Generation of hydrogen peroxide in resting and activated platelets

Investigations of Antioxidant and Anti-Cancer Activities of 5-Aminopyrazole Derivatives

To further extend the structure-activity relationships (SARs) of 5-aminopyrazoles (5APs) and identify novel compounds able to interfere with inflammation, oxidative stress, and tumorigenesis, 5APs 1-4 have been designed and prepared. Some chemical modifications have been inserted on cathecol function or in aminopyrazole central core; in detail: (i) smaller, bigger, and more lipophilic substituents were introduced in meta and para positions of catechol portion (5APs 1); (ii) a methyl group was inserted on C3 of the pyrazole scaffold (5APs 2); (iii) a more flexible alkyl chain was inserted on N1 position (5APs 3); (iv) the acylhydrazonic linker was moved from position 4 to position 3 of the pyrazole scaffold (5APs 4). All new derivatives 1-4 have been tested for radical scavenging (DPPH assay), anti-aggregating/antioxidant (in human platelets) and cell growth inhibitory activity (MTT assay) properties. In addition, in silico pharmacokinetics, drug-likeness properties, and toxicity have been calculated. 5APs 1 emerged to be promising anti-proliferative agents, able to suppress the growth of specific cancer cell lines. Furthermore, derivatives 3 remarkably inhibited ROS production in platelets and 5APs 4 showed interesting in vitro radical scavenging properties. Overall, the collected results further confirm the pharmaceutical potentials of this class of compounds and support future studies for the development of novel anti-proliferative and antioxidant agents.

Oxidative Stress Induced by Cortisol in Human Platelets

Hypercortisolism is known to affect platelet function. However, few studies have approached the effect of exogenous cortisol on human platelets, and the results obtained are conflicting and unconvincing. In this study, the effect of exogenous cortisol on several parameters indicative of oxidative status in human platelets has been analysed. We have found that cortisol stimulates ROS production, superoxide anion formation, and lipid peroxidation, with these parameters being in strict correlation. In addition, cortisol decreases GSH and membrane SH-group content, evidencing that the hormone potentiates oxidative stress, depleting platelet antioxidant defence. The involvement of src, syk, PI3K, and AKT enzymes in oxidative mechanisms induced by cortisol is shown. The main sources of ROS in cells can include uncontrolled increase of NADPH oxidase activity and uncoupled aerobic respiration during oxidative phosphorylation. Both mechanisms seem to be involved in ROS formation induced by cortisol, as the NADPH oxidase 1 inhibitor 2(trifluoromethyl)phenothiazine, and rotenone and antimycin A, complex I and III inhibitor, respectively, significantly reduce oxidative stress. On the contrary, the NADPH oxidase inhibitor gp91ds-tat, malate and NaCN, complex II and IV inhibitor, respectively, have a minor effect. It is likely that, in human platelets, oxidative stress induced by cortisol can be associated with venous and arterial thrombosis, greatly contributing to cardiovascular diseases.

Inside the Mechanism of Action of Three Pyrazole Derivatives in Human Platelets and Endothelial Cells

In the effort to obtain multitarget compound interfering with inflammation, oxidative stress, and tumorigenesis, we synthesized a small library of pyrazole compounds, selecting 4a, 4f, and 4g as the most noteworthy being IC₅₀ against platelet ROS production induced by thrombin of about 10 µM. The in vitro antioxidant potential of the three molecules was evaluated, and since they show a remarkable antioxidative activity, their effect on several parameter indicative of oxidative status and on the efficiency of the aerobic metabolism was tested. The three molecules strongly inhibit superoxide anion production, lipid peroxidation, NADPH oxidase activity and almost restore the oxidative phosphorylation efficiency in thrombin-stimulated platelet, demonstrating a protective effect against oxidative stress. This effect was confirmed in endothelial cell in which 4a, 4f, and 4g show an interesting inhibition activity on H₂O₂-stimulated EA.hy926 cells. At last, antiproliferative activity of 4a, 4f, and 4g was submitted to a large screening at the NCI. The molecules show interesting anticancer activity, among them the most remarkable is 4g able to strongly inhibit the proliferation of both solid tumor and leukemia cells lines. In conclusion, all the three newly synthetized pyrazoles show remarkable antioxidant and antiproliferative effect worthy of further study.

Endocannabinoids effect on oxidative status of human platelets

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are known to regulate platelet activation. Since endocannabinoids behave as platelet agonists, we investigated the effect of two endocannabinoids, 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2AG) and anandamide (AEA) on the oxidative status of human platelets. We have demonstrated that 2AG and AEA stimulate ROS production, superoxide anion formation and lipid peroxidation. The effect is dose and time dependent and mainly occurs through the involvement of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) since all tested parameters are greatly reduced by SR141716, the CB1 specific inhibitor. The specific inhibitor of cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) SR144528 produces a very small inhibition. The involvement of syk/PI3K/AKT/mTor pathway in oxidative stress induced by endocannabinoids is shown. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase seems to be poorly involved in the endocannabinoids effect. Concerning the aerobic metabolism, it has been demonstrated that endocannabinoids reduce the oxygen consumption and adenosine triphosphate synthesis, both in the presence of pyruvate + malate or succinate. In addition, endocannabinoids inhibit the activity of respiratory complexes II, III and IV and increase the activity of respiratory complex I. The endocannabinoids effect on aerobic metabolism seems to be also a CB1 mediated mechanism. Thus, in human platelets oxidative stress induced by endocannabinoids, mainly generated in the respiratory chain through the activation of complex I and the inhibition of complex II, III and IV, may lead to thrombotic events, contributing to cardiovascular diseases.

Lectin-induced oxidative stress in human platelets

Previously we have shown that wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) and, with minor potency, Phaseolus vulgaris agglutinin (PHA), but not lens culinarian agglutinin (LCA), induce platelet aggregation, through the PLCƴ2 activation by the concerted action of src/syk and PI3K/BTK pathways. In this study, we have investigated platelet oxidative stress induced by lectins. Several parameters indicative of oxidative stress, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide anion, lipid peroxidation and the efficiency of the aerobic metabolism, have been measured. It was found that ROS, superoxide anion formation and lipid peroxidation are significantly increased upon platelet treatment with WGA and PHA while LCA is ineffective. WGA is always more effective than PHA in all experimental conditions tested. In addition, the involvement of NADPH oxidase 1, syk and PI3K in oxidative stress induced by WGA and PHA has been shown. Concerning the lectins effect on aerobic metabolism, WGA and PHA, but not LCA, act as uncoupling agents, determining an increase of oxygen consumption and a decrease of ATP synthesis, with a consequent decrease of P/O value. These results are confirmed by the impairment of platelets proton gradient formation, evaluated by membrane potential, in platelets treated with WGA and PHA. In conclusion lectins, especially WGA, induce oxidative stress in platelets and decrease energy availability through modifications of membrane structure leading to the inefficiency of the aerobic machinery that steers platelets toward death as suggested by the decreased metabolic activity of platelets and the increased lactic dehydrogenase release.

