Bioactivation of xenobiotics by prostaglandin H synthase

Comparative toxicity of selected PAHs in rainbow trout hepatocytes: genotoxicity, oxidative stress and cytotoxicity

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are ubiquitous contaminants in aquatic ecosystems, which may have potentially toxic effects on organisms. In this study occurrence of DNA strand breaks, oxidative stress, and cytotoxicity were investigated in rainbow trout hepatocytes following in vitro exposure for 24 h to four PAHs (0.01-10 µM): naphthalene, fluoranthene, pyrene, and benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P). The exposed hepatocytes were analyzed for DNA strand breaks using the comet assay and for antioxidant status by measuring intracellular glutathione (GSH) content using the fluorescent probe mBCl. The cytotoxicity of PAHs was assessed using the fluorescent probe CFDA-AM. The results showed that fluoranthene, pyrene, and B[a]P were genotoxic at all exposure concentrations, whereas naphthalene was genotoxic at concentrations ≥0.1 µM. All treatments reduced the intracellular concentrations of GSH for all four PAHs, except 10 µM of B[a]P, suggesting that some level of oxidative stress was present. The cytotoxic effect was observed for naphthalene at concentrations ≥0.1 µM and pyrene at all exposure concentrations, whereas fluoranthene and B[a]P were not cytotoxic at the tested concentrations. The study shows that low-molecular-weight PAHs may cause DNA strand breaks as high-molecular-weight PAHs do in fish tissue. In addition, two- to five-ring PAHs can induce oxidative stress and cytotoxicity.

The cyclooxygenase site, but not the peroxidase site of cyclooxygenase-2 is required for neurotoxicity in hypoxic and ischemic injury

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) activity has been implicated in the pathogenesis of ischemic injury, but the exact mechanisms responsible for its toxicity remain unclear. Infection of primary neurons with an adenovirus expressing wild type (WT) COX-2 increased the susceptibility of neurons to hypoxia. Infection with an adenoviral vector expressing COX-2 with a mutation at the cyclooxygenase site did not increase susceptibility to hypoxia, whereas over-expression of COX-2 with a mutation in the peroxidase site produced similar susceptibility to hypoxia as WT COX-2. Primary neuronal cultures obtained from transgenic mice bearing a mutation in the COX-2 cylooxygenase site were protected from hypoxia. Mice with a mutation in the cyclooxygenase site had smaller infarctions 24 h after 70 min of middle cerebral artery occlusion than WT control mice. COX-2 activity had no effect on the formation of protein carbonyls. Ascorbate radicals were detected by electron paramagnetic resonance as a product of recombinant COX-2 activity and were blocked by COX-2 inhibitors. Similarly, formation of ascorbate radicals was inhibited in the presence of COX-2 inhibitors and in homogenates obtained from COX-2 null mice. Taken together, these results indicate that the cyclooxygenase activity of COX-2 is necessary to exacerbate neuronal hypoxia/ischemia injury rather than the peroxidase activity of the enzyme.

The role of biotransformation and bioactivation in toxicity

Biotransformation is essential to convert lipophilic chemicals to water-soluble and readily excretable metabolites. Formally, biotransformation reactions are classified into phase I and phase II reactions. Phase I reactions represent the introduction of functional groups, whereas phase II reactions are conjugations of such functional groups with endogenous, polar products. Biotransformation also plays an essential role in the toxicity of many chemicals due to the metabolic formation of toxic metabolites. These may be classified as stable but toxic products, reactive electrophiles, radicals, and reactive oxygen metabolites. The interaction of toxic products formed by biotransformation reactions with cellular macromolecules initiates the sequences resulting in cellular damage, cell death and toxicity.

4-Aminobiphenyl and DNA Reactivity: Case Study Within the Context of the 2006 IPCS Human Relevance Framework for Analysis of a Cancer Mode of Action for Humans

The IPCS Human Relevance Framework was evaluated for a DNA-reactive (genotoxic) carcinogen, 4-aminobiphenyl, based on a wealth of data in animals and humans. The mode of action involves metabolic activation by N-hydroxylation, followed by N-esterification leading to the formation of a reactive electrophile, which binds covalently to DNA, principally to deoxyguanosine, leading to an increased rate of DNA mutations and ultimately to the development of cancer. In humans and dogs, the urinary bladder urothelium is the target organ, whereas in mice it is the bladder and liver; in other species, other tissues can be involved. Differences in organ specificity are thought to be due to differences in metabolic activation versus inactivation. Based on qualitative and quantitative considerations, the mode of action is possible in humans. Other biological processes, such as toxicity and regenerative proliferation, can significantly influence the dose response of 4-aminobiphenyl-induced tumors. Based on the IPCS Human Relevance Framework, 4-aminobiphenyl would be predicted to be a carcinogen in humans, and this is corroborated by extensive epidemiologic evidence. The IPCA Human Relevance Framework is useful in evaluating DNA-reactive carcinogens.

The platelet as a therapeutic target for treating vascular diseases and the role of eicosanoid and synthetic PPARgamma ligands

The platelet was traditionally thought only to serve as the instigator of thrombus formation, but now is emerging as a pivotal player in cardiovascular disease and diabetes by inciting and maintaining inflammation. Upon activation, platelets synthesize eicosanoids such as thromboxane A2 (TXA2) and PGE2 and release pro-inflammatory mediators including CD40 ligand (CD40L). These mediators activate not only platelets, but also stimulate vascular endothelial cells and leukocytes. These autocrine and paracrine activation processes make platelets an important target for attenuating inflammation. The growing interest and recent discoveries in platelet biology has lead to the search for therapeutic platelet targets. Recently, platelets, although anucleate, were discovered to possess the transcription factor PPARgamma. Treatment with eicosanoid and synthetic PPARgamma ligands blunts platelet release of the bioactive mediators, soluble (s) CD40L and TXA2, in thrombin-activated platelets. PPARgamma ligand treatment may prove useful for dampening unwanted platelet activation and chronic inflammatory diseases such as cardiovascular disease.

