Augmented expression of peroxiredoxin I in lung cancer

CircZNF215 promotes tumor growth and metastasis through inactivation of the PTEN/AKT pathway in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Increasing evidence shows that circular RNAs (circRNAs), a novel class of noncoding RNAs, play a crucial role in the development of cancers, including intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA). Nevertheless, their functions and exact mechanisms in iCCA progression and metastasis are still unclear. Ipatasertib is a highly selective inhibitor of AKT that inhibits tumor growth by blocking the PI3K/AKT pathway. In addition, phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) can also inhibit the activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, but it is not clear whether the cZNF215-PRDX-PTEN axis plays a role in the antitumor activity of ipatasertib.

METHODS

We identified a new circRNA (circZNF215, termed cZNF215) through high-throughput circRNA sequencing (circRNA-seq). In addition, RT‒qPCR, immunoblot assay, RNA pull-down assay, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay, and fluorescence in situ hybridization assay (FISH) were used to investigate the interaction of cZNF215 with peroxiredoxin 1 (PRDX1). Coimmunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assays and duolink in situ proximity ligation assays (PLAs) were conducted to analyze the effects of cZNF215 on the interaction between PRDX1 and PTEN. Finally, we tested the potential effects of cZNF215 on the antitumor activity of ipatasertib with in vivo experiments.

RESULTS

We found that cZNF215 expression was obviously upregulated in iCCA tissues with postoperative metastases and was correlated with iCCA metastasis and poor outcome in patients with iCCA. We further revealed that overexpression of cZNF215 promoted iCCA cell growth and metastasis in vitro and in vivo, while cZNF215 knockdown had the opposite effect. Mechanistic studies suggested that cZNF215 competitively interacted with PRDX1, which blocked the association between PRDX1 and PTEN, subsequently leading to oxidation-induced inactivation of the PTEN/AKT pathway and finally contributing to iCCA progression and metastasis. Additionally, we also revealed that silencing cZNF215 in iCCA cells had the potential to enhance the antitumor effect of ipatasertib.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates that cZNF215 facilitates iCCA progression and metastasis by regulating the PTEN/AKT pathway and may serve as a novel prognostic predictor in patients with iCCA.

Evaluation of a novel monoclonal antibody mAb109 by immuno-PET/fluorescent imaging for noninvasive lung adenocarcinoma diagnosis

Monoclonal antibodies are believed to be magic bullets and hold great potential for lots of biological process. About 100 μg of mAb109 was expressed in 5 × 10⁶ cells after 10 days' immunization. ⁶⁴Cu-NOTA-mAb109 was synthesized with the specific activity of 0.74 MBq/μg and high in vitro stability. The binding affinity of ⁶⁴Cu-NOTA-mAb109 in A549 cells was determined to be 29.64 nM. ⁶⁴Cu-NOTA-mAb109 displayed prominent tumor accumulation from 2 h to 60 h p.i. (9.34 ± 0.67 %ID/g). NIRF imaging of Cy5.5-mAb109 showed high accumulation till 9 days p.i., while tumors nearly can not be observed in negative groups, which was confirmed by autoradiography. Immunohistological study confirmed that mAb109 had strong and specific capacity to bind lung adenocarcinoma (concentration to 58 nM). Our study demonstrated mAb109 was a new platform for the development of novel agent for lung adenocarcinoma noninvasive imaging. The resulted ⁶⁴Cu-NOTA-mAb109/Cy5.5-mAb109 show favorable imaging properties/specificity for A549 tumor and high sensitivity to human lung adenocarcinoma tissues.

Digging deeper into volatile organic compounds associated with cancer

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), produced and emitted through the metabolism of cancer cells or the body's immune system, are considered novel cancer biomarkers for diagnostic purposes. Of late, a large number of work has been done to find a relationship between VOCs' signature of body and cancer. Cancer-related VOCs can be used to detect several types of cancers at the earlier stages which in turn provide a significantly higher chance of survival. Here we aim to provide an updated picture of cancer-related VOCs based on recent findings in this field focusing on cancer odor database.

Peroxiredoxins and Beyond; Redox Systems Regulating Lung Physiology and Disease

Significance: The lung is a unique organ, as it is constantly exposed to air, and thus it requires a robust antioxidant defense system to prevent the potential damage from exposure to an array of environmental insults, including oxidants. The peroxiredoxin (PRDX) family plays an important role in scavenging peroxides and is critical to the cellular antioxidant defense system. Recent Advances: Exciting discoveries have been made to highlight the key features of PRDXs that regulate the redox tone. PRDXs do not act in isolation as they require the thioredoxin/thioredoxin reductase/NADPH, sulfiredoxin (SRXN1) redox system, and in some cases glutaredoxin/glutathione, for their reduction. Furthermore, the chaperone function of PRDXs, controlled by the oxidation state, demonstrates the versatility in redox regulation and control of cellular biology exerted by this class of proteins. Critical Issues: Despite the long-known observations that redox perturbations accompany a number of pulmonary diseases, surprisingly little is known about the role of PRDXs in the etiology of these diseases. In this perspective, we review the studies that have been conducted thus far to address the roles of PRDXs in lung disease, or experimental models used to study these diseases. Intriguing findings, such as the secretion of PRDXs and the formation of autoantibodies, raise a number of questions about the pathways that regulate secretion, redox status, and immune response to PRDXs. Future Directions: Further understanding of the mechanisms by which individual PRDXs control lung inflammation, injury, repair, chronic remodeling, and cancer, and the importance of PRDX oxidation state, configuration, and client proteins that govern these processes is needed.

Cancer-Associated Function of 2-Cys Peroxiredoxin Subtypes as a Survival Gatekeeper

Cancer cells are abnormal cells that do not comply with tissue homeostasis but undergo uncontrolled proliferation. Such abnormality is driven mostly by somatic mutations on oncogenes and tumor suppressors. Cancerous mutations show intra-tumoral heterogeneity across cancer types and eventually converge into the self-activation of proliferative signaling. While transient production of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) is essential for cell signaling, its persistent production is cytotoxic. Thus, cancer cells require increased levels of intracellular ROS for continuous proliferation, but overexpress cellular peroxidase enzymes, such as 2-Cys peroxiredoxins, to maintain ROS homeostasis. However, suppression of 2-Cys peroxiredoxins has also been reported in some metastatic cancers. Hence, the cancer-associated functions of 2-Cys peroxiredoxins must be illuminated in the cellular context. In this review, we describe the distinctive signaling roles of 2-Cys peroxiredoxins beyond their intrinsic ROS-scavenging role in relation to cancer cell death and survival.

