitochondria. S-Nitrosylation, a covalent redox reaction of NO with specific protein thiol groups, represents one mechanism contributing to NO-induced mitochondrial fragmentation, bioenergetic failure, synaptic damage, and eventually neuronal apoptosis. Here, we summarize our evidence in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients and animal models showing that NO contributes to mitochondrial fragmentation via S-nitrosylation of dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1), a protein involved in mitochondrial fission. These findings may provide a new target for drug development in AD. Additionally, we review emerging evidence that redox reactions triggered by excessive levels of NO can contribute to protein misfolding, the hallmark of a number of neurodegenerative disorders, including AD and Parkinson's disease. For example, S-nitrosylation of parkin disrupts its E3 ubiquitin ligase activity, and thereby affects Lewy body formation and neuronal cell death.

Immunodeficiency reduces neural stem/progenitor cell apoptosis and enhances neurogenesis in the cerebral cortex after stroke

Acute inflammation in the poststroke period exacerbates neuronal damage and stimulates reparative mechanisms, including neurogenesis. However, only a small fraction of neural stem/progenitor cells survives. In this report, by using a highly reproducible model of cortical infarction in SCID mice, we examined the effects of immunodeficiency on reduction of brain injury, survival of neural stem/progenitor cells, and functional recovery. Subsequently, the contribution of T lymphocytes to neurogenesis was evaluated in mice depleted for each subset of T lymphocyte. SCID mice revealed the reduced apoptosis and enhanced proliferation of neural stem/progenitor cells induced by cerebral cortex after stroke compared with the immunocompetent wild-type mice. Removal of T lymphocytes, especially the CD4(+) T-cell population, enhanced generation of neural stem/progenitor cells, followed by accelerated functional recovery. In contrast, removal of CD25(+) T cells, a cell population including regulatory T lymphocytes, impaired functional recovery through, at least in part, suppression of neurogenesis. Our findings demonstrate a key role of T lymphocytes in regulation of poststroke neurogenesis and indicate a potential novel strategy for cell therapy in repair of the central nervous system.

Oxidative stress in COPD and its measurement through exhaled breath condensate

Oxidative stress and airway inflammation together form a vicious cycle, which is responsible for the disease progression in chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (COPD). The damaging effects of oxidative stress accumulate over the years, causing increased bronchial hyperresponsiveness and inflammation and destruction of airway epithelial cells and impairing the functions of antiproteases and surfactant. Although the lung expresses a number of antioxidants, cigarette smoking and recurrent infections associated with this disease overwhelm this protective mechanism. Studies of antioxidants in COPD have yielded conflicting results, probably due to the compartmentalization of these mediators, and because of the fact that the lung is a difficult organ to sample. Chronic exposure to oxidants upregulates the production of antioxidants, which become depleted during acute exacerbations. Future studies of the pathogenesis of COPD require a noninvasive yet accurate sampling procedure, of which exhaled breath condensate (EBC) is a good candidate. EBC samples the epithelial lining fluid, which contains the local oxidative stress markers in the lung. Oxidative stress markers such as hydrogen ions, hydrogen peroxide, 8-isoprostanes, thiobarbituric acid reactive products, nitrosothiols, and nitrite/nitrate have been identified in EBC of COPD patients, whereas many other markers of the oxidative-antioxidative balance have yet to be investigated.

Metastasis: cancer cell's escape from oxidative stress

According to a "canonical" view, reactive oxygen species (ROS) positively contribute, in different ways, to carcinogenesis and to malignant progression of tumor cells: they drive genomic damage and genetic instability, transduce, as signaling intermediates, mitogenic and survival inputs by growth factor receptors and adhesion molecules, promote cell motility and shape the tumor microenvironment by inducing inflammation/repair and angiogenesis. Chemopreventive and tumor-inhibitory effects of endogenous, diet-derived or supplemented antioxidants largely support this notion. However, emerging lines of evidence indicates that tumor cells also need to defend themselves from oxidative damage in order to survive and successfully spread at distance. This "heresy" has recently received important impulse from studies on the role of antioxidant capacity in cancer stem cells self-renewal and resistance to therapy; additionally, the transforming activity of some oncogenes has been unexpectedly linked to their capacity to maintain elevated intracellular levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), the principal redox buffer. These studies underline the importance of cellular antioxidant capacity in metastasis, as the result of a complex cell program involving enhanced motility and a profound change in energy metabolism. The glycolytic switch (Warburg effect) observed in malignant tissues is triggered by mitochondrial oxidative damage and/or activation of redox-sensitive transcription factors, and results in an increase of cell resistance to oxidants. On the other hand, cytoskeleton rearrangement underlying cell motile and tumor-aggressive behavior use ROS as intermediates and are therefore facilitated by oxidative stress. Along this line of speculation, we suggest that metastasis represents an integrated strategy for cancer cells to avoid oxidative damage and escape excess ROS in the primary tumor site, explaning why redox signaling pathways are often up-regulated in malignancy and metastasis.

