Activation of the cardiac calcium release channel (ryanodine receptor) by poly-S-nitrosylation

Interactions between sarco-endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria in cardiac and skeletal muscle - pivotal roles in Ca²⁺ and reactive oxygen species signaling

Mitochondria are strategically and dynamically positioned in the cell to spatially coordinate ATP production with energy needs and to allow the local exchange of material with other organelles. Interactions of mitochondria with the sarco-endoplasmic reticulum (SR/ER) have been receiving much attention owing to emerging evidence on the role these sites have in cell signaling, dynamics and biosynthetic pathways. One of the most important physiological and pathophysiological paradigms for SR/ER-mitochondria interactions is in cardiac and skeletal muscle. The contractile activity of these tissues has to be matched by mitochondrial ATP generation that is achieved, at least in part, by propagation of Ca(2+) signals from SR to mitochondria. However, the muscle has a highly ordered structure, providing only limited opportunity for mitochondrial dynamics and interorganellar interactions. This Commentary focuses on the latest advances in the structure, function and disease relevance of the communication between SR/ER and mitochondria in muscle. In particular, we discuss the recent demonstration of SR/ER-mitochondria tethers that are formed by multiple proteins, and local Ca(2+) transfer between SR/ER and mitochondria.

Polydatin protects cardiac function against burn injury by inhibiting sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ leak by reducing oxidative modification of ryanodine receptors

Our recent studies demonstrate that burn trauma induces leaky sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) in heart due to excessively active ryanodine receptor (RyR) function. SR Ca(2+) leak causes partial depletion of SR Ca(2+) content and disturbances in intracellular Ca(2+) homeostasis, resulting in the pathogenesis of burn-generated cardiac dysfunction. This study investigated the role of polydatin, a resveratrol glucoside, in preventing SR leak and its therapeutic effect against burn-generated cardiac dysfunction. We found that polydatin treatment improved cardiac function impaired by burn injury of 30% of total body surface area. Parallel to the alterations in cardiac function, polydatin significantly increased the defective systolic Ca(2+) transient and contractility in burn-traumatized cardiomyocytes. Burn injury increased the occurrence of Ca(2+) sparks. The enhancement of Ca(2+) spark-mediated SR leak caused partial depletion of SR Ca(2+) content in burn-traumatized cardiomyocytes. Furthermore, we found that the content of free thiols (the number of reduced cysteines) in RyR2 in cardiomyocytes determined by the monobromobimane fluorescence of RyR2 was decreased markedly in burn-traumatized hearts. Polydatin treatment decreased intracellular reactive oxygen species levels and restored the amount of free thiols in RyR2 in burns. Concomitantly, polydatin corrected Ca(2+) spark-mediated SR leak and restored SR Ca(2+) load. The systolic Ca(2+) transient and cellular contractility were significantly increased by polydatin treatment. Taken together, the present findings provide the first evidence demonstrating that polydatin prevents enhanced Ca(2+) spark-mediated SR leak by reducing oxidative stress in RyR2 in burn-traumatized heart, leading to protection of cardiac function against burn injury.

Alterations in ryanodine receptors and related proteins in heart failure

Sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca(2+) release plays an essential role in mediating cardiac myocyte contraction. Depolarization of the plasma membrane results in influx of Ca(2+) through l-type Ca(2+) channels (LTCCs) that in turn triggers efflux of Ca(2+) from the SR through ryanodine receptor type-2 channels (RyR2). This process known as Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+)release (CICR) occurs within the dyadic region, where the adjacent transverse (T)-tubules and SR membranes allow RyR2 clusters to release SR Ca(2+) following Ca(2+) influx through adjacent LTCCs. SR Ca(2+) released during systole binds to troponin-C and initiates actin-myosin cross-bridging, leading to muscle contraction. During diastole, the cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration is restored by the resequestration of Ca(2+) into the SR by SR/ER Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA2a) and by the extrusion of Ca(2+) via the Na(+)/Ca(2+)-exchanger (NCX1). This whole process, entitled excitation-contraction (EC) coupling, is highly coordinated and determines the force of contraction, providing a link between the electrical and mechanical activities of cardiac muscle. In response to heart failure (HF), the heart undergoes maladaptive changes that result in depressed intracellular Ca(2+) cycling and decreased SR Ca(2+) concentrations. As a result, the amplitude of CICR is reduced resulting in less force production during EC coupling. In this review, we discuss the specific proteins that alter the regulation of Ca(2+) during HF. In particular, we will focus on defects in RyR2-mediated SR Ca(2+) release. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Heart failure pathogenesis and emerging diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.

Redox proteomics of thiol proteins in mouse heart during ischemia/reperfusion using ICAT reagents and mass spectrometry

There is strong evidence for the involvement of reactive oxygen species in ischemia/reperfusion injury. Although oxidation of individual thiol proteins has been reported, more extensive redox proteomics of hearts subjected to ischemia/reperfusion has not been performed. We have carried out an exploratory study using mass spectrometry with isotope-coded affinity tags (ICAT) aimed at identifying reversible oxidative changes to protein thiols in Langendorff perfused isolated mouse hearts subjected to 20 min ischemia with or without aerobic reperfusion for 5 or 30 min. Reduced thiols were blocked by adding N-ethylmaleimide during protein extraction, then reversibly oxidized thiols in extracts of control perfused and treated hearts were reduced and labeled with the light and heavy ICAT reagents, respectively. Protein extracts were mixed in equal amounts and relative proportions of the isotope-labeled peaks were used to quantify oxidative changes between the control and the treated groups. Approximately 300 peptides with ICAT signatures were reliably identified in each sample, with 181 peptides from 118 proteins common to all treatments. A proportion showed elevated ICAT ratios, consistent with reversible thiol oxidation. This was most evident after early reperfusion, with apparent reversal after longer reperfusion. In comparison, there was gradual accumulation of protein carbonyls and loss of GSH with longer reperfusion. Many of the thiol changes were in mitochondrial proteins, including components of electron transport complexes and enzymes involved in lipid metabolism. The results are consistent with mitochondria being a major site of oxidant generation during early cardiac reperfusion and mitochondrial thiol proteins being targets for oxidation.

Quantitative site-specific reactivity profiling of S-nitrosylation in mouse skeletal muscle using cysteinyl peptide enrichment coupled with mass spectrometry

S-nitrosylation, the formation of S-nitrosothiol (SNO), is an important reversible thiol oxidation event that has been increasingly recognized for its role in cell signaling. Although many proteins susceptible to S-nitrosylation have been reported, site-specific identification of physiologically relevant SNO modifications remains an analytical challenge because of the low abundance and labile nature of this modification. Herein we present further improvement and optimization of the recently reported resin-assisted cysteinyl peptide enrichment protocol for SNO identification and its application to mouse skeletal muscle to identify specific cysteine sites sensitive to S-nitrosylation by a quantitative reactivity profiling strategy. Our results indicate that the protein- and peptide-level enrichment protocols provide comparable specificity and coverage of SNO-peptide identifications. S-nitrosylation reactivity profiling was performed by quantitatively comparing the site-specific SNO modification levels in samples treated with S-nitrosoglutathione, an NO donor, at two different concentrations (i.e., 10 and 100 μM). The reactivity profiling experiments led to the identification of 488 SNO-modified sites from 197 proteins with specificity of ∼95% at the unique peptide level, i.e., ∼95% of enriched peptides contain cysteine residues as the originally SNO-modified sites. Among these sites, 281 from 145 proteins were considered more sensitive to S-nitrosylation based on the ratios of observed SNO levels between the two treatments. These SNO-sensitive sites are more likely to be physiologically relevant. Many of the SNO-sensitive proteins are localized in mitochondria, contractile fiber, and actin cytoskeleton, suggesting the susceptibility of these subcellular compartments to redox regulation. Moreover, these observed SNO-sensitive proteins are primarily involved in metabolic pathways, including the tricarboxylic acid cycle, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, glutathione metabolism, and fatty acid metabolism, suggesting the importance of redox regulation in muscle metabolism and insulin action.