A novel genetic model of selective COX-2 inhibition: comparison with COX-2 null mice

Prostaglandin H Synthase (PGHS) is a bi-functional enzyme with a cyclooxygenase (COX) activity and a functionally linked peroxidase (POX) activity that exists in two isoforms (COX-1, COX-2). Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including the selective COX-2 inhibitors, block COX activity while leaving POX activity unscathed. Recently, some selective COX-2 inhibitors were withdrawn from the market due to elevated cardiovascular risk in placebo-controlled trials. Mice deficient for PGHS2 were developed in 1995 and through numerous subsequent studies have revealed significant roles in renal development, ductus arteriosus patency/closure, skin carcinogenesis and cardiovascular function. In this short review, we compare a novel genetic COX-2 selective inhibition mouse model with the originally described COX-2 null mice in these different physiological functions.

IN VITRO METABOLIC ACTIVATION OF THIABENDAZOLE VIA 5-HYDROXYTHIABENDAZOLE: IDENTIFICATION OF A GLUTATHIONE CONJUGATE OF 5-HYDROXYTHIABENDAZOLE

Thiabendazole (TBZ) is a broad-spectrum antihelmintic used for treatment of parasitic infections in animals and humans and as an agricultural fungicide for postharvest treatment of fruits and vegetables. It is teratogenic and nephrotoxic in mice, and cases of hepatotoxicity have been observed in humans. Recent reports have demonstrated a correlation between 5-hydroxythiabendazole (5-OHTBZ) formation, a major metabolite of TBZ, and covalent binding of [(14)C]TBZ to hepatocytes, suggesting another pathway of activation of TBZ. Current in vitro studies were undertaken to probe the bioactivation of TBZ via 5-OHTBZ by cytochrome P450 (P450) and peroxidases and identify the reactive species by trapping with reduced glutathione (GSH). Microsomal incubation of TBZ or 5-OHTBZ supplemented with NADPH and GSH afforded a GSH adduct of 5-OHTBZ and was consistent with a bioactivation pathway that involved a P450-catalyzed two-electron oxidation of 5-OHTBZ to a quinone imine. The same adduct was detected in GSH-fortified incubations of 5-OHTBZ with peroxidases. The identity of the GSH conjugate suggested that the same reactive intermediate was formed by both these enzyme systems. Characterization of the conjugate by mass spectrometry and NMR revealed the addition of GSH at the 4-position of 5-OHTBZ. In addition, the formation of a dimer of 5-OHTBZ was discernible in peroxidase-mediated incubations. These results were consistent with a one-electron oxidation of 5-OHTBZ to a radical species that could undergo disproportionation or an additional one-electron oxidation to form a quinone imine. Overall, these studies suggest that 5-OHTBZ can also play a role in TBZ-induced toxicity via its bioactivation by P450 and peroxidases.

Inhibition of chemically induced skin carcinogenesis by sulindac is independent of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-beta/delta (PPARbeta/delta)

Inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) is known to suppress skin carcinogenesis. It was further suggested that inhibition of COX2-derived prostaglandins by NSAIDs could reduce levels of putative endogenous ligands of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-beta (PPARbeta), and these ligands could potentiate tumorigenesis. However, it is currently unclear whether ligand activation of PPARbeta either inhibits or potentiates carcinogenesis. The present studies were designed to examine the mechanism of NSAID-mediated chemoprevention in skin, and, in particular, to determine the role of PPARbeta in this process. A two-stage skin carcinogenicity bioassay was performed using wild-type and PPARbeta-null mice that were fed either a control diet or one containing 0.32 g sulindac/kg diet. Significant inhibition of chemically induced skin carcinogenesis was observed in both wild-type and PPARbeta-null mice, and this was associated with a marked decrease in the concentration of skin prostaglandins including PGE(2) and PGI(2). Results from these studies demonstrate that inhibition of COX2 by dietary sulindac in mouse skin can effectively inhibit chemically induced skin carcinogenesis, and suggest that the mechanism underlying this chemopreventive effect is independent of PPARbeta. Additionally, results from these studies do not support the hypothesis that ligand activation of PPARbeta by COX-derived metabolites potentiates chemically induced skin carcinogenesis.

Drug bioactivation, covalent binding to target proteins and toxicity relevance

A number of therapeutic drugs with different structures and mechanisms of action have been reported to undergo metabolic activation by Phase I or Phase II drug-metabolizing enzymes. The bioactivation gives rise to reactive metabolites/intermediates, which readily confer covalent binding to various target proteins by nucleophilic substitution and/or Schiff's base mechanism. These drugs include analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen), antibacterial agents (e.g., sulfonamides and macrolide antibiotics), anticancer drugs (e.g., irinotecan), antiepileptic drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), anti-HIV agents (e.g., ritonavir), antipsychotics (e.g., clozapine), cardiovascular drugs (e.g., procainamide and hydralazine), immunosupressants (e.g., cyclosporine A), inhalational anesthetics (e.g., halothane), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDSs) (e.g., diclofenac), and steroids and their receptor modulators (e.g., estrogens and tamoxifen). Some herbal and dietary constituents are also bioactivated to reactive metabolites capable of binding covalently and inactivating cytochrome P450s (CYPs). A number of important target proteins of drugs have been identified by mass spectrometric techniques and proteomic approaches. The covalent binding and formation of drug-protein adducts are generally considered to be related to drug toxicity, and selective protein covalent binding by drug metabolites may lead to selective organ toxicity. However, the mechanisms involved in the protein adduct-induced toxicity are largely undefined, although it has been suggested that drug-protein adducts may cause toxicity either through impairing physiological functions of the modified proteins or through immune-mediated mechanisms. In addition, mechanism-based inhibition of CYPs may result in toxic drug-drug interactions. The clinical consequences of drug bioactivation and covalent binding to proteins are unpredictable, depending on many factors that are associated with the administered drugs and patients. Further studies using proteomic and genomic approaches with high throughput capacity are needed to identify the protein targets of reactive drug metabolites, and to elucidate the structure-activity relationships of drug's covalent binding to proteins and their clinical outcomes.