Peroxiredoxin-1 promotes cell proliferation and metastasis through enhancing Akt/mTOR in human osteosarcoma cells

Osteosarcoma is characterized by high propensity for metastasis, especially to the lung, which is the main cause of death. Peroxiredoxin-1 (PRDX1) plays significant roles in multiple processes of initiation and progression of tumorogenesis. However, whether PRDX1 participates in metastasis of osteosarcoma remains unknown. Here, we demonstrate that PRDX1 overexpressed in osteosarcoma tissues comparing to adjacent non-tumor tissues. Two independent cohorts of patients showed high level of PRDX1 correlated with clinicopathological features such as larger tumor size and advanced tumor metastasis stage. While patients with high PRDX1 level have poor prognosis. Notably, expression level of PRDX1 especially increased in lung lesion of osteosarcoma patients, indicating that PRDX1 may promote lung metastasis. Ectopic expression of PRDX1 promotes osteosarcoma cell migration and metastasis in vitro and in vivo, whereas knockdown of PRDX1 expression suppresses cell metastatic behaviors such as invasion and migration. Furthermore, we found that PRDX1 promotes cells metastasis through enhancing Akt/mTOR signal pathway. Taken together, our findings prove the important role of PRDX1 in the molecular etiology of osteosarcoma and suggest that PRDX1 may be a novel prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for osteosarcoma.

AMRI-59 functions as a radiosensitizer via peroxiredoxin I-targeted ROS accumulation and apoptotic cell death induction

Previously, we identified AMRI-59 as a specific pharmaceutical inhibitor of peroxiredoxin (PRX) I enzyme activity. In this study, we examined whether AMRI-59 acts as a radiosensitizer in non-small cell lung cancer cells using clonogenic assays. The intracellular mechanisms underlying the radiosensitization effect of AMRI-59 were determined via immunoblotting in addition to measurement of ROS generation, mitochondrial potential and cell death. AMRI-59 activity in vivo was examined by co-treating nude mice with the compound and γ-ionizing radiation (IR), followed by measurement of tumor volumes and apoptosis. The dose enhancement ratios of 30 μM AMRI-59 in NCI-H460 and NCI-H1299 were 1.51 and 2.12, respectively. Combination of AMRI-59 with IR augmented ROS production and mitochondrial potential disruption via enhancement of PRX I oxidation, leading to increased expression of γH2AX, a DNA damage marker, and suppression of ERK phosphorylation, and finally, activation of caspase-3. Notably, inhibition of ROS production prevented ERK suppression, and blockage of ERK in combination with AMRI-59 and IR led to enhanced caspase-3 activation and apoptosis. In a xenograft assay using NCI-H460 and NCI-H1299, combined treatment with AMRI-59 and IR delayed tumor growth by 26.98 and 14.88 days, compared with controls, yielding enhancement factors of 1.73 and 1.37, respectively. Taken together, the results indicate that AMRI-59 functions as a PRX I-targeted radiosensitizer by inducing apoptosis through activation of the ROS/γH2AX/caspase pathway and suppression of ERK.

Characterization of a bacterioferritin comigratory protein family 1-Cys peroxiredoxin from Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus

To defend against the lethality of the reactive oxygen species (ROS), nature has armed microorganisms with a range of antioxidant proteins. These include peroxiredoxin (Prx) super family proteins which are ubiquitous cysteine-based non-heme peroxidases. The phytopathogenic bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLA), an etiological agent of citrus plants diseases, posses many genes for defense against oxidative stress. The bacterioferritin comigratory protein (BCP), a member of Prxs, is part of an oxidative stress defense system of CLA. The key residue of these enzymes is peroxidatic Cys (termed C_PSH) which is contained within an absolutely conserved PXXX (T/S) XXC motif. In the present study, a 1-Cys Prx enzyme (CLa-BCP), having C_PSH/sulfenic acid cysteine (C-46) but lacking the resolving cysteine (C_RSH), was characterized from CLA. The peroxidase activity was demonstrated using a non-physiological electron donor DTT against varied substrates. The protein was shown to have the defensive role against peroxide-mediated cell killing and an antioxidant activity. In vitro DNA-binding studies showed that this protein can protect supercoiled DNA from oxidative damage. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on a 1-Cys BCPs to have an intracellular reactive oxygen species scavenging activity.

Proteomic profiling of fetal esophageal epithelium, esophageal cancer, and tumor-adjacent esophageal epithelium and immunohistochemical characterization of a representative differential protein, PRX6

AIM

To understand the molecular mechanism of esophageal cancer development and provide molecular markers for screening high-risk populations and early diagnosis.

METHODS

Two-dimensional electrophoresis combined with mass spectrometry were adopted to screen differentially expressed proteins in nine cases of fetal esophageal epithelium, eight cases of esophageal cancer, and eight cases of tumor-adjacent normal esophageal epithelium collected from fetuses of different gestational age, or esophageal cancer patients from a high-risk area of esophageal cancer in China. Immunohistochemistry (avidin-biotin-horseradish peroxidase complex method) was used to detect the expression of peroxiredoxin (PRX)6 in 91 cases of esophageal cancer, tumor-adjacent normal esophageal tissue, basal cell hyperplasia, dysplasia, and carcinoma in situ, as well as 65 cases of esophageal epithelium from fetuses at a gestational age of 3-9 mo.

RESULTS

After peptide mass fingerprint analysis and search of protein databases, 21 differential proteins were identified; some of which represent a protein isoform. Varying degrees of expression of PRX6 protein, which was localized mainly in the cytoplasm, were detected in adult and fetal normal esophageal tissues, precancerous lesions, and esophageal cancer. With the progression of esophageal lesions, PRX6 protein expression showed a declining trend (P < 0.05). In fetal epithelium from fetuses at gestational age 3-6 mo, PRX6 protein expression showed a declining trend with age (P < 0.05). PRX6 protein expression was significantly higher in well-differentiated esophageal cancer tissues than in poorly differentiated esophageal cancer tissues (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Development and progression of esophageal cancer result from interactions of genetic changes (accumulation or superposition). PRX6 protein is associated with fetal esophageal development and cancer differentiation.

Epigenetic regulation of peroxiredoxins: Implications in the pathogenesis of cancer

Peroxiredoxin I to VI (PRX I-VI), a family of highly conserved antioxidants, has been implicated in numerous diseases. There have been reports that PRXs are expressed aberrantly in a variety of tumors, implying that they could play an important role in carcinogenesis. Epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and microRNAs have been reported to modulate expression of PRXs. In addition, the use of epigenetic regulators, such as histone deacetylases, has been demonstrated to restore PRX to normal levels, indicating that the reversible nature of epigenetics can be exploited for future treatments.