Redox regulation of sodium and calcium handling

SIGNIFICANCE

In heart failure (HF), contractile dysfunction and arrhythmias result from disturbed intracellular Ca handling. Activated stress kinases like cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA), protein kinase C (PKC), and Ca/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), which are known to influence many Ca-regulatory proteins, are mechanistically involved.

RECENT ADVANCES

Beside classical activation pathways, it is becoming increasingly evident that reactive oxygen species (ROS) can directly oxidize these kinases, leading to alternative activation. Since HF is associated with increased ROS generation, ROS-activated serine/threonine kinases may play a crucial role in the disturbance of cellular Ca homeostasis. Many of the previously described ROS effects on ion channels and transporters are possibly mediated by these stress kinases. For instance, ROS have been shown to oxidize and activate CaMKII, thereby increasing Na influx through voltage-gated Na channels, which can lead to intracellular Na accumulation and action potential prolongation. Consequently, Ca entry via activated NCX is favored, which together with ROS-induced dysfunction of the sarcoplasmic reticulum can lead to dramatic intracellular Ca accumulation, diminished contractility, and arrhythmias.

CRITICAL ISSUES

While low amounts of ROS may regulate kinase activity, excessive uncontrolled ROS production may lead to direct redox modification of Ca handling proteins. Therefore, depending on the source and amount of ROS generated, ROS could have very different effects on Ca-handling proteins.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

The discrimination between fine-tuned ROS signaling and unspecific ROS damage may be crucial for the understanding of heart failure development and important for the investigation of targeted treatment strategies.

Dysfunctional ryanodine receptors in the heart: new insights into complex cardiovascular diseases

Calcium dependent signaling is highly regulated in cardiomyocytes and determines the force of cardiac muscle contraction. The cardiac ryanodine receptors (RyR2) play important roles in health and disease. Modulation of RyR2 by phosphorylation is required for sympathetic regulation of cardiac function. Abnormal regulation of RyR2 contributes to heart failure, and atrial and ventricular arrhythmias. RyR2 channels are oxidized, nitrosylated, and hyperphosphorylated by protein kinase A (PKA) in heart failure, resulting in "leaky" channels. These leaky RyR2 channels contribute to depletion of calcium from the sarcoplasmic reticulum, resulting in defective cardiac excitation-contraction coupling. In this review, we discuss both the importance of PKA and calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMKII) regulation of RyR2 in health, and how altered phosphorylation, nitrosylation and oxidation of RyR2 channels lead to cardiac disease. Correcting these defects using either genetic manipulation (knock-in) in mice, or specific and novel small molecules ameliorates the RyR2 dysfunction, reducing the progression to heart failure and the incidence of arrhythmias.

Oxidative stress and sarcomeric proteins

Oxidative stress accompanies a wide spectrum of clinically important cardiac disorders, including ischemia/reperfusion, diabetes mellitus, and hypertensive heart disease. Although reactive oxygen species (ROS) can activate signaling pathways that contribute to ischemic preconditioning and cardioprotection, high levels of ROS induce structural modifications of the sarcomere that impact on pump function and the pathogenesis of heart failure. However, the precise nature of the redox-dependent change in contractility is determined by the source/identity of the oxidant species, the level of oxidative stress, and the chemistry/position of oxidant-induced posttranslational modifications on individual proteins within the sarcomere. This review focuses on various ROS-induced posttranslational modifications of myofilament proteins (including direct oxidative modifications of myofilament proteins, myofilament protein phosphorylation by ROS-activated signaling enzymes, and myofilament protein cleavage by ROS-activated proteases) that have been implicated in the control of cardiac contractility.

ROS regulation of microdomain Ca(2+) signalling at the dyads

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are emerging as centre-stage players in cardiac functional regulation. ROS and Ca(2+) signals converge at dyads, the structural and functional units of cardiac excitation-contraction coupling. These two prominent signalling systems are intertwined with ROS modulation of the entire Ca(2+)-signalling network, and vice versa. While constitutively generated homoeostatic ROS are important in setting the redox potential of the intracellular milieu, dynamic signalling ROS shape microdomain and global Ca(2+) signals on both the beat-to-beat and greater time scales. However, ROS effects are complex and subtle, characterized by multiphasic and bidirectional Ca(2+) responses; and sustained oxidative stress may lead to compromised contractility and arrhythmogenicity. These new understandings should be leveraged to harness ROS for their beneficial roles while avoiding deleterious effects in the heart.

Functional proteomics approaches for the identification of transnitrosylase and denitrosylase targets

Protein S-nitrosylation is a dynamic post-translational modification (PTM) of specific cysteines within a target protein. Both proteins and small molecules are known to regulate the attachment and removal of this PTM, and proteins exhibiting such a function are transnitrosylase or denitrosylase candidates. With the advent of the biotin switch technique coupled to high-throughput proteomics workflows, the identification and quantification of large numbers of S-nitrosylated proteins and peptides is now possible. Proper analysis and interpretation of high throughout and quantitative proteomics data will help identify specific transnitrosylase and denitrosylase target peptide sequences and contribute to an understanding of the function and regulation of specific S-nitrosylation events. Here we describe the application of a quantitative proteomics approach using isotope-coded affinity tags (ICAT) in the biotin switch approach for the identification of transnitrosylation and denitrosylation targets of thioredoxin 1, an enigmatic protein with both reported transnitrosylase and denitrosylase activities.

'Ryanopathy': causes and manifestations of RyR2 dysfunction in heart failure

The cardiac ryanodine receptor (RyR2), a Ca(2+) release channel on the membrane of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR), plays a key role in determining the strength of the heartbeat by supplying Ca(2+) required for contractile activation. Abnormal RyR2 function is recognized as an important part of the pathophysiology of heart failure (HF). While in the normal heart, the balance between the cytosolic and intra-SR Ca(2+) regulation of RyR2 function maintains the contraction-relaxation cycle, in HF, this behaviour is compromised by excessive post-translational modifications of the RyR2. Such modification of the Ca(2+) release channel impairs the ability of the RyR2 to properly deactivate leading to a spectrum of Ca(2+)-dependent pathologies that include cardiac systolic and diastolic dysfunction, arrhythmias, and structural remodelling. In this article, we present an overview of recent advances in our understanding of the underlying causes and pathological consequences of abnormal RyR2 function in the failing heart. We also discuss the implications of these findings for HF therapy.

Sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy

Myocardial dysfunction is one of the main predictors of poor outcome in septic patients, with mortality rates next to 70%. During the sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction, both ventricles can dilate and diminish its ejection fraction, having less response to fluid resuscitation and catecholamines, but typically is assumed to be reversible within 7-10 days. In the last 30 years, It´s being subject of substantial research; however no explanation of its etiopathogenesis or effective treatment have been proved yet. The aim of this manuscript is to review on the most relevant aspects of the sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction, discuss its clinical presentation, pathophysiology, etiopathogenesis, diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies proposed in recent years.