The peroxynitrite pathway in development: phenytoin and benzo[a]pyrene embryopathies in inducible nitric oxide synthase knockout mice

Nitric oxide generated by nitric oxide synthases (NOSs) can react with reactive oxygen species (ROS), forming peroxynitrite, which may contribute to the ROS-initiated macromolecular damage implicated in the embryopathic effects of both endogenous and drug-enhanced oxidative stress. Inducible NOS (iNOS) is nonconstitutive in most tissues, and its embryonic expression and developmental importance are unknown. Herein, during organogenesis (Gestational Days 9 and 10), wild-type B6129PF2 embryos in culture were highly susceptible to the ROS-initiating teratogens phenytoin and benzo[a]pyrene, whereas iNOS knockout embryos were substantially but not completely protected (p < .05), implicating iNOS in the embryopathic mechanism. However, in contrast to prostaglandin H synthase-catalyzed teratogen bioactivation and ROS formation, which occurs within the embryo, in vivo iNOS expression was limited to placental tissue. These results suggest that the diffusion of nitric oxide from placental progenitor tissue (ectoplacental cone) to embryonic target tissues contributes to the embryopathic effects of ROS-initiating teratogens in embryo culture, which may constitute a mechanism by which embryonic determinants of ROS-mediated teratogenesis can be modulated by maternal extra-embryonic processes.

Expression and activities of several drug-metabolizing enzymes in LLC-PK1 cells

LLC-PK1 cells are frequently used in toxicology research, but little information is available concerning the capacity of these cells to metabolize xenobiotics. We examined the expression and activities of cytochromes P450 (P450) 1A1/1A2 (CYP 1A1/1A2), 2E1 (CYP 2E1), flavin monooxygenase (FMO), 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) and prostaglandin H synthase (PHS)-associated cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1). We prepared S9 fractions from LLC-PK1 cells, rat liver, and rat kidney, and measured enzyme activities using ethoxyresorufin O-deethylation (EROD) for CYP 1A1/1A2 and ethoxycoumarin O-deethylation (ECOD) for CYP 2E1, benzydamine N-oxidation (BNO) for FMO, leukotriene B(4) (LTB(4)) formation for 5-LO, and thromboxane B(2) (TXB(2)) formation for COX-1 activities. To assure that product formation was due to enzymatic activity, we used the following inhibitors: 1-aminobenzotriazole (ABT) for P450, methimazole for FMO, caffeic acid for 5-LO and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) for COX-1. We also performed Western blot analysis to confirm our observations. All five enzyme activities were demonstrable in rat liver at much greater levels than in rat kidney S9 fractions. Activities in LLC-PK1 cells were significantly lower than activities in rat liver S9 fraction and generally less than activities in rat kidney S9 fraction. Enzyme inhibitors decreased product formation in all three tissues and Western blot analysis supported our observations of low enzyme activity in LLC-PK1 cells. These results indicate that LLC-PK1 cells have very low content of relevant drug-metabolizing enzyme activities.

The 2.0 A resolution crystal structure of prostaglandin H2 synthase-1: structural insights into an unusual peroxidase

Prostaglandin H2 synthase (EC 1.14.99.1) is an integral membrane enzyme containing a cyclooxygenase site, which is the target for the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and a spatially distinct peroxidase site. Previous crystallographic studies of this clinically important drug target have been hindered by low resolution. We present here the 2.0 A resolution X-ray crystal structure of ovine prostaglandin H2 synthase-1 in complex with alpha-methyl-4-biphenylacetic acid, a defluorinated analog of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug flurbiprofen. Detergent molecules are seen to bind to the protein's membrane-binding domain, and their positions suggest the depth to which this domain is likely to penetrate into the lipid bilayer. The relation of the enzyme's proximal heme ligand His388 to the heme iron is atypical for a peroxidase; the iron-histidine bond is unusually long and a substantial tilt angle is observed between the heme and imidazole planes. A molecule of glycerol, used as a cryoprotectant during diffraction experiments, is seen to bind in the peroxidase site, offering the first view of any ligand in this active site. Insights gained from glycerol binding may prove useful in the design of a peroxidase-specific ligand.

The Potential Contributions of Chronic Inflammation to Lung Carcinogenesis

A number of lines of evidence suggests that chronic inflammation contributes to the process of carcinogenesis. In this article, this theme is explored with particular emphasis on the involvement of inflammation in the development of lung cancer. A number of molecular pathways activated in chronic inflammation may contribute to lung carcinogenesis. The challenge is to conceptualize a cohesive picture of this complex biology that allows for effective pharmaceutical intervention. Initial therapeutic efforts involve strategies to block single pathways, such as with cyclooxygenase (COX) activity. However, the more that is learned about the consequences of COX activity, the more evident are the relationships of this enzyme to other classes of regulatory molecules such as the potent nuclear factor-kB. In light of this emerging picture, more global intervention strategies, such as with drug combinations, may be essential for success. Further basic study is essential to sort out possible molecular relationships and to permit elucidation of the most critical regulatory circuits. Given the complexity of these molecular interactions, well-designed clinical trials that specifically evaluate the precise effects of particular antiinflammatory drugs on lung carcinogenesis will also be critical to sort out the complexity and to validate successful approaches to arresting lung carcinogenesis.

Anomalous oxidation of MDL 73,404 by horseradish peroxidase

3,4-Dihydro-6-hydroxy-N,N,N-2,5,7,8-heptamethyl-2H-1-benzopyran-2-ethanaminium-4-methylbenzene sulfonate (MDL 73,404) is a cardioselective water-soluble quaternary ammonium analogue of Vitamin E which is synthesized to augment the antioxidant defence in situations of free radical injury such as myocardial infarction/reperfusion. Its oxidation by any peroxidative enzyme has not been studied kinetically. This paper describes its enzymatic oxidation by horseradish peroxidase (HRP). The activity was followed spectrophotometrically at 255nm, and the experimental results were simulated using the program "KINETIC 3.1" for Windows 3.x. The MDL 73,404 was oxidized by horseradish peroxidase in the presence of H2O2 to its corresponding MDL 73,404 quinone. During this oxidation, the horseradish peroxidase showed an unexpectedly slow kinetic response with time, which contrast with the linear product accumulation curve measured with 2,2'-azino-bis-(3-estilbenzotiazol-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS). This response was dependent on the respective concentrations of enzyme, MDL 73,404 and H2O2. However, when the enzyme was incubated with H2O2, the slow kinetic response disappeared and a lag period was observed. Furthermore, when p-coumaric acid (PCA) was added, the activity increased and the slow kinetic response became a straight line. In order to explain this anomalous behaviour, a kinetic model has been proposed and its differential equations simulated. From the correlation between experimental and simulated results it is concluded that MDL 73,404 can act as a slow response substrate for peroxidase, probably due to the presence of a quaternary ammonium side chain that confers on it a slow capacity to convert compound III into ferriperoxidase.