Regulation of apoptosis through cysteine oxidation: implications for fibrotic lung disease

Tissue fibrosis is believed to be a manifestation of dysregulated repair following injury, in association with impaired reepithelialization, and aberrant myofibroblast activation and proliferation. Numerous pathways have been linked to the pathogenesis of fibrotic lung disease, including the death receptor Fas, which contributes to apoptosis of lung epithelial cells. A redox imbalance also has been implicated in disease pathogenesis, although mechanistic details whereby oxidative changes intersect with profibrotic signaling pathways remain elusive. Oxidation of cysteines in proteins, such as S-glutathionylation (PSSG), is known to act as a regulatory event that affects protein function. This manuscript will discuss evidence that S-glutathionylation regulates death receptor induced apoptosis, and the potential implications for cysteine oxidations in the pathogenesis of in fibrotic lung disease.

NO-releasing NSAIDs suppress NF-κB signaling in vitro and in vivo through S-nitrosylation

NO-NSAIDs are promising anticancer drugs, comprising an NSAID, an NO-releasing moiety, and a spacer linking them. Although the effect of NO-NSAIDs on a wide variety of signaling and other cellular mechanisms has been deciphered, a key question remains unanswered, that being the role of NO to the overall biological effect of these agents. It has been shown that NO can directly modify sulfhydryl residues of proteins through S-nitrosylation and induce apoptosis. We studied 3 NO-NSAIDs having a different NSAID, spacer, and NO-releasing moiety. In vitro: aspirin, NO-ASA, naproxen, and NO-naproxen inhibited HT-29 human colon cancer cell growth, the IC(50)s being >5000, 192±6, 2800±210 and 95±5μM at 24h, respectively. NO-Aspirin and NO-naproxen reduced NF-κB protein levels, and activated caspase-3 enzyme in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Based on the biotin switch assay, NO-ASA and NO-naproxen S-nitrosylated NF-κB p65 in a time-dependent manner. Pretreatment of the cells with carboxy-PTIO, abrogated the S-nitrosylation of NF-κB p65. In vivo: rats treated with NO-ASA, NONO-ASA, and NO-naproxen showed S-nitrosylation of NF-κB p65 in the stomach tissue, increases in plasma TNF-α, and reductions in mucosal PGE(2) levels. These data provide a mechanistic role for NO and a rational for the chemopreventive effects of NO-NSAIDs.

Transnitrosylation of XIAP regulates caspase-dependent neuronal cell death

X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP) is a potent antagonist of caspase apoptotic activity. XIAP also functions as an E3 ubiquitin ligase, targeting caspases for degradation. However, molecular pathways controlling XIAP activities remain unclear. Here, we report that nitric oxide (NO) reacts with XIAP by S-nitrosylating its RING domain (forming SNO-XIAP), thereby inhibiting E3 ligase and antiapoptotic activity. NO-mediated neurotoxicity and caspase activation have been linked to several neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's diseases. We find significant SNO-XIAP formation in brains of patients with these diseases, implicating this reaction in the etiology of neuronal damage. Conversely, S-nitrosylation of caspases is known to inhibit apoptotic activity. Unexpectedly, we find that SNO-caspase transnitrosylates (transfers its NO group) to XIAP, forming SNO-XIAP, and thus promotes cell injury and death. These findings provide insights into the regulation of caspase activation in neurodegenerative disorders mediated, at least in part, by nitrosative stress.

