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Majtan T, Olsen T, Sokolova J, Krijt J, Křížková M, Ida T, Ditrói T, Hansikova H, Vit O, Petrak J, Kuchař L, Kruger WD, Nagy P, Akaike T, Kožich V. Deciphering pathophysiological mechanisms underlying cystathionine beta-synthase-deficient homocystinuria using targeted metabolomics, liver proteomics, sphingolipidomics and analysis of mitochondrial function. Redox Biol 2024; 73:103222. [PMID: 38843767 PMCID: PMC11190558 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cystathionine β-synthase (CBS)-deficient homocystinuria (HCU) is an inherited disorder of sulfur amino acid metabolism with varying severity and organ complications, and a limited knowledge about underlying pathophysiological processes. Here we aimed at getting an in-depth insight into disease mechanisms using a transgenic mouse model of HCU (I278T). METHODS We assessed metabolic, proteomic and sphingolipidomic changes, and mitochondrial function in tissues and body fluids of I278T mice and WT controls. Furthermore, we evaluated the efficacy of methionine-restricted diet (MRD) in I278T mice. RESULTS In WT mice, we observed a distinct tissue/body fluid compartmentalization of metabolites with up to six-orders of magnitude differences in concentrations among various organs. The I278T mice exhibited the anticipated metabolic imbalance with signs of an increased production of hydrogen sulfide and disturbed persulfidation of free aminothiols. HCU resulted in a significant dysregulation of liver proteome affecting biological oxidations, conjugation of compounds, and metabolism of amino acids, vitamins, cofactors and lipids. Liver sphingolipidomics indicated upregulation of the pro-proliferative sphingosine-1-phosphate signaling pathway. Liver mitochondrial function of HCU mice did not seem to be impaired compared to controls. MRD in I278T mice improved metabolic balance in all tissues and substantially reduced dysregulation of liver proteome. CONCLUSION The study highlights distinct tissue compartmentalization of sulfur-related metabolites in normal mice, extensive metabolome, proteome and sphingolipidome disruptions in I278T mice, and the efficacy of MRD to alleviate some of the HCU-related biochemical abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Majtan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Fribourg, Faculty of Science and Medicine, Fribourg, 1700, Switzerland.
| | - Thomas Olsen
- Department of Nutrition, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jitka Sokolova
- Department of Pediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, Charles University-First Faculty of Medicine, Prague, 12808, Czech Republic; Department of Pediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, 12808, Czech Republic
| | - Jakub Krijt
- Department of Pediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, Charles University-First Faculty of Medicine, Prague, 12808, Czech Republic; Department of Pediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, 12808, Czech Republic
| | - Michaela Křížková
- Department of Pediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, Charles University-First Faculty of Medicine, Prague, 12808, Czech Republic; Department of Pediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, 12808, Czech Republic
| | - Tomoaki Ida
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Molecular Toxicology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Tamás Ditrói
- Department of Molecular Immunology and Toxicology and the National Tumor Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, 1122, Hungary
| | - Hana Hansikova
- Department of Pediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, Charles University-First Faculty of Medicine, Prague, 12808, Czech Republic; Department of Pediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, 12808, Czech Republic
| | - Ondrej Vit
- BIOCEV, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 252 50, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Petrak
- BIOCEV, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 252 50, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Ladislav Kuchař
- Department of Pediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, Charles University-First Faculty of Medicine, Prague, 12808, Czech Republic; Department of Pediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, 12808, Czech Republic
| | - Warren D Kruger
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Péter Nagy
- Department of Molecular Immunology and Toxicology and the National Tumor Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, 1122, Hungary; Department of Anatomy and Histology, HUN-REN-UVMB Laboratory of Redox Biology Research Group, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1078, Budapest, Hungary; Chemistry Institute, University of Debrecen, 4012, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Takaaki Akaike
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Molecular Toxicology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Viktor Kožich
- Department of Nutrition, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Pediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, Charles University-First Faculty of Medicine, Prague, 12808, Czech Republic.
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2
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Cueto R, Shen W, Liu L, Wang X, Wu S, Mohsin S, Yang L, Khan M, Hu W, Snyder N, Wu Q, Ji Y, Yang XF, Wang H. SAH is a major metabolic sensor mediating worsening metabolic crosstalk in metabolic syndrome. Redox Biol 2024; 73:103139. [PMID: 38696898 PMCID: PMC11070633 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
In this study, we observed worsening metabolic crosstalk in mouse models with concomitant metabolic disorders such as hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy), hyperlipidemia, and hyperglycemia and in human coronary artery disease by analyzing metabolic profiles. We found that HHcy worsening is most sensitive to other metabolic disorders. To identify metabolic genes and metabolites responsible for the worsening metabolic crosstalk, we examined mRNA levels of 324 metabolic genes in Hcy, glucose-related and lipid metabolic systems. We examined Hcy-metabolites (Hcy, SAH and SAM) by LS-ESI-MS/MS in 6 organs (heart, liver, brain, lung, spleen, and kidney) from C57BL/6J mice. Through linear regression analysis of Hcy-metabolites and metabolic gene mRNA levels, we discovered that SAH-responsive genes were responsible for most metabolic changes and all metabolic crosstalk mediated by Serine, Taurine, and G3P. SAH-responsive genes worsen glucose metabolism and cause upper glycolysis activation and lower glycolysis suppression, indicative of the accumulation of glucose/glycogen and G3P, Serine synthesis inhibition, and ATP depletion. Insufficient Serine due to negative correlation of PHGDH with SAH concentration may inhibit the folate cycle and transsulfurarion pathway and consequential reduced antioxidant power, including glutathione, taurine, NADPH, and NAD+. Additionally, we identified SAH-activated pathological TG loop as the consequence of increased fatty acid (FA) uptake, FA β-oxidation and Ac-CoA production along with lysosomal damage. We concluded that HHcy is most responsive to other metabolic changes in concomitant metabolic disorders and mediates worsening metabolic crosstalk mainly via SAH-responsive genes, that organ-specific Hcy metabolism determines organ-specific worsening metabolic reprogramming, and that SAH, acetyl-CoA, Serine and Taurine are critical metabolites mediating worsening metabolic crosstalk, redox disturbance, hypomethylation and hyperacetylation linking worsening metabolic reprogramming in metabolic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramon Cueto
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Lewis Kats School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Wen Shen
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Lewis Kats School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, China
| | - Lu Liu
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Lewis Kats School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Xianwei Wang
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Lewis Kats School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sheng Wu
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Lewis Kats School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sadia Mohsin
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Lewis Kats School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ling Yang
- Medical Genetics & Molecular Biochemistry, Lewis Kats School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mohsin Khan
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Lewis Kats School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Wenhui Hu
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Lewis Kats School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nathaniel Snyder
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Lewis Kats School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Qinghua Wu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, China
| | - Yong Ji
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease and Molecular Intervention, Nanjing Medical University, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Yang
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Lewis Kats School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Cardiovascular Research Center, Lewis Kats School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Hong Wang
- Center for Metabolic Disease Research, Lewis Kats School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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3
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Fishbein SRS, Evbuomwan EM, Dantas G. Conquering homocystinuria with engineered probiotics. Cell Host Microbe 2024; 32:298-300. [PMID: 38484708 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2024.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Pyridoxine-unresponsive homocystinuria has lifelong implications for health. In this issue, Perreault and colleagues present evidence that orally delivered engineered probiotic Escherichia Coli Nissle SYNB1353 is a promising candidate in reducing homocysteine, with successful trials in mice, monkeys, and humans. However, further probiotic optimization and safety assessments are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Skye R S Fishbein
- The Edison Family Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Pathology and Immunology, Division of Laboratory and Genomic Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Esse M Evbuomwan
- The Edison Family Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Gautam Dantas