Peroxiredoxin 1 - an antioxidant enzyme in cancer

Peroxiredoxins (PRDXs), a ubiquitous family of redox‐regulating proteins, are reported of potential to eliminate various reactive oxygen species (ROS). As a major member of the antioxidant enzymes, PRDX1 can become easily over‐oxidized on its catalytically active cysteine induced by a variety of stimuli in vitro and in vivo. In nucleus, oligomeric PRDX1 directly associates with p53 or transcription factors such as c‐Myc, NF‐κB and AR, and thus affects their bioactivities upon gene regulation, which in turn induces or suppresses cell death. Additionally, PRDX1 in cytoplasm has anti‐apoptotic potential through direct or indirect interactions with several ROS‐dependent (redox regulation) effectors, including ASK1, p66^Shc, GSTpi/JNK and c‐Abl kinase. PRDX1 is proven to be a versatile molecule regulating cell growth, differentiation and apoptosis. Recent studies have found that PRDX1 and/or PRDX1‐regulated ROS‐dependent signalling pathways play an important role in the progression and metastasis of human tumours, particularly in breast, oesophageal and lung cancers. In this paper, we review the structure, effector functions of PRDX1, its role in cancer and the pivotal role of ROS in anticancer treatment.

Effective Killing of Cancer Cells Through ROS-Mediated Mechanisms by AMRI-59 Targeting Peroxiredoxin I

AIMS

The intrinsic increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in cancer cells after malignant transformation frequently induces redox adaptation, leading to enhanced antioxidant capacity. Peroxiredoxin I (PrxI), an enzyme responsible for eliminating hydrogen peroxide, has been found to be elevated in many types of cancer cells. Since overexpression of PrxI promoted cancer cells' survival and resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, PrxI has been proposed as a therapeutic target for anticancer drugs. In this study, we aimed to investigate the anticancer efficacy of a small molecule inhibitor of PrxI.

RESULTS

By a high-throughput screening approach, we identified AMRI-59 as a potent inhibitor of PrxI. AMRI-59 increased cellular ROS, leading to the activation of both mitochondria- and apoptosis signal-regulated kinase-1-mediated signaling pathways, resulting in apoptosis of A549 human lung adenocarcinoma. AMRI-59 caused no significant changes in ROS level, proliferation, and apoptosis of PrxI-knockdown A549 cells by RNA interference. PrxI overexpression or N-acetylcysteine pretreatment abrogated AMRI-59-induced cytotoxicity in A549 cells. AMRI-59 rendered tumorigenic ovarian cells more susceptible to ROS-mediated death compared with nontumorigenic cells. Moreover, significant antitumor activity of AMRI-59 was observed in mouse tumor xenograft model implanted with A549 cells with no apparent acute toxicity.

INNOVATION

This study offers preclinical proof-of-concept for AMRI-59, a lead small molecule inhibitor of PrxI, as an anticancer agent.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results highlight a promising strategy for cancer therapy that preferentially eradicates cancer cells by targeting the PrxI-mediated redox-dependent survival pathways.

Expression of cyclooxygenase-2, peroxiredoxin I, peroxiredoxin 6 and nuclear factor-κB in oral squamous cell carcinoma

Tumor development and progression are multistep processes that involve local tumor growth and invasion, followed by metastasis. The aggressiveness of the tumor is the major determinant of the mortality of oral cancer patients. The present study investigates whether the expression levels of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), peroxiredoxin 1 (PRDX1) and PRDX6 are associated with the development, proliferation, differentiation and recurrence of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The mRNA expression levels of COX-2, NF-κB, PRDX1 and PRDX6 were examined in 50 OSCC specimens and 19 normal oral mucosae by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). qPCR analysis showed that the mRNA levels of COX-2 in OSCC were significantly higher than those in the normal oral mucosae (P=0.021). The expression levels of PRDX1 in high-stage tumors (T3 and T4) were significantly elevated compared with those in low-stage tumors (T1) (P=0.047). Additionally, the expression levels of NF-κB in the high-grade tumor were significantly elevated compared with those in the low-grade tumors (P=0.030). Overall, it was indicated that the expression of COX-2 is strongly associated with the development of OSCC. Moreover, the enhanced expression of PRDX1 and NF-κB may function in the progression of OSCC, which serves as a useful marker for prognosis in patients with oral cancer.

Disabling Mitochondrial Peroxide Metabolism via Combinatorial Targeting of Peroxiredoxin 3 as an Effective Therapeutic Approach for Malignant Mesothelioma

Dysregulation of signaling pathways and energy metabolism in cancer cells enhances production of mitochondrial hydrogen peroxide that supports tumorigenesis through multiple mechanisms. To counteract the adverse effects of mitochondrial peroxide many solid tumor types up-regulate the mitochondrial thioredoxin reductase 2 - thioredoxin 2 (TRX2) - peroxiredoxin 3 (PRX3) antioxidant network. Using malignant mesothelioma cells as a model, we show that thiostrepton (TS) irreversibly disables PRX3 via covalent crosslinking of peroxidatic and resolving cysteine residues in homodimers, and that targeting the oxidoreductase TRX2 with the triphenylmethane gentian violet (GV) potentiates adduction by increasing levels of disulfide-bonded PRX3 dimers. Due to the fact that activity of the PRX3 catalytic cycle dictates the rate of adduction by TS, immortalized and primary human mesothelial cells are significantly less sensitive to both compounds. Moreover, stable knockdown of PRX3 reduces mesothelioma cell proliferation and sensitivity to TS. Expression of catalase in shPRX3 mesothelioma cells restores defects in cell proliferation but not sensitivity to TS. In a SCID mouse xenograft model of human mesothelioma, administration of TS and GV together reduced tumor burden more effectively than either agent alone. Because increased production of mitochondrial hydrogen peroxide is a common phenotype of malignant cells, and TS and GV are well tolerated in mammals, we propose that targeting PRX3 is a feasible redox-dependent strategy for managing mesothelioma and other intractable human malignancies.

Downregulation of peroxiredoxin-1 by β-elemene enhances the radiosensitivity of lung adenocarcinoma xenografts

β-elemene, the active component of elemene (1-methyl-1-vinyl-2,4-diisopropenyl-cyclohexane), is a naturally occurring compound isolated from the traditional Chinese medicinal herb Curcuma wenyujin. Studies have confirmed that β-elemene enhances the radiosensitivity of lung cancer cell lines such as A549, by multiple pathways; however, their underlying mechanisms and pathways are yet to be elucidated. In the present study, two-dimensional differential in-gel electrophoresis and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry were used to profile the different proteins in A549 cell xenograft models of both treatment groups. The protein/mRNA expression was assessed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blotting techniques in tumor samples from all treatment groups. As a critical player in redox regulation of cancer cells, inhibition of peroxiredoxin-1 (Prx-1) may be an effective option for enhancing the tumor response to radiation. We further verified Prx-1 expression at the transcription and translation levels. β-elemene at a dose of 45 mg/kg had little effect on the Prx-1 protein expression, which was correlated with a moderate antitumor effect. However, a 45 mg/kg dose of β-elemene significantly inhibited the Prx-1 mRNA expression, thereby suggesting a possible influence on the transcriptional process, and radiation significantly increased the Prx-1 mRNA/protein expression compared to the control group (p<0.01). Notably, Prx-1 mRNA/protein expression was significantly lower in the β-elemene/radiation co-treatment group compared to the baseline levels in the control group (p<0.01). These results suggest that radiation-induced Prx-1 expression is directly or indirectly suppressed by β-elemene, thus suggesting a new pathway by which to reverse radioresistance.