Nitric oxide and redox regulation in the liver: Part I. General considerations and redox biology in hepatitis

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) are created in normal hepatocytes and are critical for normal physiologic processes, including oxidative respiration, growth, regeneration, apoptosis, and microsomal defense. When the levels of oxidation products exceed the capacity of normal antioxidant systems, oxidative stress occurs. This type of stress, in the form of ROS and RNS, can be damaging to all liver cells, including hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, stellate cells, and endothelial cells, through induction of inflammation, ischemia, fibrosis, necrosis, apoptosis, or through malignant transformation by damaging lipids, proteins, and/or DNA. In Part I of this review, we will discuss basic redox biology in the liver, including a review of ROS, RNS, and antioxidants, with a focus on nitric oxide as a common source of RNS. We will then review the evidence for oxidative stress as a mechanism of liver injury in hepatitis (alcoholic, viral, nonalcoholic). In Part II of this review, we will review oxidative stress in common pathophysiologic conditions, including ischemia/reperfusion injury, fibrosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, iron overload, Wilson's disease, sepsis, and acetaminophen overdose. Finally, biomarkers, proteomic, and antioxidant therapies will be discussed as areas for future therapeutic interventions.

Control of immune response by amino acid metabolism

The interaction between pathogenic microorganisms and their hosts is regulated by reciprocal survival strategies, including competition for essential nutrients. Though paradoxical, mammalian hosts have learned to take advantage of amino acid catabolism for controlling pathogen invasion and, at the same time, regulating their own immune responses. In this way, ancient catabolic enzymes have acquired novel functions and evolved into new structures with highly specialized functions, which go beyond the struggle for survival. In this review, we analyze the evidence supporting a critical role for the metabolism of various amino acids in regulating different steps of both innate and adaptive immunity.

The MPO -463G>A polymorphism and cancer risk: a meta-analysis based on 43 case-control studies

Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is an endogenous oxidant enzyme that generates reactive oxygen species and plays an important role in the aetiology of cancer. The MPO -463G>A polymorphism influences MPO transcription and has been implicated in cancer risk. However, results from published studies on the association between the MPO -463G>A polymorphism and risk of cancer are conflicting. To derive a more precise estimation of association between the MPO -463G>A polymorphism and risk of cancer, we performed a meta-analysis based on 43 case-control studies, including a total of 14 171 cancer cases and 17 319 controls. We used odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to assess the strength of the association. Overall, individuals with the -463A allele had a 0.93-fold lower cancer risk in a dominant model (OR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.87-1.00). In the stratified analyses, we observed a similar association in European populations (heterozygote comparison: OR = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.82-0.99) and hospital-based studies (dominant model: OR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.79-0.99). When stratified by cancer type, however, no significant association was found. The results suggested that the MPO -463A allele does not contribute to the development of cancer. Additional well-designed large studies are required to validate these findings in different populations.

Redox reactions induced by nitrosative stress mediate protein misfolding and mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases

Overstimulation of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-type glutamate receptors accounts, at least in part, for excitotoxic neuronal damage, potentially contributing to a wide range of acute and chronic neurologic diseases. Neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), manifest deposits of misfolded or aggregated proteins, and result from synaptic injury and neuronal death. Recent studies have suggested that nitrosative stress due to generation of excessive nitric oxide (NO) can mediate excitotoxicity in part by triggering protein misfolding and aggregation, and mitochondrial fragmentation in the absence of genetic predisposition. S-Nitrosylation, or covalent reaction of NO with specific protein thiol groups, represents a convergent signal pathway contributing to NO-induced protein misfolding and aggregation, compromised dynamics of mitochondrial fission-fusion process, thus leading to neurotoxicity. Here, we review the effect of S-nitrosylation on protein function under excitotoxic conditions, and present evidence suggesting that NO contributes to protein misfolding and aggregation via S-nitrosylating protein-disulfide isomerase or the E3 ubiquitin ligase parkin, and mitochondrial fragmentation through beta-amyloid-related S-nitrosylation of dynamin-related protein-1. Moreover, we also discuss that inhibition of excessive NMDA receptor activity by memantine, an uncompetitive/fast off-rate (UFO) drug can ameliorate excessive production of NO, protein misfolding and aggregation, mitochondrial fragmentation, and neurodegeneration.