- The Edison Family Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Pathology and Immunology, Division of Laboratory and Genomic Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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4
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Yousof TR, Bouchard CC, Alb M, Lynn EG, Lhoták S, Jiang H, MacDonald M, Li H, Byun JH, Makda Y, Athanasopoulos M, Maclean KN, Cherrington NJ, Naqvi A, Igdoura SA, Krepinsky JC, Steinberg GR, Austin RC. Restoration of the ER stress response protein TDAG51 in hepatocytes mitigates NAFLD in mice. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:105655. [PMID: 38237682 PMCID: PMC10875272 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.105655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Endoplasmic reticulum stress is associated with insulin resistance and the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Deficiency of the endoplasmic reticulum stress response T-cell death-associated gene 51 (TDAG51) (TDAG51-/-) in mice promotes the development of high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity, fatty liver, and hepatic insulin resistance. However, whether this effect is due specifically to hepatic TDAG51 deficiency is unknown. Here, we report that hepatic TDAG51 protein levels are consistently reduced in multiple mouse models of liver steatosis and injury as well as in liver biopsies from patients with liver disease compared to normal controls. Delivery of a liver-specific adeno-associated virus (AAV) increased hepatic expression of a TDAG51-GFP fusion protein in WT, TDAG51-/-, and leptin-deficient (ob/ob) mice. Restoration of hepatic TDAG51 protein was sufficient to increase insulin sensitivity while reducing body weight and fatty liver in HFD fed TDAG51-/- mice and in ob/ob mice. TDAG51-/- mice expressing ectopic TDAG51 display improved Akt (Ser473) phosphorylation, post-insulin stimulation. HFD-fed TDAG51-/- mice treated with AAV-TDAG51-GFP displayed reduced lipogenic gene expression, increased beta-oxidation and lowered hepatic and serum triglycerides, findings consistent with reduced liver weight. Further, AAV-TDAG51-GFP-treated TDAG51-/- mice exhibited reduced hepatic precursor and cleaved sterol regulatory-element binding proteins (SREBP-1 and SREBP-2). In vitro studies confirmed the lipid-lowering effect of TDAG51 overexpression in oleic acid-treated Huh7 cells. These studies suggest that maintaining hepatic TDAG51 protein levels represents a viable therapeutic approach for the treatment of obesity and insulin resistance associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamana R Yousof
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton and the Hamilton Centre for Kidney Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Celeste C Bouchard
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton and the Hamilton Centre for Kidney Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mihnea Alb
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton and the Hamilton Centre for Kidney Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Edward G Lynn
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton and the Hamilton Centre for Kidney Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sárka Lhoták
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton and the Hamilton Centre for Kidney Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hua Jiang
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Melissa MacDonald
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton and the Hamilton Centre for Kidney Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Jae H Byun
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton and the Hamilton Centre for Kidney Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yumna Makda
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton and the Hamilton Centre for Kidney Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Kenneth N Maclean
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Nathan J Cherrington
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Asghar Naqvi
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Suleiman A Igdoura
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joan C Krepinsky
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton and the Hamilton Centre for Kidney Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Centre for Metabolism, Obesity and Diabetes Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gregory R Steinberg
- Centre for Metabolism, Obesity and Diabetes Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Richard C Austin
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton and the Hamilton Centre for Kidney Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Centre for Metabolism, Obesity and Diabetes Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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5
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Lambooy S, Heida A, Joschko C, Nakladal D, van Buiten A, Kloosterhuis N, Huijkman N, Gerding A, van de Sluis B, Henning R, Deelman L. Selective Hepatic Cbs Knockout Aggravates Liver Damage, Endothelial Dysfunction and ROS Stress in Mice Fed a Western Diet. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087019. [PMID: 37108182 PMCID: PMC10138434 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS) is highly expressed in the liver, and deficiencies in Cbs lead to hyperhomocysteinemia (HHCy) and disturbed production of antioxidants such as hydrogen sulfide. We therefore hypothesized that liver-specific Cbs deficient (LiCKO) mice would be particularly susceptible to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD was induced by a high-fat high-cholesterol (HFC) diet; LiCKO and controls were split into eight groups based on genotype (con, LiCKO), diet (normal diet, HFC), and diet duration (12 weeks, 20 weeks). LiCKO mice displayed intermediate to severe HHCy. Plasma H2O2 was increased by HFC, and further aggravated in LiCKO. LiCKO mice fed an HFC diet had heavier livers, increased lipid peroxidation, elevated ALAT, aggravated hepatic steatosis, and inflammation. LiCKO mice showed decreased L-carnitine in the liver, but this did not result in impaired fatty acid oxidation. Moreover, HFC-fed LiCKO mice demonstrated vascular and renal endothelial dysfunction. Liver and endothelial damage correlated significantly with systemic ROS status. In conclusion, this study demonstrates an important role for CBS in the liver in the development of NAFLD, which is most probably mediated through impaired defense against oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastiaan Lambooy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Andries Heida
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Christian Joschko
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Dalibor Nakladal
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Azuwerus van Buiten
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Niels Kloosterhuis
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Nicolette Huijkman
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Albert Gerding
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Bart van de Sluis
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Robert Henning
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Leo Deelman
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
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6
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Majtan T, Kožich V, Kruger WD. Recent therapeutic approaches to cystathionine beta-synthase-deficient homocystinuria. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:264-278. [PMID: 36417581 PMCID: PMC9822868 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS)-deficient homocystinuria (HCU) is the most common inborn error of sulfur amino acid metabolism. The pyridoxine non-responsive form of the disease manifests itself by massively increasing plasma and tissue concentrations of homocysteine, a toxic intermediate of methionine metabolism that is thought to be the major cause of clinical complications including skeletal deformities, connective tissue defects, thromboembolism and cognitive impairment. The current standard of care involves significant dietary interventions that, despite being effective, often adversely affect quality of life of HCU patients, leading to poor adherence to therapy and inadequate biochemical control with clinical complications. In recent years, the unmet need for better therapeutic options has resulted in development of novel enzyme and gene therapies and exploration of pharmacological approaches to rescue CBS folding defects caused by missense pathogenic mutations. Here, we review scientific evidence and current state of affairs in development of recent approaches to treat HCU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Majtan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Fribourg, Faculty of Science and Medicine, Fribourg, 1700, Switzerland
| | - Viktor Kožich
- Department of Pediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, Charles University-First Faculty of Medicine, Prague, 12808, Czech Republic
- Department of Pediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, 12808, Czech Republic
| | - Warren D. Kruger
- Molecular Therapeutics Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, 19111, USA
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Singh M, Pushpakumar S, Zheng Y, Homme RP, Smolenkova I, Mokshagundam SPL, Tyagi SC. Hydrogen sulfide mitigates skeletal muscle mitophagy-led tissue remodeling via epigenetic regulation of the gene writer and eraser function. Physiol Rep 2022; 10:e15422. [PMID: 35986494 PMCID: PMC9391604 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ketone bodies (KB) serve as the food for mitochondrial biogenetics. Interestingly, probiotics are known to promote KB formation in the gut (especially those that belong to the Lactobacillus genus). Furthermore, Lactobacillus helps produce folate that lowers the levels of homocysteine (Hcy); a hallmark non-proteinogenic amino acid that defines the importance of epigenetics, and its landscape. In this study, we decided to test whether hydrogen sulfide (H2 S), another Hcy lowering agent regulates the epigenetic gene writer DNA methyltransferase (DNMT), eraser FTO and TET2, and thus mitigates the skeletal muscle remodeling. We treated hyperhomocysteinemic (HHcy, cystathionine beta-synthase heterozygote knockout; CBS+/- ) mice with NaHS (the H2 S donor). The results suggested multi-organ damage by HHcy in the CBS+/- mouse strain compared with WT control mice (CBS+/+ ). H2 S treatment abrogated most of the HHcy-induced damage. The levels of gene writer (DNMT2) and H3K9 (methylation) were higher in the CBS+/- mice, and the H2 S treatment normalized their levels. More importantly, the levels of eraser FTO, TET, and associated GADD45, and MMP-13 were decreased in the CBS+/- mice; however, H2 S treatment mitigated their respective decrease. These events were associated with mitochondrial fission, i.e., an increase in DRP1, and mitophagy. Although the MMP-2 level was lower in CBS+/- compared to WT but H2 S could further lower it in the CBS+/- mice. The MMPs levels were associated with an increase in interstitial fibrosis in the CBS+/- skeletal muscle. Due to fibrosis, the femoral artery blood flow was reduced in the CBS+/- mice, and that was normalized by H2 S. The bone and muscle strengths were found to be decreased in the CBS+/- mice but the H2 S treatment normalized skeletal muscle strength in the CBS+/- mice. Our findings suggest that H2 S mitigates the mitophagy-led skeletal muscle remodeling via epigenetic regulation of the gene writer and eraser function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahavir Singh
