Bisallylic hydroxylation and epoxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids by cytochrome P450

Selective and Sustainable Production of Sub-terminal Hydroxy Fatty Acids by a Self-Sufficient CYP102 Enzyme from Bacillus Amyloliquefaciens

Enzymatic hydroxylation of fatty acids by Cytochrome P450s (CYPs) offers an eco-friendly route to hydroxy fatty acids (HFAs), high-value oleochemicals with various applications in materials industry and with potential as bioactive compounds. However, instability and poor regioselectivity of CYPs are their main drawbacks. A newly discovered self-sufficient CYP102 enzyme, BAMF0695 from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens DSM 7, exhibits preference for hydroxylation of sub-terminal positions (ω-1, ω-2, and ω-3) of fatty acids. Our studies show that BAMF0695 has a broad temperature optimum (over 70 % of maximal enzymatic activity retained between 20 to 50 °C) and is highly thermostable (T50 >50 °C), affording excellent adaptive compatibility for bioprocesses. We further demonstrate that BAMF0695 can utilize renewable microalgae lipid as a substrate feedstock for HFA production. Moreover, through extensive site-directed and site-saturation mutagenesis, we isolated variants with high regioselectivity, a rare property for CYPs that usually generate complex regioisomer mixtures. BAMF0695 mutants were able to generate a single HFA regiosiomer (ω-1 or ω-2) with selectivities from 75 % up to 91 %, using C12 to C18 fatty acids. Overall, our results demonstrate the potential of a recent CYP and its variants for sustainable and green production of high-value HFAs.

Association between circulating fatty acid metabolites and asthma risk: a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND

Fatty acids are involved in a wide range of immunological responses in humans. Supplementation of polyunsaturated fatty acids has been reported to help alleviate symptoms and airway inflammation in asthma patients, whereas the effects of fatty acids on the actual risk of asthma remain controversial. This study comprehensively investigated the causal effects of serum fatty acids on asthma risk using two-sample bidirectional Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis.

METHODS

Genetic variants strongly associated with 123 circulating fatty acid metabolites were extracted as instrumental variables, and a large GWAS data of asthma was used to test effects of the metabolites on this outcome. The inverse-variance weighted method was used for primary MR analysis. The weighted median, MR-Egger regression, MR-PRESSO, and leave-one-out analyses were utilized to evaluate heterogeneity and pleiotropy. Potential confounders were adjusted by performing multivariable MR analyses. Reverse MR analysis was also conducted to estimate the causal effect of asthma on candidate fatty acid metabolites. Further, we performed colocalization analysis to examine the pleiotropy of variants within the fatty acid desaturase 1 (FADS1) locus between the significant metabolite traits and the risk of asthma. Cis-eQTL-MR and colocalization analysis were also performed to determine the association between RNA expression of FADS1 and asthma.

RESULTS

Genetically instrumented higher average number of methylene groups was causally associated with a lower risk of asthma in primary MR analysis, while inversely, the higher ratio of bis-allylic groups to double bonds and the higher ratio of bis-allylic groups to total fatty acids, were associated with higher probabilities of asthma. Consistent results were obtained in multivariable MR when adjusted for potential confounders. However, these effects were completely eliminated after SNPs correlated with the FADS1 gene were excluded. The reverse MR also found no causal association. The colocalization analysis suggested that the three candidate metabolite traits and asthma likely share causal variants within the FADS1 locus. In addition, the cis-eQTL-MR and colocalization analyses demonstrated a causal association and shared causal variants between FADS1 expression and asthma.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study supports a negative association between several PUFA traits and the risk of asthma. However, this association is largely attributed to the influence of FADS1 polymorphisms. The results of this MR study should be carefully interpreted given the pleiotropy of SNPs associated with FADS1.

Detoxification Cytochrome P450s (CYPs) in Families 1-3 Produce Functional Oxylipins from Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids

This manuscript reviews the CYP-mediated production of oxylipins and the current known function of these diverse set of oxylipins with emphasis on the detoxification CYPs in families 1-3. Our knowledge of oxylipin function has greatly increased over the past 3-7 years with new theories on stability and function. This includes a significant amount of new information on oxylipins produced from linoleic acid (LA) and the omega-3 PUFA-derived oxylipins such as α-linolenic acid (ALA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). However, there is still a lack of knowledge regarding the primary CYP responsible for producing specific oxylipins, and a lack of mechanistic insight for some clinical associations between outcomes and oxylipin levels. In addition, the role of CYPs in the production of oxylipins as signaling molecules for obesity, energy utilization, and development have increased greatly with potential interactions between diet, endocrinology, and pharmacology/toxicology due to nuclear receptor mediated CYP induction, CYP inhibition, and receptor interactions/crosstalk. The potential for diet-diet and diet-drug/chemical interactions is high given that these promiscuous CYPs metabolize a plethora of different endogenous and exogenous chemicals.

The octadecanoids: an emerging class of lipid mediators

Oxylipins are enzymatic and non-enzymatic metabolites of mono- or polyunsaturated fatty acids that encompass potent lipid mediators including the eicosanoids and docosanoids. Previously considered of low interest and often dismissed as 'just fat', octadecanoid oxylipins have only recently begun to be recognized as lipid mediators in humans. In the last few years, these compounds have been found to be involved in the mediation of multiple biological processes related to nociception, tissue modulation, cell proliferation, metabolic regulation, inflammation, and immune regulation. At the same time, the study of octadecanoids is hampered by a lack of standardization in the field, a paucity of analytical standards, and a lack of domain expertise. These issues have collectively limited the investigation of the biosynthesis and bioactivity of octadecanoids. Here, we present an overview of the primary enzymatic pathways for the oxidative metabolism of 18-carbon fatty acids in humans and of the current knowledge of the major biological activity of the resulting octadecanoids. We also propose a systematic nomenclature system based upon that used for the eicosanoids in order to avoid ambiguities and resolve multiple designations for the same octadecanoid. The aim of this review is to provide an initial framework for the field and to assist in its standardization as well as to increase awareness of this class of compounds in order to stimulate research into this interesting group of lipid mediators.