Mechanisms by which garlic and allyl sulfur compounds suppress carcinogen bioactivation. Garlic and carcinogenesis

Overall, a host of studies provides compelling evidence that garlic and its organic allyl sulfur components are effective inhibitors of the cancer process. These studies reveal that the benefits of garlic are not limited to a specific species, to a particular tissue, or to a specific carcinogen. Several mechanisms are likely to account for this protection. Notable among these is a depression in nitrosamine formation and a reduction in carcinogen bioactivation. The benefits provided by garlic must be viewed as part of the entire diet, since several dietary constituents can influence the degree of protection. More than one compound is responsible for the anticancer properties associated with garlic. Future research should focus on how genetic variability and daily environmental factors influence the anticancer benefits attributed to garlic and its allyl sulfur components.

Cyclooxygenase-2: a possible target in schistosoma-associated bladder cancer

OBJECTIVE

To analyse and compare the expression of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in schistosoma-associated bladder cancer, and to determine any association with tumour grade or stage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty paired samples of tumour and adjacent nonmalignant urothelium were identified. There were 25 squamous and 28 transitional cell carcinomas, and seven adenocarcinomas. Serial sections were obtained and a standard three-layer immunohistochemistry protocol, using COX-1- and COX-2-specific mouse monoclonal antibodies, applied.

RESULTS

COX-1 was expressed mostly in nonvascular smooth muscle with weak reactivity in malignant and nonmalignant urothelium. Nonmalignant urothelium expressed COX-2 weakly, notably in areas of dysplasia and squamous metaplasia whereas there was a significant increase in COX-2 (P < 0.001) with moderate to strong granular cytoplasmic expression in all three malignant histological types. The COX-2 reactivity was higher in transitional and adenocarcinomas than in squamous cell carcinoma (P < 0.001). Areas of carcinoma in situ showed COX-2 reactivity comparable with that in invasive areas and more intense than that detected in dysplastic or metaplastic urothelium (P < 0.001). There was a statistically significant positive correlation between COX-2 expression and tumour grade (P = 0.0052).

CONCLUSION

COX-2 is over-expressed in schistosoma-associated bladder cancer, consistent with a potential role for COX-2 inhibitors in the prevention and management of this disease.

A historical perspective on garlic and cancer

Epidemiological and laboratory studies provide insight into the anticarcinogenic potential of garlic and its constituent compounds. Both water- and lipid-soluble allyl sulfur compounds are effective in blocking a myriad of chemically induced tumors. Part of the protection from these compounds probably relates to a block in nitrosamine formation and metabolism. However, blockage in the initiation and promotion phases of the carcinogenicity of various compounds, including polycyclic hydrocarbons, provide evidence that garlic and its constituents can alter several phase I and II enzymes. Their ability to block experimentally induced tumors in a variety of sites including skin, mammary and colon, suggests a general mechanism of action. Changes in DNA repair and in immunocompetence may also account for some of this protection. Some, but not all, allyl sulfur compounds can also effectively retard tumor proliferation and induce apoptosis. Changes in cellular thiol and phosphorylation stains may account for some of these antitumorigenic properties. The anticarcinogenic potential of garlic can be influenced by several dietary components including specific fatty acids, selenium, and vitamin A. Since garlic and its constituents can suppress carcinogen formation, carcinogen bioactivation, and tumor proliferation it is imperative that biomarkers be established to identify which individuals might benefit most and what intakes can occur with ill consequences.

Evaluation of benzo(a)pyrene-induced DNA damage in human endothelial cells using alkaline single cell gel electrophoresis

The alkaline version of the 'comet assay' was used to evaluate DNA damage in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) exposed to 0.1, 1.0, or 10 microM benzo(a)pyrene for 90min. The genotoxicity was monitored in HUVEC pretreated with the Ah-receptor agonist beta-naphthoflavone (BNF), previously shown to induce cytochrome P4501A1 (CYP1A1) activity in these cells, and in vehicle-treated HUVEC with only constitutive levels of this enzyme. Increased DNA damage was observed only in cells that had been exposed to 10 microM benzo(a)pyrene, cells exposed to BNF being subjected to the most extensive damage. The CYP1A/B-inhibitor alpha-naphthoflavone (ANF) reduced the benzo(a)pyrene-induced DNA-damage in the BNF-treated HUVEC to the same level as in the uninduced cells. The fact that benzo(a)pyrene induced DNA damage in vehicle-treated HUVEC suggests that there may be at least one alternative route of bioactivation for benzo(a)pyrene in these cells. Consequently, judging from the present results it seems as if tobacco-related polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) may disrupt the function of the endothelial lining in blood vessels with low monooxygenase activity. It is proposed that exposure to Ah receptor agonists via, for example, tobacco smoke, may enhance the DNA-damaging effects of smoke-related genotoxic PAHs in human endothelial cells. The role of PAHs in endothelial dysfunction of tobacco smokers should therefore be further studied.

Cytoplasmic induction and over-expression of cyclooxygenase-2 in human prostate cancer: implications for prevention and treatment

OBJECTIVE

To assess the level and morphological distribution of cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and -2 in human prostates and to determine any association with the Gleason grade of prostate cancer. Materials and methods The study comprised 30 samples from patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and 82 with prostate cancer. Immunohistochemistry was used to assess the expression of COX-1 and -2, and 13 samples were also assessed using immunoblotting (six BPH and seven cancers).

RESULTS

For both BPH and prostate cancer, COX-1 expression was primarily in the fibromuscular stroma, with variable weak cytoplasmic expression in glandular/neoplastic epithelial cells. In contrast, COX-2 expression differed markedly between BPH and cancer. In BPH there was membranous expression of COX-2 in luminal glandular cells and no stromal expression. In cancer the stromal expression of COX-2 was unaltered, but expression by tumour cells was significantly greater (P = 0.008), with a change in the staining pattern from membranous to cytoplasmic (P < 0.001). COX-2 expression was significantly higher in poorly differentiated than in well differentiated tumours (P < 0.001). These results were supported by immunoblotting, which showed similar levels of COX-1 in both BPH and cancer, but four times greater expression of COX-2 in cancer than in BPH.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to assess the co-expression of COX-1 and COX-2 proteins in benign and malignant human prostates, and showed the induction and significantly greater expression of COX-2 in cancer, which was also associated with tumour grade. The regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is associated with a reduced incidence of cancers. The present results provide the basis for a potential role for COX-2 inhibitors in the prevention and treatment of prostate cancer.

