Effect of oxidant stress on calcium signaling in vascular endothelial cells

Formic acid up-regulates vascular tension through nitric oxide-cGMP signaling pathway

Formic acid is a common organic acid used in many industrial processes. There is a paucity of research on the direct toxicity of formic acid and how it might affect the cardiovascular system. This study aimed to understand the effect of formic acid on vascular tension in an animal model and the underlying mechanism. Results found that the vasodilation induced by formic acid was related to the endothelium. When the dosage of formic acid was 1 mM or 5 mM, the vasodilation of endothelium-intact rings was partially suppressed by l-NAME, NS-2028 and nifedipine, and vasoconstriction caused by CaCl₂ was inhibited, and the mRNA levels of eNOS, the activity of NOS (tNOS, iNOS and cNOS) and the level of NO and cGMP were significantly increased. Results also found that eNOS protein expression was significantly enhanced by 5 mM of formic acid. These results suggest formic acid can relax the aortic vessels of rats in a dose-dependent pattern. Further, the mechanism of the formic acid-induced vasodilatation likely involved the NO/cGMP pathway. Finally, the current study has revealed that vasodilation induced by high concentrations of formaldehyde may be the effect of the metabolite formic acid. This study will help further inform the etiologies of formic acid-related angiocardiopathies.

Hemin Causes Lung Microvascular Endothelial Barrier Dysfunction by Necroptotic Cell Death

Hemin, the oxidized prosthetic moiety of hemoglobin, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of acute chest syndrome in patients with sickle cell disease by virtue of its endothelial-activating properties. In this study, we examined whether hemin can cause lung microvascular endothelial barrier dysfunction. By assessing transendothelial resistance using electrical cell impedance sensing, and by directly measuring trans-monolayer fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran flux, we found that hemin does cause endothelial barrier dysfunction in a concentration-dependent manner. Pretreatment with either a Toll-like receptor 4 inhibitor, TAK-242, or an antioxidant, N-acetylcysteine, abrogated this effect. Increased monolayer permeability was found to be associated with programmed cell death by necroptosis, as evidenced by Trypan blue staining, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling assay, Western blotting for activated forms of key effectors of cell death pathways, and studies utilizing specific inhibitors of necroptosis and apoptosis. Further studies examining the role of endothelial cell necroptosis in promoting noncardiogenic pulmonary edema during acute chest syndrome are warranted and may open a new avenue of potential treatments for this devastating disease.

How NaCl raises blood pressure: a new paradigm for the pathogenesis of salt-dependent hypertension

Excess dietary salt is a major cause of hypertension. Nevertheless, the specific mechanisms by which salt increases arterial constriction and peripheral vascular resistance, and thereby raises blood pressure (BP), are poorly understood. Here we summarize recent evidence that defines specific molecular links between Na(+) and the elevated vascular resistance that directly produces high BP. In this new paradigm, high dietary salt raises cerebrospinal fluid [Na(+)]. This leads, via the Na(+)-sensing circumventricular organs of the brain, to increased sympathetic nerve activity (SNA), a major trigger of vasoconstriction. Plasma levels of endogenous ouabain (EO), the Na(+) pump ligand, also become elevated. Remarkably, high cerebrospinal fluid [Na(+)]-evoked, locally secreted (hypothalamic) EO participates in a pathway that mediates the sustained increase in SNA. This hypothalamic signaling chain includes aldosterone, epithelial Na(+) channels, EO, ouabain-sensitive α(2) Na(+) pumps, and angiotensin II (ANG II). The EO increases (e.g.) hypothalamic ANG-II type-1 receptor and NADPH oxidase and decreases neuronal nitric oxide synthase protein expression. The aldosterone-epithelial Na(+) channel-EO-α(2) Na(+) pump-ANG-II pathway modulates the activity of brain cardiovascular control centers that regulate the BP set point and induce sustained changes in SNA. In the periphery, the EO secreted by the adrenal cortex directly enhances vasoconstriction via an EO-α(2) Na(+) pump-Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger-Ca(2+) signaling pathway. Circulating EO also activates an EO-α(2) Na(+) pump-Src kinase signaling cascade. This increases the expression of the Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger-transient receptor potential cation channel Ca(2+) signaling pathway in arterial smooth muscle but decreases the expression of endothelial vasodilator mechanisms. Additionally, EO is a growth factor and may directly participate in the arterial structural remodeling and lumen narrowing that is frequently observed in established hypertension. These several central and peripheral mechanisms are coordinated, in part by EO, to effect and maintain the salt-induced elevation of BP.

Regulation of endothelial barrier function by reactive oxygen and nitrogen species

Excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS), by activated neutrophils and endothelial cells, has been implicated in the pathophysiology of endothelial barrier dysfunction. Disruption of the integrity of this barrier markedly increases permeability to fluids, solutes and inflammatory cells and is the hallmark of many disorders such as acute lung injury (ALI) and sepsis. There has been considerable progress in our understanding of the sequence of molecular and structural events that mediate the response of endothelial cells to oxidants and nitrosants. In addition, substantial experimental evidence demonstrates improvement of endothelial barrier dysfunction with antioxidant strategies. However, no significant benefits have been observed, so far, in clinical trials of antioxidants for the treatment of endothelial barrier dysfunction. This article will review the available evidence implicating ROS and RNS in endothelial barrier dysfunction, explore potential underlying mechanisms, and identify areas of further research.

Oxidative Stress - Clinical Diagnostic Significance

Elevated free radical production and/or insufficient antioxidative defense results in cellular oxidant stress responses. Sustained and/or intense oxidative insults can overcome cell defenses resulting in accumulated damage to macromolecules, leading to loss of cell function, membrane damage, and ultimately to cell death. Oxidative stress (OS) can result from conditions including excessive physical stress, exposure to environmental pollution and xenobiotics, and smoking. Oxidative stress, as a pathophysiological mechanism, has been linked to numerous pathologies, poisonings, and the ageing process. Reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species, endogenously or exogenously produced, can readily attack all classes of macromolecules (proteins, DNA, unsaturated fatty acid). The disrupted oxidative-reductive milieu proceeds via lipid peroxidation, altered antioxidative enzyme activities and depletion of non-enzymatic endogenous antioxidants, several of which can de detected in the pre-symptomatic phase of many diseases. Therefore, they could represent markers of altered metabolic and physiological homeostasis. Accordingly, from the point of view of routine clinical-diagnostic practice, it would be valuable to routinely analyze OS status parameters to earlier recognize potential disease states and provide the basis for preventative advance treatment with appropriate medicines.

H(2)O(2) modulates purinergic-dependent calcium signalling in osteoblast-like cells

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have long been considered as toxic by-products of aerobic metabolism and appear involved in the pathogenesis of degenerative diseases. The physiological role of ROS as second messengers in cell signal transduction is, on the other hand, increasingly recognized. Here we investigated the effects of H(2)O(2) and extracellular nucleotides on calcium signalling in four osteoblastic cell lines. In the highly differentiated HOBIT cells, sensitive to nanomolar concentrations of ADP and UTP, millimolar H(2)O(2) induced oscillatory increases of the cytosolic calcium concentration followed by a steady and sustained calcium increase. Long lasting rhythmic calcium activity was induced by micromolar H(2)O(2) doses. The H(2)O(2)-induced calcium signals, due to both release from intracellular stores and influx from the extracellular milieu, were totally prevented by incubating the cells with the P2 receptor antagonist suramin or with the ATP/ADP hydrolyzing enzyme apyrase. In the osteosarcoma SaOS-2 cells micromolar H(2)O(2) failed to evoke calcium signals and millimolar H(2)O(2) induced a slowly developing calcium influx which was unaffected by suramin and apyrase. These cells responded to micromolar concentrations of ATP and ADP, but were largely insensitive to UTP. ROS 17/2.8 osteosarcoma cells were totally insensitive to ATP, ADP and UTP in keeping with the evidence that these cells lack functional purinergic receptors. In these cells, H(2)O(2) up to 1mM did not increase the cytosolic calcium concentration. In ROS/P2Y(2) cells, stably expressing the P2Y(2) receptor, spontaneous calcium oscillations were observed in 38% of the population and nanomolar concentration of extracellular ATP or UTP activated oscillations in quiescent cells. Spontaneous calcium signals were inhibited by suramin and apyrase. In these cells H(2)O(2) induced oscillatory calcium activity that was blocked by suramin and apyrase. The sensitivity of ROS/P2Y(2) cells to UTP decreased significantly in the presence of DTT, which was effective also in inhibiting spontaneous calcium oscillations. On the other hand, the membrane-impermeant thiol oxidant DTNB induced calcium oscillations that were inhibited by incubating the cells with suramin or apyrase. Since peroxide did not increase extracellular ATP in these cell lines, we propose that, in osteoblasts, mild oxidative conditions could activate purinergic signalling through the sensitization of P2Y(2) receptor.