Design of a H2 O2 -generating P450SPα fusion protein for high yield fatty acid conversion

Sphingomonas paucimobilis' P450SPα (CYP152B1) is a good candidate as industrial biocatalyst. This enzyme is able to use hydrogen peroxide as unique cofactor to catalyze the fatty acids conversion to α-hydroxy fatty acids, thus avoiding the use of expensive electron-donor(s) and redox partner(s). Nevertheless, the toxicity of exogenous H2 O2 toward proteins and cells often results in the failure of the reaction scale-up when it is directly added as co-substrate. In order to bypass this problem, we designed a H2 O2 self-producing enzyme by fusing the P450SPα to the monomeric sarcosine oxidase (MSOX), as H2 O2 donor system, in a unique polypeptide chain, obtaining the P450SPα -polyG-MSOX fusion protein. The purified P450SPα -polyG-MSOX protein displayed high purity (A417 /A280  = 0.6) and H2 O2 -tolerance (kdecay  = 0.0021 ± 0.000055 min-1 ; ΔA417  = 0.018 ± 0.001) as well as good thermal stability (Tm : 59.3 ± 0.3°C and 63.2 ± 0.02°C for P450SPα and MSOX domains, respectively). The data show how the catalytic interplay between the two domains can be finely regulated by using 500 mM sarcosine as sacrificial substrate to generate H2 O2 . Indeed, the fusion protein resulted in a high conversion yield toward fat waste biomass-representative fatty acids, that is, lauric acid (TON = 6,800 compared to the isolated P450SPα TON = 2,307); myristic acid (TON = 6,750); and palmitic acid (TON = 1,962).

Efficient Attenuation of Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis by Oral Administration of 5,6-Dihydroxy-8Z,11Z,14Z,17Z-eicosatetraenoic Acid in Mice

5,6-dihydroxy-8Z,11Z,14Z,17Z-eicosatetraenoic acid (5,6-DiHETE) is an eicosapentaenoic acid-derived newly discovered bioactive anti-inflammatory lipid mediator having diverse functions. Here, we assessed the potential of orally administered 5,6-DiHETE in promoting healing of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. We measured the plasma concentrations of 5,6-DiHETE in untreated mice before and 0.5, 1, 3, and 6 h after its oral administration (150 or 600 μg/kg) in mice. Mice developed colitis by DSS (2% in drinking water for 4 days), and 5,6-DiHETE (150 or 600 μg/kg/day) was orally administered from day 9 to 14. Next, the faecal hardness and bleeding were assessed, and the dissected colons on day 14 via H&E staining. The plasma concentration of 5,6-DiHETE reached 25.05 or 44.79 ng/mL 0.5 h after the administration of 150 or 600 μg/kg, respectively, followed by a gradual decrease. The half-life of 5,6-DiHETE was estimated to be 1.25-1.63 h. Diarrhoea deteriorated after day 3 and peaked on day 5, followed by a gradual recovery. Histological assessment on day 14 showed DSS-mediated granulocyte infiltration, mucosal erosion, submucosal edema, and cryptal abscesses in mice. Oral administration of 150 or 600 μg/kg/day of 5,6-DiHETE accelerated the recovery from the DSS-induced diarrhoea and significantly ameliorated colon inflammation. The therapeutic effect of 600 μg/kg/day 5,6-DiHETE was slightly stronger than that by 150 μg/kg/day. Our study reveals attenuation of DSS-induced colitis in mice by the oral administration of 5,6-DiHETE dose-dependently, thereby suggesting a therapeutic potential of 5,6-DiHETE for inflammatory bowel disease.

Optimization and Engineering of a Self-Sufficient CYP102 Enzyme from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens towards Synthesis of In-Chain Hydroxy Fatty Acids

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) mediated enzymatic hydroxylation of fatty acids present a green alternative to chemical synthesis of hydroxy fatty acids (HFAs), which are high-value oleochemicals with various uses in materials industry and medical field. Although many CYPs require the presence of additional reductase proteins for catalytic activity, self-sufficient CYPs have their reductase partner naturally fused into their catalytic domain, leading to a greatly simplified biotransformation process. A recently discovered self-sufficient CYP, BAMF2522 from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens DSM 7, exhibits novel regioselectivity by hydroxylating in-chain positions of palmitic acid generating ω-1 to ω-7 HFAs, a rare regiodiversity profile among CYPs. Besides, F89I mutant of BAMF2522 expanded hydroxylation up to ω-9 position of palmitic acid. Here, we further characterize this enzyme by determining optimum temperature and pH as well as thermal stability. Moreover, using extensive site-directed and site-saturation mutagenesis, we obtained BAMF2522 variants that demonstrate greatly increased regioselectivity for in-chain positions (ω-4 to ω-9) of various medium to long chain fatty acids. Remarkably, when a six-residue mutant was reacted with palmitic acid, 84% of total product content was the sum of ω-7, ω-8 and ω-9 HFA products, the highest in-chain selectivity observed to date with a self-sufficient CYP. In short, our study demonstrates the potential of a recently identified CYP and its mutants for green and sustainable production of a variety of in-chain hydroxy enriched HFAs.

Integration analysis of metabolites and single nucleotide polymorphisms improves the prediction of drug response of celecoxib

INTRODUCTION

Pharmacogenetics and pharmacometabolomics are the common methods for personalized medicine, either genetic or metabolic biomarkers have limited predictive power for drug response.