Reciprocal regulation of the nitric oxide and cyclooxygenase pathway in pathophysiology: relevance and clinical implications

The nitric oxide (NO) and cyclooxygenase (COX) pathways share a number of similarities. Nitric oxide is the mediator generated from the NO synthase (NOS) pathway, and COX converts arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, prostacyclin, and thromboxane A(2). Two major forms of NOS and COX have been identified to date. The constitutive isoforms critically regulate several physiological states. The inducible isoforms are overexpressed during inflammation in a variety of cells, producing large amounts of NO and prostaglandins, which may underlie pathological processes. The cross-talk between the COX and NOS pathways was initially reported by Salvemini and colleagues in 1993, when they demonstrated in a series of in vitro and in vivo studies that NO activates the COX enzymes to produce increased amounts of prostaglandins. Those studies led to the concept that COX enzymes represent important endogenous "receptor" targets for amplifying or modulating the multifaceted roles of NO in physiology and pathology. Since then, numerous studies have furthered our mechanistic understanding of these interactions in pathophysiological settings and delineated potential clinical outcomes. In addition, emerging evidence suggests that the canonical nitroxidative species (NO, superoxide, and/or peroxynitrite) modulate biosynthesis of prostaglandins through non-COX-related pathways. This article provides a comprehensive state-of-the art overview in this area.

Redox control of cardiac excitability

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been associated with various human diseases, and considerable attention has been paid to investigate their physiological effects. Various ROS are synthesized in the mitochondria and accumulate in the cytoplasm if the cellular antioxidant defense mechanism fails. The critical balance of this ROS synthesis and antioxidant defense systems is termed the redox system of the cell. Various cardiovascular diseases have also been affected by redox to different degrees. ROS have been indicated as both detrimental and protective, via different cellular pathways, for cardiac myocyte functions, electrophysiology, and pharmacology. Mostly, the ROS functions depend on the type and amount of ROS synthesized. While the literature clearly indicates ROS effects on cardiac contractility, their effects on cardiac excitability are relatively under appreciated. Cardiac excitability depends on the functions of various cardiac sarcolemal or mitochondrial ion channels carrying various depolarizing or repolarizing currents that also maintain cellular ionic homeostasis. ROS alter the functions of these ion channels to various degrees to determine excitability by affecting the cellular resting potential and the morphology of the cardiac action potential. Thus, redox balance regulates cardiac excitability, and under pathological regulation, may alter action potential propagation to cause arrhythmia. Understanding how redox affects cellular excitability may lead to potential prophylaxis or treatment for various arrhythmias. This review will focus on the studies of redox and cardiac excitation.

Local anesthetic 'in-situ' toxicity during peripheral nerve blocks: update on mechanisms and prevention

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Peripheral nerve blocks induce undesired side-effects linked to the toxicity of local anesthetics on neuron and myocytes via different cell targets. The effects of local anesthetics on these targets are now well known and summarized in this review.

RECENT FINDINGS

Local anesthetic-induced local cell toxicity involved different pathways leading to cell death, necrosis and different factors closely associated with the clinical practice modulated this toxicity. High concentration and prolonged duration of local anesthetic administration are closely associated with severe lesions.

SUMMARY

Phenotypic analyses revealed that local anesthetics could induce histological damage with lesions ranging from local to extreme in skeletal muscle. Metabolic alterations were also described involving sarcoplasmic reticulum and calcium dysregulation, alteration of mitochondrial physiology and of oxidative phosphorylation with associated overproduction of harmful reactive oxygen species, typically leading to apoptosis or necrosis. Biochemical and cell biology investigations now indicate that local anesthetics interact with different molecular targets in mammalian cells as respiratory chain complex I or the prosurvival kinase Akt. Functional dysfunction in both muscle and neuron remains to be investigated with caution in patients, as local anesthetic toxicity remains under-evaluated. Likewise, the use of adapted local anesthetics in patients with particular diseases and neuromuscular disorder could further reduce the risk of undesired effect.We need to improve our practice, and the optimization of our clinical protocol could prevent from these side-effects. Lastly, experimental studies highlight the preventive effects of antioxidant drugs or of recombinant human erythropoietin but the pharmacokinetic feature of such strategies remain to be evaluated.

S-nitrosothiols and the S-nitrosoproteome of the cardiovascular system

SIGNIFICANCE

Since their discovery in the early 1990's, S-nitrosylated proteins have been increasingly recognized as important determinants of many biochemical processes. Specifically, S-nitrosothiols in the cardiovascular system exert many actions, including promoting vasodilation, inhibiting platelet aggregation, and regulating Ca(2+) channel function that influences myocyte contractility and electrophysiologic stability.

RECENT ADVANCES

Contemporary developments in liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry methods, the development of biotin- and His-tag switch assays, and the availability of cyanide dye-labeling for S-nitrosothiol detection in vitro have increased significantly the identification of a number of cardiovascular protein targets of S-nitrosylation in vivo.

CRITICAL ISSUES

Recent analyses using modern S-nitrosothiol detection techniques have revealed the mechanistic significance of S-nitrosylation to the pathophysiology of numerous cardiovascular diseases, including essential hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, ischemic heart disease, stroke, and congestive heart failure, among others.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Despite enhanced insight into S-nitrosothiol biochemistry, translating these advances into beneficial pharmacotherapies for patients with cardiovascular diseases remains a primary as-yet unmet goal for investigators within the field.

Thioredoxin and thioredoxin reductase in relation to reversible S-nitrosylation

SIGNIFICANCE

Nitric oxide (NO) regulates a diverse range of cellular processes, including vasodilation, neurotransmission, and antimicrobial and anti-tumor activities. S-nitrosylation with the formation of S-nitrosothiols (RSNOs) is an important feature of NO signaling regulating protein function. In mammalian cells, glutathione (GSH), S-nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR), and thioredoxin (Trx) have been identified as the major protein denitrosylases.

RECENT ADVANCES

Human cytosolic/nuclear Trx1 in the disulfide form can be nitrosylated at Cys73 and transnitrosylate target proteins, including caspase 3. Thus, similar to GSH, which by forming S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) can transnitrosylate proteins, Trx can either denitrosylate or nitrosylate proteins depending on its oxidation state.

CRITICAL ISSUES

In this review, we discuss the regulation of cellular processes by reversible S-nitrosylation and Trx-mediated cellular homeostasis of RSNOs and S-nitrosoproteins.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Functions of RSNOs in vivo and their pharmacological uses have not yet been fully studied. Further investigations on the role of Trx systems in relation to biologically relevant RSNOs, their functions, and the mechanisms of denitrosylation will facilitate the development of drugs and therapies. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 18, 259-269.

S-nitrosylation: integrator of cardiovascular performance and oxygen delivery

Delivery of oxygen to tissues is the primary function of the cardiovascular system. NO, a gasotransmitter that signals predominantly through protein S-nitrosylation to form S-nitrosothiols (SNOs) in target proteins, operates coordinately with oxygen in mammalian cellular systems. From this perspective, SNO-based signaling may have evolved as a major transducer of the cellular oxygen-sensing machinery that underlies global cardiovascular function. Here we review mechanisms that regulate S-nitrosylation in the context of its essential role in "systems-level" control of oxygen sensing, delivery, and utilization in the cardiovascular system, and we highlight examples of aberrant S-nitrosylation that may lead to altered oxygen homeostasis in cardiovascular diseases. Thus, through a bird's-eye view of S-nitrosylation in the cardiovascular system, we provide a conceptual framework that may be broadly applicable to the functioning of other cellular systems and physiological processes and that illuminates new therapeutic promise in cardiovascular medicine.