The effect of oxidative stress on Ca2+ release and capacitative Ca2+ entry in vascular endothelial cells

Oxidative stress imposed by the accumulation of oxygen free radicals (reactive oxygen species, ROS) has profound effects on Ca2+ homeostasis in the vascular endothelium, leading to endothelial dysfunctions and the development of cardiovascular pathologies. We tested the effect of the oxidant and ROS generator tert-butyl-hydroperoxide (tBuOOH) on Ca2+ signaling in single cultured calf pulmonary artery endothelial (CPAE) cells loaded with the fluorescent Ca2+ indicator indo-1. Acute brief (5 min) exposures to tBuOOH had no effect on basal cytosolic free Ca2+ ([Ca2+](i)), agonist (ATP)-induced Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and on Ca(2+) store depletion-dependent capacitative Ca2+ entry (CCE). Prolonged (60 min) exposure to tBuOOH did not affect intracellular Ca2+ release, but caused a profound inhibition of CCE. After 120 min of treatment with tBuOOH not only was CCE further reduced, but also ATP-induced Ca2+ release due to a slow depletion of the stores that resulted from CCE inhibition. The antioxidant Trolox (synthetic vitamin E analog) prevented the inhibition of CCE by tBuOOH and attenuated the increase of [ROS](i), indicating that inhibition of CCE was due to the oxidant effects of tBuOOH. The data suggest that in vascular endothelial cells oxidative stress primarily affects Ca2+ influx in response to Ca2+ loss from internal stores. [Ca2+](i) is an important signal for the production and release of endothelium-derived factors such as nitric oxide (NO). Since CCE is the preferential Ca2+ source for NO synthase activation, the finding that oxidative stress inhibits CCE may explain how oxidative stress contributes to endothelial dysfunction-related cardiovascular pathologies.

Electrophysiological effects of O2*- on the plasma membrane in vascular endothelial cells

Vascular dysfunction is a hallmark of many diseases, including coronary heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The underlying mechanisms of these disorders are intimately associated with an increase in oxidative stress and excess generation of reactive oxygen species. Here, we report that the anionic free radical, superoxide (O2*- ), directly affects the function of ion channels in vascular endothelial cells. Vascular endothelial cells were exposed to O2*- under physiological, symmetrical chloride and chloride-free conditions. Superoxide was generated from the reaction of xanthine (0.2 mM) and xanthine oxidase (0.1, 1, and 10 mU/ml) while its effects were determined with the whole cell mode of the patch-clamp technique. Inhibitors of K+ and Cl- channels were used to determine the role of these ion channels in mediating the electrophysiological effects of superoxide. The addition of O2*- caused a dose-dependent depolarization of endothelial cells and activation of the whole cell current. Activation of superoxide-dependent current was observed in the presence of inhibitors of K+ channels, Ba2+ (100 microM) or iberiotoxin (100 nM), and was not affected by inhibitors of nonselective cation channels, La3+, or by inhibition of the Cl-/HCO3- transporter by bumetanide. The inhibitors of the Cl- channel, NPPB (0.1 mM) or DIDS (100 microM), partially prevented activation of superoxide-dependent current but were unable to reverse it. The effects of superoxide on the amplitude of whole cell current were prevented and reversed by superoxide dismutase. Taken together, these results suggest that superoxide directly affects the function of ion channels in vascular endothelium but the mechanisms of its modulatory effects remain unresolved.

Distinct protective mechanisms of HO-1 and HO-2 against hydroperoxide-induced cytotoxicity

Heme oxygenases (HO-1 and HO-2) catalyze the NADPH-cytochrome P(450) reductase (CPR)-dependent degradation of heme into iron, carbon monoxide, and biliverdin, which is reduced into bilirubin. Under basal conditions, HO-1 is often undetected and can be induced by numerous stress conditions. Although HO-2 is constitutively expressed, its activity appears to be regulated by post-translational modifications. HO activity has been associated with cellular protection, by which it degrades heme, a prooxidant, into bioactive metabolites. Under given circumstances, overexpression of HO-1 can render cells more sensitive to free radicals. Here, we investigated the properties of human HO isoforms that protect against oxidative stress. Considering that CPR can be a limiting factor for optimal HO activity, we tested stable HO-1 and HO-2 cell lines that derived from the CPR cells. Results indicate that the HO-1 and HO-2 cells are more resistant than controls to hemin and to the organic tert-butyl hydroperoxide, t-BuOOH. However, HO-1 cells are less resistant than HO-2 cells to hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)). The levels of oxidatively modified proteins of HO-1 and HO-2 cells in response to t-BuOOH toxicity are identical, but the level of oxidatively modified proteins of HO-2 cells is less than that of HO-1 cells in response to H(2)O(2) toxicity. Performing subcellular fractionations revealed that HO-2 and CPR are found together in the microsomal fractions, whereas HO-1 is partially present in the microsome and also found in other fractions, such as the cytosol. These same findings were observed in non-transfected primary neurons where HO-1 proteins were chemically induced with 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2) (15dPGJ(2)). The differences in subcellular localization of HO-1 and HO-2 could explain some of the discrepancies in their cellular activity and enzymatic protective mechanisms.

Maitotoxin-induced cell death cascade in bovine aortic endothelial cells: divalent cation specificity and selectivity

The maitotoxin (MTX)-induced cell death cascade in bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAECs), a model for Ca(2+) overload-induced toxicity, reflects three sequential changes in plasmalemmal permeability. MTX initially activates Ca(2+)-permeable, nonselective cation channels (CaNSC) and causes a massive increase in cytosolic free Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)). This is followed by the opening of large endogenous cytolytic/oncotic pores (COP) that allow molecules <800 Da to enter the cell. The cells then lyse not by rupture of the plasmalemma but through the activation of a "death" channel that lets large proteins (e.g., 140-160 kDa) leave the cell. These changes in permeability are accompanied by the formation of membrane blebs. In this study, we took advantage of the well-known differences in affinity of various Ca(2+)-binding proteins for Ca(2+) and Sr(2+) vs. Ba(2+) to probe their involvement in each phase of the cell death cascade. Using fluorescence techniques at the cell population level (cuvette-based) and at the single-cell level (time-lapse videomicroscopy), we found that the replacement of Ca(2+) with either Sr(2+) or Ba(2+) delayed both MTX-induced activation of COP, as indicated by the uptake of ethidium bromide, and subsequent cell lysis, as indicated by the uptake of propidium iodide or the release of cell-associated green fluorescent protein. MTX-induced responses were mimicked by ionomycin and were significantly delayed in BAPTA-loaded cells. Experiments at the single-cell level revealed that Ba(2+) not only delayed the time to cell lysis but also caused desynchronization of the lytic phase. Last, membrane blebs, which were numerous and spherical in Ca(2+)-containing solutions, were poorly defined and greatly reduced in number in the presence of Ba(2+). Taken together, these results suggest that intracellular high-affinity Ca(2+)-binding proteins are involved in the MTX-induced changes in plasmalemmal permeability that are responsible for cell demise.