- Department of PhysiologyUniversity of Louisville School of MedicineLouisvilleKentuckyUSA
| | - Sathnur Pushpakumar
- Department of PhysiologyUniversity of Louisville School of MedicineLouisvilleKentuckyUSA
| | - Yuting Zheng
- Department of PhysiologyUniversity of Louisville School of MedicineLouisvilleKentuckyUSA
| | - Rubens P. Homme
- Department of PhysiologyUniversity of Louisville School of MedicineLouisvilleKentuckyUSA
| | - Irina Smolenkova
- Department of PhysiologyUniversity of Louisville School of MedicineLouisvilleKentuckyUSA
| | - Sri Prakash L. Mokshagundam
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes and Robley Rex VA Medical CenterUniversity of Louisville School of MedicineLouisvilleKentuckyUSA
| | - Suresh C. Tyagi
- Department of PhysiologyUniversity of Louisville School of MedicineLouisvilleKentuckyUSA
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Di Minno A, Gelzo M, Caterino M, Costanzo M, Ruoppolo M, Castaldo G. Challenges in Metabolomics-Based Tests, Biomarkers Revealed by Metabolomic Analysis, and the Promise of the Application of Metabolomics in Precision Medicine. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:5213. [PMID: 35563604 PMCID: PMC9103094 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23095213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolomics helps identify metabolites to characterize/refine perturbations of biological pathways in living organisms. Pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical limitations that have hampered a wide implementation of metabolomics have been addressed. Several potential biomarkers originating from current targeted metabolomics-based approaches have been discovered. Precision medicine argues for algorithms to classify individuals based on susceptibility to disease, and/or by response to specific treatments. It also argues for a prevention-based health system. Because of its ability to explore gene-environment interactions, metabolomics is expected to be critical to personalize diagnosis and treatment. Stringent guidelines have been applied from the very beginning to design studies to acquire the information currently employed in precision medicine and precision prevention approaches. Large, prospective, expensive and time-consuming studies are now mandatory to validate old, and discover new, metabolomics-based biomarkers with high chances of translation into precision medicine. Metabolites from studies on saliva, sweat, breath, semen, feces, amniotic, cerebrospinal, and broncho-alveolar fluid are predicted to be needed to refine information from plasma and serum metabolome. In addition, a multi-omics data analysis system is predicted to be needed for omics-based precision medicine approaches. Omics-based approaches for the progress of precision medicine and prevention are expected to raise ethical issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Di Minno
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.G.); (M.C.); (M.C.); (M.R.); (G.C.)
| | - Monica Gelzo
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.G.); (M.C.); (M.C.); (M.R.); (G.C.)
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Marianna Caterino
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.G.); (M.C.); (M.C.); (M.R.); (G.C.)
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Michele Costanzo
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.G.); (M.C.); (M.C.); (M.R.); (G.C.)
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Margherita Ruoppolo
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.G.); (M.C.); (M.C.); (M.R.); (G.C.)
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Castaldo
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.G.); (M.C.); (M.C.); (M.R.); (G.C.)
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
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9
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Ascenção K, Szabo C. Emerging roles of cystathionine β-synthase in various forms of cancer. Redox Biol 2022; 53:102331. [PMID: 35618601 PMCID: PMC9168780 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2022.102331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression of the reverse transsulfuration enzyme cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS) is markedly increased in many forms of cancer, including colorectal, ovarian, lung, breast and kidney, while in other cancers (liver cancer and glioma) it becomes downregulated. According to the clinical database data in high-CBS-expressor cancers (e.g. colon or ovarian cancer), high CBS expression typically predicts lower survival, while in the low-CBS-expressor cancers (e.g. liver cancer), low CBS expression is associated with lower survival. In the high-CBS expressing tumor cells, CBS, and its product hydrogen sulfide (H2S) serves as a bioenergetic, proliferative, cytoprotective and stemness factor; it also supports angiogenesis and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in the cancer microenvironment. The current article reviews the various tumor-cell-supporting roles of the CBS/H2S axis in high-CBS expressor cancers and overviews the anticancer effects of CBS silencing and pharmacological CBS inhibition in various cancer models in vitro and in vivo; it also outlines potential approaches for biomarker identification, to support future targeted cancer therapies based on pharmacological CBS inhibition.
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10
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Nakladal D, Lambooy SPH, Mišúth S, Čepcová D, Joschko CP, Buiten A, Goris M, Hoogstra‐Berends F, Kloosterhuis NJ, Huijkman N, Sluis B, Diercks GF, Buikema JH, Henning RH, Deelman LE. Homozygous whole body
Cbs
knockout in adult mice features minimal pathology during ageing despite severe homocysteinemia. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22260. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101550r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- D. Nakladal
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - S. P. H. Lambooy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - S. Mišúth
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology Faculty of Pharmacy Comenius University in Bratislava Bratislava Slovakia
| | - D. Čepcová
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology Faculty of Pharmacy Comenius University in Bratislava Bratislava Slovakia
| | - C. P. Joschko
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - A. Buiten
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - M. Goris
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - F. Hoogstra‐Berends
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - N. J. Kloosterhuis
- Department of Pediatrics University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - N. Huijkman
- iPSC/CRISPR Center Groningen University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - B. Sluis
- Department of Pediatrics University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
- iPSC/CRISPR Center Groningen University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - G. F. Diercks
- Department of Dermatology Center for Blistering Diseases University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - J. H. Buikema
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - R. H. Henning
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - L. E. Deelman
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology University of Groningen University Medical Center Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
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11
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Gupta S, Wang L, Slifker MJ, Cai KQ, Maclean KN, Wasek B, Bottiglieri T, Kruger WD. Analysis of differential neonatal lethality in cystathionine β-synthase deficient mouse models using metabolic profiling. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21629. [PMID: 33949005 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100302r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS) is a key enzyme of the trans-sulfuration pathway that converts homocysteine to cystathionine. Loss of CBS activity due to mutation results in CBS deficiency, an inborn error of metabolism characterized by extreme elevation of plasma total homocysteine (tHcy). C57BL6 mice containing either a homozygous null mutation in the cystathionine β-synthase (Cbs-/- ) gene or an inactive human CBS protein (Tg-G307S Cbs-/- ) are born in mendelian numbers, but the vast majority die between 18 and 21 days of age due to liver failure. However, adult Cbs null mice that express a hypomorphic allele of human CBS as a transgene (Tg-I278T Cbs-/- ) show almost no neonatal lethality despite having serum tHcy levels similar to mice with no CBS activity. Here, we characterize liver and serum metabolites in neonatal Cbs+/- , Tg-G307S Cbs-/- , and Tg-I278T Cbs-/- mice at 6, 10, and 17 days of age to understand this difference. In serum, we observe similar elevations in tHcy in both Tg-G307S Cbs-/- and Tg-I278T Cbs-/- compared to control animals, but methionine is much more severely elevated in Tg-G307S Cbs-/- mice. Large scale metabolomic analysis of liver tissue confirms that both methionine and methionine-sulfoxide are significantly more elevated in Tg-G307S Cbs-/- animals, along with significant differences in several other metabolites including hexoses, amino acids, other amines, lipids, and carboxylic acids. Our data are consistent with a model that the neonatal lethality observed in CBS-null mice is driven by excess methionine resulting in increased stress on a variety of related pathways including the urea cycle, TCA cycle, gluconeogenesis, and phosphatidylcholine biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sapna Gupta
- Cancer Biology Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Liqun Wang
- Cancer Biology Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Michael J Slifker
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Facility, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kathy Q Cai
- Cancer Biology Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kenneth N Maclean