Cyclooxygenase-2 and carcinogenesis

Numerous investigations have shown that COX-2 is a participant in the pathway of colon carcinogenesis, especially when mutation of the APC tumor suppressor is the initiating event. Moreover, it seems that the amount of COX-2 is important, since there is a correlation between its level of expression and the size of the tumors and their propensity to invade underlying tissue [40]. Inhibiting COX-2 at an early stage blocks the development of malignant tumors, causes pre-malignant tumors to regress and may improve the outcome once the cancer is completely established. This set of findings seems to link very strongly with the traditional observation that chronic inflammation is a precursor to a variety of types of cancer. By this formulation, inflammatory stimuli increase COX-2 and the downstream events that it induces promote tumor formation. All of these finding suggest that existing NSAIDs will be useful for the prophylaxis of colon cancer and polyps and we eagerly await clinical investigations that will generate guidelines that suggest those individuals that are the most appropriate recipients for such therapy. Although this field has progressed rapidly in the last few years, many important questions remain.

Cancer chemoprevention through interruption of multistage carcinogenesis. The lessons learnt by comparing mouse skin carcinogenesis and human large bowel cancer

Whilst in the early stages, neoplastic development is predominantly triggered by environmental genotoxic and non-genotoxic carcinogens, tumour progression becomes more and more autonomous at later stages. In this context a dysregulation of arachidonic acid metabolism seems to play a disastrous role. Conversely, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) rank among the most potent and most promising agents for cancer chemoprevention probably because of their ability to inhibit prostaglandin biosynthesis, in particular, at the level of the 'pro-inflammatory' enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). A pathological overexpression of COX-2 resulting in excessive prostaglandin production has been found already in early stages of carcinogenesis and seems to be a consistent feature of neoplastic development in a wide variety of tissues. COX-2 overexpression is thought to occur along signalling pathways of inflammation and tissue repair which become activated in the course of tumour promotion and, due to autocrine and auto-stimulatory mechanisms, finally lead to some autonomy of tumour development (self-promotion). Prostaglandins formed along a dysregulated COX pathway have been shown to mediate tumour promotion in animal experiments and may play a role, in addition, in other processes involved in tumour growth such as angiogenesis, metastasis and immunosuppression. Moreover, genotoxic byproducts such as organic free radicals, reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde produced in the course of prostanoid biosynthesis may contribute to genetic instability (mutator phenotype) of neoplastic cells thereby promoting malignant progression. Such mixtures of physiologically highly active mediators and genotoxic byproducts are, in addition, formed along the various lipoxygenase-catalysed pathways of arachidonic acid metabolism some of which also become dysregulated during tumour development and, therefore, provide novel targets of future chemopreventive approaches.

Heme Peroxidases: Structure, Function, Mechanism and Involvement in Activation of Carcinogens. A Review

Peroxidases are enzymes playing an important role in large and diverse numbers of physiological processes in organisms including human. We have attempted in this article to summarize and review the important structural and catalytic properties of principal classes of heme peroxidases as well as their biological functions. Major reactions catalyzed by these enzymes (a conventional peroxidase cycle, reactions using O2and halogenations) and their mechanism are reviewed, too. Moreover, the reaction mechanisms by which peroxidases are implicated in bioactivation of xenobiotic chemicals are presented. Numerous chemicals including protoxicants and procarcinogens are metabolized by equally numerous chemical reactions catalyzed by peroxidases. The unifying theme is the radical nature of the oxidations. The direct conventional peroxidase reaction forming reactive species is generally responsible for the activation of procarcinogenic substrates of peroxidases. The subsequent formation of a superoxide anion radical and peroxy radicals is necessary for activation of chemicals that are poor substrates for peroxidases. The significance of studies concerning the reactions catalyzed by peroxidases is underlined in the present review article. A review with 166 references.

Human renal medullary interstitial cells and analgesic nephropathy

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of known papillotoxins using cultures of human renal interstital medullary cells (hRMIC). The culture of hMIC was based on the primary culture of human renal medullary explants, selective detachment of interstitial cells and selective overgrowth of these cells in a serum-rich medium after dilution cloning. The homogeneous population of cells obtained exhibited the characteristic morphological and functional characteristics of Type I interstitial cells, viz. stellate-shaped cells demonstrating numerous lipid droplets, abundant endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria, fine filaments underlying the cell membrane and the production of extracellular matrix. Cytotoxicity studies using hMIC and known papillotoxins clearly demonstrated a reduction in cell viability that varied with bath exposure time and type of agent tested. While only phenylbutazone and mefenamic acid produced significant cytotoxicity after a 24 h incubation period, cell viability assessed using the MTT assay was only profoundly reduced by aspirin and paracetamol following sub-chronic exposure for 7 days. The rank order of cytotoxicity observed in hMIC was phenylbutazone > mefenamic acid > aspirin > paracetamol. The results demonstrate the potential of hMIC for investigating and defining the early cellular events in the pathogenesis of analgesic nephropathy.