OBJECTIVES

In order to better predict drug response, the study attempted to integrate genetic and metabolic biomarkers for drug pharmacokinetics prediction.

METHODS

The study chose celecoxib as study object, the pharmacokinetic behavior of celecoxib was assessed in 48 healthy volunteers based on UPLC-MS/MS platform, and celecoxib related single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were also detected. Three mathematic models were constructed for celecoxib pharmacokinetics prediction, the first one was mainly based on celecoxib-related SNPs; the second was based on the metabolites selected from a pharmacometabolomic analysis by using GC-MS/MS method, the last model was based on the combination of the celecoxib-related SNPs and metabolites above.

RESULTS

The result proved that the last model showed an improved prediction power, the integration model could explain 71.0% AUC variation and predict 62.3% AUC variation. To facilitate clinical application, ten potential celecoxib-related biomarkers were further screened, which could explain 68.3% and predict 54.6% AUC variation, the predicted AUC was well correlated with the measured values (r = 0.838).

CONCLUSION

This study provides a new route for personalized medicine, the integration of genetic and metabolic biomarkers can predict drug response with a higher accuracy.

Stereoselective synthesis of 17,18-epoxy derivative of EPA and stereoisomers of isoleukotoxin diol by ring opening of TMS-substituted epoxide with dimsyl sodium

The title three compounds were synthesized using the reaction of TMS-substituted epoxides with dimsyl sodium to produce 1-alkene-3,4-diol derivatives.

Elucidation of a CGP7930 in vitro metabolite by liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry

RATIONALE

γ-Aminobutyric acid-B (GABAB ) receptors are widely expressed in the nervous system and have been implicated as targets for various neurological and psychiatric disorders. CGP7930 is a positive allosteric modulator of GABAB receptors. It has been demonstrated to reduce drug self-administration and has gained increased research as a potential psychotropic treatment.

METHODS

An in vitro metabolic system with liver microsomes of SD rats has been conducted and evaluated by probe drugs. The predominant in vitro metabolite of CGP7930 was identified and elucidated using liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (LC/ESI-QTOF-MS/MS). Its structure was determined by comparing the characteristic ions of CGP7930 and those of the metabolite, based on the accurate mass measurement by MS and the fragmentation pattern obtained by MS/MS.

RESULTS

We found that the main metabolic pathway of CGP7930 was via a monohydroxylation reaction and the hydroxylation site located at the terminal butyl-carbon. The collision-induced dissociation (CID) fragmentation of the hydroxylated metabolite underwent McLafferty rearrangement and α-cleavage.

CONCLUSIONS

This work provides an understanding of the in vitro metabolism of CGP7930, which is helpful for the further study of the development of potential drug candidates targeting GABAB receptors, for the treatment of depression. The work also demonstrates that the LC/ESI-QTOF-MS/MS method has the advantage of possibly determining the structures of drug metabolites without the use of standards.

Advances in Our Understanding of Oxylipins Derived from Dietary PUFAs

Oxylipins formed from polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are the main mediators of PUFA effects in the body. They are formed via cyclooxygenase, lipoxygenase, and cytochrome P450 pathways, resulting in the formation of prostaglandins, thromboxanes, mono-, di-, and tri-hydroxy fatty acids (FAs), epoxy FAs, lipoxins, eoxins, hepoxilins, resolvins, protectins (also called neuroprotectins in the brain), and maresins. In addition to the well-known eicosanoids derived from arachidonic acid, recent developments in lipidomic methodologies have raised awareness of and interest in the large number of oxylipins formed from other PUFAs, including those from the essential FAs and the longer-chain n-3 (ω-3) PUFAs. Oxylipins have essential roles in normal physiology and function, but can also have detrimental effects. Compared with the oxylipins derived from n-3 PUFAs, oxylipins from n-6 PUFAs generally have greater activity and more inflammatory, vasoconstrictory, and proliferative effects, although there are notable exceptions. Because PUFA composition does not necessarily reflect oxylipin composition, comprehensive analysis of the oxylipin profile is necessary to understand the overall physiologic effects of PUFAs mediated through their oxylipins. These analyses should include oxylipins derived from linoleic and α-linolenic acids, because these largely unexplored bioactive oxylipins constitute more than one-half of oxylipins present in tissues. Because collated information on oxylipins formed from different PUFAs is currently unavailable, this review provides a detailed compilation of the main oxylipins formed from PUFAs and describes their functions. Much remains to be elucidated in this emerging field, including the discovery of more oxylipins, and the understanding of the differing biological potencies, kinetics, and isomer-specific activities of these novel PUFA metabolites.

Eicosanoids in metabolic syndrome

Chronic persistent inflammation plays a significant role in disease pathology of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome (MetS). MetS is a constellation of diseases that include obesity, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and hypercholesterolemia. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with many of the MetS diseases. These metabolic derangements trigger a persistent inflammatory cascade, which includes production of lipid autacoids (eicosanoids) that recruit immune cells to the site of injury and subsequent expression of cytokines and chemokines that amplify the inflammatory response. In acute inflammation, the transcellular synthesis of antiinflammatory eicosanoids resolve inflammation, while persistent activation of the autacoid-cytokine-chemokine cascade in metabolic disease leads to chronic inflammation and accompanying tissue pathology. Many drugs targeting the eicosanoid pathways have been shown to be effective in the treatment of MetS, suggesting a common linkage between inflammation, MetS and drug metabolism. The cross-talk between inflammation and MetS seems apparent because of the growing evidence linking immune cell activation and metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertriglyceridemia. Thus modulation of lipid metabolism through either dietary adjustment or selective drugs may become a new paradigm in the treatment of metabolic disorders. This review focuses on the mechanisms linking eicosanoid metabolism to persistent inflammation and altered lipid and carbohydrate metabolism in MetS.