Loss of endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ homeostasis: contribution to neuronal cell death during cerebral ischemia

The loss of Ca(2+) homeostasis during cerebral ischemia is a hallmark of impending neuronal demise. Accordingly, considerable cellular resources are expended in maintaining low resting cytosolic levels of Ca(2+). These include contributions by a host of proteins involved in the sequestration and transport of Ca(2+), many of which are expressed within intracellular organelles, including lysosomes, mitochondria as well as the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Ca(2+) sequestration by the ER contributes to cytosolic Ca(2+) dynamics and homeostasis. Furthermore, within the ER Ca(2+) plays a central role in regulating a host of physiological processes. Conversely, impaired ER Ca(2+) homeostasis is an important trigger of pathological processes. Here we review a growing body of evidence suggesting that ER dysfunction is an important factor contributing to neuronal injury and loss post-ischemia. Specifically, the contribution of the ER to cytosolic Ca(2+) elevations during ischemia will be considered, as will the signalling cascades recruited as a consequence of disrupting ER homeostasis and function.

Hierarchical accumulation of RyR post-translational modifications drives disease progression in dystrophic cardiomyopathy

AIMS

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a muscle disease with serious cardiac complications. Changes in Ca(2+) homeostasis and oxidative stress were recently associated with cardiac deterioration, but the cellular pathophysiological mechanisms remain elusive. We investigated whether the activity of ryanodine receptor (RyR) Ca(2+) release channels is affected, whether changes in function are cause or consequence and which post-translational modifications drive disease progression.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Electrophysiological, imaging, and biochemical techniques were used to study RyRs in cardiomyocytes from mdx mice, an animal model of DMD. Young mdx mice show no changes in cardiac performance, but do so after ∼8 months. Nevertheless, myocytes from mdx pups exhibited exaggerated Ca(2+) responses to mechanical stress and 'hypersensitive' excitation-contraction coupling, hallmarks of increased RyR Ca(2+) sensitivity. Both were normalized by antioxidants, inhibitors of NAD(P)H oxidase and CaMKII, but not by NO synthases and PKA antagonists. Sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) load and leak were unchanged in young mdx mice. However, by the age of 4-5 months and in senescence, leak was increased and load was reduced, indicating disease progression. By this age, all pharmacological interventions listed above normalized Ca(2+) signals and corrected changes in ECC, Ca(2+) load, and leak.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that increased RyR Ca(2+) sensitivity precedes and presumably drives the progression of dystrophic cardiomyopathy, with oxidative stress initiating its development. RyR oxidation followed by phosphorylation, first by CaMKII and later by PKA, synergistically contributes to cardiac deterioration.

Redox signaling in cardiac physiology and pathology

Redox signaling refers to the specific and usually reversible oxidation/reduction modification of molecules involved in cellular signaling pathways. In the heart, redox signaling regulates several physiological processes (eg, excitation-contraction coupling) and is involved in a wide variety of pathophysiological and homoeostatic or stress response pathways. Reactive oxygen species involved in cardiac redox signaling may derive from many sources, but NADPH oxidases, as dedicated sources of signaling reactive oxygen species, seem to be especially important. An increasing number of specific posttranslational oxidative modifications involved in cardiac redox signaling are being defined, along with the reactive oxygen species sources that are involved. Here, we review current knowledge on the molecular targets of signaling reactive oxygen species in cardiac cells and their involvement in cardiac physiopathology. Advances in this field may allow the development of targeted therapeutic strategies for conditions such as heart failure as opposed to the general antioxidant approaches that have failed to date.

Nitric oxide-induced calcium release: activation of type 1 ryanodine receptor by endogenous nitric oxide

Ryanodine receptors (RyRs), located in the sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum (SR/ER) membrane, are required for intracellular Ca2+ release that is involved in a wide range of cellular functions. In addition to Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release in cardiac cells and voltage-induced Ca2+ release in skeletal muscle cells, we recently identified another mode of intracellular Ca2+ mobilization mediated by RyR, i.e., nitric oxide-induced Ca2+ release (NICR), in cerebellar Purkinje cells. NICR is evoked by neuronal activity, is dependent on S-nitrosylation of type 1 RyR (RyR1) and is involved in the induction of long-term potentiation (LTP) of cerebellar synapses. In this addendum, we examined whether peroxynitrite, which is produced by the reaction of nitric oxide with superoxide, may also have an effect on the Ca2+ release via RyR1 and the cerebellar LTP. We found that scavengers of peroxynitrite have no significant effect either on the Ca2+ release via RyR1 or on the cerebellar LTP. We also found that an application of a high concentration of peroxynitrite does not reproduce neuronal activity-dependent Ca2+ release in Purkinje cells. These results support that NICR is induced by endogenous nitric oxide produced by neuronal activity through S-nitrosylation of RyR1.

Ghrelin-induced growth hormone release from goldfish pituitary cells is nitric oxide dependent

Ghrelin (GRLN) is an important neuroendocrine regulator of growth hormone (GH) release in vertebrates. Previous studies show goldfish (g)GRLN(19)-induced GH from the goldfish pituitary involves voltage sensitive Ca(2+) channels, increases in intracellular Ca(2+) and the PKC signalling pathway. We set out to examine the role of the nitric oxide (NO) pathway in gGLRN(19)-induced GH release from primary cultures of goldfish pituitary cells using pharmacological regulators in cell column perifusion systems. The NO scavenger PTIO abolished gGRLN(19)-induced GH release and co-treatment with the NO donor SNP and GRLN did not produce additive GH release responses. Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitors 1400 W and 7-Ni abolished GRLN-induced GH release while treatment with another NOS inhibitor, AGH, had no significant effect. Taken together, these results demonstrate that the NOS/NO is an integral component of gGRLN(19)-induced signalling within the goldfish pituitary cells, and given the relative specificity of AGH for inducible NOS and endothelial NOS isoforms, suggests that neuronal NOS is the likely NOS isoform utilized in goldfish somatotropes by this physiological regulator.

Cardiomyocyte-restricted overexpression of extracellular superoxide dismutase increases nitric oxide bioavailability and reduces infarct size after ischemia/reperfusion

Increased levels of extracellular superoxide dismutase (ecSOD) induced by preconditioning or gene therapy protect the heart from ischemia/reperfusion injury. To elucidate the mechanism responsible for this action, we studied the effects of increased superoxide scavenging on nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability in a cardiac myocyte-specific ecSOD transgenic (Tg) mouse. Results indicated that ecSOD overexpression increased cardiac myocyte-specific ecSOD activity 27.5-fold. Transgenic ecSOD was localized to the sarcolemma and, notably, the cytoplasm of cardiac myocytes. Ischemia/reperfusion injury was attenuated in ecSOD Tg hearts, in which infarct size was decreased and LV functional recovery was improved. Using the ROS spin trap, DMPO, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy demonstrated a significant decrease in ROS in Tg hearts during the first 20 min of reperfusion. This decrease in ROS was accompanied by an increase in NO production determined by EPR using the NO spin trap, Fe-MGD. Attenuated ROS in ecSOD Tg myocytes was also supported by decreased production of peroxynitrite (ONOO⁻). Increased NO bioavailability was confirmed by attenuated guanylate cyclase-dependent (p-VASP) signaling. In conclusion, attenuation of ROS levels by cardiac-specific ecSOD overexpression increases NO bioavailability in response to ischemia/reperfusion and protects against reperfusion injury. These findings are the first to demonstrate increased NO bioavailability with attenuation of ROS by direct measurement of these reactive species (EPR, reactive fluorescent dyes) with cardiac-specific ecSOD expression. This is also the first indication that the predominantly extracellular SOD isoform is capable of cytosolic localization that affects myocardial intracellular signal transduction and function.