The cardiolipin–cytochrome c interaction and the mitochondrial regulation of apoptosis

While many studies have focused on cytochrome c release from mitochondria, little attention has been given to the specific interaction between cardiolipin (CL) and cytochrome c, the breaching of which likely represents a critical event in the initiation of mitochondrially mediated apoptosis. Mounting evidence suggests that a decrease in the level of CL affects cytochrome c binding to the inner membrane, thus leading to higher levels of soluble cytochrome c in the mitochondrial intermembrane space. Among the factors known to affect CL levels are thyroid status, plasma concentrations of free fatty acids, Ca2+ dysregulation, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). These factors, especially Ca2+ and ROS, have long been recognized as triggers of cell death and, more recently, as modulators of mitochondrially mediated apoptosis. In this review, we discuss the significance of the disruption of the CL-cytochrome c interaction for cytochrome c release and apoptosis.

Differential lipid peroxidation, Mn superoxide, and bcl-2 expression contribute to the maturation-dependent vulnerability of oligodendrocytes to oxidative stress

To understand the basis of oligodendrocyte (OL) susceptibility to oxidative injury, purified rat OL cultures at different stages of maturation were exposed to nitric oxide (NO) donors with fast or slow kinetics of release and to tert-butyl-hydroperoxide, a membrane-permeant organic hydroperoxide. OL precursors (pre-OL) displayed the highest vulnerability to both oxygen or nitrogen reactive species, whereas mature OLs were uniquely vulnerable to long-lasting levels of NO. Cell death occurred by necrosis as well as apoptosis associated with increased caspase-3 activity and, only in the case of pre-OLs, with a decreased expression of the anti-apoptotic protein bcl-2. Pre-OLs were also more susceptible than mature OLs to lipid peroxidation, as measured by F2-isoprostane content in culture media. Finally, pre-OLs, but not mature OLs, expressed high levels of the mitochondrial scavenging enzyme Mn superoxide dismutase, suggesting that pre-OLs may efficiently convert anion superoxide into hydrogen peroxide and, paradoxically, be more predisposed than mature OLs to a toxic imbalance between hydrogen peroxide production and detoxification processes. These data suggest that susceptibility to lipid peroxidation, expression of the scavenging enzyme Mn superoxide dismutase and of the anti-apoptotic protein bcl-2, may contribute to the maturation-dependent vulnerability of OLs to oxidant injury.

The effects of melatonin on Ca(2+) homeostasis in endothelial cells

The effect of melatonin on the Ca(2+) signaling process in bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAE) and in primary cultured vascular endothelial cells from normotensive Sprague Dawley (SDR) and genetically hypertensive (SHR) rats was investigated using the Ca(2+) indicator Fura-2. Acute applications of melatonin failed to initiate a Ca(2+) response in the three cell types considered. However, preincubating SHR aortic endothelial cells with exposure to melatonin increased the internal Ca(2+) release triggered by bradykinin (BK) and ATP while stimulating the related agonist-evoked Ca(2+) entry. This effect appeared specific for SHR cells, as a similar incubation period failed to alter the Ca(2+) responses in BAE and SDR cells. Because of the known overproduction of free radicals in SHR cells, the effect of melatonin on Ca(2+) signaling was also tested in SDR and BAE cells exposed to the superoxide anion radical. Melatonin reversed the deleterious action of free radicals on Ca(2+) signaling in both cases, suggesting that its stimulatory effect in SHR was linked to its antioxidative properties. Finally, experiments where melatonin was applied between successive BK stimulation periods showed an enhancement of the agonist-evoked Ca(2+) entry in BAE and SDR cells. This effect appeared to be independent of the production of second messengers as no specific binding sites for melatonin, including MT1, MT2 and MT3 receptors, could be detected in BAE cells. We conclude that melatonin improves Ca(2+) signaling in dysfunctional endothelial cells characterized by an overproduction of free radicals while stimulating the agonist-evoked Ca(2+) entry in normal endothelial cells through a mechanism not related to its antioxidative properties.

Calcium and oxidative stress: from cell signaling to cell death

Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species can be used as a messengers in normal cell functions. However, at oxidative stress levels they can disrupt normal physiological pathways and cause cell death. Such a switch is largely mediated through Ca(2+) signaling. Oxidative stress causes Ca(2+) influx into the cytoplasm from the extracellular environment and from the endoplasmic reticulum or sarcoplasmic reticulum (ER/SR) through the cell membrane and the ER/SR channels, respectively. Rising Ca(2+) concentration in the cytoplasm causes Ca(2+) influx into mitochondria and nuclei. In mitochondria Ca(2+) accelerates and disrupts normal metabolism leading to cell death. In nuclei Ca(2+) modulates gene transcription and nucleases that control cell apoptosis. Both in nuclei and cytoplasm Ca(2+) can regulate phosphorylation/dephosphorylation of proteins and can modulate signal transduction pathways as a result. Since oxidative stress is associated with many diseases and the aging process, understanding how oxidants alter Ca(2+) signaling can help to understand process of aging and disease, and may lead to new strategies for their prevention.

t-Butyl hydroperoxide and oxidized low density lipoprotein enhance phospholipid hydrolysis in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated retinal pericytes

Free radicals induced by organic peroxides or oxidized low density lipoprotein (oxLDL) play a critical role in the development of atherosclerosis. In investigating this process, and the concomitant inflammatory response, the role of pericytes, cells supporting the endothelial ones in blood vessels, has received little attention. In this study we tested the hypothesis that tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BuOOH) and oxLDL, administered in sublethal doses to the culture medium of retinal pericytes, function as prooxidant signals to increase the stimulation of the peroxidation process induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Confluent cell monolayers were exposed to t-BuOOH (25-400 microM), native LDL or oxLDL (3.4-340 nmol hydroperoxides/mg protein, 1-100 micro). LPS (1 microg/ml), t-BuOOH (200 microM), and oxLDL (100 microM), but not native LDL, incubated for 24 h with cells, markedly increased lipid peroxidation, cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) activity and arachidonic acid (AA) release in a time- and dose-dependent manner. AACOCF(3), a potent cPLA2 inhibitor, and the antioxidant alpha-tocopherol strongly inhibited the prooxidant-stimulated AA release. Long-term exposure to maximal concentrations of t-BuOOH (400 microM) or oxLDL (100 microM) had a sharp cytotoxic effect on the cells, described by morphological and biochemical indices. The presence of t-BuOOH or oxLDL at the same time, synergistically increased phospholipid hydrolysis induced by LPS alone. 400 microM t-BuOOH or 100 microM oxLDL had no significant effect on the stimulation of an apoptosis process estimated by DNA laddering and light and electron microscopy. The results indicate that (i) pericytes may be the target of extensive oxidative damage; (ii) activation of cPLA2 mediates AA liberation; (iii) as long-term regulatory signals, organic peroxide and specific constituents of oxLDL increase the pericyte ability to degrade membrane phospholipids mediated by LPS which was used, in the present study, to simulate in vitro an inflammatory burst in the retinal capillaries.

Calcium competes with zinc for a channel mechanism on the brush border membrane of piglet intestine

Interactions between Ca(+2) and Zn(+2) at the intestinal brush border membrane occur via unclear mechanisms. We hypothesized that Zn(+2) and Ca(+2) are transported across the brush border membrane via a multidivalent metal channel. Using brush border membrane vesicles (BBMV) prepared from intestines of 8 sow-fed piglets, we sought to determine whether Ca(+2) competes with Zn(+2) for uptake. Extravesicular Zn(+2) was removed with ethylenediamine-tetraacetic acid. Time curves of Zn(+2) and Ca(+2) uptake by BBMV were conducted with increasing concentrations of Ca(+2) and Zn(+2), respectively. Saturation curves compared kinetic parameters of Zn(+2) uptake with and without Ca(+2). In addition, Zn(+2) uptake was measured in the presence of various classical Ca(+2) channel modulators. Over 20 min, a 0.4x concentration of Zn(+2) lowered Ca(+2) uptake by vesicles, whereas a 30x concentration of Ca(+2) was necessary to lower Zn(+2) uptake. These data suggest that Ca(+2) has lower affinity than Zn(+2) for a brush border membrane transport protein. Kinetic parameters showed higher K(m) values with 4 or 15 mM Ca(+2) but unchanged J(max), suggesting competitive inhibition. The Ca(+2) channel blocking agents, La(+3), Ba(+2), verapamil, and diltiazem, inhibited Zn(+2) uptake, whereas calcitriol, trans 1,2 cyclohexanediol, cis/trans 1,3 cyclohexanediol, and the L-type Ca(+2) channel agonist, Bay K8644, induced Zn(+2) uptake. These data were consistent with competition for a common transport mechanism on the brush border membrane, possibly a novel multimetal channel. Copyright 2001 Elsevier Science Inc.