Role of cytochrome P450 enzymes in the bioactivation of polyunsaturated fatty acids

Cytochrome P450 (CYP)-dependent metabolites of arachidonic acid (AA), such as epoxyeicosatrienoic acids and 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid, serve as second messengers of various hormones and growth factors and play pivotal roles in the regulation of vascular, renal and cardiac function. As discussed in the present review, virtually all of the major AA metabolizing CYP isoforms accept a variety of other polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), including linoleic, eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acids (DHA), as efficient alternative substrates. The metabolites of these alternative PUFAs also elicit profound biological effects. The CYP enzymes respond to alterations in the chain-length and double bond structure of their substrates with remarkable changes in the regio- and stereoselectivity of product formation. The omega-3 double bond that distinguishes EPA and DHA from their omega-6 counterparts provides a preferred epoxidation site for CYP1A, CYP2C, CYP2J and CYP2E subfamily members. CYP4A enzymes that predominantly function as AA ω-hydroxylases show largely increased (ω-1)-hydroxylase activities towards EPA and DHA. Taken together, these findings indicate that CYP-dependent signaling pathways are highly susceptible to changes in the relative bioavailability of the different PUFAs and may provide novel insight into the complex mechanisms that link essential dietary fatty acids to the development of cardiovascular disease.

Evidence for oxylipin synthesis and induction of a new polyunsaturated fatty acid hydroxylase activity in Chondrus crispus in response to methyljasmonate

Signaling cascades involving oxygenated derivatives (oxylipins) of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are known to operate in response to external stimuli. The marine red alga Chondrus crispus uses both oxygenated derivatives of C18 (octadecanoids) and C20 (eicosanoids) PUFAs as developmental or defense hormones. The present study demonstrates that methyljasmonate (MeJA) triggers a cascade of oxidation of PUFAs leading to the synthesis of prostaglandins and other oxygenated fatty acids. As a result of a lipoxygenase-like activation, MeJA induces a concomitant accumulation of 13-hydroxy-9Z,11E-octadecadienoic acid (13-HODE) and 13-oxo-9Z,11E-octadecadienoic acid (13-oxo-ODE) in a dose-dependent manner in C. crispus. Furthermore, MeJA increases the level of mRNA encoding a gluthatione S-transferase and induces the activity of a new enzyme catalyzing the regio- and stereoselective bisallylic hydroxylation of polyunsaturated fatty acids from C(18) to C(22). The enzyme selectively oxidized the omega minus 7 carbon position (omega-7) and generated the stereoselective (R)-hydroxylated metabolites with a large enantiomeric excess. The enzyme specificity for the fatty acid recognition was not dependent of the position of double bonds but at least requires a methylene interrupted double bond 1,4-pentadiene motif involving the omega-7 carbon.

Cytochrome P450/NADPH-dependent biosynthesis of 5,6-trans-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid from 5,6-trans-arachidonic acid

5,6-trans-AA (5,6-TAA, where TAA stands for trans-arachidonic acid) is a recently identified trans fatty acid that originates from the cis-trans isomerization of AA initiated by the NO2 radical. This trans fatty acid has been detected in blood circulation and we suggested that it functions as a lipid mediator of the toxic effects of NO2. To understand its role as a lipid mediator, we studied the metabolism of 5,6-TAA by liver microsomes stimulated with NADPH. Profiling of metabolites by liquid chromatography/MS revealed a complex mixture of oxidized products among which were four epoxides, their respective hydrolysis products (dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acids), and several HETEs (hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids) resulting from allylic, bis-allylic and (omega-1)/(omega-2) hydroxylations. We found that the C5-C6 trans bond competed with the three cis bonds for oxidative metabolism mediated by CYP (cytochrome P450) epoxygenase and hydroxylase. This was evidenced by the detection of 5,6-trans-EET (where EET stands for epoxyeicosatrienoic acid), 5,6-erythro-dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acid and an isomer of 5-HETE. A standard of 5,6-trans-EET obtained by iodolactonization of 5,6-TAA was used for the unequivocal identification of the unique microsomal epoxide in which the oxirane ring was of trans configuration. Additional lipid products originated from the metabolism involving the cis bonds and thus these metabolites had the trans C5-C6 bond. The 5,6-trans-isomers of 18- and 19-HETE were likely to be products of the CYP2E1, because a neutralizing antibody partially inhibited their formation without having an effect on the formation of the epoxides. Our study revealed a novel pathway of microsomal oxidative metabolism of a trans fatty acid in which both cis and trans bonds participated. Of particular significance is the detection of the trans-epoxide of AA, which may be involved in the metabolic activation of such trans fatty acids and probably contribute to their biological activity. Unlike its cis-isomer, 5,6-trans-EET was significantly more stable and resisted microsomal hydrolysis and conjugation with glutathione catalysed by hepatic glutathione S-transferase.