Nitric oxide-mediated protein modification in cardiovascular physiology and pathology

Nitric oxide (NO) is a key regulator of cardiovascular functions including the control of vascular tone, anti-inflammatory properties of the endothelium, cardiac contractility, and thrombocyte activation and aggregation. Numerous experimental data support the view that NO not only acts via cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-dependent mechanisms but also modulates protein function by nitrosation, nitrosylation, glutathiolation, and nitration, respectively. To understand how NO regulates all of these diverse biological processes on the molecular level a comprehensive assessment of NO-mediated cGMP-dependent and independent targets is required. Novel proteomic approaches allow the simultaneous identification of large quantities of proteins modified in an NO-dependent manner and thereby will considerably deepen our understanding of the role NO plays in cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology.

Chemical methods for the direct detection and labeling of S-nitrosothiols

SIGNIFICANCE

Posttranslational modification of proteins through phosphorylation, glycosylation, and oxidation adds complexity to the proteome by reversibly altering the structure and function of target proteins in a highly controlled fashion.

RECENT ADVANCES

The study of reversible cysteine oxidation highlights a role for this oxidative modification in complex signal transduction pathways. Nitric oxide (NO), and its respective metabolites (including reactive nitrogen species), participates in a variety of these cellular redox processes, including the reversible oxidation of cysteine to S-nitrosothiols (RSNOs). RSNOs act as endogenous transporters of NO, but also possess beneficial effects independent of NO-related signaling, which suggests a complex and versatile biological role. In this review, we highlight the importance of RSNOs as a required posttranslational modification and summarize the current methods available for detecting S-nitrosation.

CRITICAL ISSUES

Given the limitations of these indirect detection methods, the review covers recent developments toward the direct detection of RSNOs by phosphine-based chemical probes. The intrinsic properties that dictate this phosphine/RSNO reactivity are summarized. In general, RSNOs (both small molecule and protein) react with phosphines to yield reactive S-substituted aza-ylides that undergo further reactions leading to stable RSNO-based adducts.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

This newly explored chemical reactivity forms the basis of a number of exciting potential chemical methods for protein RSNO detection in biological systems.

Association of DJ-1/PTEN/AKT- and ASK1/p38-mediated cell signalling with ischaemic cardiomyopathy

AIMS

Dilated cardiomyopathies from chronic ischaemia (ISCM) or idiopathic (IDCM) pathological mechanisms are accompanied by similar clinical symptoms but may differ in protein expression, cell metabolism, and signalling processes at the cellular level. Using a combination of proteomic and metabolomic profiling, we sought to decipher the relationships between the metabolism and cellular signalling pathways in human heart tissues collected from patients with ISCM, IDCM, and those without heart disease and dilation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The comparative analysis suggested a decrease in glycolysis, Krebs cycle, and malate-aspartate shuttle activities in both types of cardiomyopathies and an increase in ketone body oxidation only in ISCM. Chronic ischaemic injury was associated with increased DJ-1 and decreased phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) protein expression. The reduced PTEN expression was accompanied by increased phosphorylation of cell-protective AKT. Phosphorylation at T845 of apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase proteins, with no change in the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases, was also observed. The downregulation of peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase and NF-κB essential modulator potentially inhibits NF-κB-initiated processes.

CONCLUSION

The present study characterized differences in the molecular mechanisms, metabolism, and pathological cell signalling associated with ISCM and IDCM, which may provide novel targets for intervention at the cellular level.

Nitric oxide and cell death in liver cancer cells

Nitric oxide (NO) is a lipophillic, highly diffusible, and short-lived physiological messenger which regulates a variety of physiopathological responses. NO may exert its cellular action through cGMP-dependent and cGMP-independent pathways which includes different postranslational modifications. The effect of NO in cancer depends on the activity and localization of NOS isoforms, concentration and duration of NO exposure, cellular sensitivity, and hypoxia/re-oxygenation process. NO regulates critical factors such as the hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) and p53 generally leading to growth arrest, apoptosis or adaptation. NO sensitizes hepatoma cells to chemotherapeutic compounds probably through increased p53 and cell death receptor expressions.

Oxidative modification of proteins: an emerging mechanism of cell signaling

There are a wide variety of reactive species which can affect cell function, including reactive oxygen, nitrogen, and lipid species. Some are formed endogenously through enzymatic or non-enzymatic pathways, and others are introduced through diet or environmental exposure. Many of these reactive species can interact with biomolecules and can result in oxidative post-translational modification of proteins. It is well documented that some oxidative modifications cause macromolecular damage and cell death. However, a growing body of evidence suggests that certain classes of reactive species initiate cell signaling by reacting with specific side chains of peptide residues without causing cell death. This process is generally termed "redox signaling," and its role in physiological and pathological processes is a subject of active investigation. This review will give an overview of oxidative protein modification as a mechanism of redox signaling, including types of reactive species and how they modify proteins, examples of modified proteins, and a discussion about the current concepts in this area.

Posttranslational modifications of cardiac ryanodine receptors: Ca(2+) signaling and EC-coupling

In cardiac muscle, a number of posttranslational protein modifications can alter the function of the Ca(2+) release channel of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR), also known as the ryanodine receptor (RyR). During every heartbeat RyRs are activated by the Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+) release mechanism and contribute a large fraction of the Ca(2+) required for contraction. Some of the posttranslational modifications of the RyR are known to affect its gating and Ca(2+) sensitivity. Presently, research in a number of laboratories is focused on RyR phosphorylation, both by PKA and CaMKII, or on RyR modifications caused by reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS). Both classes of posttranslational modifications are thought to play important roles in the physiological regulation of channel activity, but are also known to provoke abnormal alterations during various diseases. Only recently it was realized that several types of posttranslational modifications are tightly connected and form synergistic (or antagonistic) feed-back loops resulting in additive and potentially detrimental downstream effects. This review summarizes recent findings on such posttranslational modifications, attempts to bridge molecular with cellular findings, and opens a perspective for future work trying to understand the ramifications of crosstalk in these multiple signaling pathways. Clarifying these complex interactions will be important in the development of novel therapeutic approaches, since this may form the foundation for the implementation of multi-pronged treatment regimes in the future. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Cardiomyocyte Biology: Cardiac Pathways of Differentiation, Metabolism and Contraction.

The antihypertensive effect of cysteine

Hypertension is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Individuals with hypertension are at an increased risk for stroke, heart disease and kidney failure. Essential hypertension results from a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. One such lifestyle factor is diet, and its role in the control of blood pressure has come under much scrutiny. Just as increased salt and sugar are known to elevate blood pressure, other dietary factors may have antihypertensive effects. Studies including the Optimal Macronutrient Intake to Prevent Heart Disease (OmniHeart) study, Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial (MRFIT), International Study of Salt and Blood Pressure (INTERSALT) and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) study have demonstrated an inverse relationship between dietary protein and blood pressure. One component of dietary protein that may partially account for its antihypertensive effect is the nonessential amino acid cysteine. Studies in hypertensive humans and animal models of hypertension have shown that N-acetylcysteine, a stable cysteine analogue, lowers blood pressure, which substantiates this idea. Cysteine may exert its antihypertensive effects directly or through its storage form, glutathione, by decreasing oxidative stress, improving insulin resistance and glucose metabolism, lowering advanced glycation end products, and modulating levels of nitric oxide and other vasoactive molecules. Therefore, adopting a balanced diet containing cysteine-rich proteins may be a beneficial lifestyle choice for individuals with hypertension. An example of such a diet is the DASH diet, which is low in salt and saturated fat; includes whole grains, poultry, fish and nuts; and is rich in vegetables, fruits and low-fat dairy products.

Redox regulation of protein misfolding, mitochondrial dysfunction, synaptic damage, and cell death in neurodegenerative diseases

The loss or injury of neurons associated with oxidative and nitrosative redox stress plays an important role in the onset of various neurodegenerative diseases. Specifically, nitric oxide (NO), can affect neuronal survival through a process called S-nitrosylation, by which the NO group undergoes a redox reaction with specific protein thiols. This in turn can lead to the accumulation of misfolded proteins, which generally form aggregates in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other neurodegenerative diseases. Evidence suggests that S-nitrosylation can also impair mitochondrial function and lead to excessive fission of mitochondria and consequent bioenergetic compromise via effects on the activity of the fission protein dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1). This insult leads to synaptic dysfunction and loss. Additionally, high levels of NO can S-nitrosylate a number of aberrant targets involved in neuronal survival pathways, including the antiapoptotic protein XIAP, inhibiting its ability to prevent apoptosis.

The good and bad effects of cysteine S-nitrosylation and tyrosine nitration upon insulin exocytosis: a balancing act

As understanding of the mechanisms driving and regulating insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells grows, there is increasing and compelling evidence that nitric oxide (•NO) and other closely-related reactive nitrogen species (RNS) play important roles in this exocytic process. •NO and associated RNS, in particular peroxynitrite, possess the capability to effect signals across both intracellular and extracellular compartments in rapid fashion, affording extraordinary signaling potential. It is well established that nitric oxide signals through activation of guanylate cyclase-mediated production of cyclic GMP. The intricate intracellular redox environment, however, lends credence to the possibility that •NO and peroxynitrite could interact with a wider variety of biological targets, with two leading mechanisms involving 1) Snitrosylation of cysteine, and 2) nitration of tyrosine residues comprised within a variety of proteins. Efforts aimed at delineating the specific roles of •NO and peroxynitrite in regulated insulin secretion indicate that a highly-complex and nuanced system exists, with evidence that •NO and peroxynitrite can contribute in both positive and negative regulatory ways in beta cells. Furthermore, the ultimate biochemical outcome within beta cells, whether to compensate and recover from a given stress, or not, is likely a summation of contributory signals and redox status. Such seeming regulatory dichotomy provides ample opportunity for these mechanisms to serve both physiological and pathophysiologic roles in onset and progression of diabetes. This review focuses attention upon recent accumulating evidence pointing to roles for nitric oxide induced post-translational modifications in the normal regulation as well as the dysfunction of beta cell insulin exocytosis.

Nitric oxide: considerations for the treatment of ischemic stroke

Some 40 years ago it was recognized by Furchgott and colleagues that the endothelium releases a vasodilator, endothelium-derived relaxing factor (EDRF). Later on, several groups identified EDRF to be a gas, nitric oxide (NO). Since then, NO was identified as one of the most versatile and unique molecules in animal and human biology. Nitric oxide mediates a plethora of physiological functions, for example, maintenance of vascular tone and inflammation. Apart from these physiological functions, NO is also involved in the pathophysiology of various disorders, specifically those in which regulation of blood flow and inflammation has a key role. The aim of the current review is to summarize the role of NO in cerebral ischemia, the most common cause of stroke.

Reactive oxygen species contribute to the development of arrhythmogenic Ca²⁺ waves during β-adrenergic receptor stimulation in rabbit cardiomyocytes

While β-adrenergic receptor (β-AR) stimulation leads to positive inotropic effects, it can also induce arrhythmogenic Ca2+ waves. β-AR stimulation increases mitochondrial oxygen consumption and, thereby, the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). We therefore investigated the role of ROS in the generation of Ca2+ waves during β-AR stimulation in rabbit ventricular myocytes. Isoproterenol (ISO) increased Ca2+ transient amplitude during systole, sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ load and the occurrence of Ca2+ waves during diastole. These effects, however, developed at different time points during ISO application.While SR Ca2+ release and load reached a maximum level after 3 min, Ca2+ waves occurred at the highest frequency only after 6 min of ISO application.Measurement of intra-SR-free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]SR) showed an initial increase of SR Ca2+ load followed by a gradual decline over time during ISO application. This decline of [Ca2+]SR was not due to decreased SR Ca2+ uptake, but instead was the result of increased SRCa2+ leak mainly in the form of Ca2+ waves. ISO application led to significant RyR phosphorylation at the protein kinase A (PKA)-specific site, which remained relatively stable throughout β-AR activation.Moreover, β-AR stimulation significantly increased ROS production after 4–6 min of ISO application. The ROS scavenger Tiron and the superoxide dismutase mimetic MnTBPA abolished the ISO-mediated ROS production. The mitochondria-specific antioxidant Mito-Tempo and an inhibitor of the electron transport chain, rotenone, also effectively prevented the ISO-mediated ROS production. Scavenging ROS during ISO application decreased the occurrence of Ca2+ waves and partially prevented augmentation of SRCa2+ leak, but did not affect the increase of Ca2+ transient amplitude. Treatment of myocytes with ISO for 15 min significantly reduced the free thiol content in RyRs. These data suggest that increased mitochondrial ROS production during β-AR stimulation causes RyR oxidation. Together with RyR phosphorylation, oxidation of RyRs increases diastolic SR Ca2+ leak to a critical level leading to the generation of arrhythmogenic Ca2+ waves.

Role of acetylcholine and calcium ions in three vascular contraction models: Angiotensin II, phenylephrine and caffeine

The aim of this study was to determine the role of acetylcholine and calcium ions in modulating the vascular contraction induced by angiotensin II (ANG II), phenylephrine (PHE) and caffeine. The study was performed on perfunded Wistar rat tail arteries. The contraction caused by ANG II, PHE and caffeine with the participation of intracellular [in free physiological salt solution (FPSS)] and extracellular [in physiological salt solution (PSS), after emptying the cellular stores] pools of calcium ions and the addition of L-NNA (NOSe inhibitor) or ODQ (GC inhibitor) was studied. Then the effect of acetylcholine on the contraction responses was analyzed. ANG II, PHE and caffeine induced an increase in perfusion pressure in PSS and FPSS. Acetylcholine reduced the contraction resulting from the presence of ANG II and PHE, but not caffeine. L-NNA and ODQ abolished the spasmolytic action of acetylcholine. Both pools of calcium ions mediated the action of ANG II and PHE, and caffeine induced the contraction with the participation of calcium released from intracellular stores. The spasmolytic effect of acetylcholine on responses stimulated by ANG II and PHE indicates the participation of nitric oxide in modulating the reactivity of the arteries on the studied agonists of the metabotropic receptors. No observed acetylcholine effect on caffeine suggests that the pathway associated with nitric oxide does not interfere with the contraction induced by the ryanodin receptor.

Nitric oxide reduces NADPH oxidase 5 (Nox5) activity by reversible S-nitrosylation

The NADPH oxidases (Noxs) are a family of transmembrane oxidoreductases that produce superoxide and other reactive oxygen species (ROS). Nox5 was the last of the conventional Nox isoforms to be identified and is a calcium-dependent enzyme that does not depend on accessory subunits for activation. Recently, Nox5 was shown to be expressed in human blood vessels and therefore the goal of this study was to determine whether nitric oxide (NO) can modulate Nox5 activity. Endogenously produced NO potently inhibited basal and stimulated Nox5 activity and this inhibition was reversible with chronic, but not acute, exposure to L-NAME. Nox5 activity was reduced by NO donors, iNOS, and eNOS and in endothelial cells and LPS-stimulated smooth muscle cells in a manner dependent on NO concentration. ROS production was diminished by NO in an isolated enzyme activity assay replete with surplus calcium and NADPH. There was no evidence for NO-dependent changes in tyrosine nitration, glutathiolation, or phosphorylation of Nox5. In contrast, there was evidence for the increased nitrosylation of Nox5 as determined by the biotin-switch assay and mass spectrometry. Four S-nitrosylation sites were identified and of these, mutation of C694 dramatically lowered Nox5 activity, NO sensitivity, and biotin labeling. Furthermore, coexpression of the denitrosylation enzymes thioredoxin 1 and GSNO reductase prevented NO-dependent inhibition of Nox5. The potency of NO against other Nox enzymes was in the order Nox1 ≥ Nox3 > Nox5 > Nox2, whereas Nox4 was refractory. Collectively, these results suggest that endogenously produced NO can directly S-nitrosylate and inhibit the activity of Nox5.

Augmented S-nitrosylation contributes to impaired relaxation in angiotensin II hypertensive mouse aorta: role of thioredoxin reductase

BACKGROUND

Vascular dysfunction, including reduced endothelium-dependent dilation, is a major characteristic of hypertension. We previously investigated that thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) inhibition impairs vasodilation via soluble guanylyl cyclase S-nitrosylation, but S-nitrosylation and TrxR function are not known in hypertension. We hypothesized that S-nitrosylation is associated with reduced vasodilation in hypertensive mice.

METHOD

Aortic rings from normotensive (sham) and angiotensin II (AngII)-induced hypertensive C57BL/6 mice were treated with a TrxR inhibitor, 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNCB) for 30  min, and relaxation to acetylcholine (ACh) was measured in the rings following contraction with phenylephrine.

RESULTS

DCNB reduced relaxation to ACh compared with vehicle in sham aorta but not in AngII (sham-vehicle E(max) = 77 ± 2, sham-DNCB E(max) = 59 ± 4, P < 0.05). DNCB shifted the concentration-response relaxation to sodium nitroprusside (SNP) to the right in both sham and AngII aortic rings (sham-vehicle pD(2) = 8.8±0.1, sham-DNCB pD(2) = 8.4±0.1, *P < 0.05; AngII-vehicle pD(2) = 8.5±0.1, AngII-DNCB pD(2) = 8.3 ± 0.1, P < 0.05). As downstream signaling of nitric oxide, cyclic GMP level was reduced by DNCB during activation with SNP. The effect of DNCB to increase S-nitrosylation was confirmed by the biotin-switch method and western blot analysis, and total protein S-nitrosylation was increased in AngII aorta (1.5-fold) compared with sham. TrxR activity was inhibited in AngII aorta compared with sham.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that increased S-nitrosylation contributes to impaired relaxation in aorta from AngII-induced hypertensive mice. AngII treatment resulted in inactivation of TrxR and increased S-nitrosylation, indicating that TrxR and S-nitrosylation may provide a critical mechanism in hypertension associated with abnormal vascular reactivity.

Regulation of cell physiology and pathology by protein S-glutathionylation: lessons learned from the cardiovascular system

SIGNIFICANCE

Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species contributing to homeostatic regulation and the pathogenesis of various cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, hypertension, endothelial dysfunction, and cardiac hypertrophy, is well established. The ability of oxidant species to mediate such effects is in part dependent on their ability to induce specific modifications on particular amino acids, which alter protein function leading to changes in cell signaling and function. The thiol containing amino acids, methionine and cysteine, are the only oxidized amino acids that undergo reduction by cellular enzymes and are, therefore, prime candidates in regulating physiological signaling. Various reports illustrate the significance of reversible oxidative modifications on cysteine thiols and their importance in modulating cardiovascular function and physiology.

RECENT ADVANCES

The use of mass spectrometry, novel labeling techniques, and live cell imaging illustrate the emerging importance of reversible thiol modifications in cellular redox signaling and have advanced our analytical abilities.

CRITICAL ISSUES

Distinguishing redox signaling from oxidative stress remains unclear. S-nitrosylation as a precursor of S-glutathionylation is controversial and needs further clarification. Subcellular distribution of glutathione (GSH) may play an important role in local regulation, and targeted tools need to be developed. Furthermore, cellular redundancies of thiol metabolism complicate analysis and interpretation.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

The development of novel pharmacological analogs that specifically target subcellular compartments of GSH to promote or prevent local protein S-glutathionylation as well as the establishment of conditional gene ablation and transgenic animal models are needed.

Cross talk among calcium, hydrogen peroxide, and nitric oxide and activation of gene expression involving calmodulins and calcium-dependent protein kinases in Ulva compressa exposed to copper excess

To analyze the copper-induced cross talk among calcium, nitric oxide (NO), and hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) and the calcium-dependent activation of gene expression, the marine alga Ulva compressa was treated with the inhibitors of calcium channels, ned-19, ryanodine, and xestospongin C, of chloroplasts and mitochondrial electron transport chains, 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea and antimycin A, of pyruvate dehydrogenase, moniliformin, of calmodulins, N-(6-aminohexyl)-5-chloro-1-naphtalene sulfonamide, and of calcium-dependent protein kinases, staurosporine, as well as with the scavengers of NO, 2-(4-carboxyphenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide, and of H(2)O(2), ascorbate, and exposed to a sublethal concentration of copper (10 μm) for 24 h. The level of NO increased at 2 and 12 h. The first peak was inhibited by ned-19 and 3-(2,3-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea and the second peak by ned-19 and antimycin A, indicating that NO synthesis is dependent on calcium release and occurs in organelles. The level of H(2)O(2) increased at 2, 3, and 12 h and was inhibited by ned-19, ryanodine, xestospongin C, and moniliformin, indicating that H(2)O(2) accumulation is dependent on calcium release and Krebs cycle activity. In addition, pyruvate dehydrogenase, 2-oxoxglutarate dehydrogenase, and isocitrate dehydrogenase activities of the Krebs cycle increased at 2, 3, 12, and/or 14 h, and these increases were inhibited in vitro by EGTA, a calcium chelating agent. Calcium release at 2, 3, and 12 h was inhibited by 2-(4-carboxyphenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide and ascorbate, indicating activation by NO and H(2)O(2). In addition, the level of antioxidant protein gene transcripts decreased with N-(6-aminohexyl)-5-chloro-1-naphtalene sulfonamide and staurosporine. Thus, there is a copper-induced cross talk among calcium, H(2)O(2), and NO and a calcium-dependent activation of gene expression involving calmodulins and calcium-dependent protein kinases.

Dynamic denitrosylation via S-nitrosoglutathione reductase regulates cardiovascular function

Although protein S-nitrosylation is increasingly recognized as mediating nitric oxide (NO) signaling, roles for protein denitrosylation in physiology remain unknown. Here, we show that S-nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR), an enzyme that governs levels of S-nitrosylation by promoting protein denitrosylation, regulates both peripheral vascular tone and β-adrenergic agonist-stimulated cardiac contractility, previously ascribed exclusively to NO/cGMP. GSNOR-deficient mice exhibited reduced peripheral vascular tone and depressed β-adrenergic inotropic responses that were associated with impaired β-agonist-induced denitrosylation of cardiac ryanodine receptor 2 (RyR2), resulting in calcium leak. These results indicate that systemic hemodynamic responses (vascular tone and cardiac contractility), both under basal conditions and after adrenergic activation, are regulated through concerted actions of NO synthase/GSNOR and that aberrant denitrosylation impairs cardiovascular function. Our findings support the notion that dynamic S-nitrosylation/denitrosylation reactions are essential in cardiovascular regulation.

The role of endoplasmic reticulum stress in autoimmune-mediated beta-cell destruction in type 1 diabetes

Unlike type 2 diabetes which is caused by the loss of insulin sensitivity, type 1 diabetes (T1D) is manifested by the absolute deficiency of insulin secretion due to the loss of β mass by autoimmune response against β-cell self-antigens. Although significant advancement has been made in understanding the pathoetiology for type 1 diabetes, the exact mechanisms underlying autoimmune-mediated β-cell destruction, however, are yet to be fully addressed. Accumulated evidence demonstrates that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress plays an essential role in autoimmune-mediated β-cell destruction. There is also evidence supporting that ER stress regulates the functionality of immune cells relevant to autoimmune progression during T1D development. In this paper, we intend to address the role of ER stress in autoimmune-mediated β-cell destruction during the course of type 1 diabetes. The potential implication of ER stress in modulating autoimmune response will be also discussed. We will further dissect the possible pathways implicated in the induction of ER stress and summarize the potential mechanisms underlying ER stress for mediation of β-cell destruction. A better understanding of the role for ER stress in T1D pathoetiology would have great potential aimed at developing effective therapeutic approaches for the prevention/intervention of this devastating disorder.

β-Adrenergic signaling and response to pressure overload in transgenic mice with cardiac-specific overexpression of inducible NO synthase

The role of iNOS induction in the context of cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure is still not fully understood. We have used transgenic mice with cardiac specific overexpression of iNOS (tg-iNOS) to investigate the consequences of high level NO formation on cardiac function in vivo and the response to chronic pressure overload. Conductance manometry was used to analyze cardiac function of wild type (WT) and tg-iNOS mice under basal conditions and β-adrenergic stimulation. To investigate the influence of iNOS on cardiac function in hypertrophied hearts, transversal aortic constriction was performed. Despite a high level of cardiac NO formation tg-iNOS mice showed almost normal LV function under basal conditions. The cardiac response to β-adrenergic stimulation, however, was completely abolished. Acute NOS inhibition led to an instantaneous recovery of the inotropic response to catecholamines in tg-iNOS mice. Chronic pressure overload induced a similar extent of cardiac hypertrophy in WT and tg-iNOS hearts. LV function, however, was more compromised in tg-iNOS hearts as revealed by a decreased contractility and cardiac output.

IN CONCLUSION

a high level of cardiac NO formation does not induce heart failure per se but severely enhances the functional depression in response to pressure overload. This effect could be due to the tonic impairment of the cardiac β-adrenergic response.

Shortened Ca2+ signaling refractoriness underlies cellular arrhythmogenesis in a postinfarction model of sudden cardiac death

RATIONALE

Diastolic spontaneous Ca(2+) waves (DCWs) are recognized as important contributors to triggered arrhythmias. DCWs are thought to arise when [Ca(2+)] in sarcoplasmic reticulum ([Ca(2+)](SR)) reaches a certain threshold level, which might be reduced in cardiac disease as a consequence of sensitization of ryanodine receptors (RyR2s) to luminal Ca(2+).

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the mechanisms of DCW generation in myocytes from normal and diseased hearts, using a canine model of post-myocardial infarction ventricular fibrillation (VF).

METHODS AND RESULTS

The frequency of DCWs, recorded during periodic pacing in the presence of a β-adrenergic receptor agonist isoproterenol, was significantly higher in VF myocytes than in normal controls. Rather than occurring immediately on reaching a final [Ca(2+)](SR), DCWs arose with a distinct time delay after attaining steady [Ca(2+)](SR) in both experimental groups. Although the rate of [Ca(2+)](SR) recovery after the SR Ca(2+) release was similar between the groups, in VF myocytes the latency to DCWs was shorter, and the [Ca(2+)](SR) at DCW initiation was lower. The restitution of depolarization-induced Ca(2+) transients, assessed by a 2-pulse protocol, was significantly faster in VF myocytes than in controls. The VF-related alterations in myocyte Ca(2+) cycling were mimicked by the RyR2 agonist, caffeine. The reducing agent, mercaptopropionylglycine, or the CaMKII inhibitor, KN93, decreased DCW frequency and normalized restitution of Ca(2+) release in VF myocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

The attainment of a certain threshold [Ca(2+)](SR) is not sufficient for the generation of DCWs. Postrelease Ca(2+) signaling refractoriness critically influences the occurrence of DCWs. Shortened Ca(2+) signaling refractoriness due to RyR2 phosphorylation and oxidation is responsible for the increased rate of DCWs observed in VF myocytes and could provide a substrate for synchronization of arrhythmogenic events at the tissue level in hearts prone to VF.

Exogenous intravascular nitric oxide enhances ventricular function after hemodilution with plasma expander

AIMS

This study evaluated the hypothesis that exogenous nitric oxide (NO) supplementation during acute hemodilution with plasma expander (PE) provides beneficial effects on cardiac function.

MAIN METHODS

Acute hemodilution in golden Syrian hamsters was induced by a 40% of blood volume exchange with dextran 70 kDa. Intravascular NO supplementation after hemodilution was accomplished with a NO donor, diethylenetriamine NONOate (DETA NONOate). The test group was treated with DETA NONOate, while the control group received only vehicle. Left ventricular cardiac function was studied using pressure-volume measurements obtained with a miniaturized conductance catheter.

KEY FINDINGS

Cardiac output increased to 122±5% and 107±1% of the baseline in the group treated with NO donor and the vehicle group, respectively. Stroke work per stroke volume (SW/SV) after hemodilution reduced to 90% of the baseline and the NO donor significantly reduced SW/SV compared to the vehicle. The minimum rate of pressure change (dP/dt(min)) was significantly lower in animals treated with the NO donor compared to vehicle treated animals. Systemic vascular resistance (SVR) decreased to 62±5% of the baseline in the NO donor group whereas the vehicle group SVR decreased to 83±5% of the baseline. Using intravital microscopy analysis of microvessel in the dorsal skinfold window chamber, we established that the NO donor group induced significant vasodilation compared to the vehicle group.

SIGNIFICANCE

NO supplementation in an acute hemodilution with PE has beneficial effects on cardiac performance. However, the NO supplementation effects with a NO donor are dose-independent and short-lasting.