Endothelial cell calcium mobilization to acetylcholine is attenuated in copper-deficient rats

Dietary copper deficiency significantly attenuates nitric oxide (NO)-mediated vascular smooth muscle relaxation and vasodilation. There is evidence for both increased inactivation of the NO radical by superoxide anion, and oxidative damage to the endothelium where NO is produced. The current study was designed to examine the NO synthetic pathway in the endothelium during copper deficiency. Male weanling rats were fed a copper-adequate (CuA, 6.4 mg Cu/kg diet) or copper-deficient (CuD, 0.4 mg Cu/kg diet) diet for four weeks. Cremasteric arterioles (approximately 100 microm diameter) were isolated and used for the experiments. Western blot analysis of the arteriole endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) concentration did not show a difference between dietary groups. Acetylcholine (Ach)-induced vasodilation was significantly reduced in the CuD group both before and after pretreatment with the eNOS substrate L-arginine. Endothelial intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) stimulated by 10(-6) M Ach was significantly inhibited in the arterioles from CuD rats. Coincident with the inhibition of [Ca2+]i and vasodilation was a depression of vascular Cu/Zn-SOD activity and an increase in plasma peroxynitrite activity. These data suggest that endothelial Ca2+ signaling and agonist-stimulated NO-mediated vascular dilation are likely reduced by increased oxidative damage in copper-deficient rats.

Increased expression of calreticulin is linked to ANG IV-mediated activation of lung endothelial NOS

This study demonstrates that ANG IV-induced activation of lung endothelial cell nitric oxide synthase (ecNOS) is mediated through mobilization of Ca(2+) concentration and by increased expression and release of the Ca(2+) binding protein calreticulin in pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAEC). In Ca(2+)-free medium and in the presence of the ANG II AT(1) and AT(2) receptor antagonists losartan and PD-123319 (1 microM each), respectively, ANG IV (5, 50, and 500 nM) significantly increased intracellular Ca(2+) release in PAEC (P < 0.05 for all concentrations). In contrast, ANG IV-mediated activation of ecNOS was abolished by the intracellular Ca(2+) chelator 1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid-AM. ANG IV stimulation resulted in significantly increased expression of calreticulin in cells as well as release of calreticulin into the medium of cells as early as 2 h after ANG IV stimulation (P < 0.05). Catalytic activity of purified ecNOS in the absence of calmodulin was increased in a concentration-dependent fashion by calreticulin. Immunocoprecipitation studies revealed that ecNOS and calreticulin were coprecipitated in ANG IV-stimulated PAEC. These results demonstrate that ANG IV-mediated activation of ecNOS is regulated by intracellular Ca(2+) mobilization and by increased expression of calreticulin, which appears to involve interaction of ecNOS and calreticulin proteins in PAEC.

Contraction of human airways by oxidative stress protection by N-acetylcysteine

We examined the in vitro effects of tert-butylhydroperoxide (tBu-OOH) in human bronchial muscle. tert-Butylhydroperoxide produced concentration-dependent contractions of bronchial rings (maximum effect was 56.5 +/- 9.6% of contraction by 1 mM acetylcholine; effective concentration 50% was approximately 100 microM). tert-Butylhydroperoxide (0.5 mM)-induced contraction was enhanced by epithelial removal but abolished by indomethacin (cyclooxygenase inhibitor) and zileuton (lipoxygenase inhibitor). tert-Butylhydroperoxide produced a transient rise in intracellular calcium in human cultured airway smooth muscle cells (HCASMC). The bronchial reactivity to acetylcholine and histamine was not altered by tBu-OOH. In HCASMC, tBu-OOH (0.5 mM, 30 min) increased malondialdehyde levels (MDA; from 7.80 +/- 0.83 to 26.82 +/- 1.49 nmol mg(-1) protein), accompanied by a decrease of reduced glutathione (GSH; from 16.7 +/- 2.6 to 6.9 +/- 1.9 nmol mg(-1) protein) and an increase of oxidized glutathione (from 0.09 +/- 0.03 to 0.18 +/- 0.03 nmol mg(-1) protein). N-acetylcysteine (0.3 mM) inhibited by approximately 60% the bronchial contraction resulting from tBu-OOH (0.5 mM) and protected cultured cells exposed to tBu-OOH (MDA was lowered to 19.51 +/- 1.19 nmol mg(-1) protein, and GSH content was replenished). In summary, tBu-OOH caused contraction of human bronchial muscle mediated by release of cyclo-oxygenase and lipoxygenase products without producing airways hyperreactivity. N-acetylcysteine decreases tBu-OOH-induced contraction and protects human cultured airway smooth muscle cells exposed to tBu-OOH.

Splanchnic tissues undergo hypoxic stress during whole body hyperthermia

Exposure of conscious animals to environmental heat stress increases portal venous radical content. The nature of the observed heat stress-inducible radical molecules suggests that hyperthermia produces cellular hypoxic stress in liver and intestine. To investigate this hypothesis, conscious rats bearing in-dwelling portal venous and femoral artery catheters were exposed to normothermic or hyperthermic conditions. Blood gas levels were monitored during heat stress and for 24 h following heat exposure. Hyperthermia significantly increased arterial O2 saturation, splanchnic arterial-venous O2 difference, and venous PCO2, while decreasing venous O2 saturation and venous pH. One hour after heat exposure, liver glycogen levels were decreased approximately 20%. Two hours after heat exposure, the splanchnic arterial-venous O2 difference remained elevated in heat-stressed animals despite normal Tc. A second group of rats was exposed to similar conditions while receiving intra-arterial injections of the hypoxic cell marker [3H]misonidazole. Liver and intestine were biopsied, and [3H]misonidazole content was quantified. Heat stress increased tissue [3H]misonidazole retention 80% in the liver and 29% in the small intestine. Cellular [3H]misonidazole levels were significantly elevated in intestinal epithelial cells and liver zone 2 and 3 hepatocytes and Kupffer cells. This effect was most prominent in the proximal small intestine and small liver lobi. These data provide evidence that hyperthermia produces cellular hypoxia and metabolic stress in splanchnic tissues and suggest that cellular metabolic stress may contribute to radical generation during heat stress.

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

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

Glutathione peroxidase mimics prevent TNFalpha- and neutrophil-induced endothelial alterations

Based on the assumption that glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity might be limiting in preventing peroxide-induced impairment of endothelial regulatory functions, we studied the effect of a series of new selenium-containing GPx mimics on endothelial cells exposed to an inflammatory stress. The two compounds that have the highest GPx activity, BXT-51072 and BXT-51077, were shown to be the most efficient inhibitors of leukocyte recruitment by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), upon incubation with neutrophils (10-fold excess over HUVEC) and with 1 ng/ml TNF-alpha for 1 or 3.5 h. When HUVEC were pre- and cotreated with 10 microM of either compound, neutrophil adhesion and endothelial alteration were markedly inhibited, as assessed by immunoassays of myeloperoxidase and von Willebrand factor, respectively. These two GPx mimics were also found to be the most efficient inhibitors of the TNFalpha-induced endothelial expression of P- and E-selectin and of the TNFalpha- or interleukin1-induced endothelial release of interleukin-8. Our results demonstrate that GPx mimics such as BXT-51072 behave as potent antagonists of TNF-alpha and interleukin-1 through the downregulation of endothelial proinflammatory responses.

Antioxidative properties of organotellurium compounds in cell systems

The protective/antioxidative properties of diaryl tellurides were demonstrated in cellular systems of increasing complexity. In the presence of glutathione, bis(4-hydroxyphenyl) telluride (1a), bis(4-aminophenyl) telluride (1d) and bis(2-carboxyphenyl) telluride (1h) reduced by more than 50% t-butyl hydroperoxide-induced cell death in lung fibroblast cultures at concentrations below 2 microM. Bis(2,6-dimethyl-4-hydroxyphenyl) telluride (2b) reduced by more than 50% leukocyte-mediated and phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate-stimulated damage to Caco-2 cells at 0.1 microM concentration. As judged by their abilities to reduce formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances at concentrations close to 1 microM, diaryl tellurides 1a, 1d and 2b protected rat kidney tissue against oxidative damage caused by anoxia and reoxygenation. The organotellurium compounds also offered protection after systemic administration. In the presence of diaryl telluride 2b (0.1-1 microM), the ischemia/reperfusion-induced vascular permeability increase in the hamster cheek pouch was significantly reduced as compared with the control. Some of the most active organotellurium cell protectants were evaluated for their ability to inhibit formation of the inflammatory mediators leukotriene B4 and interleukin-1beta. An inhibitory effect on the secretion of these species was seen for compounds 1a and 2b at or above 10 microM concentrations. The protective effects of diaryl tellurides against t-butyl hydroperoxide-induced cell injury can be ascribed mainly to the peroxide-decomposing, glutathione peroxidase-like capacity of the compounds. The chain-breaking, electron- or hydrogen atom-donating ability of diaryl tellurides seems to be the main reason for their protection against leukocyte-mediated cell damage in Caco-2 cells and in the oxidatively challenged rat kidney and hamster cheek pouch.

Binding of iron and inhibition of iron-dependent oxidative cell injury by the "calcium chelator" 1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (BAPTA)

A role for increases in intracellular calcium (Ca2+) has been suggested in the pathophysiology of various forms of oxidant-mediated cell injury. In recent studies, we found that iron bound to the Pseudomonas aeruginosa siderophore, pyochelin, augments oxidant-mediated endothelial cell injury by catalyzing the formation of hydroxyl radical (HO.). To investigate the role of Ca2+ in this process, the effects of two Ca2+ chelating agents, Fura-2 and 1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (BAPTA), were assessed. BAPTA, but not Fura-2, was protective against H2O2/ferripyochelin-mediated injury. Subsequent data suggested that chelation of iron rather than Ca2+ by BAPTA was most likely responsible. Spectrophotometry demonstrated that both ferrous (Fe2+) and ferric (Fe3+) iron formed a complex with BAPTA. The affinity of BAPTA for the metals was Fe3+ > Ca2+ > Fe2+. BAPTA was found to decrease markedly iron-catalyzed production of HO. and/or ferryl species when analyzed by spin trapping. Although our results do not definitively prove that BAPTA protects endothelial cells from ferripyochelin-associated damage by chelating iron, these data indicate that caution must be exercised in utilizing protective effects of intracellular "Ca2+ chelating agents" as evidence for a role of alterations in cellular Ca2+ levels in experimental conditions in which iron-mediated oxidant production is also occurring.

Endothelial eicosanoid metabolism and signal transduction during exposure to oxygen radicals injury

Several physiological agonists that induce elevation of cytosolic free calcium (Ca2+)-levels act via receptor coupled G-proteins, involving activation of phospholipase C (PLC) and hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate. Activation of the inositol signal transduction pathway that precedes Ca2+ ion mobilization is a well accepted signaling pathway in endothelial cell eicosanoid synthesis. This study was designed to examine possible involvement of phosphoinositides in the effects of oxygen free radicals on Ca2+ liberation and eicosanoid synthesis in human umbilical venous endothelial cells (HUVEC). Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was chosen as oxygen radicals generating agent. Stimulation of HUVEC with H2O2 (0.1 mmol/l) led to significant rises in inositol phosphate and diacylglycerol (DAG) levels within 300 seconds and an inhibition of Ca2+ release from internal stores. Eicosanoid formation was detectable despite unchanged levels of cytosolic free Ca2+ and no detectable activation of membrane associated phospholipase A2 (PLA2). This suggests that eicosanoid formation may be mediated through the activation of a Ca2+ independent, cytosolic 40 kDa PLA2 isoenzyme and that DAG could serve as an alternative source for arachidonic acid and seems to sensitize a cytosolic PLA2.

Interrelationships between astrocyte function, oxidative stress and antioxidant status within the central nervous system

Astrocytes have, until recently, been thought of as the passive supporting elements of the central nervous system. However, recent developments suggest that these cells actually play a crucial and vital role in the overall physiology of the brain. Astrocytes selectively express a host of cell membrane and nuclear receptors that are responsive to various neuroactive compounds. In addition, the cell membrane has a number of important transporters for these compounds. Direct evidence for the selective co-expression of neurotransmitters, transporters on both neurons and astrocytes, provides additional evidence for metabolic compartmentation within the central nervous system. Oxidative stress as defined by the excessive production of free radicals can alter dramatically the function of the cell. The free radical nitric oxide has attracted a considerable amount of attention recently, due to its role as a physiological second messenger but also because of its neurotoxic potential when produced in excess. We provide, therefore, an in-depth discussion on how this free radical and its metabolites affect the intra and intercellular physiology of the astrocyte(s) and surrounding neurons. Finally, we look at the ways in which astrocytes can counteract the production of free radicals in general by using their antioxidant pathways. The glutathione antioxidant system will be the focus of attention, since astrocytes have an enormous capacity for, and efficiency built into this particular system.

Phospholipid peroxidation induces cytosolic phospholipase A2 activity: membrane effects versus enzyme phosphorylation

Cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) is a signal-responsive enzyme that is highly selective to the nature of phospholipid substrates. A mechanism for cPLA2 activity regulation through a signal transduction pathway has been proposed and this signaling appears to be influenced by oxidants. Oxidant-mediated signaling of PLA2 may serve as an alternative mechanism for enzyme regulation; however, the manner of regulation has yet to be delineated. In this report we demonstrate that there is a direct effect of membrane oxidation on cPLA2 phosphorylation and activity. A simple in vitro system consisting of purified cPLA2 and phospholipid vesicles was used to facilitate protein kinase C (PKC) activity and provide substrates for cPLA2. Using these vesicles we found that the activity of cPLA2 was enhanced twofold when the vesicles contained as little as 5 mol% phosphatidylcholine hydroperoxides (PLPCOOH). The order of hydrolytic preference for fatty acyl species was 20:4 > 18:2 > 18:1 > 16:0, and the presence of PLPCOOH stimulated hydrolysis largely of phosphatidylcholine containing 20:4. The Ca2+ concentrations required for stimulated hydrolytic activity were also twofold lower for oxidized compared to unoxidized vesicles. Using phospholipid micelles as substrates, PKC-mediated phosphorylation of cPLA2 increased hydrolytic activity 71% compared to preparations lacking PKC. Using phospholipid vesicles as substrates, PKC-mediated phosphorylation resulted in an 85% increase in cPLA2 activity compared to preparations without PKC. PKC-mediated phosphorylation of cPLA2, therefore, stimulates catalytic activity toward membrane phospholipids and the extent of activation is enhanced directly by peroxidation of membrane phospholipids and involves a peroxide-induced stimulation of cPLA2 phosphorylation.

Transient Ca2+ changes in endothelial cells induced by low doses of reactive oxygen species: role of hydrogen peroxide

Cultured human and rat endothelial cells were used to study cellular toxicity and Ca2+ signalling upon exposure to reactive oxygen species. Superoxide and hydrogen peroxide (O2.-/H2O2) were produced by the hypoxanthine/xanthine oxidase system (HX/XO) and caused intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) to rise steadily when activities above 2 mU/ml were used. These Ca2+ increases were also measured when the glucose/glucose oxidase (G/GO) system above 5 mU/ml was used to produce hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Gross morphological changes appeared to parallel elevated [Ca2+]i levels preceding cell death. However, when HX/XO or G/GO were used at non toxic doses rapid and transient changes in [Ca2+]i were measured. These treatments did not alter subsequent receptor mediated Ca2+ signalling induced by ATP (10 microM) or histamine (100 microM). Superoxide dismutase (50 U/ml), which dismutates O2.- into H2O2 also had no influence, whereas catalase (50 U/ml), which removes H2O2, completely diminished transient [Ca2+]i responses. H2O2 added directly was able to induce similar Ca2+ transients when concentrations of at least 500 microM were used. Buffering trace amounts of iron (o-phenanthroline; 200 microM) in order to inhibit .OH radical formation was not effective to alter Ca2+ changes. Experiments performed in Ca(2+)-free buffer showed a similar rise in [Ca2+]i and readdition of Ca2+ to the extracellular medium indicated the activation of store operated Ca2+ entry. Blocking Ca(2+)-ATPases of the endoplasmatic reticulum with thapsigargin (1 microM) inhibited ROS induced transient increases and cells preincubated with pertussis toxin (200 nM) showed unchanged Ca2+ transients after exposure to both enzyme systems. Phospholipase C inhibitor U73122 (2 microM) effectively reduced hydrogen peroxide induced emptying of intracellular stores. Taken together, we demonstrate that enzymatically produced non-toxic H2O2 rather than O2.- or .OH causes calcium signalling from thapsigargin sensitive stores, and activates store operated Ca2+ entry at least partially by activating phospholipase C. These changes clearly differ from pathological 'oxidative stress' associated with a progressive increase in [Ca2+]i.

Effect of membrane-permeable sulfhydryl reagents and depletion of glutathione on calcium mobilisation in human platelets

Exposure to peroxides is known to increase the sensitivity of platelets towards activation by agonists. Similar platelet-activating effects are induced by sulfhydryl reagents that evoke Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release (CICR) by stimulating the Ca2+-releasing property of the inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor. We questioned whether these compounds may act by mobilising intracellular calcium in platelets by altering the intracellular glutathione redox state. Using FURA2-loaded, aspirin-treated platelets, Ca2+ signals were studied following exposure to the membrane-permeable sulfhydryl reagents, thimerosal and disulfiram, the glutathione peroxidase substrate, tert-butyl hydroperoxide, and the inhibitor of glutathione reductase, 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea (BCNU). In single platelets monitored by fluorescence imaging techniques, thimerosal and disulfiram elicited repetitive spiking in [Ca2+]i after variable lag times, indicating that these compounds stimulated CICR. BCNU caused [Ca2+]i spiking of only low amplitude, whereas tert-butyl hydroperoxide was inactive. In platelets in suspension devoid of extracellular CaCl2, the sulfhydryl reagents, at concentrations which decreased glutathione by 25%, strongly increased the Ca2+ responses of agonists that stimulated phospholipase C (thrombin) or acted independently of phospholipase C stimulation (thapsigargin). However, Ca2+ release was only slightly promoted by concentrations of BCNU that resulted in substantial depletion of the glutathione level. Tert-butyl hydroperoxide was without effect on glutathione, but partially inhibited Ca2+ mobilisation with these agonists. It is concluded that, in platelets, the potent CICR-promoting effects of sulfhydryl reagents are not solely due to their reaction with intracellular glutathione, but that extensive reduction in glutathione content is associated with Ca2+ mobilisation and CICR.

Regulation of protein-tyrosine phosphorylation and human sperm capacitation by reactive oxygen derivatives

Spermatozoa undergoing capacitation, a necessary prerequisite event to successful fertilization that can be induced in vitro by reactive oxygen species (ROS), generate superoxide anion (O2.-). Because, in neutrophils, the generation of O2.- is associated with tyrosine phosphorylation of several proteins, the aim of the present study was to investigate the association between protein-tyrosine phosphorylation and ROS-induced human sperm capacitation. Human spermatozoa express two major phosphotyrosine-containing proteins of 105 and 81 kDa, the phosphotyrosine content of which is increased when spermatozoa are incubated under capacitating conditions. Superoxide dismutase and catalase abolish both sperm capacitation and tyrosine phosphorylation of p105 and p81, suggesting the involvement of O2.- and hydrogen peroxide in these two processes. Inhibitors of NADPH oxidase, the enzyme responsible for the neutrophil's respiratory burst, decrease both p105 and p81 tyrosine phosphorylation and sperm capacitation while hydrogen peroxide stimulates these two processes. Tyrosine phosphorylation of p105 and p81 occurs through a herbimycin A-sensitive tyrosine kinase, and sperm incubation with phosphotyrosine-protein phosphatase inhibitors results in an increase in phosphotyrosine content of these two proteins. Indirect immunocytochemical studies reveal phosphotyrosine-containing proteins mostly in the principal piece of the flagellum, in agreement with the localization of p105 and p81 in the human sperm fibrous sheath. Although tyrosine phosphorylation of p105 and p81 and sperm capacitation are related in a time-dependent fashion, some discrepancies are observed in the regulation of these two processes according to the redox status of the spermatozoa.

Oxidants as stimulators of signal transduction

Redox (oxidation-reduction) reactions regulate signal transduction. Oxidants such as superoxide, hydrogen peroxide, hydroxyl radicals, and lipid hydroperoxides (i.e., reactive oxygen species) are now realized as signaling molecules under subtoxic conditions. Nitric oxide is also an example of a redox mediator. Reactive oxygen species induce various biological processes such as gene expression by stimulating signal transduction components such as Ca(2+)-signaling and protein phosphorylation. Various oxidants increase cytosolic Ca2+; however, the exact origin of Ca2+ is controversial. Ca2+ may be released from the endoplasmic reticulum, extracellular space, or mitochondria in response to oxidant-influence on Ca2+ pumps, channels, and transporters. Alternatively, oxidants may release Ca2+ from Ca2+ binding proteins. Various oxidants stimulate tyrosine as well as serine/threonine phosphorylation, and direct stimulation of protein kinases and inhibition of protein phosphatases by oxidants have been proposed as mechanisms. The oxidant-stimulation of the effector molecules such as phospholipase A2 as well as the activation of oxidative stress-responsive transcription factors may also depend on the oxidant-mediated activation of Ca(2+)-signaling and/or protein phosphorylation. In addition to the stimulation of signal transduction by oxidants, the observations that ligand-receptor interactions produce reactive oxygen species and that antioxidants block receptor-mediated signal transduction led to a proposal that reactive oxygen species may be second messengers for transcription factor activation, apoptosis, bone resorption, cell growth, and chemotaxis. Physiological significance of the role of biological oxidants in the regulation of signal transduction as well as the mechanisms of the oxidant-stimulation of signal transduction are discussed.

Overexpression of plasma membrane annexin II in NO2-exposed pulmonary artery endothelial cells

Because exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) alters plasma membrane structure and function in pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAEC), we examined whether NO2 exposure is associated with upregulation of plasma membrane-specific proteins in PAEC. Exposure to 5 ppm NO2 for 24 h had no significant effect on total protein synthesis. However, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis of isolated plasma membranes from [35S]-methionine pulse-labeled PAEC exposed to NO2 for 24 h demonstrated 3- to 9-fold increases in the synthesis of several proteins with molecular masses of 36, 39, and 40 kDa compared with controls. N-terminal amino acid sequencing and immunodetection analysis identified the 36kDa plasma membrane protein as annexin II (lipocortin II). Northern blotting analysis demonstrated that the mRNA expression for annexin II in NO2-exposed cells was also increased. These results suggest that exposure to NO2 results in induction of plasma membrane annexin II, an important multifunctional calcium- and phospholipid-binding protein in PAEC.

NO2-induced expression of specific protein kinase C isoforms and generation of phosphatidylcholine-derived diacylglycerol in cultured pulmonary artery endothelial cells

The present study examines whether nitrogen dioxide (NO2)-induced activation of protein kinase C (PKC) is associated with increased expression of specific PKC isoforms and/or with enhanced generation of phosphatidylcholine(PC)-derived diacylglycerol (DAG) in pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAEC). Western blot analysis revealed that exposure to 5 ppm NO2 resulted in increased expression of PKC alpha and epsilon isoforms in both cytosol and membrane fractions in a time-dependent fashion compared with controls. A time-dependent elevated expression of PKC isoform beta was observed in the cytosol fraction only of N02-exposed cells. PKC isoform gamma was not detectable in either the cytosolic or membrane fractions from control or N02-exposed cells. Scatchard analysis of [3h]phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu) binding showed that exposure to N02 for 24 h increased the maximal number of binding sites (Bmax) from 15.2 +/- 2.3 pmol/mg (control) to 42.3 +/- 5.3 pmol/mg (p < 0.01, n = 4) (NO2-exposed). Exposure to NO2 significantly increased PC specific-phospholipase C and phospholipase D activities in the plasma membrane of PAEC (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, respectively). When [3H]-myristic acid-labeled cells were exposed to NO2, significantly increased radioactivity was associated with cellular DAG. These results show for the first time that exposure of PAEC to NO2 results in elevated expression of specific PKC isoforms and in enhanced generation of cellular DAG, and the latter appears to arise largely from the hydrolysis of plasma membrane PC.

Nitrogen dioxide-induced expression of a 78 kDa protein in pulmonary artery endothelial cells

Exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) activates signal transduction in cultured pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAEC). We examined whether NO2-induced activation of signal transduction results in increased expression of proteins in PAEC. Exposure to 5 ppm NO2 for 4, 12, and 24 h had no significant effect on total protein synthesis. However, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis of [35S]-methionine-labeled PAEC exposed to NO2 for 24 h, but not 4 and 12 h, demonstrated increased synthesis of several proteins including a two- to five-fold increase of some proteins with molecular masses of 47, 64, 78, and 105 kDa compared to controls. N-terminal amino acid sequencing and immunodetection analysis identified the 78 kDa protein as 78 kDa glucose-regulated protein (GRP-78). Induction of GRP-78 by NO2 exposure was regulated at the transcriptional level, and the induction required de novo protein synthesis. Exposure to NO2 for 24 h also significantly (p < .05) decreased glycosylation of proteins in PAEC. Exposure of cell monolayers to tunicamycin, an inhibitor of protein glycosylation, mimicked the effect of NO2 exposure on expression of GRP-78. Increased expression of GRP-78 was also detected when cell monolayers were exposed to the calcium ionophore A 23187, to 2-deoxyglucose, or to glucose-free medium, which are also known to cause perturbations in protein glycosylation. These results demonstrate that exposure to NO2 increases expression of a number of proteins including GRP-78 in PAEC. Increased expression of GRP-78 in NO2-exposed cells appears to be associated with inhibition of glycosylation or through coordinated alterations in metabolic events that lead to inhibition of protein glycosylation.

Oxidative stress in acidic conditions increases the production of inositol phosphates in chick retinal cells in culture

The effect of oxidative stress on the production of [3H]inositol phosphates (InsP) by retinal cells in culture was analyzed. The process of oxidation was induced by incubating the cells with ascorbic acid and ferrous sulphate, and increased extent of oxidation was obtained by varying the pH from neutral to moderate acidosis (pH 6.5). The oxidative process significantly reduced cell viability (about 15%) by decreasing the capacity of mitochondria dehydrogenases to reduce tetrazolium salts, but had no effect on the leakage of lactate dehydrogenase. The production of [3H]InsP, in the absence of receptor activation, was increased dose dependently by oxidative stress. Maximal increases to 189 +/- 7%, 197 +/- 13%, and 329 +/- 22% were observed, respectively, for inositol monophosphates (InsP1), inositol bisphosphates (InsP2), and inositol trisphosphates (InsP3), at 2.5 nmol thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS)/mg protein. The response to cholinergic receptor activation was slightly decreased in cells oxidized in acidic conditions. Antagonists of glutamate receptors failed to inhibit the enhancement in InsP that occurred upon cellular oxidation, suggesting that the effect was not mediated by activation of glutamate receptors. Cellular oxidation increased by about two fold the uptake of 45Ca2+ in the absence of agonist stimulation. However, stimulation of phospholipase C by Ca2+ did not mediate the increase in [3H]InsP upon cell oxidation in acidic conditions, because the addition of 1-[6-[[17 beta-3-methoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17-yl]amino] hexyl]-1-H-pyrrole-2,5-dione (U-73122), an inhibitor of phospholipase C-dependent processes, did not affect the production of [3H]InsP in oxidized cells. Nevertheless, U-73122 significantly inhibited carbachol- and K(+)-stimulated accumulation of [3H]InsP. Furthermore, the enhancement of [3H]InsP induced by ascorbate/Fe2+ was still observed in the absence of external Ca2+. This increase in the production of InsP did not substantially induce the release of Ca2+ from internal stores. The results suggest that both Ca(2+)-dependent and Ca(2+)-independent pathways are involved in oxidative stress-mediated InsP increment, and that the enzymes of the InsP metabolism may be affected by oxidation.

Oxidant stress and endothelial membrane transport

The endothelium modulates vascular tone, vasoreactivity, and permeability in response to agonist-stimulation. Much of the pathophysiology of oxidant-induced vascular injury can be attributed to endothelial cell dysfunction. In the past several years, the effects of oxidant stress on agonist-stimulated Ca(2+)-channels have been described. More recently, the effects of oxidant stress on several other endothelial membrane-transport systems have been elucidated. It now appears that inhibition of the agonist-stimulated Ca2+ channel is due at least in part to membrane depolarization via oxidant-activation of a Na(+)-permeable, nonselective cation channel. In this review, the effects of oxidant stress on ion transport through the agonist-stimulated Ca2+ influx channel, Na+ and K+ channels, Na+/K(+)-ATPase, Ca(2+)-ATPase, and the Na+/K+/2Cl- cotransporter are discussed. The interrelated effects of oxidant stress on these endothelial membrane transport pathways are considered, and the net effect on Ca2+ signaling is described.

Time course of oxidative stress during open-heart surgery

Oxidative stress and subsequent lipid peroxidation have been suggested as pathogenetically important for postischaemic reperfusion injury. We studied the time-course of oxidative stress in 14 adults undergoing cardiac surgery, evaluating serum levels of lipid peroxidation products--diene conjugates (DC) and basal and Fe-stimulated thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS, FeTEBARS)--as well as markers of blood antioxidant status--serum antioxidative capacity (AOC) and red blood cell glutathione (RBC-GSH) at 6 perioperative time-points. Arterial TBARS were significantly increased 15 minutes after start of cardiopulmonary bypass, 5 minutes after release of aortic cross-clamp and 15 minutes after cessation of bypass, compared with the preoperative levels (respective means 20.8, 38.5, 34.8 vs 7.5 nmol/g protein, p < 0.05). AOC had decreased at these times (means 21.3, 18.1, 23.2 vs 34.9%, p < 0.05). The TBARS changes correlated with AOC decrease (r = 0.30, p < 0.001). Changes in serum DC and RBC-GSH were not statistically significant. All lipid peroxidation parameters had returned to preoperative levels on the following morning, while antioxidative capacity remained suppressed (28.1%, p < 0.05). These data demonstrate a definite time-course of oxidative stress markers in arterial blood during open-heart surgery.