Linoleic acid epoxide promotes the maintenance of mitochondrial function and active Na+ transport following hypoxia

Low concentrations of arachidonic acid monoepoxides protect against ischemia/reperfusion injury. This study examined whether low concentrations of the linoleic acid monoepoxide, cis-12,13-epoxy-9-octadecenoic acid (12,13-EOA), protect renal cells against decreases in mitochondrial and transport functions induced by hypoxia/reoxygenation. Primary cultures of rabbit renal proximal tubular cells (RPTC) were pretreated with diluent or 1, 5, or 10 microM 12,13-EOA for 1 h and exposed to 2 h hypoxia/0.5 h reoxygenation in the absence of 12,13-EOA. Basal respiration, oligomycin-sensitive oxygen consumption (QO2), and ATP content decreased 31, 35 and 65%, respectively, following hypoxia/reoxygenation. Hypoxia/reoxygenation also increased mitochondrial membrane potential (DeltaPsi(m)). Pretreatment with 12,13-EOA prevented decreases in basal and oligomycin-sensitive QO2s and increases in DeltaPsi(m). Despite the protection against decreases in mitochondrial function, 12,13-EOA pretreatment did not prevent the initial decrease in intracellular ATP content following hypoxia. However, pretreatment did accelerate the recovery of intracellular ATP levels during reoxygenation. Pretreatment with 12,13-EOA also prevented hypoxia-induced decreases in active Na+ transport. Ouabain-sensitive QO2 (a marker of active Na+ transport) decreased 38% following hypoxia/reoxygenation but was maintained in RPTC pretreated with 1, 5 or 10 microM 12,13-EOA prior to hypoxia. Pretreatment of RPTC with the hydrolyzed product of 12,13-EOA, 12,13-dihydroxyoctadecenoic acid, did not have any protective effects against mitochondrial dysfunction and decreases in active Na+ transport. Thus, this is the first report demonstrating that preconditioning of RPTC with low concentrations of 12,13-EOA, but not its hydrolyzed product, maintains mitochondrial respiration, accelerates restoration of ATP levels, and prevents decreases in active Na+ transport following hypoxia/reoxygenation.

Involvement of CYP 2C9 in Mediating the Proinflammatory Effects of Linoleic Acid in Vascular Endothelial Cells

OBJECTIVE

Polyunsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic acid are well known dietary lipids that may be atherogenic by activating vascular endothelial cells. In the liver, fatty acids can be metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes, but little is known about the role of these enzymes in the vascular endothelium. CYP 2C9 is involved in linoleic acid epoxygenation, and the major product of this reaction is leukotoxin (LTX). We investigated the role of CYP-mediated mechanisms of linoleic acid metabolism in endothelial cell activation by examining the effects of linoleic acid or its oxidized metabolites such as LTX and leukotoxin diol (LTD).

METHODS

The effect of linoleic acid on CYP 2C9 gene expression was studied by RT-PCR. Oxidative stress was monitored by measuring DCF fluorescence and intracellular glutathione levels, and electrophoretic mobility shift assay was carried out to study the activation of oxidative stress sensitive transcription factors. Analysis of oxidized lipids was carried out by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

Linoleic acid treatment for six hours increased the expression of CYP 2C9 in endothelial cells. Linoleic acid-mediated increase in oxidative stress and activation of AP-1 were blocked by sulfaphenazole, a specific inhibitor of CYP 2C9. The linoleic acid metabolites LTX and LTD increased oxidative stress and activation of transcription factors only at high concentrations.

CONCLUSION

Our data show that CYP 2C9 plays a key role in linoleic acid-induced oxidative stress and subsequent proinflammatory events in vascular endothelial cells by possibly causing superoxide generation through uncoupling processes.

Linoleic acid metabolites act to increase contractility in isolated rat heart

Previous in vivo studies in dogs suggest that the 9,10-monoepoxide of linoleic acid (9,10-cis-epoxyoctadecenoic acid [9,10-EOA]) has toxic cardiovascular effects that result in death at higher doses. More recent work with rabbit renal proximal tubule cells suggests that the 12,13-metabolites of linoleic acid are more toxic than the 9,10-isomers. Thus, in the current study, we tested the hypothesis that 12,13-EOA and 12,13-dihydroxyoctadecadienoic acid (12,13-DHOA) have direct adverse effects on the heart. Langendorff-perfused rat hearts were exposed to 30 microM linoleic acid, 30 microM 12,13-EOA, or 30 microM 12,13-DHOA for 60 min followed by a 30-min recovery period. As indicated by peak left intraventricular pressure and/or +dP/dt(max), all three of the agents elicited moderate increases in contractile function that peaked within 10 20 min. The effects of linoleic acid and 12,13-EOA returned to control values during the remainder of the 60-min exposure, whereas the positive inotropic response to 12,13-DHOA was maintained until washout. Sustained arrhythmias and negative inotropic actions were not observed with any of the three compounds. Subsequently, the monoepoxides were infused into conscious rats (35 mg/kg/h) while blood pressure, heart rate, and EKG were monitored for 24 h using biotelemetry techniques. The only effect observed was a slight decline in blood pressure. Thus, current data suggest that linoleic acid and its oxidative metabolites do not have direct cardiotoxic effects during acute exposure.

Free radicals and lipid signaling in endothelial cells

Lipid mediators generated by oxidative pathways play essential roles in vascular homeostasis and disease through activating signal transduction pathways that control a variety of cellular functions, including vascular tone, gene expression, and leukocyte and platelet activation. Several enzyme families generate oxidized lipids, and a number of these are either constitutively expressed or inducible in the endothelium, including prostaglandin H synthases, lipoxygenases, and cytochrome P450 isoforms. Mediators generated by these enzymes are predominantly arachidonate-derived and include lipid hydroxides, epoxides, hydroperoxides, and prostanoids. These enzymes may also generate low levels of lipid-derived radicals in the vasculature following escape of substrate radicals from the active site. Lipid oxidation enzymes are often up-regulated in atherosclerosis and hypertension, with several lines of evidence suggesting that they play a central role in the pathogenesis of the disease process itself. This review will describe the isoforms of lipid oxidation enzymes present in endothelial cells focusing on their physiological functions and proposed roles in initiation and progression of vascular disease.