Tuning of peroxiredoxin catalysis for various physiological roles

Peroxiredoxins (Prxs) make up an ancient family of enzymes that are the predominant peroxidases for nearly all organisms and play essential roles in reducing hydrogen peroxide, organic hydroperoxides, and peroxynitrite. Even between distantly related organisms, the core protein fold and key catalytic residues related to its cysteine-based catalytic mechanism have been retained. Given that these enzymes appeared early in biology, Prxs have experienced more than 1 billion years of optimization for specific ecological niches. Although their basic enzymatic function remains the same, Prxs have diversified and are involved in roles such as protecting DNA against mutation, defending pathogens against host immune responses, suppressing tumor formation, and--for eukaryotes--helping regulate peroxide signaling via hyperoxidation of their catalytic Cys residues. Here, we review the current understanding of the physiological roles of Prxs by analyzing knockout and knockdown studies from ∼25 different species. We also review what is known about the structural basis for the sensitivity of some eukaryotic Prxs to inactivation by hyperoxidation. In considering the physiological relevance of hyperoxidation, we explore the distribution across species of sulfiredoxin (Srx), the enzyme responsible for rescuing hyperoxidized Prxs. We unexpectedly find that among eukaryotes appearing to have a "sensitive" Prx isoform, some do not contain Srx. Also, as Prxs are suggested to be promising targets for drug design, we discuss the rationale behind recently proposed strategies for their selective inhibition.

Metabolic reprogramming in transformed mouse cortical astrocytes: A proteomic study

Metabolic reprogramming is thought to play a key role in sustaining the survival and proliferation of cancer cells. These changes facilitate for example the uptake and release of nutrients required for nucleotide, protein and lipid synthesis necessary for macromolecule assembly and tumor growth. We applied a 2D-DIGE (two-dimensional differential in-gel electrophoresis) quantitative proteomic analysis to characterize the proteomes of mouse astrocytes that underwent in vitro cancerous transformation, and of their normal counterparts. Metabolic reprogramming effects on enzymatic and structural protein expression as well as associated metabolites abundance were quantified. Using enzymatic activity measurements and zymography, we documented and confirmed several changes in abundance and activity of various isoenzymes likely to participate in metabolic reprogramming. We found that after transformation, the cells increase their expression of glycolytic enzymes, thus augmenting their ability to use aerobic glycolysis (Warburg effect). An increased capacity to dispose of reducing equivalents through lactate production was also documented. Major effects on carbohydrates, amino acids and nucleotides metabolic enzymes were also observed. Conversely, the transformed cells reduced their enzymatic capacity for reactions of tricarboxylic acid oxidation, for neurotransmitter (glutamate) metabolism, for oxidative stress defense and their expression of astroglial markers.

BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The use of a global approach based on a 2D DIGE analysis allows obtaining a comprehensive view of the metabolic reprogramming undergone by astrocytes upon cancerous transformation. Indeed, except for a few enzymes such as pyruvate carboxylase and glutaminase that were not detected in our initial analysis, pertinent information on the abundance of most enzymes belonging to pathways relevant to metabolic reprogramming was directly obtained. In this in vitro model, transformation causes major losses of astrocyte-specific proteins and functions and the acquisition of metabolic adaptations that favor intermediate metabolites production for increased macromolecule biosynthesis. Thus our approach appears to be readily applicable for the investigation of changes in protein abundance that determine various transformed cell phenotypes. It could similarly be applied to the evaluation of the effects of treatments aimed at correcting the consequences of cell transformation.

Dominant Role of Peroxiredoxin/JNK Axis in Stemness Regulation During Neurogenesis from Embryonic Stem Cells

Redox balance has been suggested as an important determinant of “stemness” in embryonic stem cells (ESCs). In this study, we demonstrate that peroxiredoxin (Prx) plays a pivotal role in maintenance of ESC stemness during neurogenesis through suppression of reactive oxygen species (ROS)-sensitive signaling. During neurogenesis, Prx I and Oct4 are expressed in a mutually dependent manner and their expression is abruptly downregulated by an excess of ROS. Thus, in Prx I−/− or Prx II−/− ESCs, rapid loss of stemness can occur due to spontaneous ROS overload, leading to their active commitment into neurons; however, stemness is restored by the addition of an antioxidant or an inhibitor of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). In addition, Prx I and Prx II appear to have a tight association with the mechanism underlying the protection of ESC stemness in developing teratomas. These results suggest that Prx functions as a protector of ESC stemness by opposing ROS/JNK cascades during neurogenesis. Therefore, our findings have important implications for understanding of maintenance of ESC stemness through involvement of antioxidant enzymes and may lead to development of an alternative stem cell-based therapeutic strategy for production of high-quality neurons in large quantity. Stem Cells  2014;32:998–1011

Prx I suppresses K-ras-driven lung tumorigenesis by opposing redox-sensitive ERK/cyclin D1 pathway

AIMS

Coupled responses of mutated K-ras and oxidative stress are often an important etiological factor in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, relatively few studies have examined the control mechanism of oxidative stress in oncogenic K-ras-driven NSCLC progression. Here, we studied whether the redox signaling pathway governed by peroxiredoxin I (Prx I) is involved in K-ras(G12D)-mediated lung adenocarcinogenesis.

RESULTS

Using human-lung adenocarcinoma tissues and lung-specific K-ras(G12D)-transgenic mice, we found that Prx I was significantly up-regulated in the tumor regions via activation of nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) transcription. Interestingly, the increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) by null mutation of Prx I greatly promoted K-ras(G12D)-driven lung tumorigenesis in number and size, which appeared to require the activation of the ROS-dependent extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/cyclin D1 pathway.

INNOVATION

Taken together, these results suggest that Prx I functions as an Nrf2-dependently inducible tumor suppressant in K-ras-driven lung adenocarcinogenesis by opposing ROS/ERK/cyclin D1 pathway activation.

CONCLUSION

These findings provide a better understanding of oxidative stress-mediated lung tumorigenesis.

Evidence for involvement of cytosolic thioredoxin peroxidase in the excessive resistance of Sf9 Lepidopteran insect cells against radiation-induced apoptosis

Lepidopteran insect cells display 50–100 times higher radioresistance compared to human cells, and reportedly have more efficient antioxidant system that can significantly reduce radiation-induced oxidative stress and cell death. However, the antioxidant mechanisms that contribute substantially to this excessive resistance still need to be understood thoroughly. In this study, we investigated the role of thioredoxin peroxidase (TPx) in high-dose γ-radiation response of Sf9 cell line derived from Spodoptera frugiperda, the Fall armyworm. We identified a TPx orthologue (Sf-TPx) in Spodoptera system, with primarily cytosolic localization. Gamma-irradiation at 500 Gy dose significantly up-regulated Sf-TPx, while higher doses (1000 Gy–2000 Gy) had no such effect. G2/M checkpoint induced following 500 Gy was associated with transition of Sf-TPx decamer into enzymatically active dimer. Same effect was observed during G2/M block induced by 5 nM okadaic acid or 10 µM CDK1 (cycline dependent kinase-1) inhibitor roscovitine, thus indicating that radiation-induced Sf-TPx activity is mediated by CDKs. Accumulation of TPx dimer form during G2/M checkpoint might favour higher peroxidase activity facilitating efficient survival at this dose. Confirming this, higher lethal doses (1000 Gy–2000 Gy) caused significantly less accumulation of dimer form and induced dose-dependent apoptosis. A ∼50% knock-down of Sf-TPx by siRNA caused remarkable increase in radiation-induced ROS as well as caspase-3 dependent radiation-induced apoptosis, clearly implying TPx role in the radioresistance of Sf9 cells. Quite importantly, our study demonstrates for the first time that thioredoxin peroxidase contributes significantly in the radioresistance of Lepidopteran Sf9 insect cells, especially in their exemplary resistance against radiation-induced apoptosis. This is an important insight into the antioxidant mechanisms existing in this highly stress-resistant model cell system.

The actin binding protein destrin is associated with growth and perineural invasion of pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

The small actin-binding protein destrin is one of the key regulators involved in remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton, a process crucial for cytokinesis, cell migration and polarized cell growth as well as for cancer cell migration and invasion.

METHODS

A novel ex vivo nerve invasion model mirroring perineural cancer cell invasion as a key feature of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma has been previously established. Using this model, highly nerve-invasive clones of human pancreatic cancer cell lines have been obtained. Genome-wide transcriptional analyses of these cells revealed up-regulation of destrin in highly versus lowly nerve-invasive pancreatic cancer cells.

RESULTS

Increased expression of destrin in these nerve-invasive cells was validated using quantitative RT-PCR and immunoblotting; concomitant changes in cell morphology were demonstrated using immunofluorescence analysis. Silencing of destrin by two specific siRNA oligonucleotides in Panc-1 pancreatic cancer cells decreased invasiveness and migration, and reduced proliferation of these cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Destrin is upregulated in nerve-invasive pancreatic cancer cells and its expression might be related to perineural invasiveness.

Measurement of peroxiredoxin-4 serum levels in rat tissue and its use as a potential marker for hepatic disease

Peroxiredoxin (Prx)-4, a secretable endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-resident isoform of the mammalian Prx family, functions as a thioredoxin-dependent peroxidase. It is acknowledged that Prx-4 plays a role in the detoxification of hydrogen peroxide, and potentially other peroxides, which may be generated during the oxidative folding of proteins and oxidative stress in the ER. The present study was undertaken in order to specifically quantify the tissue levels of Prx-4. To accomplish this, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was developed using a specific polyclonal antibody produced by immunizing a rabbit with native recombinant rat Prx-4 protein. The assay was used to detect Prx-4 in the range of 0.1 and 10 ng/ml, and to investigate tissue distribution in rats. Using this immunoassay, we found that the serum levels of Prx-4 were substantially lower in asymptomatic Long-Evans Cinnamon rats, a rat model of Wilson's disease, compared to normal rats. In addition, the treatment of rat hepatoma cells with N-acetylcysteine led to a significant increase in the release of Prx-4 protein into the medium; thus, it appears likely that the secretion of Prx-4 is associated with the redox state within cells. These results suggest that serum Prx-4 has potential for use as a biomarker for hepatic oxidative stress.

The soluble proteome of tobacco Bright Yellow-2 cells undergoing H₂O₂-induced programmed cell death

Plant programmed cell death (PCD) is a genetically controlled process that plays an important role in development and stress responses. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are key inducers of PCD. The addition of 50 mM H₂O₂ to tobacco Bright Yellow-2 (TBY-2) cell cultures induces PCD. A comparative proteomic analysis of TBY-2 cells treated with 50 mM H₂O₂ for 30 min and 3 h was performed. The results showed early down-regulation of several elements in the cellular redox hub and inhibition of the protein repair-degradation system. The expression patterns of proteins involved in the homeostatic response, in particular those associated with metabolism, were consistently altered. The changes in abundance of several cytoskeleton proteins confirmed the active role of the cytoskeleton in PCD signalling. Cells undergoing H₂O₂-induced PCD fail to cope with oxidative stress. The antioxidant defence system and the anti-PCD signalling cascades are inhibited. This promotes a genetically programmed cell suicide pathway. Fifteen differentially expressed proteins showed an expression pattern similar to that previously observed in TBY-2 cells undergoing heat shock-induced PCD. The possibility that these proteins are part of a core complex required for PCD induction is discussed.

Human peroxiredoxin 1 modulates TGF-β1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition through its peroxidase activity

The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which is induced by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), is an important event that allows cancer cells to obtain invasive and metastatic characteristics. Although human peroxiredoxin 1 (hPrx1) has been implicated in tumor progression (e.g., invasion and metastasis), little is known about the role of hPrx1 in the EMT process during tumorigenesis. Here, we investigated the regulatory effect of hPrx1 during TGF-β1-induced EMT in A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells. We observed that high hPrx1 levels downregulated E-cadherin expression, and low hPrx1 levels upregulated E-cadherin expression, suggesting that the hPrx1 level may be correlated with EMT. Knockdown of hPrx1 significantly inhibited TGF-β1-induced EMT and cell migration, whereas hPrx1 overexpression enhanced TGF-β1-induced EMT and cell migration. In contrast to wild-type hPrx1, a peroxidase-inactive hPrx1 mutant (hPrx1-C51S) resulted in markedly increased E-cadherin expression. Moreover, hPrx1 regulated the expression of two E-cadherin transcriptional repressors, Snail and Slug. These findings provide new insight into the role of hPrx1 in regulating TGF-β1-induced EMT.

Prognostic significance of peroxiredoxin 1 and ezrin-radixin-moesin-binding phosphoprotein 50 in cholangiocarcinoma

We performed a comparative proteomic analysis of protein expression profiles in 4 cholangiocarcinoma cell lines: K100, M156, M213, and M139. The H69 biliary cell line was used as a control. Peroxiredoxin 1 and ezrin-radixin-moesin-binding phosphoprotein 50 were selected for further validation by immunohistochemistry using a cholangiocarcinoma tissue microarray (n = 301) to assess their prognostic value in this cancer. Both peroxiredoxin 1 and ezrin-radixin-moesin-binding phosphoprotein 50 were overexpressed in cholangiocarcinoma tissues compared with normal liver tissues. Of the 301 cholangiocarcinoma cases, overexpression of peroxiredoxin 1 in 103 (34.3%) was associated with an age-related effect in young patients (P = .011) and the absence of cholangiocarcinoma in lymphatic vessels and perineural tissues (P = .004 and P = .037, respectively). Expression of radixin-moesin-binding phosphoprotein 50 correlated with histopathologic type, with 180 (59.8%) of moderately or poorly differentiated tumors (P = .039) being higher, and was associated with the presence of cholangiocarcinoma in lymphatic and vascular vessels (P < .001 and P < .001, respectively). The high expression of radixin-moesin-binding phosphoprotein 50 and the low expression of peroxiredoxin 1 correlated with reduced survival by univariate analysis (P = .017 and P = .048, respectively). Moreover, the impact of peroxiredoxin 1 and radixin-moesin-binding phosphoprotein 50 expression on patient survival was an independent predictor in multivariate analyses (P = .004 and P = .025, respectively). Therefore, altered expression of peroxiredoxin 1 and radixin-moesin-binding phosphoprotein 50 may be used as prognostic markers in cholangiocarcinoma.

Novel roles of peroxiredoxins in inflammation, cancer and innate immunity

Peroxiredoxins possess thioredoxin or glutathione peroxidase and chaperone-like activities and thereby protect cells from oxidative insults. Recent studies, however, reveal additional functions of peroxiredoxins in gene expression and inflammation-related biological reactions such as tissue repair, parasite infection and tumor progression. Notably, peroxiredoxin 1, the major mammalian peroxiredoxin family protein, directly interacts with transcription factors such as c-Myc and NF-κB in the nucleus. Additionally, peroxiredoxin 1 is secreted from some cells following stimulation with TGF-β and other cytokines and is thus present in plasma and body fluids. Peroxiredoxin 1 is now recognized as one of the pro-inflammatory factors interacting with toll-like receptor 4, which triggers NF-κB activation and other signaling pathways to evoke inflammatory reactions. Some cancer cells release peroxiredoxin 1 to stimulate toll-like receptor 4-mediated signaling for their progression. Interestingly, peroxiredoxins expressed in protozoa and helminth may modulate host immune responses partly through toll-like receptor 4 for their survival and progression in host. Extracellular peroxiredoxin 1 and peroxiredoxin 2 are known to enhance natural killer cell activity and suppress virus-replication in cells. Peroxiredoxin 1-deficient mice show reduced antioxidant activities but also exhibit restrained tissue inflammatory reactions under some patho-physiological conditions. Novel functions of peroxiredoxins in inflammation, cancer and innate immunity are the focus of this review.

Necdin, a p53-target gene, is an inhibitor of p53-mediated growth arrest

In vitro, cellular immortalization and transformation define a model for multistep carcinogenesis and current ongoing challenges include the identification of specific molecular events associated with steps along this oncogenic pathway. Here, using NIH3T3 cells, we identified transcriptionally related events associated with the expression of Polyomavirus Large-T antigen (PyLT), a potent viral oncogene. We propose that a subset of these alterations in gene expression may be related to the early events that contribute to carcinogenesis. The proposed tumor suppressor Necdin, known to be regulated by p53, was within a group of genes that was consistently upregulated in the presence of PyLT. While Necdin is induced following p53 activation with different genotoxic stresses, Necdin induction by PyLT did not involve p53 activation or the Rb-binding site of PyLT. Necdin depletion by shRNA conferred a proliferative advantage to NIH3T3 and PyLT-expressing NIH3T3 (NIHLT) cells. In contrast, our results demonstrate that although overexpression of Necdin induced a growth arrest in NIH3T3 and NIHLT cells, a growing population rapidly emerged from these arrested cells. This population no longer showed significant proliferation defects despite high Necdin expression. Moreover, we established that Necdin is a negative regulator of p53-mediated growth arrest induced by nutlin-3, suggesting that Necdin upregulation could contribute to the bypass of a p53-response in p53 wild type tumors. To support this, we characterized Necdin expression in low malignant potential ovarian cancer (LMP) where p53 mutations rarely occur. Elevated levels of Necdin expression were observed in LMP when compared to aggressive serous ovarian cancers. We propose that in some contexts, the constitutive expression of Necdin could contribute to cancer promotion by delaying appropriate p53 responses and potentially promote genomic instability.

Peroxiredoxin 2 in the nucleus and cytoplasm distinctly regulates androgen receptor activity in prostate cancer cells

Currently, few therapies are effective against castration-resistant prostate cancer. Increased activation of the androgen/androgen receptor (AR) signaling pathway is thought to promote castration-resistant prostate cancer. Herein, we report that peroxiredoxin (Prx) gene expression in castration-resistant prostate cancer and hydrogen peroxide-resistant cells was upregulated. Prx2 was overexpressed in castration-resistant prostate cancer at the mRNA and protein levels and was localized to the nucleus and cytoplasm. Overexpression of Prx2 increased AR transactivation, whereas Prx2 overexpression in the nucleus suppressed AR transactivation. These effects of Prx2 on AR activity were abolished by the introduction of function-disrupting mutations into Cys⁵¹ and Cys¹⁷². Silencing Prx2 reduced the expression of androgen-regulated genes and suppressed the growth of AR-expressing prostate cancer cells by inducing cell-cycle arrest at the G1 phase. Furthermore, Prx2 knockdown also suppressed cell growth in castration-resistant prostate cancer cells. These findings indicate that Prx2 is involved in the proliferation of AR-expressing prostate cancer cells by modulating AR activity. Designing therapeutics targeting Prx2 may offer a novel strategy for developing treatments for prostate cancer, including castration-resistant prostate cancer, which is dependent on AR signaling.

Secretome Analysis of Skeletal Myogenesis Using SILAC and Shotgun Proteomics

Myogenesis, the formation of skeletal muscle, is a multistep event that commences with myoblast proliferation, followed by cell-cycle arrest, and finally the formation of multinucleated myotubes via fusion of mononucleated myoblasts. Each step is orchestrated by well-documented intracellular factors, such as cytoplasmic signalling molecules and nuclear transcription factors. Regardless, the key step in getting a more comprehensive understanding of the regulation of myogenesis is to explore the extracellular factors that are capable of eliciting the downstream intracellular factors. This could further provide valuable insight into the acute cellular response to extrinsic cues in maintaining normal muscle development. In this paper, we survey the intracellular factors that respond to extracellular cues that are responsible for the cascades of events during myogenesis: myoblast proliferation, cell-cycle arrest of myoblasts, and differentiation of myoblasts into myotubes. This focus on extracellular perspective of muscle development illustrates our mass spectrometry-based proteomic approaches to identify differentially expressed secreted factors during skeletal myogenesis.

E6AP ubiquitin ligase mediates ubiquitin-dependent degradation of peroxiredoxin 1

E6-associated protein (E6AP) is a cellular ubiquitin protein ligase that mediates ubiquitylation and degradation of tumor suppressor p53 in conjunction with the high-risk human papillomavirus E6 protein. We previously reported that E6AP targets annexin A1 protein for ubiquitin-dependent proteasomal degradation. To gain a better understanding of the physiological function of E6AP, we have been seeking to identify novel substrates of E6AP. Here, we identified peroxiredoxin 1 (Prx1) as a novel E6AP-binding protein using a tandem affinity purification procedure coupled with mass spectrometry. Prx1 is a 25-kDa member of the Prx family, a ubiquitous family of antioxidant peroxidases that regulate many cellular processes through intracellular oxidative signal transduction pathways. Immunoprecipitation analysis showed that E6AP binds Prx1 in vivo. Pull-down experiments showed that E6AP binds Prx1 in vitro. Ectopic expression of E6AP enhanced the degradation of Prx1 in vivo. In vivo and in vitro ubiquitylation assays revealed that E6AP promoted polyubiquitylation of Prx1. RNAi-mediated downregulation of endogenous E6AP increased the level of endogenous Prx1 protein. Taken together, our data suggest that E6AP mediates the ubiquitin-dependent proteasomal degradation of Prx1. Our findings raise a possibility that E6AP may play a role in regulating Prx1-dependent intracellular oxidative signal transduction pathways.

T-LAK cell-originated protein kinase (TOPK) phosphorylation of Prx1 at Ser-32 prevents UVB-induced apoptosis in RPMI7951 melanoma cells through the regulation of Prx1 peroxidase activity

Protein kinases are potential targets for the prevention and control of UV-induced skin cancer. T-cell-originated protein kinase (TOPK) is highly expressed in skin cancer cells, but its specific function is still unknown. We investigated the role of TOPK in UVB-induced apoptosis in RPMI7951 human melanoma cells. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis was used to identify proteins that bind with TOPK. Immunofluorescence, Western blot, and flow cytometry were used to assess the effect of UVB on TOPK, peroxiredoxin 1 (Prx1), and apoptosis in RPMI7951 cells. TOPK binds with Prx1 and its phosphorylation of Prx1 at Ser-32 is important for regulation of H(2)O(2)-mediated signal transduction. Analysis of the CD spectra of Prx1 and mutant Prx1 (S32A) proteins showed that the secondary structure of Prx1 was significantly altered by phosphorylation of Prx1 at Ser-32. UVB irradiation induced phosphorylation of TOPK in RPMI7951 human melanoma cells and phosphorylated TOPK co-localized with Prx1 in the nucleus. UVB induced the peroxidase activity of Prx1 in vitro and ex vivo. Following treatment with UVB, H(2)O(2) levels and apoptosis were increased in RPMI7951 cells stably expressing TOPK siRNA or stably mutant Prx1 (S32A). Phosphorylation of Prx1 (Ser-32) by TOPK prevents UVB-induced apoptosis in RPMI7951 melanoma cells through regulation of Prx1 peroxidase activity and blockade of intracellular H(2)O(2) accumulation.

Predictive inference on cytoplasmic and mitochondrial thioredoxin peroxidases in the highly radioresistant Lepidopteran insect Spodoptera frugiperda

Lepidopteran insects show remarkable resistance to radiation and chemical stress than insects of other orders. Despite this, the antioxidant machinery of insects of this order is poorly understood. Recently we demonstrated the significance of cytoplasmic NOS and a stronger mitochondrial antioxidant enzyme system in the stress-resistance of Lepidopteran insects. In the present study, we hypothesize two thioredoxin peroxidase orthologues (Sf-TPx1 and Sf-TPx2) in Lepidopteran insect Spodoptera frugiperda and demonstrate their structural/functional features important for cellular antioxidant activity and stress resistance. Results show a higher mitochondrial localization score (WoLFPSORT) of Sf-TPx2 (mitochondria-18.0, cytoplasm-7.0, nucleus-4.0) than its Drosophila orthologue Jafrac2 (secretory-30.0; mitochondria/nucleus/cytoplasm-no signal), which is important for antioxidant activity, and a higher cytoplasmic localization score of Sf-TPx1 (mitochondria-no signal; cytoplasm-22.0; nucleus-3.5) than the Drosophila Jafrac1 (mitochondria-17; nucleus- 11; cytoplasm-no signal). Structural modeling data show certain motifs present in Jafrac1 and Jafrac2 that affect active site conformation and separate cysteine residues at distances not suitable for disulphide bridge formation (5.21Å; 5.73Å). These motifs are absent in Sf-TPx1 and Sf-TPx2, yielding shorter distance (2.01Å; 2.05Å) between the cysteine residues suitable for disulphide bridge formation. Taken together, the disulphide bridge as well as mitochondrial and cytoplasmic localization are crucial for peroxidatic activity of TPx's. Therefore,we hypothesize that the Spodoptera TPx's offer potentially stronger anti-oxidant activity than that of Drosophila orthologues, and may contribute in the high radioresistance of Lepidopteran insects.

Comparative proteomic analysis of cancerous and adjacent normal lung tissues

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in industrialized countries. Unfortunately, most lung cancers are found too late for a cure, therefore early detection and treatment is very important. We have applied proteomic analysis by using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and peptide mass fingerprinting techniques for examination of cancerous and adjacent non-cancerous lung tissues from the same patient. The aim of the study was to find proteins, which could be used as biomarkers for diagnosis and monitoring of this disease. Indeed, we found differences in expression of several proteins, related to various cellular activities, such as, chaperoning (e,g. GRP96, GRP78, HSP27), metabolism and oxidation stress (e.g. L-fucose, GST), cytoskeleton (e.g., tubulin beta 2/3, beta actin), cell adhesion (e.g. annexin A5/3), binding proteins (e.g. 14-3-3 theta) and signal transduction. These changes may be important for progression of carcinogenesis; they may be used as the molecular-support for future diagnostic markers.

Peroxiredoxin 1 stimulates secretion of proinflammatory cytokines by binding to TLR4

Peroxiredoxin 1 (Prx1) is an antioxidant and molecular chaperone that can be secreted from tumor cells. Prx1 is overexpressed in many cancers, and elevation of Prx1 is associated with poor clinical outcome. In the current study, we demonstrate that incubation of Prx1 with thioglycollate-elicited murine macrophages or immature bone marrow-derived dendritic cells resulted in TLR4-dependent secretion of TNF-alpha and IL-6 and dendritic cell maturation. Optimal secretion of cytokines in response to Prx1 was dependent upon serum and required CD14 and MD2. Binding of Prx1 to thioglycollate macrophages occurred within minutes and resulted in TLR4 endocytosis. Prx1 interaction with TLR4 was independent of its peroxidase activity and appeared to be dependent on its chaperone activity and ability to form decamers. Cytokine expression occurred via the TLR-MyD88 signaling pathway, which resulted in nuclear translocation and activation of NF-kappaB. These findings suggest that Prx1 may act as danger signal similar to other TLR4-binding chaperone molecules such as HSP72.

Expression of the actin-associated protein transgelin (SM22) is decreased in prostate cancer

Transgelin is an actin-binding protein shown to be tumour-suppressive. Loss of transgelin expression in transformed cells is associated with oncogenesis. This study aimed to determine whether transgelin expression was suppressed in prostate cancer. An in silico meta-analysis with public-domain expressed-sequence-tag libraries of normal human prostate epithelium, prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia, invasive carcinoma and metastasised lesions predicted decreased transgelin expression with disease progression. Similarly, analysis of Affymetrix gene chip data and the Oncomine database indicated that transgelin was one the 2% most significant of all down-regulated genes in response to prostate cancer. Analysis by quantitative reverse transcription with the polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) of patient biopsies determined transgelin expression to be significantly lower in prostate tumour tissue than in matched normal tissue. Similarly, qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis of representative prostate cancer cell lines demonstrated significantly lower levels of transgelin mRNA and protein in all but the DU145 prostate cancer cell line. Increased expression of TAGLN and increased transgelin protein in response to treatment with transforming growth factor-beta suggested that reduced expression in prostate cancer was not attributable to gene promoter suppression by hypermethylation. Gene ontology function analysis highlighted the importance of transgelin in the co-deregulation of actin-binding proteins. Thus, transgelin is suppressed during prostate cancer progression and seems to be an important factor in the dysregulation of the actin cytoskeleton.

Biomarkers of lung-related diseases: current knowledge by proteomic approaches

The lung epithelial surface is one of the vital barriers or sensors in the body responding to the external atmosphere and thereby always subjecting to direct toxicological exposure, stress, stimulus, or infection. Due to its relatively higher sensitivity in response to toxicants, the use of lung epithelial cell culture and lung tissue from animal models or patients has facilitated our learning to lung physiopathology and toxicopharmacology. The recent advancement of proteomics has made it possible to investigate the cellular response at a global level. In this review, the potential applications of proteomic approach in studying lung-related diseases and biomarker discovery will be discussed.

Protective role of cytosolic 2-cys peroxiredoxin in the TNF-alpha-induced apoptotic death of human cancer cells

Cytosolic 2-cys peroxiredoxin (2-cysPrx) exhibiting thioredoxin-dependent hydroperoxide reductase activity has been demonstrated to be involved in a number of signaling processes, such as receptor tyrosine kinase and MAP kinase activation. However, its role in the cell death pathway has yet to be elucidated. Here we show that cytosolic 2-cysPrx suppresses the TNF-alpha-induced apoptosis of human cervical cancer cells in a caspase-8-dependent manner. The HeLa cervical cancer cells expressing a dominant negative mutant (DN) of a cytosolic 2-cysPrx manifested remarkable increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species level, which was counteracted by catalase administration, and apoptotic cell death induced by combined treatment of TNF-alpha and cycloheximide compared to the control (CT) cells. Similarly, the DN cells were also susceptible to apoptosis induced by the TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand. The apoptosis enhanced by DN expression was shown to be dependent on a typical FADD/caspase pathway. The DN cells undergoing apoptosis showed enhanced caspase-8 and -3 activations, as compared to the CT cells. In contrast, there was no difference observed in the sustained JNK activation between CT and DN cells. Thus, this study illustrates that intracellular reactive oxygen species regulated by cytosolic 2-cysPrx is involved in the TNF-alpha-induced apoptotic cell death via controlling caspase activation.

Peroxiredoxin II preserves cognitive function against age-linked hippocampal oxidative damage

Reactive oxygen species (ROS), routinely produced in biological reactions, contribute to both normal aging and age-related decline in cognitive function. However, little is known regarding the involvement of specific antioxidants in the underlying mechanism(s). Here, we examined if peroxiredoxin II (Prx II) scavenges intracellular ROS that cause age-dependent mitochondrial decay in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons and subsequent impairment of learning and memory. Age-dependent mitochondrial ROS generation and long-term potentiation (LTP) decline were more prominent in hippocampal neurons in Prx II(-/-) than in wild-type mice. Additionally, Prx II(-/-) mice failed to activate synaptic plasticity-related cellular signaling pathways involving CREB, CaMKII, and ERK, or to maintain functional integrity of their mitochondria. Dietary vitamin E alleviated Prx II deficiency-related deficits, including mitochondrial decay and CREB signaling, resulting in restoration of the abrupt cognitive decline in aged Prx II(-/-) mice. These results suggest that Prx II help maintain hippocampal synaptic plasticity against age-related oxidative damage.

Differential proteomics analysis of specific carbonylated proteins in the temporal cortex of aged rats: the deterioration of antioxidant system

Oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in normal brain aging and various neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Irreversible protein carbonylation, a widely used marker for oxidative stress, rises during aging. The temporal cortex is essential for learning and memory and particularly susceptible to oxidative stress during aging and in AD patients. In this study, we used 2-DE, MALDI-TOF/TOF MS, and Western blotting to analyze the differentially carbonylated proteins in the rat temporal cortex between 1-month-old and 24-month-old. We showed that the carbonyl levels of ten protein spots corresponding to six gene products: SOD1, SOD2, peroxiredoxin 1, peptidylprolyl isomerase A, cofilin 1, and adenylate kinase 1, significantly increased in the temporal cortex of aged rats. These proteins are associated with antioxidant defense, the cytoskeleton, and energy metabolism. Several oxidized proteins identified in aged rat brain are known to be involved in neurodegenerative disorders as well. Our findings indicate that these carbonylated proteins may be implicated in the decline of normal brain aging process and provide insights into the mechanisms underlying age-associated dysfunction of temporal cortex.

Peroxiredoxins, a novel target in cancer radiotherapy

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are toxic at high levels in the mammalian cells. Mammalian cells have developed many enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidative systems in various cellular compartments to maintain an appropriate level of ROS and regulate their action. Peroxiredoxins (Prxs), a family of peroxidase that reduced intracellular peroxides (one type of ROS) with the thioredoxin system as the electron donor, were highly expressed in various cellular compartments. In this minireview, we discussed the regulation of Prxs expression in cancer cell and its relationship with ionizing radiation. As Prxs could be induced by radiation and its expression status could determine the radiosensitivity of cancer cells, Prxs might be a potential target for radiotherapy in cancer.