Mitochondrial metabolism of a hydroperoxide to free radicals in human endothelial cells: an electron spin resonance spin-trapping investigation

Oxidative damage to the vascular endothelium may be an important event in the promotion of atherosclerosis. Several lines of evidence suggest that lipid hydroperoxides may be responsible for the induction of such damage. Hydroperoxides cause loss of endothelial cell integrity, increase the permeability of the endothelium to macromolecules, and compromise its ability to control vascular tone via the secretion of vasoactive molecules in response to receptor stimulation. The molecular mechanisms responsible for these effects are, however, poorly understood. In this paper, we describe an e.s.r. spin-trapping investigation into the metabolism of the model hydroperoxide compound tert-butylhydroperoxide to reactive free radicals in intact human endothelial cells. The hydroperoxide is shown to undergo a single electron reduction to form free radicals. Experiments with metabolic poisons indicate that the mitochondrial electron-transport chain is the source of electrons for this reduction. The metal-ion-chelating agent desferrioxamine was found to prevent cell killing by tert-butylhydroperoxide, but did not affect free radical formation, suggesting that free metal ions may serve to promote free-radical chain reactions involved in cell killing following the initial conversion of the hydroperoxide to free radicals by mitochondria. These processes may well be responsible for many of the reported effects of hydroperoxides on endothelial cell integrity and function.

4-Hydroxynonenal, a lipid peroxidation product, induces relaxation of human cerebral arteries

The relaxant effect of 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), a lipid peroxidation product, on human cerebral arteries was studied. Addition of 4-HNE to artery rings promoted no contraction, and after stimulation with prostaglandin F2 alpha (PFG2 alpha; 10(-7)-3 x 10(-6) M), 100% relaxation was obtained with 3 x 10(-5) M 4-HNE. Inhibition of nitric oxide formation with NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME; (10(-4) M), as well as prostaglandin synthesis with indomethacin (3 x 10(-6) M), partially prevented 4-HNE-induced relaxation, but each of these substances separately failed to inhibit complete relaxation. Addition of both inhibitors together reduced 4-HNE-induced relaxation to approximately 50%, but relaxation could not be abolished. When the endothelium was removed, 4-HNE did not promote relaxation after PGF2 alpha stimulation. The possible roles of different intracellular signaling systems in the vascular effect of 4-HNE are discussed.

Oxidant-sensitive protein phosphorylation in endothelial cells

Reactive oxygen is an important regulator of vascular cell biology; however, the mechanisms involved in transducing signals from oxidants in endothelial cells are poorly defined. Because protein phosphorylation is a major mechanism for signal transduction, cultured aortic endothelial cells were exposed to nonlethal concentrations of H2O2 to examine oxidant-sensitive changes in phosphorylation state. Addition of H2O2 increases the phosphorylation of the heat shock protein 27 (HSP27) within 2 min. This response is maximal by 20 min and remains constant for more than 45 min. Levels of intracellular free Ca2+ in endothelial cells did not change following addition of 100 microM H2O2, nor did the ability of the cells to respond to bradykinin. H2O2-induced phosphorylations were either not affected or were slightly increased in cells pretreated with PKC inhibitors (H-8, staurosporin, or calphostin c). Two-dimensional analysis of phosphoproteins from homogenates of 32P-labeled cells revealed that phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) did not cause the same degree of HSP27 phosphorylation as H2O2. Simultaneous addition of 10 eta M PMA and 50 microM H2O2 decreased the oxidant-stimulated phosphorylation of the most acidic HSP27 isoform. These data suggest that signal transduction for H2O2-sensitive endothelial cell responses are not only independent of PKC, but may also be suppressed by the action of the kinase.

Nutrition, endothelial cell metabolism, and atherosclerosis

The vascular endothelium that forms an interface between the blood and the surrounding tissues is continuously exposed to both physiologic and pathophysiologic stimuli. These stimuli are often mediated by nutrients that can contribute to the overall function of the endothelial cell in the regulation of vascular tone, coagulation and fibrinolysis, cellular growth and differentiation, and immune and inflammatory responses. Therefore, nutrient-mediated functional changes of the endothelium and the underlying tissues may be significantly involved in the atherosclerotic disease process. There is evidence that individual nutrients or nutrient derivatives may either provoke or prevent metabolic and physiologic perturbations of the vascular endothelium. Preservation of nutrients that exhibit antiatherogenic properties may, therefore, be a critical issue in the preparation and processing of foods. This review focuses on selected nutrients as they affect endothelial cell metabolism and their possible implications in atherosclerosis.

Hydrogen peroxide activates agonist-sensitive Ca(2+)-flux pathways in canine venous endothelial cells

The effect of the biological oxidant H2O2 on purinergic-receptor-stimulated Ca2+ signalling was determined in canine venous endothelial cells. H2O2 increased cytosolic free [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]i), the rate of rise of which was dose-dependently related to H2O2 concentration. The response of [Ca2+]i to H2O2 resulted in part from release of Ca2+ from internal stores. The H2O2-sensitive intracellular Ca2+ pool was characterized in cells suspended in Ca(2+)-free/EGTA buffer and stimulated in sequence with H2O2 and ionomycin or ATP. Under this condition, the rank order of apparent compartment size sensitive to each compound was ionomycin > H2O2 > ATP. Stimulation of cells with H2O2 eliminated any response of [Ca2+]i to subsequent addition of ATP. To test more directly whether H2O2 accesses the inositol trisphosphate-sensitive Ca2+ store, cells were pretreated with thapsigargin, a selective inhibitor of that store's Ca2+ pump. Release of Ca2+ from internal Ca2+ stores by H2O2 declined as the interval after thapsigargin addition increased, a finding that supports the contention that H2O2 accesses the inositol trisphosphate-sensitive Ca2+ store. H2O2-stimulated Ca2+ influx across the cell membrane was sensitive to Ni2+, La3+, and 1-(beta-[3-(4-methoxyphenyl)propoxy]-4-methoxyphenethyl)-1H-imidazole HCl (SKF-96365), a selective inhibitor of the agonist-stimulated Ca(2+)-influx pathway. Ca2+ entry triggered by H2O2 appears to occur via the agonist-sensitive Ca2+ influx pathway. Together, these results suggest that H2O2, which is normally secreted by activated neutrophils and monocytes, may act as an intercellular messenger and stimulate Ca2+ signalling in target endothelial cells.

Oxidant stress inhibits the store-dependent Ca(2+)-influx pathway of vascular endothelial cells

Oxidant stress induced by t-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BuOOH) inhibits bradykinin-stimulated Ca2+ signalling in vascular endothelial cells. The effect of t-BuOOH on intracellular Ca2+ pools was determined by addition of Ca(2+)-releasing agents to fura-2-loaded cells suspended in Ca(2+)-free/EGTA buffer. In control cells, sequential additions of bradykinin and ionomycin produced similar increases in cytosolic free [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]i). By contrast, incubation with t-BuOOH progressively decreased the response of [Ca2+]i to bradykinin and increased that to ionomycin, suggesting that the total (ionomycin-releasable) Ca2+ pool remains replete during oxidant stress. The effect of t-BuOOH on the InsP3-sensitive Ca2+ pool was measured by the increase in [Ca2+]i or efflux of 45Ca2+ stimulated by 2,5-di-t-butylhydroquinone (BHQ). Incubation with t-BuOOH did not inhibit BHQ-stimulated increases in [Ca2+]i or 45Ca2+ efflux, suggesting that the InsP3-sensitive Ca2+ pool remains replete and releasable. Activity of the Ca(2+)-influx pathway stimulated by release of internal Ca2+ stores was determined via re-addition of Ca2+ to BHQ-stimulated cells suspended in Ca(2+)-free/EGTA buffer and via BHQ-stimulated 45Ca2+ uptake. Incubation of cells with t-BuOOH for 1 h significantly inhibited the influx pathway. At later time points, t-BuOOH increased basal [Ca2+]i and potentiated the response of [Ca2+]i to BHQ. Similar results were demonstrated with thapsigargin. Together, these findings suggest that (1) the inhibitory effect of t-BuOOH on bradykinin-stimulated release of Ca2+ from internal stores is not related to depletion of these stores, and (2) inhibition of the store-dependent Ca(2+)-influx pathway occurs by a direct effect of the influx pathway or by inhibition of the mechanism which links the internal Ca2+ store to plasmalemmal Ca2+ influx.