A safety assessment of fixed combinations of acetaminophen and acetylsalicylic acid, coformulated with caffeine

Overuse and abuse of phenacetin-containing mixed analgesics has contributed to end-stage renal disease. Combination analgesics, especially those coformulated with caffeine, have been implicated as imparting a greater risk of analgesic-associated nephropathy (AAN) than single or coformulated analgesics without caffeine. This has led to a recommendation that the sale of "two plus caffeine" analgesic mixtures be reclassified from over-the-counter to prescription only availability. There is a rational basis for coformulating acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and acetaminophen (paracetamol) as this reduces the dose of each, without altering efficacy. The coformulation of caffeine with these analgesics has a significant adjuvant effect and increases analgesic efficacy 1.4-1.6-fold. Currently available animal and human data do not support the notion that the nephrotoxic risk from coformulated ASA and acetaminophen is higher than the risk from either ASA or acetaminophen alone, in equivalent analgesic doses. There are no epidemiological data that implicate caffeine in AAN, and only limited evidence that links excessive acetaminophen usage to renal disease. There is no evidence that caffeine increases analgesics papillotoxicity directly. The presence of caffeine in mixtures of analgesics are no more addictive than other sources of caffeine. There is no evidence to suggest that adding caffeine to analgesic mixtures enhances the potential for promoting analgesic misuse in the general population. Thus distinct therapeutic benefits of ASA, acetaminophen and caffeine appear to outweigh any known risk. It is doubtful if preventing the availability of these products will significantly affect the role of analgesic abuse/overuse in end-stage renal disease. Better risk management would come from a focused educational program, developed in a close collaboration between industry, healthcare professionals and consumer organizations, such a program must warn against the potential dangers of analgesic and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug misuse.

Increased expression of cyclooxygenase-2 to -1 in human colorectal cancers and adenomas, but not in hyperplastic polyps

BACKGROUND

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Reportedly, mRNA expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is elevated in human colorectal cancers compared with accompanying normal mucosa. The present study was undertaken to establish a simple analytical procedure to quantify COX-2 expression levels and to characterize COX-2 expression levels in human colorectal cancers, adenomas and hyperplastic polyps.

METHODS

The combination of PCR using common primers designed in the highly conserved regions and fluorescence-based single-strand conformation polymorphism (F-SSCP) analysis of the products is used for quantitative determination of the proportions of COX-2 mRNA in human colorectal cancers, adenomas, hyperplastic polyps and accompanying normal mucosa.

RESULTS

The present F-SSCP analysis was a simple and powerful method for quantitative determination of the proportions of COX-2 mRNA. The proportion of COX-2 mRNA was higher in cancer tissues than in accompanying normal mucosa in 46 of the 50 cancers. There was no significant correlation between the increase of the COX-2 proportion and tumor location or stages. The enhanced COX-2 expression was also observed in colorectal adenomas. On the other hand, the proportion of COX-2 mRNA in hyperplastic polyps was not significantly different from that in normal mucosa.

CONCLUSIONS

The proportion of COX-2 to COX-1 expression was elevated in most human colorectal cancers and adenomas, but not in hyperplastic polyps. Therefore, the increased proportion of COX-2 expression might be an early event in the carcinogenesis of colorectal cancer.

Renal papillary necrosis--40 years on

Analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are well recognized as a major class of therapeutic agent that causes renal papillary necrosis (RPN). Over the last decade a broad spectrum of other therapeutic agents and many chemicals have also been reported that have the potential to cause this lesion in animals and man. There is consensus that RPN is the primary lesion that can progress to cortical degeneration; and it is only at this stage that the lesion is easily diagnosed. In the absence of sensitive and selective noninvasive biomarkers of RPN there is still no clear indication of which compound, under what circumstances, has the greatest potential to cause this lesion in man. Attempts to mimic RPN in rodents using analgesics and NSAIDs have not provided robust models of the lesion. Thus, much of the research has concentrated on those compounds that cause an acute or subacute RPN as the basis by which to study the pathogenesis of the lesion. Based on the mechanistic understanding gleaned from these model compounds it has been possible to transpose an understanding of the underlying processes to the analgesics and NSAIDs. The mechanism of RPN is still controversial. There are data that support microvascular changes and local ischemic injury as the underlying cause. Alternatively, several model papillotoxins, some analgesics, and NSAIDs target selectively for the medullary interstitial cells, which is the earliest reported aberration, after which there are a series of degenerative processes affecting other renal cell types. Many papillotoxins have the potential to undergo prostaglandin hydroperoxidase-mediated metabolic activation, specifically in the renal medullary interstitial cells. These reactive intermediates, in the presence of large quantities of polyunsaturated lipid droplets, result in localized and selective injury of the medullary interstitial cells. These highly differentiated cells do not repair, and it is generally accepted that continuing insult to these cells will result in their progressive erosion. The loss of these cells is thought to be central to the degenerative cascade that affects the cortex. There is still a need to understand better the primary mechanism and the secondary consequences of RPN so that the risk of chemical agents in use and novel molecules can be fully assessed.

Xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes of the kidney

The kidney possesses most of the common xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes, and is thus able to make an important contribution to the body's metabolism of drugs and foreign compounds. An overview of the renal localization, catalytic activity, developmental regulation, induction, and sex and species differences for the key enzymes involved in phase I and phase II of xenobiotic metabolism is presented. In general, the catalytic activities of the various renal enzymes are lower than those of the liver, although there are exceptions, such as the enzymes involved in the processing of glutathione conjugates to their mercapturic acids. Xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes are not evenly distributed along the nephron; cytochromes P-450 and those enzymes involved in the conjugation of glutathione, glucuronic acid, or sulfate are primarily localized in the proximal tubules. However, some isozymes of cytochrome(s) P-450 and glutathione S-transferases are selectively localized in cells of the thick ascending limb and distal tubules, whereas prostaglandin H synthase is concentrated in the collecting ducts in the medulla. Thus, the proximal tubule, the principal site of xenobiotic biotransformation, is particularly susceptible to chemical insult, and the localization of prostaglandin synthase in the inner medulla and papilla may be a contributary factor to the toxicity produced by chemicals in this part of the nephron. Many of the enzymes discussed, in addition to metabolizing foreign compounds, have important endogenous functions in the kidney, such as the regulation of salt and water balance and the synthesis of vitamin D.

Normal ultrastructure of the kidney and lower urinary tract

The mammalian urinary tract includes the kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder, and urethra. The renal parenchyma is composed of the glomeruli and a heterogeneous array of tubule segments that are specialized in both function and structure and are arranged in a specific spatial distribution. The ultrastructure of the glomeruli and renal tubule epithelia have been well characterized and the relationship between the cellular structure and the function of the various components of the kidney have been the subject of intense study by many investigators. The lower urinary tract, the ureters, urinary bladder, and urethra, which are histologically similar throughout, are composed of a mucosal layer lined by transitional epithelium, a tunica muscularis, and a tunica serosa or adventitia. The present manuscript reviews the normal ultrastructural morphology of the kidney and the lower urinary tract. The normal ultrastructure is illustrated using transmission electron microscopy of normal rat kidney and urinary bladder preserved by in vivo perfusion with glutaraldehyde fixative and processed in epoxy resin.

Induction of human prostaglandin endoperoxide H synthase-2 (PHS-2) mRNA by TCDD

Numerous transcription response elements (e.g. AP-1, AP-2, GRE, CREB, as well as DRE) have been identified in the transcription regulation region of the PHS-2 gene in both mouse and human. The discovery of a DRE in the region raised the possibility that PHS-2 could be induced by TCDD, a dioxin compound. The time course and dose dependence of TCDD induction of PHS-2 mRNA expression were observed in HUVEC, primary human epithelial cells. In the observed time range (0-24 hours) the steady-state mRNA expression levels of PHS-2, as well as of mRNA for CYP1A1, increased with time at a TCDD dose of 20 nM. At the 24 hour time point, TCDD-treated cells displayed significant dose-dependent elevation of PHS-2 over the range of 0-40 nM TCDD. The increases in PHS-2 mRNA in both the time course and dose dependence experiments were consistent with that of CYP1A1. In contrast, mRNA for PHS-1, the constitutively expressed isoform of PHS, did not show significant changes under the conditions tested. These results are the first to indicate that TCDD can elevate PHS-2 mRNA level in a time and dose dependent manner. Further work needs to be done to learn the molecular mechanism of activation of PHS-2 by TCDD and the relation of TCDD action with other regulatory factors in the control of PHS-2 expression.

Garlic powder and allyl sulfur compounds enhance the ability of dietary selenite to inhibit 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced mammary DNA adducts

These studies examined the ability of garlic powder or allyl sulfur compounds to modify selenite protection against 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced mammary epithelial cell DNA adducts. In Study 1, female rats (n = 5) were fed diets containing sodium selenite at 0.1, 0.5, or 1.0 mg Se/kg and garlic powder at 0, 20, or 40 g/kg diet. Total DNA adducts correlated inversely with selenite or garlic powder intake. Garlic powder enhanced the selenite inhibition of mammary DNA adducts. In Study 2, selenite (2.0 mg Se/kg diet), garlic powder (20 g/kg diet), water-soluble S-allyl cysteine (SAC; 5.2 mumol/kg diet), and oil-soluble diallyl disulfide (DADS; 5.2 mumol/kg diet) inhibited (p < 0.05) total DNA adducts by 45%, 40%, 80%, and 75%, respectively. Combining selenite with garlic powder, SAC, or DADS further inhibited DNA adducts. Selenite, but not garlic powder, SAC, or DADS, enhanced liver glutathione S-transferase and uridine diphosphate-glucuronosyltransferase activities. Selenite, garlic powder, SAC, or DADS did not affect liver cytochrome P-450 1A1 activities. The present studies provide evidence that synergistic protection against the initiation of DMBA carcinogenesis occurs when selenite is supplemented in conjunction with garlic or its allyl sulfur components.

Benzidine mechanistic data and risk assessment: species- and organ-specific metabolic activation

The aromatic amine benzidine (BZ) has produced various tumors, including liver tumors, in mice, rats and hamsters. BZ forms DNA adducts in rodent liver, and it is positive in most genotoxicity tests. Only bladder tumors are produced in dogs and in humans who have been occupationally exposed, possibly related to the slow rate of liver detoxification by acetylation, allowing activation of BZ or its metabolites in urine. Despite these differences, risk assessment for humans, based on liver tumors in mice, was approximately predictive of the incidence of bladder tumors observed in industrially exposed humans.

Metabolism of phenytoin and covalent binding of reactive intermediates in activated human neutrophils

ontivation of neutrophils by phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) causes rapid production of superoxide radical (O2-), leading to the formation of additional reactive oxygen species, including hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), hypochlorous acid (HOCl), and possibly hydroxyl radical (.OH). These reactive oxygen species have been associated with the oxidation of some drugs. We investigated the metabolism of phenytoin (5,5-diphenylhydantoin) and the covalent binding of reactive intermediates to cellular macromolecules in activated neutrophils. In incubations with 100 microM phenytoin, PMA-stimulated neutrophils from six human subjects produced p-, m-, and o-isomers of 5-(hydroxyphenyl)-5-phenylhydantoin (HPPH) in a ratio of 1.0:2.1:2.8, respectively, as well as unidentified polar products. Analysis of cell pellets demonstrated that phenytoin was bioactivated to reactive intermediates that bound irreversibly to macromolecules in neutrophils. Glutathione, catalase, superoxide dismutase, azide, and indomethacin all diminished the metabolism of phenytoin and the covalent binding of its reactive intermediates. The iron-inactivating chelators desferrioxamine and diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid had little or no effect on the metabolism of phenytoin by neutrophils, demonstrating that adventitious iron was not contributing via Fenton chemistry. In an .OH-generating system containing H2O2 and Fe2+ chelated with ADP, phenytoin was oxidized rapidly to unidentified polar products and to p-, m-, and o-HPPH (ratio 1.0:1.7:1.5, respectively). Reagent HOCl and human myeloperoxidase (MPO), in the presence of Cl- and H2O2, both formed the reactive dichlorophenytoin but no HPPH. However, no chlorinated phenytoin was detected in activated neutrophils, possibly because of its high reactivity. These findings, which demonstrated that activated neutrophils biotransform phenytoin in vitro to hydroxylated products and reactive intermediates that bind irreversibly to tissue macromolecules, are consistent with phenytoin hydroxylation by .OH generated by a transition metal-independent process, chlorination by HOCl generated by MPO, and possibly cooxidation by neutrophil hydroperoxidases. Neutrophils activated in vivo may similarly convert phenytoin to reactive intermediates, which could contribute to some of the previously unexplained adverse effects of the drug.

The cytochromes P450 and mechanisms of chemical carcinogenesis

This article reviews mechanisms of chemical carcinogenesis, from metabolic activation and generation of reactive oxygen species by cytochromes P4511 and P4502E to DNA damage, activation of protein kinase C and ocogenes, hyperplasia, and proteoglycan changes in the cell glycocalyx and lysosomal enzymes which mediate invasion and metastasis.

Characterization of peroxidative oxidation products of dopamine by mass spectrometry

We characterized three cytotoxic products, namely dopaminochrome (2,3-dihydro-1H-indole-5,6-dione), 2-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-1-nitroethane and 2-(3,4,6-trihydroxyphenyl)-1-nitroethane. The compounds were separated from the incubation of dopamine (3,4-dihydroxyphenethylamine) with horseradish peroxidase which mimics the peroxidative activity of Prostaglandin H synthase. Incubation of 2-(3,4,6-trihydroxyphenyl)-1-nitroethane with NADPH-cytochrome c reductase led to the formation of 6-hydroxydopamine, a known neurotoxin. Several adducts were also isolated in this study. Oxidation of dopamine in the presence of N-acetylcysteine yielded a thioether conjugate namely, 5-S-(N-acetylcysteinyl)-3,4-dihydroxyphenethylamine. Reaction of the partially purified dopaminochrome with N-acetylcysteine permitted the isolation of another thioether conjugate which was tentatively identified as 7-S-(N-acetylcysteinyl)-5,6-dihydroxyindole. We also isolated the one-to-one condensation products of malonaldehyde with dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin. The identities of these products were established by chemical synthesis and various mass spectrometric techniques.

Aspirin and the prevention of colorectal cancer: a review of the evidence

In all but one of seven recent epidemiologic case-control and cohort studies directly examining the association between aspirin and colorectal cancer and polyps, regular aspirin use reduced the risk of these diseases by about half. Although these studies show a biologically plausible relationship between aspirin and colorectal cancer, information regarding dose and duration and risk change after discontinuation of aspirin is limited and contradictory. Additionally, selection bias, recall bias, and confounding cannot be completed discounted. The one randomized trial of aspirin and placebo showed that aspirin at a dose adequate for preventing myocardial infarction (325 mg every other day) did not reduce colorectal cancer incidence during five years of randomized treatment and follow-up. Further studies need to determine the biologic effects of aspirin, the minimum dose required, and whether other factors, such as age, illnesses, and reasons for aspirin use, modify or confound colorectal cancer development.

Prostaglandin-H synthase containing cell lines as tools for studying metabolism and toxicity of xenobiotics

Prostaglandin-H synthase (PHS) can oxidize many xenobiotics and carcinogens (chemicals) in vitro and has been suggested to serve as an alternative metabolic activation enzyme, particularly in tissues low in monooxygenase activity. This article briefly describes types of PHS-catalyzed xenobiotic oxidations and discusses its determinants in cells. Methods employed for studying the involvement of PHS in the bioactivation of chemicals are reviewed with special emphasis on a cell culture system derived from ram seminal vesicles which has been used in studies on the metabolism and the genotoxicity of diethylstilbestrol.

SEMV cell cultures: a model for studies of prostaglandin-H synthase-mediated metabolism and genotoxicity of xenobiotics

Many xenobiotics and carcinogens are oxidized in vitro by prostaglandin-H synthase (PHS) in the presence of arachidonic acid or lipid peroxides. PHS has been suggested to serve as an alternative metabolic activation enzyme to the cytochrome P-450 isoenzymes, particularly in tissues low in monooxygenase activity. This article briefly describes PHS-catalyzed oxidations and reviews methods available for investigating the involvement of PHS in mediating the toxicity of certain chemicals. Since in vivo systems impose certain limitations on such studies, particular emphasis is placed on a specialized cell system which can serve as a model for investigating the PHS-dependent bioactivation of xenobiotics, its determinants and toxicological significance. This is exemplified by experiments conducted with the carcinogenic estrogen diethylstilbestrol (DES) in cell cultures derived from ram seminal vesicles which express PHS but lack monooxygenase activity. DES is oxidized by PHS in seminal vesicle (SEMV) cells and DES can induce micronuclei in this model; both processes are inhibited by indomethacin. These data support the hypothesis that PHS-dependent oxidation of DES plays a role in its genotoxicity.

Purified prostaglandin synthase activates aromatic amines to derivatives that are mutagenic to Salmonella typhimurium

Prostaglandin H synthase (PHS) is widely distributed in mammalian tissues and has the ability to oxidize a variety of mutagens and carcinogens. It may therefore play a key role in the metabolic activation of xenobiotics. The present study documents that highly purified PHS can be used in conjunction with 5-phenyl-4-pentenyl-1-hydroperoxide (PPHP), a relatively stable and non-mutagenic hydroperoxide substrate, for the metabolic activation of aromatic amines to mutagenic derivatives that can be detected in short-term Salmonella typhimurium mutagenesis assays. The PHS-based activation system alone was not mutagenic for these tester strains, nor were the test compounds significantly toxic for the bacteria over the concentration range tested. When used in conjunction with Salmonella strains TA98 and TA100 in a modified Ames assay, this system should prove useful for screening of a wide range of compounds for metabolic activation by this mammalian peroxidase. The potential broad utility of this purified PHS-dependent metabolic activation system was investigated by evaluating the activation of 2-amino-3-methylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoline (IQ) and 2-amino-3,4-dimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoline (MeIQ), which are representative of a group of mutagenic and carcinogenic heterocyclic arylamines to which humans are exposed via their diet. Both IQ and MeIQ were activated by PHS to potent mutagens and confirm the utility of the PPHP/PHS system for the activation of premutagens. Whereas the extent of activation of aromatic amines by S9-based systems is significantly greater than for the PHS activation system described herein, PHS may play a significant role in target tissues in which it is present at significantly greater levels than P450 isoenzymes. Moreover, it is likely that the substrate specificity of PHS differs sufficiently from that of P450 isoenzymes so that PHS may activate some compounds that are not efficiently activated by mixed-function oxidase based systems.

Xenobiotic metabolism by prostaglandin H synthase

During the metabolism of arachidonic acid by prostaglandin H synthase many chemicals including carcinogens are metabolized. These chemicals are metabolized by either the peroxidase activity of prostaglandin H synthase, the peroxyl radicals generated during arachidonic acid oxygenation, or a combination of these two mechanisms. In many cases, the chemical metabolism results in the formation of reactive metabolites that have mutagenic activity and potential carcinogenic activity. In other cases, the chemicals are detoxified. Chemical metabolism that occurs during arachidonic acid oxygenation may be an important determinate of chemical toxicity in extra-hepatic tissues.