New Hybrid Pyrazole and Imidazopyrazole Antinflammatory Agents Able to Reduce ROS Production in Different Biological Targets

Several anti-inflammatory agents based on pyrazole and imidazopyrazole scaffolds and a large library of substituted catechol PDE4D inhibitors were reported by us in the recent past. To obtain new molecules potentially able to act on different targets involved in inflammation onset we designed and synthesized a series of hybrid compounds by linking pyrazole and imidazo-pyrazole scaffolds to differently decorated catechol moieties through an acylhydrazone chain. Some compounds showed antioxidant activity, inhibiting reactive oxygen species (ROS) elevation in neutrophils, and a good inhibition of phosphodiesterases type 4D and, particularly, type 4B, the isoform most involved in inflammation. In addition, most compounds inhibited ROS production also in platelets, confirming their ability to exert an antiinflammatory response by two independent mechanism. Structure-activity relationship (SAR) analyses evidenced that both heterocyclic scaffolds (pyrazole and imidazopyrazole) and the substituted catechol moiety were determinant for the pharmacodynamic properties, even if hybrid molecules bearing to the pyrazole series were more active than the imidazopyrazole ones. In addition, the pivotal role of the catechol substituents has been analyzed. In conclusion the hybridization approach gave a new serie of multitarget antiinflammatory compounds, characterized by a strong antioxidant activity in different biological targets.

Phospholipase C-γ2 via p38 and ERK1/2 MAP kinase mediates diperoxovanadate-asparagine induced human platelet aggregation and sCD40L release

OBJECTIVE

Redox imbalance either inside platelets or in their immediate surroundings prove detrimental to their physiologic functions during haemostasis. This study was therefore aimed to assess the effect of peroxide radicals on platelet functions and underlying signalling mechanisms using asparagine-conjugated diperoxovanadate (DPV-Asn).

METHODS

Platelet aggregation, ATP secretion, TxB2 release, intra-platelet calcium mobilization, protein tyrosine phosphorylation, GPIIbIIIa activation by PAC1 labelling and sCD40L release (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) was monitored using various concentrations of DPV-Asn. Cell viability was assessed by Annexin V labelling, MTT assay, LDH leakage and mitochondrial membrane potential by JC-1.

RESULTS

Platelet aggregation induced by DPV-Asn was chiefly regulated by dense granule secretion, thromboxane A2 (TxA2) generation, intra-platelet [Ca(2+)] influx, GPIIbIIIa activation and sCD40L release, which were significantly reduced in presence of U73122 (PLC inhibitor), aspirin (COX), SB203580 (p38 inhibitor), and PD98059 (ERK inhibitor). This was further corroborated by enhanced tyrosine phosphorylation of numerous platelet proteins including PLC-γ2, which apparently played a central role in transducing peroxide signals to regulate [Ca(2+)] influx and phosphorylation of p38 and ERK1/2 MAP kinase.

DISCUSSION

Peroxide radicals critically regulate the thrombo-inflammatory functions of platelets via the PLCγ2-p38-ERK1/2-TxA2 pathway, which closely resembles the clinical scenario of various pathologies like hyperglycemia and atherosclerosis during which oxidative stress disrupts platelet functions.

Gallic Acid Attenuates Platelet Activation and Platelet-Leukocyte Aggregation: Involving Pathways of Akt and GSK3β

Platelet activation and its interaction with leukocytes play an important role in atherothrombosis. Cardiovascular diseases resulted from atherothrombosis remain the major causes of death worldwide. Gallic acid, a major constituent of red wine and tea, has been believed to have properties of cardiovascular protection, which is likely to be related to its antioxidant effects. Nonetheless, there were few and inconsistent data regarding the effects of gallic acid on platelet function. Therefore, we designed this in vitro study to determine whether gallic acid could inhibit platelet activation and the possible mechanisms. From our results, gallic acid could concentration-dependently inhibit platelet aggregation, P-selectin expression, and platelet-leukocyte aggregation. Gallic acid prevented the elevation of intracellular calcium and attenuated phosphorylation of PKCα/p38 MAPK and Akt/GSK3β on platelets stimulated by the stimulants ADP or U46619. This is the first mechanistic explanation for the inhibitory effects on platelets from gallic acid.

Role of reactive nitrogen species in blood platelet functions

Blood platelets, in analogy to other circulating blood cells, can generate reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) that may behave as second messengers and may regulate platelet functions. Accumulating evidence suggest a role of ROS/RNS in platelet activation. On the other hand, an increased production of ROS/RNS causes oxidative stress, and thus, may contribute to the development of different diseases, including vascular complications, inflammatory and psychiatric illnesses. Oxidative stress in platelets leads to chemical changes in a wide range of their components, and platelet proteins may be initial targets of ROS/RNS action. It has been demonstrated that reaction of proteins with ROS/RNS results in the oxidation and nitration of some amino acid residues, formation of aggregates or fragmentation of proteins. In oxidized proteins new carbonyl groups and protein hydroperoxides are also formed. In platelets, low molecular weight thiols such as glutathione (GSH), cysteine and cysteinylglycine and protein thiols may be also target for ROS/RNS action. This review describes the chemical structure and biological activities of reactive nitrogen species, mainly nitric oxide ((*)NO) and peroxynitrite (ONOO(-)) and their effects on blood platelet functions, and the mechanisms involved in their action on platelets.

Oxidative stress activates ADAM17/TACE and induces its target receptor shedding in platelets in a p38-dependent fashion

AIMS

Oxidative stress accompanies inflammatory and vascular diseases. The objective of this study was to explore whether reactive oxygen species can activate shedding of platelet receptors and thus suppress platelet function.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Hydrogen peroxide and glucose oxidase were chosen to model oxidative stress in vitro. We demonstrate that oxidative damage activated tumour necrosis factor-alpha-converting enzyme (TACE) and induced shedding of its targets, glycoprotein (GP) Ibalpha and GPV, in murine and human platelets. Also, 12-HpETE, a peroxide synthesized in the platelet lipoxygenase pathway, induced TACE-mediated receptor cleavage. The TACE activation was independent of platelet activation, as alpha-granule secretion, activation of alphaIIbbeta3, or phosphatidylserine expression was not observed. TACE activation induced by hydrogen peroxide was dependent on p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase signalling, whereas protein kinase C, phosphoinositide 3-kinase, and caspases were not involved. Inhibition of p38 cytoplasmic targets, phospholipase A(2) and heat shock protein 27, did not prevent shedding, whereas blocking 12-lipoxygenase or Src kinase slightly inhibited TACE activation. The loss of the GPIbalpha receptor induced by oxidative stress rendered platelets unable to incorporate into a growing thrombus in vivo.

CONCLUSION

Oxidative stress can render platelets functionally less active by shedding key adhesion receptors via the activation of p38. This suggests that oxidative injury of platelets may attenuate their function.

Free radical generation by methylglyoxal in tissues

Methylglyoxal (MG) is a reactive dicarbonyl intermediate of the glycolytic pathway. Increased oxidative stress is associated with conditions of increased MG, such as diabetes mellitus. Increased oxidative stress is due to an increase in highly reactive by-products of metabolic pathways, the so-called reactive oxygen species, such as superoxide anion, hydroxyl radical, hydrogen peroxide, nitric oxide and peroxynitrite. These reactive species react with a variety of proteins, enzymes, lipids, DNA and other molecules and disrupt their normal function. Oxidative stress causes many pathological changes that lead to vascular complications of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, neurodegenerative diseases and aging. In this review we summarize the correlation of elevated MG and various reactive oxygen species, and the enzymes that produce them or take part in their disposal, such as antioxidant enzymes and cofactors. The findings reported in various studies reviewed have started filling in gaps in our knowledge that will ultimately provide us with a clear picture of how the whole process that causes cellular dysfunction is initiated.

The nitration of platelet vasodilator stimulated phosphoprotein following exposure to low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) at biologically relevant concentrations acts as a signaling molecule. We have shown previously that H2O2 acts synergistically with nitric oxide (NO) to inhibit platelet aggregation. We found that this synergism may be associated with the increased serine phosphorylation of vasodilator-sensitive phosphoprotein (VASP) by H2O2. In this study we demonstrate that H2O2 in the absence of NO or exogenous haem- containing proteins induces nitration of plateletVASP and other unidentified proteins by a mechanism that may involve the formation of peroxynitrite. The nitration was NO-dependent, but independent of oxidative stress and guanylyl cyclcase. The flavanoid epigallocatechin gallate (ECGC) completely suppressed nitration and was also shown to inhibit partially platelet activation by other agonists. Importantly, protein nitration was reversible, or at least the nitrated tyrosine residues are converted to a form not recognized by anti-nitrotyrosine antibodies. The loss of nitrated VASP was still evident in the presence of membrane permeable protease inhibitors. In conclusion, as H2O2 can inhibit platelet function, the nitration of VASP, a protein critical for actin cytoskeletal rearrangement, may represent a novel mechanism important in the regulation of platelets shape change leading to inhibition of platelets aggregation and the formation of blood clot.

Potential Benefits of Peroxynitrite

Peroxynitrite (PN) is generated by the reaction of nitric oxide (NO) and superoxide in one of the most rapid reactions in biology. Studies have reported that PN is a cytotoxic molecule that contributes to vascular injury in a number of disease states. However, it has become apparent that PN has beneficial effects including vasodilation, inhibition of platelet aggregation, inhibition of inflammatory cell adhesion, and protection against ischemia/reperfusion injury in the heart. It is our hypothesis that PN may serve to inactivate superoxide and prolong the actions of NO in the circulation. This manuscript reviews the beneficial effects of PN in the cardiovascular system.

Mechanism of the cytotoxicity of the diazoparaquinone antitumor antibiotic kinamycin F

The bacterial metabolite kinamycin F, which is being investigated as a potent antitumor agent, contains an unusual and potentially reactive diazo group, a paraquinone, and a phenol functional group. Kinamycin F reacted with glutathione (GSH) in a complex series of reactions which suggested that kinamycin F may have its cytotoxicity modulated by GSH. Consistent with this idea, 2-oxo-4-thiazolidinecarboxylic acid treatment to increase cellular GSH levels and buthionine sulfoximine treatment to decrease GSH levels resulted in decreased and increased kinamycin F cytotoxicity, respectively, in K562 leukemia cells. Kinamycin F weakly bound to DNA and induced DNA damage in K562 cells that was independent of GSH levels. The GSH-promoted DNA nicking induced by kinamycin F in vitro was attenuated by deferoxamine, dimethyl sulfoxide, and catalase, which indicated that DNA damage initiated by this agent occurred in an iron-, hydrogen-peroxide-, and hydroxyl-radical-dependent manner. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy experiments showed that the GSH/kinamycin F system produced a semiquinone free radical and that the hydrogen peroxide/peroxidase/kinamycin F system generated a phenoxyl free radical. In conclusion, the results indicated that kinamycin F cytotoxicity may be due to reductive and/or peroxidative activation to produce DNA-and protein-damaging species.

Hydrogen peroxide increases the phagocytic function of human neutrophils by calcium mobilisation

We have studied the effect of exogenous administration of hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) on phagocytic activity of human neutrophils. The treatment of cells with increasing concentrations of H(2)O(2) evoke a significant elevation of phagocytic function assayed as phagocytic index, percentage and efficiency; and was similar to that induced by the calcium mobilising agonist formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP). This stimulatory effect was reduced by pre-treatment of neutrophils with catalase and abolished in neutrophils loaded with the intracellular calcium quelator dimethyl BAPTA. In the absence of extracellular calcium, treatment of cells with H(2)O(2) resulted in a increase in [Ca(2+)]( i ), indicating the release of calcium from intracellular stores. H(2)O(2) abolished the typical calcium release stimulated by the physiological agonist fMLP, while depletion of agonist-sensitive calcium pools by fMLP was able to prevent H(2)O(2)-induced calcium release. We conclude that H(2)O(2) induces calcium release from agonist-sensitive stores and consequently increase the phagocytosis process.

Why human platelets fail to kill bacteria

Recent investigations have suggested that bacteria are taken up by platelets in the same manner as by polymorphonuclear (PMN) leukocytes and monocytes. The phagocytic vacuole containing the organism is completely separated from the cell exterior and the cytoplasm in order to form a killing chamber. Yet, earlier studies demonstrated that platelets do not kill bacteria. The present work has provided a basis for the lack of platelet bactericidal activity. Platelets incubated with Staphylococcus aureus 502A or RN 450 for intervals up to 2 h can take up organisms into sequestration vacuoles that resemble the phagosomes formed by PMN and monocytes. However, staining with tannic acid which forms an electron dense stain with osmic acid reveals that the phagosomes in PMN and monocytes are completely separated from the cell exterior and the cytoplasm. As a result, they are true killing chambers. The engulfment vacuoles containing bacteria in platelets on the other hand are almost never sealed from the cell exterior. Osmium black reaction product stains the inside of the engulfment vacuole and channels of the open canalicular system connecting it to the cell exterior. Thus platelets do not form the killing chamber phagosomes observed in leukocytes and, as a result, cannot kill bacteria.

Influence of desloratadine on oxidative stress markers in patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria

BACKGROUND

Recent findings suggest the involvement of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU). It has been demonstrated that desloratadine has an antioxidant activity in vitro. We evaluated the effects of desloratadine on markers of oxidative stress in patients with CIU.

METHODS

Blood samples were obtained from 10 patients with CIU before and after 4 weeks of treatment with desloratadine. Blood samples from 10 healthy volunteers were used as controls. In platelets from both patients and controls, radical oxygen species (ROS) production was measured using spectrofluorimetric detection of dichloro-fluorescein oxidation, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was determined by means of the xanthine-xanthine oxidase system.

RESULTS

Radical oxygen species concentrations and SOD activity were significantly elevated in patients with CIU at baseline as compared with control subjects. Treatment with desloratadine caused a relevant reduction of ROS levels and SOD activity (P<0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

These preliminary results suggest that desloratadine exerts antioxidant effects also in vivo.

Dose-dependent effect of hydrogen peroxide on calcium mobilization in mouse pancreatic acinar cells

We have employed confocal laser scanning microscopy to investigate how intracellular free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) is influenced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in collagenase-dispersed mouse pancreatic acinar cells. In the absence of extracellular calcium, treatment of cells with increasing concentrations of H2O2resulted in an increase in [Ca2+]i, indicating the release of calcium from intracellular stores. Micromolar concentrations of H2O2induced an oscillatory pattern, whereas 1 mmol H2O2/L caused a slow and sustained increase in [Ca2+]i. H2O2abolished the typical calcium release stimulated by thapsigargin or by the physiological agonist cholecystokinin octapeptide (CCK-8). Depletion of either agonist-sensitive or mitochondrial calcium pools was unable to prevent calcium release induced by 1 mmol H2O2/L, but depletion of both stores abolished it. Additionally, lower H2O2concentrations were able to release calcium only after depletion of mitochondrial calcium stores. Treatment with either the phospholipase C inhibitor U-73122 or the inhibitor of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptor xestospongin C did not modify calcium release from the agonist-sensitive pool induced by 100 µmol H2O2/L, suggesting the involvement of a mechanism independent of IP3 generation. In addition, H2O2reduced amylase release stimulated by CCK-8. Finally, either the H2O2-induced calcium mobilization or the inhibitory effect of H2O2on CCK-8-induced amylase secretion was abolished by dithiothreitol, a sulphydryl reducing agent. We conclude that H2O2at micromolar concentrations induces calcium release from agonist- sensitive stores, and at millimolar concentrations H2O2can also evoke calcium release from the mitochondria. The action of H2O2is mediated by oxidation of sulphydryl groups of calcium ATPases independently of IP3 generation.Key words: hydrogen peroxide, pancreatic acinar cells, intracellular calcium stores, amylase secretion.

Peroxynitrite production and NOS expression in astrocytes U373MG incubated with lipoproteins from Alzheimer patients

Apolipoprotein E (apo E), a plasma protein involved both in the metabolism of cholesterol and triglycerides, particularly in nervous tissue, has been associated with a higher risk of Alzheimer's disease. It has been shown that apo E increased the production of nitric oxide (NO) from human monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM); this effect could represent an important link between tissue redox balance and inflammation, since inflammation and oxidative stress are involved in chronic neurodegenerative disorders. Moreover, it has been evidenced that an overproduction of NO in the central nervous system (CNS) may play a key role in aging and that the glial cells (microglials cells and probably astrocytes) are able to form consistent amounts of NO through the induction of a nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) isoform so-called inducible or inflammatory. This report was performed in order to elucidate the effects produced by lipoproteins from control subjects, AD patients and first degree relatives (offspring) on human astrocyte cells after a short incubation. Peroxynitrite and NO production and NOS expression in cultured astrocytes were measured. We observed a decreased NO production after incubation with both LDL and HDL and an increased peroxynitrite production. As it concerns NOS expression, densitometric analysis of bands indicated that iNOS protein levels were significantly higher in the cells incubated with both AD lipoproteins and offspring lipoproteins compared to cells incubated with control lipoproteins. These findings suggest the possibility to identify in NO pathway a precocious marker of AD.

Ozone as Janus: this controversial gas can be either toxic or medically useful

Ozone is an intrinsically toxic gas and its hazardous employment has led to a poor consideration of ozone therapy. The aim of this review is to indicate that a wrong dogma and several misconceptions thwart progress: in reality, properly performed ozone therapy, carried out by expert physicians, can be very useful when orthodox medicine appears inadequate. The unbelievable versatility of ozone therapy is due to the cascade of ozone-derived compounds able to act on several targets leading to a multifactorial correction of a pathological state. During the past decade, contrary to all expectations, it has been demonstrated that the judicious application of ozone in chronic infectious diseases, vasculopathies, orthopedics and even dentistry has yielded such striking results that it is deplorable that the medical establishment continues to ignore ozone therapy.

Oxidant stress and platelet activation in hypercholesterolemia

Hypercholesterolemia is the dominant risk factor associated with atherothrombotic disorders in the western world. Consequently, much attention has been devoted to defining its role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. It is currently recognized that hypercholesterolemia induces phenotypic changes in the microcirculation that are consistent with oxidative and nitrosative stresses. Superoxide is generated via several cellular systems and, once formed, participates in a number of reactions, yielding various free radicals, such as hydrogen peroxide, peroxynitrite, or oxidized low-density lipoproteins. Once oxidant stress is invoked, characteristic pathophysiologic features ensue, such as platelet activation and lipid peroxidation, which are both involved in the initiation and progression of the atherosclerotic lesions. Thus, therapeutic strategies that act to maintain the normal balance in the oxidant status of the vascular bed may prove effective in reducing the deleterious consequences of hypercholesterolemia.

Effect of hydrogen peroxide on Ca2+ mobilisation in human platelets through sulphydryl oxidation dependent and independent mechanisms

Using Fura-2-loaded human platelets we studied the nature of the mechanisms involved in Ca2+ signalling mediated by H2O2. In a Ca2+-free medium, H2O2 (10 microM-100 mM) induced a concentration-dependent increase in [Ca2+]i. Depletion of either agonist-sensitive or mitochondrial Ca2+ pools reduced this effect while depletion of both stores abolished it. Xestospongin C, an inositol 1,3,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptor inhibitor, reduced Ca2+ release evoked by 1 mM H2O2 by 45%, indicating that H2O2-induced Ca2+ release involves interaction with IP3 receptors. Blockade of the IP3 turnover by lithium or treatment with U-73122 did not modify H2O2-induced Ca2+ release from the agonist-sensitive pool, suggesting the involvement of a mechanism independent of IP3 generation. H2O2 inhibited Ca2+ reuptake into the agonist-sensitive stores mediated by the sarcoendoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA). Thimerosal (5 microM), a sulphydryl reagent, induced Ca2+ release from the agonist-sensitive stores. This event was impaired by treatment with 2 mM DTT, which also inhibited H2O2-induced Ca2+ release from the agonist-sensitive pool but not from mitochondria. H2O2 reduced the ability of the plasma membrane Ca2+ ATPase (PMCA) to extrude Ca2+ by 75%, an effect that was unaffected by DTT. Consistent with this, thimerosal did not modify the PMCA activity. Finally, exposure to H2O2 triggered platelet aggregation, which was slower than that observed after agonist stimulation. We conclude that H2O2 induced Ca2+ release from agonist-sensitive stores by oxidation of sulphydryl groups in SERCA and the IP3 receptors independently of IP3 generation. In addition, H2O2 induced Ca2+ release from mitochondria and inhibited the PMCA activity by different mechanisms in human platelets.

Regulation of platelet alpha 2A-adrenoceptors, Gi proteins and receptor kinases in major depression: effects of mirtazapine treatment

Major depression is associated with the upregulation of alpha(2A)-adrenoceptors in brain tissue and blood platelets. The homologous regulation of these receptors by G-protein-coupled receptor kinases (GRKs) might play a relevant role in the pathogenesis and treatment of depression. This study was designed to assess the status of the complex alpha(2A)-adrenoceptor/Galphai/GRK 2 in the platelets of depressed patients (n=22) before and after treatment with the antidepressant mirtazapine, an antagonist at alpha(2A)-adrenoceptors (30-45 mg/day for up to 6 months). A second series of depressed suicide attempters (n=32) were also investigated to further assess the status of platelet GRK 2 and GRK 6. Platelet alpha(2A)-adrenoceptors and Galphai protein immunoreactivities were increased in depressed patients (49 and 35%) compared with matched controls. In contrast, GRK 2 content was decreased in the two series of depressed patients (27 and 28%). GRK 6 (a GRK with different properties) was found unchanged. In drug-free depressed patients, the severity of depression (behavioral ratings with two different instruments) correlated inversely with the content of platelet GRK 2 (r=-0.46, n=22, p=0.032, and r=-0.55, n=22, p=0.009). After 4-24 weeks of treatment, mirtazapine induced downregulation of platelet alpha(2A)-adrenoceptors (up to 34%) and Galphai proteins (up to 28%), and the upregulation of GRK 2 (up to 30%). The results indicate that major depression is associated with reduced platelet GRK 2, suggesting that a defect of this kinase may contribute to the observed upregulation of alpha(2A)-adrenoceptors. Moreover, treatment with mirtazapine reversed this abnormality and induced downregulation of alpha(2A)-adrenoceptor/Galphai complex. The results support a role of supersensitive alpha(2A)-adrenoceptors in the pathogenesis and treatment of major depression.

The nitration of proteins in platelets: significance in platelet function

Exogenous peroxynitrite has been shown to inhibit or activate platelets according to the concentration added and, at the same time, nitrate platelet proteins. Here, recent evidence is discussed which indicates that nitration of proteins may also occur during normal platelet activation by collagen, by mechanical stimulation during isolation and by exposure to low levels of hydrogen peroxide. Furthermore, this nitration appears to be transient. The implications of these findings are discussed in terms of platelet biology and cell signaling processes.

Synergism between nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide in the inhibition of platelet function: the roles of soluble guanylyl cyclase and vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein

In previous studies, a strong synergism between low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide and nitric oxide in the inhibition of agonist-induced platelet aggregation has been established and may be due to enhanced formation of cyclic GMP. In this investigation, hydrogen peroxide and NO had no effect on the activity of pure soluble guanylyl cyclase or its activity in platelet lysates and cytosol. H(2)O(2) was found to increase the phosphorylation of vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP), increasing the amount of the 50-kDa form that results from phosphorylation at serine(157). This occurs both in the presence and in the absence of low concentrations of NO, even at submicromolar concentrations of the peroxide, which alone was not inhibitory to platelets. These actions of H(2)O(2) were inhibited to a large extent by an inhibitor of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase, even though H(2)O(2) did not increase cyclic AMP. This inhibitor reversed the inhibition of platelets induced by combinations of NO and H(2)O(2) at low concentrations. The results suggest that the action on VASP may be one site of action of H(2)O(2) but that this event alone does not lead to inhibition of platelets; another unspecified action of NO is required to complete the events required for inhibition.

The flavonoids quercetin and catechin synergistically inhibit platelet function by antagonizing the intracellular production of hydrogen peroxide

BACKGROUND

Epidemiologic studies have shown an inverse relation between moderate consumption of red wine and cardiovascular disease. Studies have shown that red wine and its component flavonoids inhibit in vivo platelet activation, but the underlying mechanism has not yet been identified.

OBJECTIVE

Because we showed previously that collagen-induced platelet aggregation is associated with a burst of hydrogen peroxide, which in turn contributes to stimulating the phospholipase C pathway, the aim of this study was to investigate whether flavonoids synergize in inhibiting platelet function and interfere with platelet function by virtue of their antioxidant effect.

DESIGN

We tested the effect of 2 flavonoids, quercetin and catechin, on collagen-induced platelet aggregation and hydrogen peroxide and on platelet adhesion to collagen.

RESULTS

Catechin (50-100 micromol/L) and quercetin (10-20 micromol/L) inhibited collagen-induced platelet aggregation and platelet adhesion to collagen. The combination of 25 micromol catechin/L and 5 micromol quercetin/L, neither of which had any effect on platelet function when used alone, significantly inhibited collagen-induced platelet aggregation and platelet adhesion to collagen. Such a combination strongly inhibited collagen-induced hydrogen peroxide production, calcium mobilization, and 1,3,4-inositol triphosphate formation.

CONCLUSIONS

These data indicate that flavonoids inhibit platelet function by blunting hydrogen peroxide production and, in turn, phospholipase C activation and suggest that the synergism among flavonoids could contribute to an understanding of the relation between the moderate consumption of red wine and the decreased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Increased reactive oxygen species in familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis with mutations in SOD1

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a paralytic disorder characterized by degeneration of large motor neurons of the brain and spinal cord. A subset of ALS is inherited (familial ALS, FALS) and is associated with more than 70 different mutations in the SOD1 gene. Here we report that lymphoblast cell lines derived from FALS patients with 16 different mutations in SOD1 gene exhibit significant increase of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared with sporadic ALS (SALS) and normal controls (spouses of ALS patients). The ROS generation did not correlate with SOD1 activity. Further, cells incubated with vitamin C, catalase or the flavinoid quercetin significantly reduced ROS in all groups. The catalase inhibitor 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole resulted in a ten-fold increase of ROS in all groups. Neither L-nitroarginine, a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor or vitamin E altered the ROS levels. Thus, these studies suggest that hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) is a major ROS elevated in FALS lymphoblasts and it may contribute to the degeneration of susceptible cells. Further, we postulate a mechanism by which increased H(2)O(2) could be generated by mutant SOD1.

The nitration of platelet cytosolic proteins during agonist-induced activation of platelets

The nitration of protein tyrosine residues by peroxynitrous acid has been associated with pathological conditions. Here it is shown, using a sensitive competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunoblotting for nitrotyrosine, that spontaneous nitration of specific proteins occurs during a physiological process, the activation of platelets by collagen. One of the main proteins nitrated is vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein. Endogenous synthesis of nitric oxide and activity of cyclo-oxygenase were required for the nitration of tyrosine. The nitration was mimicked by addition of peroxynitrite to unstimulated platelets, although the level of nitrotyrosine formation was greater and its distribution among the proteins was less specific.

Phenoxyl free radical formation during the oxidation of the fluorescent dye 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein by horseradish peroxidase. Possible consequences for oxidative stress measurements

The oxidation of the fluorescent dye 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein (DCF) by horseradish peroxidase was investigated by optical absorption, electron spin resonance (ESR), and oxygen consumption measurements. Spectrophotometric measurements showed that DCF could be oxidized either by horseradish peroxidase-compound I or -compound II with the obligate generation of the DCF phenoxyl radical (DCF(.)). This one-electron oxidation was confirmed by ESR spin-trapping experiments. DCF(.) oxidizes GSH, generating the glutathione thiyl radical (GS(.)), which was detected by the ESR spin-trapping technique. In this case, oxygen was consumed by a sequence of reactions initiated by the GS(.) radical. Similarly, DCF(.) oxidized NADH, generating the NAD(.) radical that reduced oxygen to superoxide (O-(2)), which was also detected by the ESR spin-trapping technique. Superoxide dismutated to generate H(2)O(2), which reacted with horseradish peroxidase, setting up an enzymatic chain reaction leading to H(2)O(2) production and oxygen consumption. In contrast, when ascorbic acid reduced the DCF phenoxyl radical back to its parent molecule, it formed the unreactive ascorbate anion radical. Clearly, DCF catalytically stimulates the formation of reactive oxygen species in a manner that is dependent on and affected by various biochemical reducing agents. This study, together with our earlier studies, demonstrates that DCFH cannot be used conclusively to measure superoxide or hydrogen peroxide formation in cells undergoing oxidative stress.

Vitamin E inhibits collagen-induced platelet activation by blunting hydrogen peroxide

In this study, we investigated whether vitamin E at concentrations achievable in blood after supplementation inhibits platelet function in humans. Gel-filtered platelets were incubated 30 minutes with scalar concentrations (50 to 250 mmol/L) of vitamin E and then stimulated with collagen. Compared with controls, vitamin E inhibited collagen-induced platelet aggregation and thromboxane A2 formation in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, vitamin E inhibited, in a dose-dependent manner, Ca(2+) mobilization and formation of inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate. Because it was previously shown that hydrogen peroxide formation mediates arachidonic acid metabolism and phospholipase C activation in collagen-induced platelet activation, we investigated whether vitamin E was able to blunt hydrogen peroxide. In experiments performed in unstimulated platelets supplemented with hydrogen peroxide and in collagen-stimulated platelets, vitamin E was able to blunt hydrogen peroxide. In 6 healthy subjects given vitamin E for 2 weeks (600 mg/d), we found a significant decrease of collagen-induced H(2)O(2) formation, platelet aggregation, and calcium mobilization. This study demonstrated in vitro and ex vivo that vitamin E inhibits collagen-induced platelet activation by blunting hydrogen peroxide formation.

Oxidative cross-linking of ApoB100 and hemoglobin results in low density lipoprotein modification in blood. Relevance to atherogenesis caused by hemodialysis

Human blood contains a form of minimally modified low density lipoprotein (LDL), termed LDL-, whose origin remains unknown. Exploring the mechanism of formation, we found that LDL- can be produced in plasma in the absence of oxygen following LDL incubation with oxidized hemoglobin species. A high degree of apolipoprotein B100 modification results from covalent association of hemoglobin with LDL involving dityrosine formation but not due to the malonaldehyde epitope formation. This was evidenced by the cross-reactivity of oxidized LDL with antibodies against hemoglobin that was accompanied by a 60-fold increase in dityrosine levels. In this study we found significantly higher LDL- levels in the blood of hemodialysis patients, perhaps contributing to their greatly increased risk of atherosclerosis. The mechanism of LDL- formation was studied during ex vivo blood circulation using a model system resembling clinical hemodialysis in terms of the induction of inflammatory responses. This circulation increased free hemoglobin and LDL- levels compared with non-circulated blood without appreciable lipid peroxidation. Pronounced increases in LDL- were found also during circulation of plasma supplemented with nanomolar hemoglobin levels. The increase in dityrosine content and presence of heme in LDL after blood circulation suggest that LDL is modified, in part, by hemoglobin-LDL conjugates containing heme. Thus, hemoglobin-mediated reactions leading to LDL oxidation in plasma can account for high LDL- levels in hemodialysis patients.

Roles of reactive oxygen species: signaling and regulation of cellular functions

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are the side products (H2O2, O2.-, and OH.) of general metabolism and are also produced specifically by the NADPH oxidase system in most cell types. Cells have a very efficient antioxidant defense to counteract the toxic effect of ROS. The physiological significance of ROS is that ROS at low concentrations are able to mediate cellular functions through the same steps of intracellular signaling, which are activated by natural stimuli. Moreover, a variety of natural stimuli act through the intracellular formation of ROS that change the intracellular redox state (oxidation-reduction). Thus, the redox state is a part of intracellular signaling. As such, ROS are now considered signal molecules at nontoxic concentrations. Progress has been achieved in studying the oxidative activation of gene transcription in animal cells and bacteria. Changes in the redox state of intracellular thiols are considered to be an important mechanism that regulates cell functions.

Photoreduction of the fluorescent dye 2'-7'-dichlorofluorescein: a spin trapping and direct electron spin resonance study with implications for oxidative stress measurements

The photoreduction of 2'-7'-dichlorofluorescein (DCF) was investigated in buffer solution using direct electron spin resonance (ESR) and the ESR spin-trapping technique. Anaerobic studies of the reaction of DCF in the presence of reducing agents demonstrated that during visible irradiation (lambda > 300 nm) 2'-7'-dichlorofluorescein undergoes one-electron reduction to produce a semiquinone-type free radical as demonstrated by direct ESR. Spin-trapping studies of incubations containing DCF, 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide (DMPO) and either reduced glutathione (GSH) or reduced NADH demonstrate, under irradiation with visible light, the production of the superoxide dismutase-sensitive DMPO/*OOH adduct. In the absence of DMPO, measurements with a Clark-type oxygen electrode show that molecular oxygen is consumed in a light-dependent process. The semiquinone radical of DCF, when formed in an aerobic system, is immediately oxidized by oxygen, which regenerates the dye and forms superoxide.

Hydrogen Peroxide Is Involved in Collagen-Induced Platelet Activation

In this study, we investigated whether (1) collagen-induced platelet aggregation is associated with a burst of H2O2, (2) this oxidant species is involved in the activation of platelets, and (3) the pathways of platelet activation are stimulated by H2O2. Collagen-induced platelet aggregation was associated with production of H2O2, which was abolished by catalase, an enzyme that destroys H2O2. H2O2 production was not observed when ADP or thrombin were used as agonists. Catalase inhibited dose-dependently thromboxane A2 production, release of arachidonic acid from platelet membrane, and Inositol 1,4,5P3 (IP3) formation. In aspirin-treated platelets stimulated with high concentrations of collagen, catalase inhibited platelet aggregation, calcium mobilization, and IP3 production. This study suggests that collagen-induced platelet aggregation is associated with a burst of H2O2 that acts as a second messenger by stimulating the arachidonic acid metabolism and phospholipase C pathway.

Hydrogen Peroxide Is Involved in Collagen-Induced Platelet Activation

In this study, we investigated whether (1) collagen-induced platelet aggregation is associated with a burst of H2O2, (2) this oxidant species is involved in the activation of platelets, and (3) the pathways of platelet activation are stimulated by H2O2. Collagen-induced platelet aggregation was associated with production of H2O2, which was abolished by catalase, an enzyme that destroys H2O2. H2O2 production was not observed when ADP or thrombin were used as agonists. Catalase inhibited dose-dependently thromboxane A2 production, release of arachidonic acid from platelet membrane, and Inositol 1,4,5P3 (IP3) formation. In aspirin-treated platelets stimulated with high concentrations of collagen, catalase inhibited platelet aggregation, calcium mobilization, and IP3 production. This study suggests that collagen-induced platelet aggregation is associated with a burst of H2O2 that acts as a second messenger by stimulating the arachidonic acid metabolism and phospholipase C pathway.

Oxidative stress and the mobilisation of arachidonic acid in stimulated human platelets: role of hydroxyl radical

Platelet functions, including eicosanoid biosynthesis, can be significantly altered by exposure to reactive oxygen species. We utilised the redox properties of the phenazine derivative, pyocyanin, to generate low micromolar levels of reactive oxygen species in order to investigate the metabolism of arachidonic acid by human platelets under oxidative stress. Eicosanoid production by platelets, pre-labelled with [3H]arachidonic acid (AA) and stimulated with the calcium ionophore A23187, was inhibited in the presence of pyocyanin. In contrast, platelets pre-treated with pyocyanin and concurrently exposed to A23187 and AA showed no evidence of inhibition. Analysis of the free label content of labelled, pyocyanin-treated platelets after stimulation revealed diminished levels of total free label and a corresponding increase in labelled phospholipid. Prior treatment with the antioxidants, superoxide dismutase, catalase or the hydroxyl radical scavenger, mannitol, before the addition of pyocyanin afforded protection against loss of eicosanoid production and restored AA release. We conclude that hydroxyl radicals inhibit one or more steps in the cascade leading to phospholipase A2 activation and release of arachidonic acid from platelet phospholipid stores.

Dichlorodihydrofluorescein and dihydrorhodamine 123 are sensitive indicators of peroxynitrite in vitro: implications for intracellular measurement of reactive nitrogen and oxygen species

2,7-Dichlorodihydrofluorescein (DCDHF), commonly known as dichlorofluorescin, and dihydrorhodamine 123 (DHR) are often used to detect the production of reactive nitrogen and oxygen species in cells via oxidation to their respective fluorescent products. To determine which biological oxidants might be involved, DCDHF and DHR were exposed to a number of oxidants in vitro to determine which are capable of oxidizing these compounds. Formation of dichlorofluorescein (DCF) and rhodamine is typically monitored by measuring their intrinsic fluorescence, however, absorbance can also be utilized (epsilon500 nm = 59,500 and 78,800 M(-1) cm(-1) for DCF and rhodamine, respectively). Peroxynitrite (ONOO-) readily oxidized both compounds with an efficiency equal to 38% of added ONOO- for DCDHF and 44% for DHR. Addition of nitric oxide (NO) to a superoxide-generating system resulted in DCDHF and DHR oxidation which was inhibitable by superoxide dismutase (SOD). SIN-1-mediated oxidation of DCDHF and DHR was also SOD-inhibitable, suggesting that peroxynitrite is the primary oxidant formed from SIN-1 decomposition. Aerobic addition of NO resulted in DCDHF oxidation in a manner consistent with nitrogen dioxide (.NO2) formation. NO did not oxidize DHR and actually inhibited UV-light-induced DHR oxidation. Simultaneous addition of NO and ONOO- resulted in an apparent inhibition of indicator oxidation; however, subsequent addition of ONOO- alone 20 s later produced a higher than average amount of oxidized indicator. Addition of indicator after NO + ONOO- followed by subsequent ONOO- addition gave similar results, suggesting the formation of a relatively stable, oxidant-activated NO/ONOO- adduct. At pH 7.4, hypochlorous acid was 66% efficient at oxidizing DHR but only 9% with DCDHF. Neither H2O2 (1 mM) nor superoxide flux alone produced significant indicator oxidation. Oxidation of DCDHF by horseradish peroxidase (HRP) plus H2O2 was considerably less efficient than oxidation of DHR. At 20-fold higher concentrations, HRP alone oxidized DHR but the rate was much lower than when H2O2 was present. Catalase largely inhibited HRP-mediated oxidation of DHR but not DCDHF, suggesting a direct effect of the peroxidase on DCDHF. These results reveal that peroxynitrite, hypochlorous acid, and H2O2 plus peroxidase all oxidize DCDHF and DHR to varying degrees but that neither superoxide, H2O2 alone, nor physiological levels of nitric oxide are capable of indicator oxidation. Thus, DCDHF or DHR oxidation in any given cell type may involve more than one oxidant. In cell systems where nitric oxide production occurs, oxidation of either DCDHF or DHR is likely to include a peroxynitrite component. Identification of relevant oxidants will best be achieved with a combined experimental approach which exploits the differential reactivities of DCDHF and DHR and the judicious use of inhibitors and oxidant scavengers.

Effects of vitamins E, C and catalase on bromobenzene- and hydrogen peroxide-induced intracellular oxidation and DNA single-strand breakage in Hep G2 cells

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Water-soluble vitamin E (Trolox C), ascorbic acid and catalase were shown in our previous study to protect isolated rat hepatocytes against bromobenzene-induced toxicity.

METHODS

In order to study the mechanisms of this protection and the pathogenesis of bromobenzene-induced hepatocellular injury, a fluorometric assay for the investigation of intracellular oxidation, indicated by conversion of dichlorofluorescein diacetate to dichlorofluorescein, was used. Single-strand DNA breakage was also evaluated in Hep G2 cells by a radio-labelling method.

RESULTS

Bromobenzene (2.4 and 4.8 mM) induced a significant increase in dichlorofluorescein fluorescence intensity compared to the controls. Trolox C, ascorbic acid or catalase significantly inhibited bromobenzene-induced enhancement of fluorescence intensity (p<0.05-0.001), as well as reduced auto-intracellular oxidation in untreated Hep G2 cells. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) evoked a dose-dependent increase in dichlorofluorescein fluorescence intensity in Hep G2 cells, and the effect was completely blocked by Trolox C (2.0 mM) and catalase (4800 unit/ml). Bromobenzene caused significant single-strand DNA breakage in Hep G2 cells during 2 h suspension incubation and 24 h primary incubation. H2O2 (400 microM) led to marked single-strand DNA breakage in 20 min, and the effect was attenuated by Trolox C.

CONCLUSIONS

Metabolism of bromobenzene in Hep G2 cells induces production of H2O2, indicated by enhancement of dichlorofluorescein fluorescence intensity, or other free radicals, which leads to single-strand DNA breakage in the cells. Vitamins E and C and catalase display strong intracellular antioxidative effects. Vitamin E could partially inhibit H2O2-induced single-strand DNA breakage in the cells.

The synergism of hydrogen peroxide with plasma S-nitrosothiols in the inhibition of platelet activation

Earlier studies have shown that inhibition of aggregation of washed platelets (WP) by NO was enhanced almost 100-fold by H2O2. In the present study, the interactions of H2O2 with nitrosothiols, the influence of the presence of plasma and the mechanism of the synergism were investigated. H2O2 strongly enhanced the inhibitory effects of S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) on thrombin-induced aggregation of WP. S-Nitrosoalbumin also inhibited platelets, and this was similarly enhanced by H2O2. The synergism with H2O2 was demonstrable for both exogenous GSNO and NO in the presence of plasma when platelets were stimulated with collagen. The inhibition of platelets by GSNO and H2O2 was completely inhibited by guanylate cyclase inhibitors. Synergism was also observed whether the H2O2 was added simultaneously or 1 min before or after the GSNO (or NO). This suggests that the action of H2O2 follows the occupation by NO of haem sites in guanylate cyclase and that a prior reaction between NO and H2O2 was not required. In the absence of exogenous GSNO or NO, H2O2 inhibited activation of platelets in plasma, an effect abolished by guanylate cyclase inhibitors. This suggested that endogenous NO donors in plasma or NO synthesized in platelets may interact with H2O2. Addition of NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (hydrochloride) (L-NAME) decreased the effects of the H2O2 by 25%, indicating that the major endogenous source of NO in platelet-rich plasma was not derived from platelet synthesis of NO but from NO donors in plasma, such as nitrosothiols. Inhibition by H2O2 was also enhanced by beta-mercaptosuccinate, a glutathione peroxidase inhibitor that protects the H2O2. These results suggest a potent synergism of H2O2 with endogenous plasma nitrosothiols that inhibit platelet function through an intracellular mechanism involving guanylate cyclase.

Effects of methylglyoxal on platelet hydrogen peroxide accumulation, aggregation and release reaction

Methylglyoxal generates a slight increase in the basal level of hydrogen peroxide in platelets. The oxidation effect of methylglyoxal significantly potentiated by thrombin, depends on both the ketoaldehyde and the agonist concentrations. A further significant increase in hydrogen peroxide accumulation was obtained in platelets pretreated with the alkylating agent N-ethylmaleimide which depletes GSH and blocks glutathione peroxidase. Resting platelets completely transform the ketoaldehyde into D(-)lactate, whereas stimulated platelets transform about 10-15 per cent of the metabolized methylglyoxal into D(-)lactate. The metabolic modifications generated by methylglyoxal such as the GSH depletion and hydrogen peroxide accumulation induce modifications in platelet function. Methylglyoxal inhibits platelet aggregation induced by several agonists and ATP release induced by thrombin.

The Y-box motif mediates redox-dependent transcriptional activation in mouse cells

We show here that the OxyR response element (ORE) in the bacterial oxyR promoter can also function as a redox-dependent enhancer in mammalian cells. Fusion of ORE to an SV40 basal promoter driving chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) expression confers H2O2 inducibility to expression of the cat gene in mouse Hepa-1 hepatoma cells. Nuclear extracts from these cells contain DNA-binding proteins that specifically interact with ORE DNA, cannot be completed by cognate oligonucleotides to AP-1 or NF kappa B, and are constitutively expressed, since treatment with H2O2 causes no detectable changes in binding activity or DNA-protein interaction. Recombinant cDNA clones that express ORE-binding proteins were isolated from a mouse hepatoma expression library and found to be representatives of two different members of the murine Y-box family of transcription factors. Canonical Y-box and ORE oligonucleotides compete with each other for binding to Y-box proteins in gel shift assays and antibodies to FRGY2, a Xenopus Y-box protein, supershift both Y-box and ORE DNA-protein complexes. In addition, antisense oligonucleotides to mouse YB-1 mRNA abolish induction of ORE-mediated cat expression by H2O2, and luciferase reporter constructs containing ORE, or the Y-box from the human MHC class II HLA-DQ gene, exhibit identical dose-dependent H2O2 inducibilities, which can be abolished by addition of 2-mercaptoethanol to the culture medium. These results suggest that the Y-box proteins may be an integral component of a eukaryotic redox signaling pathway.