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Brandi Wasek
- Center of Metabolomics, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Teodoro Bottiglieri
- Center of Metabolomics, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Warren D Kruger
- Cancer Biology Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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12
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Maclean KN, Jiang H, Phinney WN, Mclagan BM, Roede JR, Stabler SP. Derangement of hepatic polyamine, folate, and methionine cycle metabolism in cystathionine beta-synthase-deficient homocystinuria in the presence and absence of treatment: Possible implications for pathogenesis. Mol Genet Metab 2021; 132:128-138. [PMID: 33483253 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2021.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Cystathionine beta-synthase deficient homocystinuria (HCU) is a life-threatening disorder of sulfur metabolism. Our knowledge of the metabolic changes induced in HCU are based almost exclusively on data derived from plasma. In the present study, we present a comprehensive analysis on the effects of HCU upon the hepatic metabolites and enzyme expression levels of the methionine-folate cycles in a mouse model of HCU. HCU induced a 10-fold increase in hepatic total homocysteine and in contrast to plasma, this metabolite was only lowered by approximately 20% by betaine treatment indicating that this toxic metabolite remains unacceptably elevated. Hepatic methionine, S-adenosylmethionine, S-adenosylhomocysteine, N-acetlymethionine, N-formylmethionine, methionine sulfoxide, S-methylcysteine, serine, N-acetylserine, taurocyamine and N-acetyltaurine levels were also significantly increased by HCU while cysteine, N-acetylcysteine and hypotaurine were all significantly decreased. In terms of polyamine metabolism, HCU significantly decreased spermine and spermidine levels while increasing 5'-methylthioadenosine. Betaine treatment restored normal spermine and spermidine levels but further increased 5'-methylthioadenosine. HCU induced a 2-fold induction in expression of both S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase. Induction of this latter enzyme was accompanied by a 10-fold accumulation of its product, 5-methyl-tetrahydrofolate, with the potential to significantly perturb one‑carbon metabolism. Expression of the cytoplasmic isoform of serine hydroxymethyltransferase was unaffected by HCU but the mitochondrial isoform was repressed indicating differential regulation of one‑carbon metabolism in different sub-cellular compartments. All HCU-induced changes in enzyme expression were completely reversed by either betaine or taurine treatment. Collectively, our data show significant alterations of polyamine, folate and methionine cycle metabolism in HCU hepatic tissues that in some cases, differ significantly from those observed in plasma, and have the potential to contribute to multiple aspects of pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth N Maclean
- Departments of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - Hua Jiang
- Departments of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Whitney N Phinney
- Medicine and University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Bailey M Mclagan
- Departments of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - James R Roede
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Sally P Stabler
- Medicine and University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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13
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Guerra DD, Bok R, Breen K, Vyas V, Jiang H, MacLean KN, Hurt KJ. Estrogen Regulates Local Cysteine Metabolism in Mouse Myometrium. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:79-90. [PMID: 32820455 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00284-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Sulfur amino acid metabolism influences reproductive physiology, and transsulfuration in particular may be critical for normal cellular function. The sex hormone estrogen (E2) modulates gene expression and redox balance in some tissues by inducing the transsulfuration enzymes cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE). The role of sex hormones in sulfur amino acid metabolism by uterine smooth muscle is not known. Here, we show that CBS and CSE proteins increase in the mouse myometrium during estrus and diestrus, respectively, suggesting that E2 reciprocally regulates myometrial CBS and CSE expression. In ovariectomized mice, exogenous E2 upregulates CBS and downregulates CSE levels. E2 promotes CBS mRNA and protein expression but attenuates CSE protein expression without affecting CSE mRNA. This pattern of E2-stimulated changes in transsulfuration enzyme expression is specific to the uterine smooth muscle. E2 does not change vaginal or cervical expression of CBS or CSE significantly, and E2 decreases expression of CSE in the liver without affecting CBS. E2 also downregulates myometrial cysteinesulfinic acid decarboxylase (CSAD) and decreases myometrial biochemical synthesis of the gaso-transmitter hydrogen sulfide (H2S). These findings suggest that myometrial sulfur amino acid metabolism may regulate uterine redox homeostasis, with implications for the source and metabolism of myometrial cysteine in high E2 states such as estrus and pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damian D Guerra
- Department of Biology , University of Louisville , 2301 South 3rd Street, Louisville, Kentucky, 40292, USA
| | - Rachael Bok
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Kelsey Breen
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Vibhuti Vyas
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Hua Jiang
- Section of Clinical Genetics and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Kenneth N MacLean
- Section of Clinical Genetics and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - K Joseph Hurt
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 East 19th Avenue, Mail Stop 8613, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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14
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Zhang T, Lu R, Chen Y, Yuan Y, Song S, Yan K, Zha Y, Zhuang W, Cheng Y, Liang J. Hyperhomocysteinemia and dyslipidemia in point mutation G307S of cystathionine β-synthase-deficient rabbit generated using CRISPR/Cas9. Lipids Health Dis 2020; 19:224. [PMID: 33054837 PMCID: PMC7560309 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-020-01394-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Congenital hyper-homocysteinemia (HHcy) is caused by a defective cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) gene, and is frequently associated with dyslipdemia. The aim of this study was to further elucidate the effect of mutated CBS gene on circulating lipids using a rabbit model harboring a homozygous G307S point mutation in CBS. Methods CRISPR/Cas9 system was used to edit the CBS gene in rabbit embryos. The founder rabbits were sequenced, and their plasma homocysteine (Hcy) and lipid profile were analyzed. Results Six CBS-knockout (CBS-KO) founder lines with biallelic modifications were obtained. Mutation in CBS caused significant growth retardation and high mortality rates within 6 weeks after birth. In addition, the 6-week old CBS-KO rabbits showed higher plasma levels of Hcy, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) compared to the age-matched wild-type (WT) controls. Histological analysis of the mutants showed accumulation of micro-vesicular cytoplasmic lipid droplets in the hepatocytes. However, gastric infusion of vitamin B and betaine complex significantly decreased the plasma levels of TG, TC and LDL-C in the CBS-KO rabbits, and alleviated hepatic steatosis compared to the untreated animals. Conclusion A CBSG307S rabbit model was generated that exhibited severe dyslipidemia when fed on a normal diet, indicating that G307S mutation in the CBS gene is a causative factor for dyslipidemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China.,Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rui Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Food & Pharmaceutical Science College, Huaian, 223003, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yibing Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China.,Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuguo Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China.,Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shaozheng Song
- School of Nursing, Taihu University of Wuxi, Wuxi, 214000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kunning Yan
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yiwen Zha
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenwen Zhuang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yong Cheng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China. .,Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Jingyan Liang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, Jiangsu, China.
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15
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Interplay of Enzyme Therapy and Dietary Management of Murine Homocystinuria. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12092895. [PMID: 32971905 PMCID: PMC7551847 DOI: 10.3390/nu12092895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Albeit effective, methionine/protein restriction in the management of classical homocystinuria (HCU) is suboptimal and hard to follow. To address unmet need, we developed an enzyme therapy (OT-58), which effectively corrected disease symptoms in various mouse models of HCU in the absence of methionine restriction. Here we evaluated short- and long-term efficacy of OT-58 on the background of current dietary management of HCU. Methionine restriction resulted in the lowering of total homocysteine (tHcy) by 38–63% directly proportional to a decreased methionine intake (50–12.5% of normal). Supplemental betaine resulted in additional lowering of tHcy. OT-58 successfully competed with betaine and normalized tHcy on the background of reduced methionine intake, while substantially lowering tHcy in mice on normal methionine intake. Betaine was less effective in lowering tHcy on the background of normal or increased methionine intake, while exacerbating hypermethioninemia. OT-58 markedly reduced both hyperhomocysteinemia and hypermethioninemia caused by the diets and betaine in HCU mice. Withdrawal of betaine did not affect improved metabolic balance, which was established and solely maintained by OT-58 during periods of fluctuating dietary methionine intake. Taken together, OT-58 may represent novel, highly effective enzyme therapy for HCU performing optimally in the presence or absence of dietary management of HCU.
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16
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Park I, Johnson LK, Cox A, Branchford BR, Paola JD, Bublil EM, Majtan T. Hypermethioninemia Leads to Fatal Bleeding and Increased Mortality in a Transgenic I278T Mouse Model of Homocystinuria. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8080244. [PMID: 32722248 PMCID: PMC7459533 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8080244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Severely elevated plasma homocysteine and methionine lead to thromboembolic events and strokes in homocystinuric (HCU) patients. Mouse models of HCU failed to exhibit prothrombotic phenotype, presumably due to lack of hypermethioninemia. We evaluated the impact of hypermethioninemia together with hyperhomocysteinemia on murine HCU phenotype and compared the efficacy of the current and novel therapies for HCU. High methionine intake decreased survival of I278T mice, which died from intestinal bleeding with hepatic and pancreatic failure. I278T mice on normal or increased methionine intake developed endothelial dysfunction, but paradoxically demonstrated delayed occlusion in an induced arterial thrombosis model. RNA-seq analysis suggested that expression of coagulation factor XI (FXI) is downregulated in livers of I278T mice. Indeed, plasma concentrations of FXI were decreased in I278T mice on normal diet and further reduced by increased methionine intake. Dietary methionine restriction normalized the observed phenotype. Similarly, treatment with OT-58, a novel enzyme therapy for HCU, corrected the phenotype in I278T mice regardless of their dietary methionine intake. Hypermethioninemia does not contribute to prothrombotic phenotype in murine HCU. Downregulation of FXI may contribute to the lack of prothrombotic tendency in I278T mice. Methionine restriction or treatment with OT-58 corrects vascular disease in the I278T mouse model of HCU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Insun Park
- Section of Genetics & Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA;
| | - Linda K. Johnson
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA;
| | - Allaura Cox
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (A.C.); (B.R.B.); (J.D.P.)
- University of Colorado Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Brian R. Branchford
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (A.C.); (B.R.B.); (J.D.P.)
- University of Colorado Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Jorge Di Paola
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (A.C.); (B.R.B.); (J.D.P.)
- University of Colorado Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | | | - Tomas Majtan
- Section of Genetics & Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-303-724-3813
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17
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Bublil EM, Majtan T. Classical homocystinuria: From cystathionine beta-synthase deficiency to novel enzyme therapies. Biochimie 2020; 173:48-56. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2019.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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18
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Sun HJ, Wu ZY, Nie XW, Wang XY, Bian JS. Implications of hydrogen sulfide in liver pathophysiology: Mechanistic insights and therapeutic potential. J Adv Res 2020; 27:127-135. [PMID: 33318872 PMCID: PMC7728580 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2020.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Over the last several decades, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been found to exert multiple physiological functions in mammal systems. The endogenous production of H2S is primarily mediated by cystathione β-synthase (CBS), cystathione γ-lyase (CSE), and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST). These enzymes are widely expressed in the liver tissues and regulate hepatic functions by acting on various molecular targets. Aim of Review In the present review, we will highlight the recent advancements in the cellular events triggered by H2S under liver diseases. The therapeutic effects of H2S donors on hepatic diseases will also be discussed. Key Scientific Concepts of Review As a critical regulator of liver functions, H2S is critically involved in the etiology of various liver disorders, such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), hepatic fibrosis, hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury, and liver cancer. Targeting H2S-producing enzymes may be a promising strategy for managing hepatic disorders.
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Key Words
- 3-MP, 3-mercaptopyruvate
- 3-MST, 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase
- AGTR1, angiotensin II type 1 receptor
- AMPK, AMP-activated protein kinase
- Akt, protein kinase B
- CAT, cysteine aminotransferase
- CBS, cystathione β-synthase
- CO, carbon monoxide
- COX-2, cyclooxygenase-2
- CSE, cystathione γ-lyase
- CX3CR1, chemokine CX3C motif receptor 1
- Cancer
- DAO, D-amino acid oxidase
- DATS, Diallyl trisulfide
- EGFR, epidermal growth factor receptor
- ERK, extracellular regulated protein kinases
- FAS, fatty acid synthase
- Fibrosis
- H2S, hydrogen sulfide
- HFD, high fat diet
- HO-1, heme oxygenase 1
- Hydrogen sulfide
- IR, ischemia/reperfusion
- Liver disease
- MMP-2, matrix metalloproteinase 2
- NADH, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide
- NADPH, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate
- NAFLD, non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases
- NASH, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
- NF-κB, nuclear factor-kappa B
- NaHS, sodium hydrosulfide
- Nrf2, nuclear factor erythroid2-related factor 2
- PI3K, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase
- PLP, pyridoxal 5′-phosphate
- PPG, propargylglycine
- PTEN, phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten
- SAC, S-allyl-cysteine
- SPRC, S-propargyl-cysteine
- STAT3, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3
- Steatosis
- VLDL, very low density lipoprotein
- mTOR, mammalian target of rapamycin
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Jian Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Zhi-Yuan Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Xiao-Wei Nie
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Xin-Yu Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University (Shenzhen Second People's Hospital), Shenzhen 518037, China
| | - Jin-Song Bian
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117597, Singapore.,National University of Singapore Research Institute, Suzhou 215000, China
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19
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Zuhra K, Augsburger F, Majtan T, Szabo C. Cystathionine-β-Synthase: Molecular Regulation and Pharmacological Inhibition. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E697. [PMID: 32365821 PMCID: PMC7277093 DOI: 10.3390/biom10050697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS), the first (and rate-limiting) enzyme in the transsulfuration pathway, is an important mammalian enzyme in health and disease. Its biochemical functions under physiological conditions include the metabolism of homocysteine (a cytotoxic molecule and cardiovascular risk factor) and the generation of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a gaseous biological mediator with multiple regulatory roles in the vascular, nervous, and immune system. CBS is up-regulated in several diseases, including Down syndrome and many forms of cancer; in these conditions, the preclinical data indicate that inhibition or inactivation of CBS exerts beneficial effects. This article overviews the current information on the expression, tissue distribution, physiological roles, and biochemistry of CBS, followed by a comprehensive overview of direct and indirect approaches to inhibit the enzyme. Among the small-molecule CBS inhibitors, the review highlights the specificity and selectivity problems related to many of the commonly used "CBS inhibitors" (e.g., aminooxyacetic acid) and provides a comprehensive review of their pharmacological actions under physiological conditions and in various disease models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim Zuhra
- Chair of Pharmacology, Section of Medicine, University of Fribourg, 1702 Fribourg, Switzerland; (K.Z.); (F.A.)
| | - Fiona Augsburger
- Chair of Pharmacology, Section of Medicine, University of Fribourg, 1702 Fribourg, Switzerland; (K.Z.); (F.A.)
| | - Tomas Majtan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA;
| | - Csaba Szabo
- Chair of Pharmacology, Section of Medicine, University of Fribourg, 1702 Fribourg, Switzerland; (K.Z.); (F.A.)
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20
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Majtan T, Park I, Cox A, Branchford BR, di Paola J, Bublil EM, Kraus JP. Behavior, body composition, and vascular phenotype of homocystinuric mice on methionine-restricted diet or enzyme replacement therapy. FASEB J 2019; 33:12477-12486. [PMID: 31450979 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201901203r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Classic homocystinuria (HCU) is an inherited disorder characterized by elevated homocysteine (Hcy) in plasma and tissues resulting from cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) deficiency. There is no cure, and patients are predominantly managed by methionine-restricted diet (MRD) to limit the production of Hcy. In this study, we used the I278T mouse model of HCU to evaluate the long-term impact of a novel enzyme replacement therapy [truncated human CBS C15S mutant modified with linear 20-kDa N-hydroxysuccinimide ester polyethylene glycol (OT-58)] on clinical end points relevant to human patients with HCU. In addition, we compared its efficacy on a background of either MRD or normal methionine intake [regular diet (REG)] to that of MRD alone. We found that, compared with untreated I278T mice, OT-58 treatment of I278T mice fed with the REG diet resulted in a 90% decrease in plasma Hcy concentrations and correction of learning/cognition, endothelial dysfunction, hemostasis, bone mineralization, and body composition. On background of the MRD, OT-58 performed equally well with plasma Hcy entirely normalized. The MRD alone decreased plasma Hcy by 67% and corrected the HCU phenotype in I278T mice. However, the MRD increased anxiety and reduced bone mineral content in both I278T mice and wild-type controls. This study shows that OT-58 is a highly efficacious novel treatment for HCU on the background of either normal or restricted methionine intake.-Majtan, T., Park, I., Cox, A., Branchford, B. R., di Paola, J., Bublil, E. M., Kraus, J. P. Behavior, body composition, and vascular phenotype of homocystinuric mice on methionine-restricted diet or enzyme replacement therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Majtan
- Section of Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Insun Park
- Section of Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Allaura Cox
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA.,Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Brian R Branchford
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA.,Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Jorge di Paola
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA.,Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Erez M Bublil
- Orphan Technologies Limited, Rapperswil, Switzerland
| | - Jan P Kraus
- Section of Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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21
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Combs JA, DeNicola GM. The Non-Essential Amino Acid Cysteine Becomes Essential for Tumor Proliferation and Survival. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11050678. [PMID: 31100816 PMCID: PMC6562400 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11050678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The non-essential amino acid cysteine is used within cells for multiple processes that rely on the chemistry of its thiol group. Under physiological conditions, many non-transformed tissues rely on glutathione, circulating cysteine, and the de novo cysteine synthesis (transsulfuration) pathway as sources of intracellular cysteine to support cellular processes. In contrast, many cancers require exogeneous cystine for proliferation and viability. Herein, we review how the cystine transporter, xCT, and exogenous cystine fuel cancer cell proliferation and the mechanisms that regulate xCT expression and activity. Further, we discuss the potential contribution of additional sources of cysteine to the cysteine pool and what is known about the essentiality of these processes in cancer cells. Finally, we discuss whether cyst(e)ine dependency and associated metabolic alterations represent therapeutically targetable metabolic vulnerabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph A Combs
- Department of Cancer Physiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
| | - Gina M DeNicola
- Department of Cancer Physiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
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22
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Van Hove JLK, Freehauf CL, Ficicioglu C, Pena LDM, Moreau KL, Henthorn TK, Christians U, Jiang H, Cowan TM, Young SP, Hite M, Friederich MW, Stabler SP, Spector EB, Kronquist KE, Thomas JA, Emmett P, Harrington MJ, Pyle L, Creadon-Swindell G, Wempe MF, MacLean KN. Biomarkers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and vascular dysfunction in inherited cystathionine β-synthase deficient homocystinuria and the impact of taurine treatment in a phase 1/2 human clinical trial. J Inherit Metab Dis 2019; 42:424-437. [PMID: 30873612 DOI: 10.1002/jimd.12085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE A phase 1/2 clinical trial was performed in individuals with cystathionine β synthase (CBS) deficient homocystinuria with aims to: (a) assess pharmacokinetics and safety of taurine therapy, (b) evaluate oxidative stress, inflammation, and vascular function in CBS deficiency, and (c) evaluate the impact of short-term taurine treatment. METHODS Individuals with pyridoxine-nonresponsive CBS deficiency with homocysteine >50 μM, without inflammatory disorder or on antioxidant therapy were enrolled. Biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation, endothelial function (brachial artery flow-mediated dilation [FMD]), and disease-related metabolites obtained at baseline were compared to normal values. While maintaining current treatment, patients were treated with 75 mg/kg taurine twice daily, and treatment response assessed after 4 hours and 4 days. RESULTS Fourteen patients (8-35 years; 8 males, 6 females) were enrolled with baseline homocysteine levels 161 ± 67 μM. The study found high-dose taurine to be safe when excluding preexisting hypertriglyceridemia. Taurine pharmacokinetics showed a rapid peak level returning to near normal levels at 12 hours, but had slow accumulation and elevated predosing levels after 4 days of treatment. Only a single parameter of oxidative stress, 2,3-dinor-8-isoprostaglandin-F2α, was elevated at baseline, with no elevated inflammatory parameters, and no change in FMD values overall. Taurine had no effect on any of these parameters. However, the effect of taurine was strongly related to pretreatment FMD values; and taurine significantly improved FMD in the subset of individuals with pretreatment FMD values <10% and in individuals with homocysteine levels >125 μM, pertinent to endothelial function. CONCLUSION Taurine improves endothelial function in CBS-deficient homocystinuria in patients with preexisting reduced function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan L K Van Hove
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Cynthia L Freehauf
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Can Ficicioglu
- Division of Human Genetics, The Children's Hospital Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Loren D M Pena
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Kerrie L Moreau
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
- Geriatric Research and Education Center, Denver Veterans Administration Medical Center, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Thomas K Henthorn
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Uwe Christians
- iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Hua Jiang
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Tina M Cowan
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Sarah P Young
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Michelle Hite
- Research Institute, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Marisa W Friederich
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Sally P Stabler
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Elaine B Spector
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Kathryn E Kronquist
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Janet A Thomas
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Peggy Emmett
- CTRC Core Laboratory, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Mary J Harrington
- CTRC Core Laboratory, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Laura Pyle
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | | | - Michael F Wempe
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Kenneth N MacLean
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
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23
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Maclean KN, Jiang H, Phinney WN, Keating AK, Hurt KJ, Stabler SP. Taurine alleviates repression of betaine‐homocysteine S‐methyltransferase and significantly improves the efficacy of long‐term betaine treatment in a mouse model of cystathionine β‐synthase–deficient homocystinuria. FASEB J 2019; 33:6339-6353. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.201802069rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth N. Maclean
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora Colorado USA
| | - Hua Jiang
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora Colorado USA
| | - Whitney N. Phinney
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora Colorado USA
| | - Amy K. Keating
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora Colorado USA
| | - K. Joseph Hurt
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora Colorado USA
| | - Sally P. Stabler
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora Colorado USA
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24
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Kohl JB, Mellis A, Schwarz G. Homeostatic impact of sulfite and hydrogen sulfide on cysteine catabolism. Br J Pharmacol 2019; 176:554-570. [PMID: 30088670 PMCID: PMC6346071 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Revised: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cysteine is one of the two key sulfur-containing amino acids with important functions in redox homeostasis, protein functionality and metabolism. Cysteine is taken up by mammals via their diet and can also be derived from methionine via the transsulfuration pathway. The cellular concentration of cysteine is kept within a narrow range by controlling its synthesis and degradation. There are two pathways for the catabolism of cysteine leading to sulfate, taurine and thiosulfate as terminal products. The oxidative pathway produces taurine and sulfate, while the H2 S pathway involves different enzymatic reactions leading to the formation and clearance of H2 S, an important signalling molecule in mammals, resulting in thiosulfate and sulfate. Sulfite is a common intermediate in both catabolic pathways. Sulfite is considered as cytotoxic and produces neurotoxic S-sulfonates. As a result, a deficiency in the terminal steps of cysteine or H2 S catabolism leads to severe forms of encephalopathy with the accumulation of sulfite and H2 S in the body. This review links the homeostatic regulation of both cysteine catabolic pathways to sulfite and H2 S. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed section on Chemical Biology of Reactive Sulfur Species. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.4/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua B Kohl
- Institute of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry and Center for Molecular Medicine CologneUniversity of CologneCologneGermany
| | - Anna‐Theresa Mellis
- Institute of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry and Center for Molecular Medicine CologneUniversity of CologneCologneGermany
| | - Guenter Schwarz
- Institute of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry and Center for Molecular Medicine CologneUniversity of CologneCologneGermany
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25
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Loiselle JJ, Yang G, Wu L. Hydrogen sulfide and hepatic lipid metabolism - a critical pairing for liver health. Br J Pharmacol 2018; 177:757-768. [PMID: 30499137 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2 S) is the most recently recognized gasotransmitter, influencing a wide range of physiological processes. As a critical regulator of metabolism, H2 S has been suggested to be involved in the pathology of many diseases, particularly obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disorders. Its involvement in liver health has been brought to light more recently, particularly through knockout animal models, which show severe hepatic lipid accumulation upon ablation of H2 S metabolic pathways. A complex relationship between H2 S and lipid metabolism in the liver is emerging, which has significant implications for liver disease establishment and/or progression, regardless of the disease-causing agent. In this review, we discuss the critical importance of H2 S in hepatic lipid metabolism. We then describe the animal models so far related with H2 S and lipid-associated liver disease, as well as H2 S-based treatments available. Finally, we highlight important considerations for future studies and identify areas in which much still remains to be determined. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed section on Hydrogen Sulfide in Biology & Medicine. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v177.4/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie J Loiselle
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research Unit, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada.,School of Human Kinetics, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada.,Health Sciences North Research Institute, Sudbury, Canada
| | - Guangdong Yang
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research Unit, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada
| | - Lingyun Wu
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research Unit, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada.,School of Human Kinetics, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada.,Health Sciences North Research Institute, Sudbury, Canada
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26
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Fagone P, Mazzon E, Bramanti P, Bendtzen K, Nicoletti F. Gasotransmitters and the immune system: Mode of action and novel therapeutic targets. Eur J Pharmacol 2018; 834:92-102. [PMID: 30016662 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2018.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Revised: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Gasotransmitters are a group of gaseous molecules, with pleiotropic biological functions. These molecules include nitric oxide (NO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), and carbon monoxide (CO). Abnormal production and metabolism of these molecules have been observed in several pathological conditions. The understanding of the role of gasotransmitters in the immune system has grown significantly in the past years, and independent studies have shed light on the effect of exogenous and endogenous gasotransmitters on immune responses. Moreover, encouraging results come from the efficacy of NO-, CO- and H2S -donors in preclinical animal models of autoimmune, acute and chronic inflammatory diseases. To date, data on the influence of gasotransmitters in immunity and immunopathology are often scattered and partial, and the scarcity of clinical trials using NO-, CO- and H2S -donors, reveals that more effort is warranted. This review focuses on the role of gasotransmitters in the immune system and covers the evidences on the possible use of gasotransmitters for the treatment of inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Fagone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Emanuela Mazzon
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Stada Statale 113, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Placido Bramanti
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Stada Statale 113, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Klaus Bendtzen
- Institute for Inflammation Research, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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27
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Majtan T, Bublil EM, Park I, Arning E, Bottiglieri T, Glavin F, Kraus JP. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of PEGylated truncated human cystathionine beta-synthase for treatment of homocystinuria. Life Sci 2018. [PMID: 29526799 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
AIMS PEGylated human truncated cystathionine beta-synthase, lacking the C-terminal regulatory domain (PEG-CBS), is a promising preclinical candidate for enzyme replacement therapy in homocystinuria (HCU). It was designed to function as a metabolic sink to decrease the severely elevated plasma and tissue homocysteine concentrations. In this communication, we evaluated pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD) and sub-chronic toxicity of PEG-CBS in homocystinuric mice, wild type rats and monkeys to estimate the minimum human efficacious dose for clinical trials. MAIN METHODS Animal models received single or multiple doses of PEG-CBS. Activity of PEG-CBS and sulfur amino acid metabolites were determined in plasma and used to determine PK and PD. KEY FINDINGS The plasma half-lives of PEG-CBS after a single subcutaneous (SC) injection were approximately 20, 44 and 73 h in mouse, rat and monkey, respectively. The SC administration of PEG-CBS resulted in a significant improvement or full correction of metabolic imbalance in both blood and tissues of homocystinuric mice. The PD of PEG-CBS in mouse was dose-dependent, but less than dose-proportional, with the maximal efficacy achieved at 8 mg/kg. PEG-CBS was well-tolerated in mice and monkeys, but resulted in dose-dependent minimal-to-moderate inflammation at the injection sites and vacuolated macrophages in rats. Allometric scaling of animal data was linear and the estimated human efficacious dose was determined as 0.66 mg/kg administered once a week. SIGNIFICANCE These results provide critical preclinical data for the design of first-in-human PEG-CBS clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Majtan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - Erez M Bublil
- Orphan Technologies Ltd., Rapperswill CH-8640, Switzerland
| | - Insun Park
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Erland Arning
- Institute of Metabolic Disease, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute, Dallas, TX 75226, USA
| | - Teodoro Bottiglieri
- Institute of Metabolic Disease, Baylor Scott & White Research Institute, Dallas, TX 75226, USA
| | - Frank Glavin
- Orphan Technologies Ltd., Rapperswill CH-8640, Switzerland
| | - Jan P Kraus
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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28
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Prabhudesai S, Koceja C, Dey A, Eisa-Beygi S, Leigh NR, Bhattacharya R, Mukherjee P, Ramchandran R. Cystathionine β-Synthase Is Necessary for Axis Development in Vivo. Front Cell Dev Biol 2018; 6:14. [PMID: 29503817 PMCID: PMC5820354 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2018.00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The cystathionine ß-synthase (CBS) is a critical enzyme in the transsulfuration pathway and is responsible for the synthesis of cystathionine from serine and homocysteine. Cystathionine is a precursor to amino acid cysteine. CBS is also responsible for generation of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) from cysteine. Mutation in CBS enzyme causes homocysteine levels to rise, and gives rise to a condition called hyperhomocysteinuria. To date, numerous mouse knockout models for CBS enzyme has been generated, which show panoply of defects, reflecting the importance of this enzyme in development. In zebrafish, we and others have identified two orthologs of cbs, which we call cbsa and cbsb. Previous gene knockdown studies in zebrafish have reported a function for cbsb ortholog in maintaining ion homeostasis in developing embryos. However, its role in maintaining H2S homeostasis in embryos is unknown. Here, we have performed RNA analysis in whole zebrafish embryos that showed a wide expression pattern for cbsa and cbsb primarily along the embryonic axis of the developing embryo. Loss-of-function analysis using a combination of approaches which include splice morpholinos and CRISPR/Cas9 genomic engineering show evidence that cbsb ortholog is responsible for anterior-posterior axis development, and cbsa function is redundant. Cbsb loss of function fish embryos show shortened and bent axis, along with less H2S and more homocysteine, effects resulting from loss of Cbsb. Using a chemical biology approach, we rescued the axis defects with betaine, a compound known to reduce homocysteine levels in plasma, and GYY4137, a long term H2S donor. These results collectively argue that cells along the axis of a developing embryo are sensitive to changes in homocysteine and H2S levels, pathways that are controlled by Cbsb, and thus is essential for development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubhangi Prabhudesai
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Chris Koceja
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Anindya Dey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Shahram Eisa-Beygi
- Pediatrics Radiology, Developmental Vascular Biology Program, Children's Research Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Noah R. Leigh
- Milwaukee Health Department, City of Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Resham Bhattacharya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Priyabrata Mukherjee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Ramani Ramchandran
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
- Pediatrics Radiology, Developmental Vascular Biology Program, Children's Research Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
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29
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Majtan T, Krijt J, Sokolová J, Křížková M, Ralat MA, Kent J, Gregory JF, Kožich V, Kraus JP. Biogenesis of Hydrogen Sulfide and Thioethers by Cystathionine Beta-Synthase. Antioxid Redox Signal 2018; 28:311-323. [PMID: 28874062 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2017.7009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
AIMS The transsulfuration pathway enzymes cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine gamma-lyase are thought to be the major source of hydrogen sulfide (H2S). In this study, we assessed the role of CBS in H2S biogenesis. RESULTS We show that despite discouraging enzyme kinetics of alternative H2S-producing reactions utilizing cysteine compared with the canonical condensation of serine and homocysteine, our simulations of substrate competitions at biologically relevant conditions suggest that cysteine is able to partially compete with serine on CBS, thus leading to generation of appreciable amounts of H2S. The leading H2S-producing reaction is condensation of cysteine with homocysteine, while cysteine desulfuration plays a dominant role when cysteine is more abundant than serine and homocysteine is limited. We found that the serine-to-cysteine ratio is the main determinant of CBS H2S productivity. Abundance of cysteine over serine, for example, in plasma, allowed for up to 43% of CBS activity being responsible for H2S production, while excess of serine typical for intracellular levels effectively limited such activity to less than 1.5%. CBS also produced lanthionine from serine and cysteine and a third of lanthionine coming from condensation of two cysteines contributed to the H2S pool. INNOVATION Our study characterizes the H2S-producing potential of CBS under biologically relevant conditions and highlights the serine-to-cysteine ratio as the main determinant of H2S production by CBS in vivo. CONCLUSION Our data clarify the function of CBS in H2S biogenesis and the role of thioethers as surrogate H2S markers. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 28, 311-323.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Majtan
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado , School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Jakub Krijt
- 2 Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Charles University-First Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital in Prague , Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jitka Sokolová
- 2 Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Charles University-First Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital in Prague , Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Michaela Křížková
- 2 Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Charles University-First Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital in Prague , Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Maria A Ralat
- 3 Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida , Gainesville, Florida
| | - Jana Kent
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado , School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Jesse F Gregory
- 3 Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida , Gainesville, Florida
| | - Viktor Kožich
- 2 Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Charles University-First Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital in Prague , Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan P Kraus
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado , School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
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30
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Maclean KN, Jiang H, Aivazidis S, Kim E, Shearn CT, Harris PS, Petersen DR, Allen RH, Stabler SP, Roede JR. Taurine treatment prevents derangement of the hepatic γ-glutamyl cycle and methylglyoxal metabolism in a mouse model of classical homocystinuria: regulatory crosstalk between thiol and sulfinic acid metabolism. FASEB J 2018; 32:1265-1280. [PMID: 29101223 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201700586r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Cystathionine β-synthase-deficient homocystinuria (HCU) is a poorly understood, life-threatening inborn error of sulfur metabolism. Analysis of hepatic glutathione (GSH) metabolism in a mouse model of HCU demonstrated significant depletion of cysteine, GSH, and GSH disulfide independent of the block in trans-sulfuration compared with wild-type controls. HCU induced the expression of the catalytic and regulatory subunits of γ-glutamyl ligase, GSH synthase (GS), γ-glutamyl transpeptidase 1, 5-oxoprolinase (OPLAH), and the GSH-dependent methylglyoxal detoxification enzyme, glyoxalase-1. Multiple components of the transcription factor nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2)-mediated antioxidant-response regulatory axis were induced without any detectable activation of Nrf2. Metabolomic analysis revealed the accumulation of multiple γ-glutamyl amino acids and that plasma ophthalmate levels could serve as a noninvasive marker for hepatic redox stress. Neither cysteine, nor betaine treatment was able to reverse the observed enzyme inductions. Taurine treatment normalized the expression levels of γ-glutamyl ligase C/M, GS, OPLAH, and glyoxalase-1, and reversed HCU-induced deficits in protein glutathionylation by acting to double GSH levels relative to controls. Collectively, our data indicate that the perturbation of the γ-glutamyl cycle could contribute to multiple sequelae in HCU and that taurine has significant therapeutic potential for both HCU and other diseases for which GSH depletion is a critical pathogenic factor.-Maclean, K. N., Jiang, H., Aivazidis, S., Kim, E., Shearn, C. T., Harris, P. S., Petersen, D. R., Allen, R. H., Stabler, S. P., Roede, J. R. Taurine treatment prevents derangement of the hepatic γ-glutamyl cycle and methylglyoxal metabolism in a mouse model of classical homocystinuria: regulatory crosstalk between thiol and sulfinic acid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth N Maclean
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Hua Jiang
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Stefanos Aivazidis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Eugene Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Colin T Shearn
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Peter S Harris
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Dennis R Petersen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Robert H Allen
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Sally P Stabler
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - James R Roede
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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31
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Majtan T, Jones W, Krijt J, Park I, Kruger WD, Kožich V, Bassnett S, Bublil EM, Kraus JP. Enzyme Replacement Therapy Ameliorates Multiple Symptoms of Murine Homocystinuria. Mol Ther 2017; 26:834-844. [PMID: 29398487 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2017.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Revised: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Classical homocystinuria (HCU) is the most common inherited disorder of sulfur amino acid metabolism caused by deficiency in cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS) activity and characterized by severe elevation of homocysteine in blood and tissues. Treatment with dietary methionine restriction is not optimal, and poor compliance leads to serious complications. We developed an enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) and studied its efficacy in a severe form of HCU in mouse (the I278T model). Treatment was initiated before or after the onset of clinical symptoms in an effort to prevent or reverse the phenotype. ERT substantially reduced and sustained plasma homocysteine concentration at around 100 μM and normalized plasma cysteine for up to 9 months of treatment. Biochemical balance was also restored in the liver, kidney, and brain. Furthermore, ERT corrected liver glucose and lipid metabolism. The treatment prevented or reversed facial alopecia, fragile and lean phenotype, and low bone mass. In addition, structurally defective ciliary zonules in the eyes of I278T mice contained low density and/or broken fibers, while administration of ERT from birth partially rescued the ocular phenotype. In conclusion, ERT maintained an improved metabolic pattern and ameliorated many of the clinical complications in the I278T mouse model of HCU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Majtan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
| | - Wendell Jones
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Jakub Krijt
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Charles University-First Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague 12808, Czech Republic
| | - Insun Park
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Warren D Kruger
- Cancer Biology Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA
| | - Viktor Kožich
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Charles University-First Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague 12808, Czech Republic
| | - Steven Bassnett
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Erez M Bublil
- Orphan Technologies, Ltd., Rapperswil 8640, Switzerland
| | - Jan P Kraus
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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32
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Majtan T, Park I, Bublil EM, Kraus JP. Enzyme replacement therapy prevents loss of bone and fat mass in murine homocystinuria. Hum Mutat 2017; 39:210-218. [PMID: 29044829 DOI: 10.1002/humu.23360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Skeletal and connective tissue defects are the most striking symptoms in patients suffering from classical homocystinuria (HCU). Here, we determined body composition and bone mass in three mouse models of HCU and assessed whether a long-term administration of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) corrected the phenotype. The mouse models of HCU were analyzed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and the data were complemented by plasma biochemical profiles. Both the mouse model lacking CBS (KO) and the one expressing human CBS mutant transgene on a mouse CBS null background (I278T) showed marked bone loss and decreased weight mostly due to a lower fat content compared with negative controls. In contrast, the HO mouse expressing the human CBS WT transgene on a mouse CBS null background showed no such phenotype despite similar plasma biochemical profile to the KO and I278T mice. More importantly, administration of ERT rescued bone mass and changes in body composition in the KO mice treated since birth and reversed bone loss and improved fat content in the I278T mice injected after the development of clinical symptoms. Our study suggests that ERT for HCU may represent an effective way of preventing the skeletal problems in patients without a restricted dietary regime.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Majtan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Insun Park
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | | | - Jan P Kraus
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
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33
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Kruger WD. Cystathionine β-synthase deficiency: Of mice and men. Mol Genet Metab 2017; 121:199-205. [PMID: 28583326 PMCID: PMC5526210 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2017.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) deficiency (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man [OMIM] 236,200) is an autosomal recessive disorder that is caused by mutations in the CBS gene. It is the most common inborn error of sulfur metabolism and is the cause of classical homocystinuria, a condition characterized by very high levels of plasma total homocysteine and methionine. Although recognized as an inborn error of metabolism over 60years ago, these is still much we do not understand related to how this specific metabolic defect gives rise to its distinct phenotypes. To try and answer these questions, several groups have developed mouse models on CBS deficiency. In this article, we will review various mouse models of CBS deficiency and discuss how these mouse models compare to human CBS deficient patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warren D Kruger
- Cancer Biology Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA.
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34
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Majtan T, