Fungal auxin antagonist hypaphorine competitively inhibits indole-3-acetic acid-dependent superoxide generation by horseradish peroxidase

Characterisation of the class III peroxidase gene family in carrot taproots and its role in anthocyanin and lignin accumulation

Plant class III peroxidases (CIII Prxs) are involved in numerous essential plant life processes, such as plant development and differentiation, lignification and seed germination, and defence against pathogens. However, there is limited information about the structure-function relationships of Prxs in carrots. This study identified 75 carrot peroxidases (DcPrxs) and classified them into seven subgroups based on phylogenetic analysis. Gene structure analysis revealed that these DcPrxs had between one and eight introns, while conserved motif analysis showed a typical motif composition and arrangement for CIII Prx. In addition, eighteen tandem duplication events, but only eight segmental duplications, were identified among these DcPrxs, indicating that tandem duplication was the main contributor to the expansion of this gene family. Histochemical analyses showed that lignin was mainly localised in the cell walls of xylem, and Prx activity was determined in the epidermal region of taproots. The xylem always showed higher lignin concentration and lower Prx activity compared to the phloem in the taproots of both carrot cultivars. Combining these observations with RNA sequencing, some Prx genes were identified as candidate genes related to lignification and pigmentation. Three peroxidases (DcPrx30, DcPrx32, DcPrx62) were upregulated in the phloem of both genotypes. Carrot taproots are an attractive resource for natural food colourants and this study elucidated genome-wide insights of Prx for the first time, developing hypotheses concerning their involvement with lignin and anthocyanin in purple carrots. The findings provide an essential foundation for further studies of Prx genes in carrot, especially on pigmentation and lignification mechanisms.

Hypaphorine exerts anti-inflammatory effects in sepsis induced acute lung injury via modulating DUSP1/p38/JNK pathway

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response syndrome attributed to infection, while sepsis-induced acute lung injury (ALI) has high morbidity and mortality. Here, we aimed to explore the specific mechanism of hypaphorine's anti-inflammatory effects in ALI. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was adopted to construct ALI model both in vivo and in vitro. BEAS-2B cell viability and apoptosis was testified by the MTT assay and flow cytometry. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were performed to examine the expression of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-18), and Western blot was adopted to examine the expression of the apoptosis-related proteins (Bax, Bcl2, and Caspase3) and the DUSP1/p38/JNK signaling pathway. At the same time, lung injury score, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity were monitored. The dry/wet weight method was used to examine lung edema, and the total protein content in BALF was determined to test pulmonary vascular permeability. As the data suggested, hypaphorine inhibited the LPS-mediated apoptosis of alveolar epithelial cells. What is more, hypaphorine attenuated the expression of inflammatory factors (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-18) and inactivated the p38/JNK signaling pathway through upregulating DUSP1 in a dose-dependent manner. Meanwhile, DUSP1 knockdown weakened the anti-inflammatory effect of hypaphorine on LPS-mediated lung injury. Furthermore, hypaphorine also relieved LPS induced ALI in rats with anti-inflammatory effects. Taken together, hypaphorine prevented LPS-mediated ALI and proinflammatory response via inactivating the p38/JNK signaling pathway by upregulating DUSP1.

Fluazifop-P-butyl induced ROS generation with IAA (indole-3-acetic acid) oxidation in Acanthospermum hispidum D.C

Acanthospermum hispidum D.C. was particularly susceptible to fluazifop-P-butyl, an aryloxyphenoxypropionate herbicide, and the primary action site for the herbicide was shoot apical meristem, which is also the main site of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) biosynthesis and action. Membrane lipid peroxidation caused by increasing levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was considered as an action mechanism of fluazifop-P-butyl in A. hispidum. To further clarify the ROS inducing mechanism of fluazifop-P-butyl in the plant, the interactions between fluazifop-P-butyl and auxin compounds IAA or 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) were studied. Haloxyfop-P-methyl, an AOPP herbicide which is inactive on A. hispidum, was used for comparison. The results showed that the growth inhibition and malondialdehyde or H₂O₂ increases induced by fluazifop-P-butyl on A. hispidum were reversed by IAA or 2,4-D. The IAA content was decreased but the contents of three IAA oxidation metabolites, indole-3-methanol, indole-3-aldehyde and indole-3-carboxylic acid were increased by fluazifop-P-butyl in A. hispidum, but not by haloxyfop-P-methyl. The growth of A. hispidum was not inhibited by three IAA oxidative compounds. Moreover, the activities of IAA oxidase and peroxidase were increased by fluazifop-P-butyl but not by haloxyfop-P-methyl, and the increase was reversed by IAA or 2,4-D. We suggest that there is an antagonistic effect between fluazifop-P-butyl and IAA or 2,4-D, and the IAA oxidation may be involved in the action mechanism of fluazifop-P-butyl in A. hispidum.

Vaccaria hypaphorine alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation via inactivation of NFκB and ERK pathways in Raw 264.7 cells

BACKGROUND

Activation of macrophage is involved in many inflammation diseases. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a powerful inflammatory signal contributing to monocytes/macrophages activation associated with increased proinflammatory cytokines expressions. We recently identified that vaccarin was expected to protect endothelial cells from injury. Hypaphorine was abundantly found in vaccaria semen. However, the potential roles and underlying mechanisms of vaccaria hypaphorine on macrophage inflammation have been poorly defined.

METHODS

This study was designed to determine the effects of vaccaria hypaphorine on LPS-mediated inflammation in RAW 264.7 cells.

RESULTS

In this study, we demonstrated that vaccaria hypaphorine dramatically ameliorated LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) release and productions of proinflammatory cytokines including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-10, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE₂) in RAW 264.7 cells. LPS-stimulated expressions of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) were down-regulated by vaccaria hypaphorine. Furthermore, vaccaria hypaphorine retarded LPS-induced phosphorylation of ERK, nuclear factor kappa beta (NFκB), NFκB inhibitor IκBα, and IKKβ. Immunofluorescence staining revealed that vaccaria hypaphorine eliminated the nuclear translocation of NFκB in LPS-treated RAW 264.7 cells.

CONCLUSION

It was seen that vaccaria hypaphorine counteracted inflammation via inhibition of ERK or/and NFκB signaling pathways. Collectively, we concluded that vaccaria hypaphorine can be served as an anti-inflammatory candidate.

Indole-3-acetic acid-induced oxidative burst and an increase in cytosolic calcium ion concentration in rice suspension culture

Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) is the major natural auxin involved in the regulation of a variety of growth and developmental processes such as division, elongation, and polarity determination in growing plant cells. It has been shown that dividing and/or elongating plant cells accompanies the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and a number of reports have suggested that hormonal actions can be mediated by ROS through ROS-mediated opening of ion channels. Here, we surveyed the link between the action of IAA, oxidative burst, and calcium channel activation in a transgenic cells of rice expressing aequorin in the cytosol. Application of IAA to the cells induced a rapid and transient generation of superoxide which was followed by a transient increase in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]c). The IAA-induced [Ca2+]c elevation was inhibited by Ca2+ channel blockers and a Ca2+ chelator. Furthermore, ROS scavengers effectively blocked the action of IAA on [Ca2+]c elevation.

Production and removal of superoxide anion radical by artificial metalloenzymes and redox-active metals

Generation of reactive oxygen species is useful for various medical, engineering and agricultural purposes. These include clinical modulation of immunological mechanism, enhanced degradation of organic compounds released to the environments, removal of microorganisms for the hygienic purpose, and agricultural pest control; both directly acting against pathogenic microorganisms and indirectly via stimulation of plant defense mechanism represented by systemic acquired resistance and hypersensitive response. By aiming to develop a novel classes of artificial redox-active biocatalysts involved in production and/or removal of superoxide anion radicals, recent attempts for understanding and modification of natural catalytic proteins and functional DNA sequences of mammalian and plant origins are covered in this review article.

The effect of elevated carbon dioxide on the interaction between Eucalyptus grandis and diverse isolates of Pisolithus sp. is associated with a complex shift in the root transcriptome

Using the newly available genome for Eucalyptus grandis, we sought to determine the genome-wide traits that enable this host to form mutualistic interactions with ectomycorrhizal (ECM) Pisolithus sp. and to determine how future predicted concentrations of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2 ) will affect this relationship. We analyzed the physiological and transcriptomic responses of E. grandis during colonization by different Pisolithus sp. isolates under conditions of ambient (400 ppm) and elevated (650 ppm) CO2 to tease out the gene expression profiles associated with colonization status. We demonstrate that E. grandis varies in its susceptibility to colonization by different Pisolithus isolates in a manner that is not predictable by geographic origin or the internal transcribed spacer (ITS)-based phylogeny of the fungal partner. Elevated concentrations of CO2 alter the receptivity of E. grandis to Pisolithus, a change that is correlated to a dramatic shift in the transcriptomic profile of the root. These data provide a starting point for understanding how future environmental change may alter the signaling between plants and their ECM partners and is a step towards determining the mechanism behind previously observed shifts in Eucalypt-associated fungal communities exposed to elevated concentrations of atmospheric CO2 .

Hydrogen peroxide-independent generation of superoxide catalyzed by soybean peroxidase in response to ferrous ion

It is well documented that extracellular alkalization occurs in plants under the challenges by pathogenic microbes. This may eventually induce the pH-dependent extracellular peroxidase-mediated oxidative burst at the site of microbial challenges. By employing the purified proteins of horseradish peroxidase as a model, we have recently proposed a likely role for free Fe(2+) in reduction of ferric enzyme of plant peroxidases into ferrous intermediate and oxygen-bound form of enzyme known as Compound III which may eventually releases superoxide anion radical (O2(•-)), especially under alkaline condition, possibly contributing to the plant defense mechanism. In the present study, we employed the purified protein of soybean peroxidase (SBP) as an additional model, and examined the changes in the redox status of enzyme accompanying the generation of O2(•-) in response to Fe(2+) under alkaline condition.

Salicylic acid-induced superoxide generation catalyzed by plant peroxidase in hydrogen peroxide-independent manner

It has been reported that salicylic acid (SA) induces both immediate spike and long lasting phases of oxidative burst represented by the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as superoxide anion radical (O2(•-)). In general, in the earlier phase of oxidative burst, apoplastic peroxidase are likely involved and in the late phase of the oxidative burst, NADPH oxidase is likely involved. Key signaling events connecting the 2 phases of oxidative burst are calcium channel activation and protein phosphorylation events. To date, the known earliest signaling event in response to exogenously added SA is the cell wall peroxidase-catalyzed generation of O2(•-) in a hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-dependent manner. However, this model is incomplete since the source of the initially required H2O2 could not be explained. Based on the recently proposed role for H2O2-independent mechanism for ROS production catalyzed by plant peroxidases (Kimura et al., 2014, Frontiers in Plant Science), we hereby propose a novel model for plant peroxidase-catalyzed oxidative burst fueled by SA.

Uncovering the defence responses of Eucalyptus to pests and pathogens in the genomics age

Long-lived tree species are subject to attack by various pests and pathogens during their lifetime. This problem is exacerbated by climate change, which may increase the host range for pathogens and extend the period of infestation by pests. Plant defences may involve preformed barriers or induced resistance mechanisms based on recognition of the invader, complex signalling cascades, hormone signalling, activation of transcription factors and production of pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins with direct antimicrobial or anti-insect activity. Trees have evolved some unique defence mechanisms compared with well-studied model plants, which are mostly herbaceous annuals. The genome sequence of Eucalyptus grandis W. Hill ex Maiden has recently become available and provides a resource to extend our understanding of defence in large woody perennials. This review synthesizes existing knowledge of defence mechanisms in model plants and tree species and features mechanisms that may be important for defence in Eucalyptus, such as anatomical variants and the role of chemicals and proteins. Based on the E. grandis genome sequence, we have identified putative PR proteins based on sequence identity to the previously described plant PR proteins. Putative orthologues for PR-1, PR-2, PR-4, PR-5, PR-6, PR-7, PR-8, PR-9, PR-10, PR-12, PR-14, PR-15 and PR-17 have been identified and compared with their orthologues in Populus trichocarpa Torr. & A. Gray ex Hook and Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. The survey of PR genes in Eucalyptus provides a first step in identifying defence gene targets that may be employed for protection of the species in future. Genomic resources available for Eucalyptus are discussed and approaches for improving resistance in these hardwood trees, earmarked as a bioenergy source in future, are considered.

Proanthocyanidin as a cytogenetic protective agent against adverse effects of plant growth regulators supplementation in rats

The aim of the present study was to investigate the protective role of grape seed extract (containing proanthocyandin) against the adverse effects of plant growth regulators (GA3 (gibberellic acid) and IAA (indoleacetic acid)). The present data showed that the administration of either GA3 and IAA caused undesirable changes in both hepatic and testicular structure. This was evidenced by a disturbed hepatic strands, pyknotic nuclei, central vein with collapsed endothelium, dilatation in bile sinusoids, congested blood vessel, binucleatd hepatocytes, lymphocytic infiltration, vacuolation, giant hepatic cells, increased Kupffer cells and karyoryxis. Additionally, it was shown that degenerative changes in the testis, spermatogenic arrest, moderate tubular necrosis, Leydig cell degeneration and reduction in the number and size of the seminiferous tubules with some spermatogonia detached from the basement membrane. Concerning flow cytometric study of the liver a significant decrease in G0/1 % and a significant increase in S phase %, G2/M  %, P(53) % and apoptosis % (sub G1) were detected. However, in testis the data recorded a significant decrease in the percentage of mature sperm (percentage of haploid cells) and a significant increase in the percentage of spermatide, diploid cells, P(53) and of apoptotic cells. On the other hand, a distinct recovery of the mentioned hepatic and testicular histopathological and cytogenetic disorders was observed when proanthocyanidin was supplemented to rats administered either of the plant growth hormones (GA3 and IAA).

Hydrogen peroxide-independent generation of superoxide by plant peroxidase: hypotheses and supportive data employing ferrous ion as a model stimulus

When plants are threaten by microbial attacks or treated with elicitors, alkalization of extracellular space is often induced and thus pH-dependent extracellular peroxidase-mediated oxidative burst reportedly takes place, especially at the site of microbial challenge. However, direct stimulus involved in activation of peroxidase-catalyzed oxidative burst has not been identified to date. Here, we would like to propose a likely role for free ferrous ion in reduction of ferric native peroxidase into ferrous enzyme intermediate which readily produces superoxide anion via mechanism involving Compound III, especially under alkaline condition, thus, possibly contributing to the plant defense mechanism. Through spectroscopic and chemiluminescence (CL) analyses of reactions catalyzed by horseradish peroxidase (HRP), the present study proposed that plant peroxidase-catalyzed production of superoxide anion can be stimulated in the absence of conventional peroxidase substrates but in the presence of free ferrous ion.

Stress resistance of Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis is modulated by auxins

Two bacterial species, Gram-negative Escherichia coli and Gram-positive Bacillus subtilis, were exposed to different auxins to examine possible effects of these substances on bacterial stress tolerance. Bacterial resistance to UV irradiation, heat shock, and streptomycin was assessed with and without previous exposure to the following auxins: indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), and 1-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA). Escherichia coli and B. subtilis cultures pretreated with any of the 3 auxins survived UV irradiation better than the untreated cultures. Also, B. subtilis cultures pretreated with IBA or NAA survived prolonged heat exposure better than the untreated cultures, while IAA pretreatment had no effect on heat shock survival. In contrast, auxin pretreatment rendered E. coli more sensitive to heat shock. Escherichia coli cultures pretreated with auxins were also more sensitive to streptomycin, while auxin pretreatment had no effect on sensitivity of B. subtilis to streptomycin. These results show that auxins may either enhance or reduce bacterial tolerance to different stressors, depending on the bacterial species and the type and level of the stress. Auxins usually had similar effects on the same bacterial species in cases when the same type and level of stress were applied.

Finding and defining the natural automata acting in living plants: Toward the synthetic biology for robotics and informatics in vivo

The automata theory is the mathematical study of abstract machines commonly studied in the theoretical computer science and highly interdisciplinary fields that combine the natural sciences and the theoretical computer science. In the present review article, as the chemical and biological basis for natural computing or informatics, some plants, plant cells or plant-derived molecules involved in signaling are listed and classified as natural sequential machines (namely, the Mealy machines or Moore machines) or finite state automata. By defining the actions (states and transition functions) of these natural automata, the similarity between the computational data processing and plant decision-making processes became obvious. Finally, their putative roles as the parts for plant-based computing or robotic systems are discussed.

Experimental photodynamic therapy for liver cancer cell-implanted nude mice by an indole-3-acetic acid and intense pulsed light combination

Recently, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) has been introduced as a new cancer therapeutic agent through oxidative decarboxylation by horseradish peroxidase (HRP). The purpose of this study was to determine the therapeutic feasibility of IAA/light combination against liver cancer. SK-HEP-1 cells were irradiated with UVB or visible light (518 nm) in the presence of IAA. Cell viability was measured using a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Then, IAA was injected in SK-HEP-1 liver cancer cell-implanted nude mice, and the tumor area was irradiated with intense pulsed light (IPL). Then, tissue was taken for terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay and immunohistochemical staining for 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), p53, caspase-3, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). In vitro experiments demonstrated that IAA alone was not cytotoxic, but activated IAA by HRP or light caused cell death. In vivo experiments showed that IAA/IPL treatment caused regression of tumor cells in SK-HEP-1-implanted nude mice. The TUNEL assay showed that IAA/IPL induced cancer cell apoptosis, and this was confirmed by increases in 8-OHdG, p53, and caspase-3 in IAA/IPL-treated mice. In contrast, IPL alone did not induce apoptosis, indicating that the apoptotic effect resulted from activated IAA by light. In summary, we showed that IAA/light induced tumor regression in SK-HEP-1-implanted nude mice. These results suggest the potential use of IAA/light combination in liver cancer.

Free tyrosine and tyrosine-rich peptide-dependent superoxide generation catalyzed by a copper-binding, threonine-rich neurotoxic peptide derived from prion protein

Previously, generation of superoxide anion (O(2)(*-)) catalyzed by Cu-binding peptides derived from human prion protein (model sequence for helical Cu-binding motif VNITKQHTVTTTT was most active) in the presence of catecholamines and related aromatic monoamines such as phenylethylamine and tyramine, has been reported [Kawano, T., Int J Biol Sci 2007; 3: 57-63]. The peptide sequence (corresponding to helix 2) tested here is known as threonine-rich neurotoxic peptide. In the present article, the redox behaviors of aromatic monoamines, 20 amino acids and prion-derived tyrosine-rich peptide sequences were compared as putative targets of the oxidative reactions mediated with the threonine-rich prion-peptide. For detection of O(2)(*-), an O(2)(*-)-specific chemiluminescence probe, Cypridina luciferin analog was used. We found that an aromatic amino acid, tyrosine (structurally similar to tyramine) behaves as one of the best substrates for the O(2)(*-) generating reaction (conversion from hydrogen peroxide) catalyzed by Cu-bound prion helical peptide. Data suggested that phenolic moiety is required to be an active substrate while the presence of neither carboxyl group nor amino group was necessarily required. In addition to the action of free tyrosine, effect of two tyrosine-rich peptide sequences YYR and DYEDRYYRENMHR found in human prion corresponding to the tyrosine-rich region was tested as putative substrates for the threonine-rich neurotoxic peptide. YYR motif (found twice in the Y-rich region) showed 2- to 3-fold higher activity compared to free tyrosine. Comparison of Y-rich sequence consisted of 13 amino acids and its Y-to-F substitution mutant sequence revealed that the tyrosine-residues on Y-rich peptide derived from prion may contribute to the higher production of O(2)(*-). These data suggest that the tyrosine residues on prion molecules could be additional targets of the prion-mediated reactions through intra- or inter-molecular interactions. Lastly, possible mechanism of O(2)(*-) generation and the impacts of such self-redox events on the conformational changes in prion are discussed.

Transcriptional analysis of Pinus sylvestris roots challenged with the ectomycorrhizal fungus Laccaria bicolor

BACKGROUND

Symbiotic ectomycorrhizal associations of fungi with forest trees play important and economically significant roles in the nutrition, growth and health of boreal forest trees, as well as in nutrient cycling. The ecology and physiology of ectomycorrhizal associations with Pinus sp are very well documented but very little is known about the molecular mechanisms behind these mutualistic interactions with gymnosperms as compared to angiosperms.

RESULTS

Using a micro-array approach, the relative abundance of 2109 EST transcripts during interaction of Pinus sylvestris roots with the ectomycorrhizal fungus was profiled. The results reveal significant differential expression of a total of 236 ESTs, 96 transcripts differentially abundant after 1 day of physical contact with the fungus, 134 transcripts after 5 days and only 6 after 15 days at early stages of mantle formation on emerging lateral roots. A subset of cell wall modification and stress related genes was further assessed by quantitative reverse transcription PCR at late stages of mycorrhizal development coinciding with Hartig net formation. The results reveal down regulation of gene transcripts involved in general defence mechanism (e.g. antimicrobial peptide) as well as those involved in cell wall modification (e.g. glycine rich protein, xyloglucan endo transglycosylase).

CONCLUSION

This study constitutes the first attempt to characterize the transcriptome of the plant partner in the Pinus sylvestris - Laccaria bicolor model system. We identified 236 ESTs which are potentially important for molecular regulation of a functional symbiotic association in conifer host. The results highlight similarities with other studies based on angiosperm model systems, nevertheless some differences were found in the timing and spatial scale of gene regulation during ectomycorrhiza development in gymnosperms. The present study has identified a number of potentially important molecular events responsible for the initiation and regulation of biochemical, physiological and morphological changes during development of a fully functional symbiosis that are relevant for gymnosperm hosts.

Indole-3-acetic acid in microbial and microorganism-plant signaling

Diverse bacterial species possess the ability to produce the auxin phytohormone indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). Different biosynthesis pathways have been identified and redundancy for IAA biosynthesis is widespread among plant-associated bacteria. Interactions between IAA-producing bacteria and plants lead to diverse outcomes on the plant side, varying from pathogenesis to phyto-stimulation. Reviewing the role of bacterial IAA in different microorganism-plant interactions highlights the fact that bacteria use this phytohormone to interact with plants as part of their colonization strategy, including phyto-stimulation and circumvention of basal plant defense mechanisms. Moreover, several recent reports indicate that IAA can also be a signaling molecule in bacteria and therefore can have a direct effect on bacterial physiology. This review discusses past and recent data, and emerging views on IAA, a well-known phytohormone, as a microbial metabolic and signaling molecule.

Prion-derived copper-binding peptide fragments catalyze the generation of superoxide anion in the presence of aromatic monoamines

OBJECTIVES

Studies have proposed two opposing roles for copper-bound forms of prion protein (PrP) as an anti-oxidant supporting the neuronal functions and as a pro-oxidant leading to neurodegenerative process involving the generation of reactive oxygen species. The aim of this study is to test the hypothesis in which putative copper-binding peptides derived from PrP function as possible catalysts for monoamine-dependent conversion of hydrogen peroxide to superoxide in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Four peptides corresponding to the copper (II)-binding motifs in PrP were synthesized and used for analysis of peptide-catalyzed generation of superoxide in the presence of Cu (II) and other factors naturally present in the neuronal tissues.

RESULTS

Among the Cu-binding peptides tested, the amino acid sequence corresponding to the Cu-binding site in the helical region was shown to be the most active for superoxide generation in the presence of Cu(II), hydrogen peroxide and aromatic monoamines, known precursors or intermediates of neurotransmitters. Among monoamines tested, three compounds namely phenylethylamine, tyramine and benzylamine were shown to be good substrates for superoxide-generating reactions by the Cu-bound helical peptide.

CONCLUSIONS

Possible roles for these reactions in development of prion disease were suggested.

Plant neurobiology: an integrated view of plant signaling

Plant neurobiology is a newly focused field of plant biology research that aims to understand how plants process the information they obtain from their environment to develop, prosper and reproduce optimally. The behavior plants exhibit is coordinated across the whole organism by some form of integrated signaling, communication and response system. This system includes long-distance electrical signals, vesicle-mediated transport of auxin in specialized vascular tissues, and production of chemicals known to be neuronal in animals. Here we review how plant neurobiology is being directed toward discovering the mechanisms of signaling in whole plants, as well as among plants and their neighbors.

Identification of a glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored plasma membrane protein interacting with the C-terminus of auxin-binding protein 1: a photoaffinity crosslinking study

Synthetic peptides corresponding to the C-terminus of auxin-binding protein 1 (ABP1) have been shown to function as auxin agonists. To define a C-terminal receptor, photoaffinity crosslinking experiments were performed using an azido derivative of a C-terminal peptide and plasma membranes from maize (Zea mays L.). The crosslinking reaction was monitored by immunoblotting using anti-ABP1 antibodies. The crosslinked proteins were isolated by 2D gel electrophoresis and identified by mass spectrometric analysis. Further, the noncrosslinked forms of these proteins were also identified. Two proteins with apparent molecular masses of 73 kDa (termed C-terminal peptide-binding protein 1, CBP1) and 35 kDa (CBP2) were specifically linked with the C-terminal peptide. CBP2 is a cytoplasmic protein that consists of two conserved domains that are characteristic of a ricin-type lectin domain. CBP2 remained in the detergent-insoluble particles and was released from the particles by the addition of monosaccharides such as methyl-beta-D-galactopyranoside. CBP1 was released from the membranes by treatment with phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C, indicating that CBP1 is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored plasma membrane protein. CBP1 was found to be a copper-binding protein, and is highly homologous to Arabidopsis thaliana SKU5 that contributes to directional root growth processes. Further, it is similar to A. thaliana SKS6 that contributes to cotyledon vascular patterning and to Nicotiana tabacum NTP303 that contributes to pollen tube growth. The present results indicate that ABP1 may contribute to directional cell growth processes via the GPI-anchored plasma membrane protein SKU5 and its family members.

Hydrogen peroxide is a mediator of indole-3-acetic acid/horseradish peroxidase-induced apoptosis

Recently, we reported that a combination of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) induces apoptosis in G361 human melanoma cells. However, the apoptotic mechanism involved has been poorly studied. It is known that when IAA is oxidized by HRP, free radicals are produced, and since oxidative stress can induce apoptosis, we investigated whether reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in IAA/HRP-induced apoptosis. Our results show that IAA/HRP-induced free radical production is inhibited by catalase, but not by superoxide dismutase or sodium formate. Furthermore, catalase was found to prevent IAA/HRP-induced apoptotic cell death, indicating that IAA/HRP-produced hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) may be involved in the apoptotic process. Moreover, the antiapoptotic effect of catalase is potentiated by NADPH, which is known to protect catalase. On further investigating the IAA/HRP-mediated apoptotic pathway, we found that the IAA/HRP reaction leads to caspase-3 activation and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage, which was also blocked by catalase. Additionally, we found that IAA/HRP produces H2O2 and induces peroxiredoxin (Prx) sulfonylation. Consequently, our results suggest that H2O2 plays a major role in IAA/HRP-induced apoptosis.

Light-Activated Indole-3-Acetic Acid Induces Apoptosis in G361 Human Melanoma Cells

Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) activation by horseradish peroxidase (HRP) has been suggested as a new cancer therapy. Interestingly, we found that ultraviolet B UVB radiation also can activate IAA and produce free radicals in a dose-dependent manner. In this study, we attempted to identify the free radicals generated by UVB-irradiated IAA (IAAUVB), and to determine whether IAAUVB can induce the apoptosis of G361 human melanoma cells. Since IAA/HRP produces reactive oxygen species (ROS), we examined whether IAAUVB-generated radicals include ROS. Our results show that IAAUVB-induced free radical production is not inhibited by catalase, superoxide dismutase, or sodium formate, indicating that ROS are not generated by IAAUVB. On the other hand, IAAUVB caused lipid peroxidation, and this was blocked by Trolox, a water-soluble vitamin E derivative. Moreover, we found that IAAUVB caused apoptotic cell death and that this was inhibited by a low temperature. We further investigated IAAUVB-mediated apoptotic pathways, and found that IAAUVB causes caspase-8, Bid, caspase-3 activation, and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage. In addition, these apoptotic pathways were also blocked by low temperature. From these results, we propose that IAAUVB-induced free radicals cause human melanoma cell apoptosis via a death receptor-mediated apoptotic pathway.

Oxidation of indole-3-acetic acid by horseradish peroxidase induces apoptosis in G361 human melanoma cells

The combination of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) has recently been proposed as a novel cancer therapy. However, the mechanism underlying the cytotoxic effect involved is substantially unknown. Here, we show that IAA/HRP treatment induces apoptosis in G361 human melanoma cells, whereas IAA or HRP alone have no effect. It is known that IAA produces free radicals when oxidized by HRP. Because oxidative stress could induce apoptosis, we measured the production of free radicals at varying concentrations of IAA and HRP. Our results show that IAA/HRP produces free radicals in a dose-dependent manner, which are suppressed by ascorbic acid or (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Furthermore, antioxidants prevent IAA/HRP-induced apoptosis, indicating that the IAA/HRP-produced free radicals play an important role in the apoptotic process. In addition, IAA/HRP was observed to activate p38 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), which are almost completely blocked by antioxidants. We further investigated the IAA/HRP-mediated apoptotic pathways, and found that IAA/HRP activates caspase-8 and caspase-9, leading to caspase-3 activation and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage. These events were also blocked by antioxidants, such as ascorbic acid or EGCG. Thus, we propose that IAA/HRP-induced free radicals lead to the apoptosis of human melanoma cells via both death receptor-mediated and mitochondrial apoptotic pathways.

The indole alkaloids brucine, yohimbine, and hypaphorine are indole-3-acetic acid-specific competitors which do not alter auxin transport

The indole alkaloids brucine and yohimbine, just like hypaphorine, counteract indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) activity in seedling roots, root hairs and shoots, but do not appear to alter auxin transport in roots or in cultured cells. In roots, the interactions between IAA and these three alkaloids appear competitive and specific since these molecules interact with IAA but with neither 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) or 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), two synthetic auxins. The data reported further support the hypothesis that hypaphorine brucine and yohimbine compete with IAA on some auxin-binding proteins likely to be auxin receptors and that 2,4-D and NAA are not always perceived by the same receptor as IAA or the same component of that receptor. At certain steps of plant development and in certain cells, endogenous indole alkaloids could be involved in IAA activity regulation together with other well-described mechanisms such as conjugation or degradation. Hypaphorine with other active indole alkaloids remaining to be identified, might be regarded as a new class of IAA antagonists.

Roles of the reactive oxygen species-generating peroxidase reactions in plant defense and growth induction

Extracellularly secreted plant peroxidases (POXs) are considered to catalyze the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) coupled to oxidation of plant hormone indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and defense-related compounds salicylic acid (SA), aromatic monoamines (AMAs) and chitooligosaccharides (COSs). This review article consists of two parts, which describe H(2)O(2)-dependent and H(2)O(2)-independent mechanisms for ROS generation, respectively. Recent studies have shown that plant POXs oxidize SA, AMAs and COSs in the presence of H(2)O(2) via a conventional POX cycle, yielding the corresponding radical species, such as SA free radicals. These radical species may react with oxygen, and superoxide (O(2)(.-)) is produced. Through the series of reactions 2 moles of O(2)(.-) can be formed from 1 moles of H(2)O(2), thus leading to oxidative burst. It has been revealed that the ROS induced by SA, AMAs and COSs triggers the increase in cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration. Actually POXs transduce the extracellular signals into the redox signals that eventually stimulate the intracellular Ca(2+) signaling required for induction of defense responses. On the other hand, IAA can react with oxygen and plant POXs in the absence of H(2)O(2), by forming the ternary complex enzyme-IAA-O(2), which readily dissociates into enzyme, IAA radicals and O(2)(.-). This article covers the recent reports showing that extracellularly produced hydroxy radicals derived from O(2)(.-) mediate the IAA-induced cell elongation. Here a novel model for IAA signaling pathway mediated by extracellular ROS produced by cell-wall POXs is proposed. In addition, possible controls of the IAA-POX reactions by a fungal alkaloid are discussed.

Possible use of indole-3-acetic acid and its antagonist tryptophan betaine in controlled killing of horseradish peroxidase-labeled human cells

It has been proposed that combination of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) could be useful as the basis for targeted cancer therapy involving antibody-, polymer-, or gene-directed approaches. By circulating IAA in human body, the cells labeled with HRP could be selectively killed since cytotoxic radical species are produced by IAA-HRP reaction. To enable the finely geared controls in selective killing of the cells, the author propose the use of a fungal alkaloid, hypaphorine known to act against IAA in growing plants, in combination with IAA. Previously, the author and colleagues have shown that hypaphorine competitively inhibits the IAA-dependent superoxide generation by HRP. Since hypaphorine is structurally similar to IAA, the effects of hypaphorine against IAA may be due to competitive binding to the IAA-binding domain on HRP. Our in vitro studies on hypaphorine-based control of the IAA-HRP reaction yielding superoxide, must be re-examined in in vivo systems prior to clinical examination.

Ectomycorrhiza: gene expression, metabolism and the wood-wide web

In the ectomycorrhizal symbiosis between fungi and trees, the fungus completely ensheaths the tree roots and takes over water and mineral nutrient supply, while the plant supplies photosynthate. Recent work has focussed on gene expression in the two partners, on the effects of global change and nitrogen deposition rate on the symbiosis, and on the role of mycorrhizal fungi in connecting individual plants to form a 'wood-wide web'.

Oxidative burst by acellular haemoglobin and neurotransmitters

Acellular haemoglobin (Hb) has intrinsic toxicity to the tissues since harmful reactive oxygen species are readily produced during auto-oxidation of Hb. On the other hand, Hb is known to have peroxidase-like activity monovalently oxidizing various peroxidase substrates. Thus, monovalently oxidized organic free radical species may be produced. This may relay the radical reactions leading to the production of reactive oxygen species such as superoxide. Such substrates possibly generating superoxide, include aromatic monoamines such as neurotransmitters and their precursors rich in neural a tissues. Based on our knowledge on the reactivity of haemoproteins against phenolics and aromatic monoamines, we proposed a hindered danger in use of Hb as a reperfusion agent. Clinical use of recently developing Hb-based blood substitutes must be reconsidered.

A fungal auxin antagonist, hypaphorine prevents the indole-3-acetic acid-dependent irreversible inactivation of horseradish peroxidase: inhibition of Compound III-mediated formation of P-670

Hypaphorine, an indolic alkaloid from an ectomycorrhizal fungus is a putative antagonist of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) known to inhibit the effect of IAA in growing roots of Eucalyptus seedling. Previously we have used horseradish peroxidase-C (HRP) as a sensitive reporter of IAA-binding to the IAA-binding domain, and reported that hypaphorine specifically inhibits the HRP-catalyzed superoxide generation coupled to oxidation of IAA [Kawano et al., Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 288]. Since binding of IAA to the auxin-binding domain is the key step required for IAA oxidation by HRP, it was assumed that the inhibitory effect of hypaphorine is due to its competitive binding to the auxin-binding domain in HRP. Here, we obtained further evidence in support of our assumption that hypaphorine specifically inhibits binding of IAA to HRP. In this study, HRP arrested at the temporal inactive form known as Compound III was used as a sensitive indicator for binding of IAA to HRP. Addition of IAA to the preformed Compound III resulted in rapid decreases in absorption maxima at 415, 545, and 578 nm characteristic to Compound III, and in turn a rapid increase in absorption maximum at 670 nm representing the formation of P-670, the irreversibly inactivated form of hemoproteins, was induced. In contrast, the IAA-dependent irreversible inactivation of HRP was inhibited in the presence of hypaphorine. In addition, the mode of interaction between IAA and hypaphorine was determined to be competitive inhibition, further confirming that hypaphorine is an IAA antagonist which specifically compete with IAA in binding to the IAA-binding site in plant peroxidases.

Spectroscopic evidence that salicylic acid converts a temporally inactivated form of horseradish peroxidase (compound III) to the irreversibly inactivated verdohemoprotein (P-670)

We obtained spectroscopic evidence in support of salicylate-dependent inactivation of horseradish peroxidase-C. Addition of salicylate to the enzyme arrested at a temporal inactive state (Compound III) in the presence of H2O2, resulted in rapid and irreversible inactivation of the enzyme yielding verdohemoproteins (P-670). Multiple roles for salicylate in peroxidase-catalyzed reactions are discussed.

Spectroscopic evidence in support of horseradish peroxidase compound II-catalyzed oxidation of salicylic acid but not of phenylethylamine

Salicylic acid and phenylethylamine are putative substrates for naturally occurring reactions for generation of reactive oxygen species, which are catalyzed by plant peroxidases. Here, we used commercially available highly purified horseradish peroxidase-C (HRP-C) as a model enzyme for spectroscopic analysis, and obtained data suggesting that the Compound II form of HRP-C does not utilize phenylethylamine as substrate. In contrast, addition of salicylic acid to Compound II resulted in rapid conversion of Compound II to the native form.