Reactive oxygen species, cellular redox systems, and apoptosis

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are products of normal metabolism and xenobiotic exposure, and depending on their concentration, ROS can be beneficial or harmful to cells and tissues. At physiological low levels, ROS function as "redox messengers" in intracellular signaling and regulation, whereas excess ROS induce oxidative modification of cellular macromolecules, inhibit protein function, and promote cell death. Additionally, various redox systems, such as the glutathione, thioredoxin, and pyridine nucleotide redox couples, participate in cell signaling and modulation of cell function, including apoptotic cell death. Cell apoptosis is initiated by extracellular and intracellular signals via two main pathways, the death receptor- and the mitochondria-mediated pathways. Various pathologies can result from oxidative stress-induced apoptotic signaling that is consequent to ROS increases and/or antioxidant decreases, disruption of intracellular redox homeostasis, and irreversible oxidative modifications of lipid, protein, or DNA. In this review, we focus on several key aspects of ROS and redox mechanisms in apoptotic signaling and highlight the gaps in knowledge and potential avenues for further investigation. A full understanding of the redox control of apoptotic initiation and execution could underpin the development of therapeutic interventions targeted at oxidative stress-associated disorders.

S-nitrosylation in cardiovascular signaling

Well over 2 decades have passed since the endothelium-derived relaxation factor was reported to be the gaseous molecule nitric oxide (NO). Although soluble guanylyl cyclase (which generates cyclic guanosine monophosphate, cGMP) was the first identified receptor for NO, it has become increasingly clear that NO exerts a ubiquitous influence in a cGMP-independent manner. In particular, many, if not most, effects of NO are mediated by S-nitrosylation, the covalent modification of a protein cysteine thiol by an NO group to generate an S-nitrosothiol (SNO). Moreover, within the current framework of NO biology, endothelium-derived relaxation factor activity (ie, G protein-coupled receptor-mediated, or shear-induced endothelium-derived NO bioactivity) is understood to involve a central role for SNOs, acting both as second messengers and signal effectors. Furthermore, essential roles for S-nitrosylation have been implicated in virtually all major functions of NO in the cardiovascular system. Here, we review the basic biochemistry of S-nitrosylation (and denitrosylation), discuss the role of S-nitrosylation in the vascular and cardiac functions of NO, and identify current and potential clinical applications.

The role of nitric oxide in homocysteine thiolactone-induced seizures in adult rats

The role of NO in epileptogenesis has been studied in different experimental models, and the reported results have been highly contradictory. The current study aimed to determine the role of NO in mechanisms of D: ,L: -homocysteine-thiolactone (H) induced seizures by testing the action of L: -arginine (NO precursor) and L: -NAME (NOS inhibitor) on behavioral and electroencephalographic (EEG) manifestations of H-induced seizures. The same holds true with the brain Na(+)/K(+)- and Mg(2+)-ATPase activity in adult male Wistar rats. We showed that the pretreatment with L: -arginine (300, 600 and 800 mg/kg, i.p.) in a dose-dependent manner significantly decreased lethality, seizure incidence and a number of seizure episodes and prolonged latency time to the first seizure elicited by a convulsive dose of H (8 mmol/kg, i.p.). L: -Arginine (800 mg/kg) completely reversed the inhibitory effect of H on the Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activity in the hippocampus, the cortex and the brain stem and decreased the H-induced spike-and- wave discharges (SWD) formation in EEG. On the other hand, pretreatment with L: -NAME (200, 500 and 700 mg/kg, i.p.) potentiated a subconvulsive dose of H (5.5 mmol/kg, i.p) by increasing incidence and severity determined by a descriptive-rating scale (0-4) and shortening the latency time to the first seizure. The L: -NAME reversed H-induced alterations in the Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activity in the cortex and the brain stem but not in the hippocampus. At last, the potentiated SWD appearance in EEG and an increased number of lethal outcomes occurred. In the present work, the modulation of NO levels, with the NO precursor and NOS inhibitor, was shed more light on its mechanism of action and answered the question whether NO could be included in the list of anticonvulsant agents in the D: ,L: -homocysteine thiolactone experimental model of seizures in adult rats.

Emerging roles of nitric oxide in neurodegeneration

Nitric oxide (NO) is a gaseous signaling molecule which has physiological and pathological roles in the cell. Under normal conditions, NO is produced by nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and can induce physiological responses such as vasodilation. However, over-activation of NOS has been linked to a number of human pathological conditions. For instance, most neurodegenerative disorders are marked by the presence of nitrated protein aggregates. How nitrosative stress leads to neurodegeneration is not clear, but various studies suggest that increased nitrosative stress causes protein nitration which then leads to protein aggregation. Protein aggregates are highly toxic to neurons and can promote neurodegeneration. In addition to inducing protein aggregation, recent studies show that nitrosative stress can also compromise a number of neuroprotective pathways by modifying activities of certain proteins through S-nitrosylation. These findings suggest that increased nitrosative stress can contribute to neurodegeneration through multiple pathways.

Hydrogen sulfide as a gasotransmitter

Nitric oxide (NO) and carbon monoxide (CO) are well established as messenger molecules throughout the body, gasotransmitters, based on striking alterations in mice lacking the appropriate biosynthetic enzymes. Hydrogen sulfide (H(2)S) is even more chemically reactive, but until recently there was little definitive evidence for its physiologic formation. Cystathionine beta-synthase (EC 4.2.1.22), and cystathionine gamma-lyase (CSE; EC 4.4.1.1), also known as cystathionine, can generate H(2)S from cyst(e)ine. Very recent studies with mice lacking these enzymes have established that CSE is responsible for H(2)S formation in the periphery, while in the brain cystathionine beta-synthase is the biosynthetic enzyme. Endothelial-derived relaxing factor activity is reduced 80% in the mesenteric artery of mice with deletion of CSE, establishing H(2)S as a major physiologic endothelial-derived relaxing factor. H(2)S appears to signal predominantly by S-sulfhydrating cysteines in its target proteins, analogous to S-nitrosylation by NO. Whereas S-nitrosylation typically inhibits enzymes, S-sulfhydration activates them. S-nitrosylation basally affects 1-2% of its target proteins, while 10-25% of H(2)S target proteins are S-sulfhydrated. In summary, H(2)S appears to be a physiologic gasotransmitter of comparable importance to NO and carbon monoxide.

Direct and indirect detection methods for the analysis of S-nitrosylated peptides and proteins

Covalent binding of nitric oxide to specific cysteine residues in proteins is a key event in cellular redox signal transduction. This modification influences both physiological and pathological processes, such as cardiovascular, neurological, and cancer-associated events. Even though, since its introduction, the biotin switch technique is the most used indirect method for the study of S-nitrosylation both in vivo and in vitro, during the last years modifications of this method have emerged, allowing more efficient sample enrichment and the precise identification of the modified aminoacidic sites. At the same time, to bypass the difficulties generated by the multiple chemical reaction steps required by these labeling methods, the direct identification of the SNO groups by mass spectrometry is emerging as a useful tool in this field, although, until now, it has been limited to the study of synthetic or purified recombinant proteins. Here we present two different techniques, developed in our laboratories, for detection of S-nitrosylation: the first is based on a modification of the biotin switch technique and is called His-tag switch, and the second is a direct mass spectrometry-based method used to detect in vivo generated SNO groups.

Thioredoxin-interacting protein (Txnip) is a feedback regulator of S-nitrosylation

Nitric oxide exerts a plethora of biological effects via protein S-nitrosylation, a redox-based reaction that converts a protein Cys thiol to a S-nitrosothiol. However, although the regulation of protein S-nitrosylation has been the subject of extensive study, much less is known about the systems governing protein denitrosylation. Most recently, thioredoxin/thioredoxin reductases were shown to mediate both basal and stimulus-coupled protein denitrosylation. We now demonstrate that protein denitrosylation by thioredoxin is regulated dynamically by thioredoxin-interacting protein (Txnip), a thioredoxin inhibitor. Endogenously synthesized nitric oxide represses Txnip, thereby facilitating thioredoxin-mediated denitrosylation. Autoregulation of denitrosylation thus allows cells to survive nitrosative stress. Our findings reveal that denitrosylation of proteins is dynamically regulated, establish a physiological role for thioredoxin in protection from nitrosative stress, and suggest new approaches to manipulate cellular S-nitrosylation.

Myeloperoxidase serves as a redox switch that regulates apoptosis in epithelial ovarian cancer

OBJECTIVES

Resistance to apoptosis is a key feature of cancer cells and is believed to be regulated by nitrosonium ion (NO(+))-induced S-nitrosylation of key enzymes. Nitric oxide (NO), produced by inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), is utilized by MPO to generated NO(+). We sought to investigate the expression of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and iNOS in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) and determine their effect on S-nitrosylation of caspase-3 and its activity as well as apoptosis.

METHODS

MPO and iNOS expression were determined using immunofluorescence in SKOV-3 and MDAH-2774 and EOC tissue sections. S-nitrosylation of caspase-3 and its activity, levels of MPO and iNOS, as well as apoptosis, were evaluated in the EOC cells before and after silencing MPO or iNOS genes with specific siRNA probes utilizing real-time RT-PCR, ELISA, and TUNEL assays.

RESULTS

MPO and iNOS are expressed in EOC cell lines and in over 60% of invasive EOC cases with no expression in normal ovarian epithelium. Indeed, silencing of MPO or iNOS gene expression resulted in decreased S-nitrosylation of caspase-3, increased caspase-3 activity, and increased apoptosis but with a more significant effect when silencing MPO.

CONCLUSION

MPO and iNOS are colocalized to the same cells in EOC but not in the normal ovarian epithelium. Silencing of either MPO or iNOS significantly induced apoptosis, highlighting their role as a redox switch that regulates apoptosis in EOC. Understanding the mechanisms by which MPO functions as a redox switch in regulating apoptosis in EOC may lead to future diagnostic tools and therapeutic interventions.

Commentary: mechanistic considerations for associations between formaldehyde exposure and nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Occupational exposure to formaldehyde has been linked to nasopharyngeal carcinoma. To date, mechanistic explanations for this association have primarily focused on formaldehyde-induced cytotoxicity, regenerative hyperplasia and DNA damage. However, recent studies broaden the potential mechanisms as it is now well established that formaldehyde dehydrogenase, identical to S-nitrosoglutathione reductase, is an important mediator of cGMP-independent nitric oxide signaling pathways. We have previously described mechanisms by which formaldehyde can influence nitrosothiol homeostasis thereby leading to changes in pulmonary physiology. Considering evidences that nitrosothiols govern the Epstein-Barr virus infection cycle, and that the virus is strongly implicated in the etiology of nasopharyngeal carcinoma, studies are needed to examine the potential for formaldehyde to reactivate the Epstein-Barr virus as well as additively or synergistically interact with the virus to potentiate epithelial cell transformation.

Nature meets nurture: molecular genetics of gastric cancer

The immensity of genes and molecules implicated in gastric carcinogenesis is overwhelming and the relevant importance of some of these molecules is too often unclear. This review serves to bring us up-to-date with the latest findings as well as to look at the larger picture in terms of how to tackle the problem of solving this multi-piece puzzle. In this review, the environmental nurturing of intestinal cancer is discussed, beginning with epidemiology (known causative factors for inducing molecular change), an update of H. pylori research, including the role of inflammation and stem cells in premalignant lesions. The role of E-cadherin in the nature (genotype) of diffuse gastric cancer is highlighted, and finally the ever growing discipline of SNP analysis (including IL1B) is discussed.

Nitric oxide in cell survival: a janus molecule

Nitric oxide (NO), plays multiple roles in the nervous system. In addition to regulating proliferation, survival and differentiation of neurons, NO is involved in synaptic activity, neural plasticity, and memory function. Nitric oxide promotes survival and differentiation of neural cells and exerts long-lasting effects through regulation of transcription factors and modulation of gene expression. Signaling by reactive nitrogen species is carried out mainly by targeted modifications of critical cysteine residues in proteins, including S-nitrosylation and S-oxidation, as well as by lipid nitration. NO and other reactive nitrogen species are also involved in neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration, such as in Alzheimer disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson disease, multiple sclerosis, Friedreich ataxia, and Huntington disease. Susceptibility to NO and peroxynitrite exposure may depend on factors such as the intracellular reduced glutathione and cellular stress resistance signaling pathways. Thus, neurons, in contrast to astrocytes, appear particularly vulnerable to the effects of nitrosative stress. This article reviews the current understanding of the cytotoxic versus cytoprotective effects of NO in the central nervous system, highlighting the Janus-faced properties of this small molecule. The significance of NO in redox signaling and modulation of the adaptive cellular stress responses and its exciting future perspectives also are discussed.