Analysis of the toxic effects of linoleic acid, 12,13-cis-epoxyoctadecenoic acid, and 12,13-dihydroxyoctadecenoic acid in rabbit renal cortical mitochondria

P450 epoxidation of linoleic acid has been associated with many pathological conditions that often lead to acute renal failure. However, there is only suggestive evidence that linoleic acid monoepoxides and/or linoleic diols directly induce mitochondrial dysfunction. Using isolated rabbit renal cortical mitochondria (RCM), we found that linoleic acid (50 microM) and the linoleic acid monoepoxide, cis-12,13-epoxy-9-octadecenoic acid (12,13-EOA, 50 microM) increased state 4 and oligomycin-insensitive respiration and reduced state 3 and oligomycin-sensitive respiration. Concomitant with these effects, linoleic acid and 12,13-EOA decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (DeltaPsi). In contrast, the hydrolyzed product of 12,13-EOA, 12,13-dihydroxyoctadecenoic acid (12,13-DHOA, 50 microM), had no effect on state 3, state 4, oligomycin-sensitive, and oligomycin-insensitive respiration, and DeltaPsi. Neither linoleic acid or its metabolites altered uncoupled respiration, which suggests that these compounds have no affect on electron transport chain in RCM. Nucleotides such as ATP (0.5 mM) and GDP (0.5 mM) partially prevented the decrease in DeltaPsi but did not attenuate the increase in oligomycin-insensitive respiration after exposure to linoleic acid (50 microM) and 12,13-EOA (50 microM). These results demonstrate that linoleic acid metabolism to the 12,13-DHOA is a detoxification pathway that prevents mitochondrial dysfunction in RCM. The increase in state 4 respiration concomitant with decreases in state 3 respiration and DeltaPsi suggest that, in addition to uncoupling effects, linoleic acid and 12,13-EOA may have other effects, such as alterations of mitochondrial membranes. The inability of ATP and GDP to fully attenuate the uncoupling effects of linoleic acid and 12,13-EOA suggests that these effects are mediated through a nucleotide-independent mechanism.

Interactions between nitric oxide and lipid oxidation pathways: implications for vascular disease

Nitric oxide ((.)NO) signaling pathways and lipid oxidation reactions are of central importance in both the maintenance of vascular homeostasis and the progression of vascular disease. Because both of these pathways involve free radical species that can also react together at extremely fast rates, convergent interactions between these pathways are expected. Biochemical and cell biology studies have defined multiple interactions of (.)NO with oxidizing lipids that could lead to either vascular protection or potentiation of inflammatory vascular injury. For example, low levels of (.)NO generated by endothelial nitric oxide synthase can terminate propagating lipid radicals and inhibit lipoxygenases, reactions that would be protective. Alternatively, if generated at elevated levels, for example, after inducible nitric oxide synthase expression in inflammation, (.)NO can be converted to prooxidant species, such as peroxynitrite (ONOO(-)) and nitrogen dioxide ((.)NO(2)), that can potentiate inflammatory injury to vascular cells. Finally, both enzymatic and nonenzymatic lipid oxidation reactions can influence (.)NO bioactivity by directly scavenging (.)NO or altering the induction and catalytic activity of nitric oxide synthase enzymes. In this review, we summarize the biochemical interactions between (.)NO and lipid oxidation reactions and discuss the recognized and potential roles of these reactions in the vasculature.

Analysis of the cytotoxic properties of linoleic acid metabolites produced by renal and hepatic P450s

Cytochrome P450 epoxidation of linoleic acid produces biologically active metabolites which have been associated with many pathological conditions that often lead to acute renal failure. In the present study, we evaluated the ability of specific cytochrome P450s to produce linoleic acid monoepoxides. We then tested the cytotoxic properties of linoleic acid, linoleic acid monoepoxides, and corresponding diols in a rabbit renal proximal tubule model. CYP1A2, CYP2E1, CYP2J2, CYP2J3, CYP2J5, and CYP2J9 metabolized linoleic acid at rates comparable to arachidonic acid and produced linoleic acid monoepoxides as major products. Cytotoxicity studies showed that linoleic acid, linoleic acid monoepoxides, and corresponding diols are toxic at pathologically relevant concentrations (100-500 microM). Concentration-dependent studies showed that linoleic acid and linoleic acid monoepoxides are the most toxic and induce mitochondrial dysfunction prior to cell death. Cytoprotectants known to block cell death associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress did not prevent cell death induced by linoleic acid and linoleic acid monoepoxides. This study shows that P450s in the CYP1 and CYP2 gene families metabolize linoleic acid to linoleic acid monoepoxides and that the monoepoxides, as well as linoleic acid, disrupt mitochondrial function without causing oxidative stress.

16(R)-hydroxy-5,8,11,14-eicosatetraenoic acid, a new arachidonate metabolite in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes

Intact human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) incubated with substimulatory amounts of arachidonic acid in the absence of a calcium ionophore formed four metabolites that were isolated by reverse-phase HPLC and characterized structurally by GC/MS. A major metabolite eluting as the most abundant peak of radioactivity lacked UV chromophores above 215 nm, and its formation was sensitive to 2-diethylaminoethyl-2,2-diphenylvalerate hydrochloride (SKF525A) but not 3-amino-1-[m(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-2-pyrazoline (BW755C), suggesting that it was likely to be a product of cytochrome P450. The GC/MS analysis revealed the presence of two components: 20-hydroxy-5,8,11,14-eicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) and 16-hydroxy-5,8,11,14-eicosatetraenoic acid (16-HETE) in an approximate ratio of 4:1. The minor metabolites were identified as 15-HETE and 5-HETE. Although 20-HETE has been observed previously as a product of arachidonic acid metabolism in PMNL, the occurrence of 16-HETE was a novel finding. The stereochemistry of the hydroxyl group in PMNL-derived 16-HETE was established by analysis of 1-pentafluorobenzyl-16-naphthoyl derivatives on a chiral-phase chromatographic column and comparison with authentic synthetic stereoisomers. The PMNL-derived radioactive metabolite co-eluted with the synthetic 16(R)-HETE stereoisomer. Analysis of the total lipid extracts from intact PMNL followed by mild alkaline hydrolysis resulted in detectable amounts of 16-HETE (108+/-26 pg/10(8) cells) and 20-HETE (341+/-69 pg/10(8) cells), which suggested that these HETEs were formed from endogenous arachidonic acid and esterified within PMNL lipids. Thus, in contrast to calcium ionophore-stimulated neutrophils that generate large amounts of 5-lipoxygenase products, the intact PMNL generate 20-HETE and 16(R)-HETE via a cytochrome P450 omega- and omega-4 oxygenase(s).

Epoxide hydrolases regulate epoxyeicosatrienoic acid incorporation into coronary endothelial phospholipids

Cytochrome P-450-derived epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) are avidly incorporated into and released from endothelial phospholipids, a process that results in potentiation of endothelium-dependent relaxation. EETs are also rapidly converted by epoxide hydrolases to dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acid (DHETs), which are incorporated into phospholipids to a lesser extent than EETs. We hypothesized that epoxide hydrolases functionally regulate EET incorporation into endothelial phospholipids. Porcine coronary artery endothelial cells were treated with an epoxide hydrolase inhibitor, 4-phenylchalcone oxide (4-PCO, 20 micromol/l), before being incubated with (3)H-labeled 14,15-EET (14,15-[(3)H]EET). 4-PCO blocked conversion of 14,15-[(3)H]EET to 14,15-[(3)H]DHET and doubled the amount of radiolabeled products incorporated into cell lipids, with >80% contained in phospholipids. Moreover, pretreatment with 4-PCO before incubation with 14,15-[(3)H]EET enhanced A-23187-induced release of radiolabeled products into the medium. In contrast, 4-PCO did not alter uptake, distribution, or release of [(3)H]arachidonic acid. In porcine coronary arteries, 4-PCO augmented 14,15-EET-induced potentiation of endothelium-dependent relaxation to bradykinin. These data suggest that epoxide hydrolases may play a role in regulating EET incorporation into phospholipids, thereby modulating endothelial function in the coronary vasculature.

Analysis of cytochrome P450 metabolites of arachidonic and linoleic acids by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry with ion trap MS

We have used reversed phase-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (RP-HPLC-MS) with an ion trap mass spectrometer to study the metabolism of arachidonic and linoleic acids by human recombinant cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes. We first recorded the MS2 spectra of the carboxylate anions of epoxides, diols, omega-side chain, and bisallylic hydroxy fatty acids of arachidonic, octadeuterated arachidonic, and linoleic acids. The metabolites formed by CYP2C9 and CYP2C19 were then studied. CYP2C9 converted arachidonic and linoleic acids to epoxides/diols and monohydroxy fatty acids. Some hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids (HETEs) were studied in detail to investigate the oxygenation mechanism. Incubation of CYP2C9 under oxygen-18 gas showed that all HETEs had incorporated oxygen-18 to the same degree. Chiral HPLC showed that CYP2C9 formed 15R-HETE (72% of the R enantiomer), 13S-HETE (90%), and 11R-HETE (57%). RP-HPLC-MS analysis revealed that CYP2C19 oxygenated arachidonic acid to 19-HETE, 14,15-epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (EET), and 8,9-EET as main metabolites. The method was sufficiently sensitive to identify arachidonic acid metabolites formed by some other isozymes. RP-HPLC-MS with MS2 seems to be useful for rapid identification of fatty acid metabolites in complex mixtures formed by cytochrome P450.

Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids and dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acids are potent vasodilators in the canine coronary microcirculation

Cytochrome P450 epoxygenases convert arachidonic acid into 4 epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (EET) regioisomers, which were recently identified as endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factors in coronary blood vessels. Both EETs and their dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acid (DHET) metabolites have been shown to relax conduit coronary arteries at micromolar concentrations, whereas the plasma concentrations of EETs are in the nanomolar range. However, the effects of EETs and DHETs on coronary resistance arterioles have not been examined. We administered EETs and DHETs to isolated canine coronary arterioles (diameter, 90.0+/-3.4 microm; distending pressure, 20 mm Hg) preconstricted by 30% to 60% of the resting diameter with endothelin. All 4 EET regioisomers produced potent, concentration-dependent vasodilation (EC50 values ranging from -12.7 to -10.1 log [M]) and were approximately 1000 times more potent than reported in conduit coronary arteries. The vasodilation produced by 14,15-EET was not attenuated by removal of the endothelium and indicated a direct action of 14,15-EET on microvascular smooth muscle. Likewise, 14,15-DHET, 11,12-DHET, 8,9-DHET, and the delta-lactone of 5,6-EET produced extremely potent vasodilation (EC50 values ranging from -15.8 to -13.1 log [M]). The vasodilation produced by these eicosanoids was highly potent in comparison to that produced by other vasodilators, including arachidonic acid (EC50=-7.5 log [M]). The epoxide hydrolase inhibitor, 4-phenylchalone oxide, which blocked the conversion of [3H]14,15-EET to [3H]14,15-DHET by canine coronary arteries, did not alter arteriolar dilation to 11,12-EET; thus, the potent vasodilation induced by EETs does not require formation of DHETs. In contrast, charybdotoxin (a KCa channel inhibitor) and KCl (a depolarizing agent) blocked vasodilation by 11,12-EET and 11,12-DHET. We conclude that EETs and DHETs potently dilate canine coronary arterioles via activation of KCa channels. The preferential ability of these compounds to dilate resistance blood vessels suggests that they may be important regulators of coronary circulation.

Pathophysiology of nitric oxide and related species: free radical reactions and modification of biomolecules

Since its initial discovery as an endogenously produced bioactive mediator, nitric oxide (.NO) has been found to play a critical role in the cellular function of nearly all organ systems. Furthermore, aberrant production of .NO or reactive nitrogen species (RNS) derived from .NO, has been implicated in a number of pathological conditions, such as acute lung disease, atherosclerosis and septic shock. While .NO itself is fairly non-toxic, secondary RNS are oxidants and nitrating agents that can modify both the structure and function of numerous biomolecules both in vitro, and in vivo. The mechanisms by which RNS mediate toxicity are largely dictated by its unique reactivity. The study of how reactive nitrogen species (RNS) derived from .NO interact with biomolecules such as proteins, carbohydrates and lipids, to modify both their structure and function is an area of active research, which is lending major new insights into the mechanisms underlying their pathophysiological role in human disease. In the context of .NO-dependent pathophysiology, these biochemical reactions will play a major role since they: (i) lead to removal of .NO and decreased efficiency of .NO as an endothelial-derived relaxation factor (e.g. in hypertension, atherosclerosis) and (ii) lead to production of other intermediate species and covalently modified biomolecules that cause injury and cellular dysfunction during inflammation. Although the physical and chemical properties of .NO and .NO-derived RNS are well characterised, extrapolating this fundamental knowledge to a complicated biological environment is a current challenge for researchers in the field of .NO and free radical research. In this review, we describe the impact of .NO and .NO-derived RNS on biological processes primarily from a biochemical standpoint. In this way, it is our intention to outline the most pertinent and relevant reactions of RNS, as they apply to a diverse array of pathophysiological states. Since reactions of RNS in vivo are likely to be vast and complex, our aim in this review is threefold: (i) address the major sources and reactions of .NO-derived RNS in biological systems, (ii) describe current knowledge regarding the functional consequences underlying .NO-dependent covalent modification of specific biomolecules, and (iii) to summarise and critically evaluate the available evidence implicating these reactions in human pathology. To this end, three areas of special interest have been chosen for detailed description, namely, formation and role of S-nitrosothiols, modulation of lipid oxidation/nitration by RNS, and tyrosine nitration mechanisms and consequences.

Liver microsomes from the yellow rat snake (Elaphe obsoleta) and American bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) oxidize polyunsaturated fatty acids by NADPH-dependent hydroxylation and epoxidation

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) can be oxygenated by mammalian hepatic P450s to a series of metabolites. The most prominent of these are formed by omega- and (omega-1)-hydroxylation, epoxidation of the double bonds or bisallylic hydroxylation. The object of the present investigation was to determine whether similar oxygenations are catalyzed by liver microsomes of the yellow rat snake (Elaphe obsoleta) and the American bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana). Liver microsomes were incubated with [1-14C]-labeled arachidonic (AA), eicosapentaenoic (EPA), and linoleic acids (LA) in the presence or absence of 1 mM NADPH, and the major metabolites were analyzed by reverse-phase and straight-phase high performance liquid chromatography and capillary gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy. No metabolites were produced in the absence of NADPH. Profiles of metabolites were different depending on the organism and the acclimation state. In all incubations, EPA was the most effective substrate utilized and LA the least effective. The major products from EPA were 19-HEPE, 13-HEPE, and 20-HEPE from cold-acclimated (5 degrees C), warm-acclimated (22 degrees C) frogs, and snakes (22 degrees C), respectively. In contrast, 20-HETE production from AA was greater than 19-HETE in all three. Cold-acclimated frog liver microsomes produced significantly more of all metabolites when compared with microsomes from warm-acclimated frogs. We conclude that amphibian and snake liver can catalyze epoxidation and hydroxylation of PUFAs and that products are species-specific and acclimation-state dependent.

Potentiation of endothelium-dependent relaxation by epoxyeicosatrienoic acids

Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) are potent endothelium-derived vasodilators formed from cytochrome P-450 metabolism of arachidonic acid. EETs and their diol products (DHETs) are also avidly taken up by endothelial cells and incorporated into phospholipids that participate in signal transduction. To investigate the possible functional significance of EET and DHET incorporation into cell lipids, we examined the capacity of EETs and DHETs to relax porcine coronary arterial rings and determined responses to bradykinin (which potently activates endothelial phospholipases) before and after incubating the rings with these eicosanoids. 14,15-EET and 11,12-EET (5 mumol/L) produced 75 +/- 9% and 52 +/- 4% relaxation, respectively, of U46619-contracted rings, whereas 8,9-EET and 5,6-EET did not produce significant relaxation. The corresponding DHET regioisomers produced comparable relaxation responses. Preincubation with 14,15-EET, 11,12-EET, 14,15-DHET, and 11,12-DHET augmented the magnitude and duration of bradykinin-induced relaxation, whereas endothelium-independent relaxations to aprikalim and sodium nitroprusside were not potentiated. Pretreatment with 2 mumol/L triacsin C (an inhibitor of acyl coenzyme A synthases) inhibited [3H]14,15-EET incorporation into endothelial phospholipids and blocked 11,12-EET- and 14,15-DHET-induced potentiation of relaxation to bradykinin. Exposure of [3H]14,15-EET-labeled endothelial cells to the Ca2+ ionophore A23187 (2 mumol/L) resulted in a 4-fold increased release of EET and DHET into the medium. We conclude that incorporation of EETs and DHETs into cell lipids results in potentiation of bradykinin-induced relaxation in porcine coronary arteries, providing the first evidence that incorporated EETs and DHETs are capable of modulating vascular function.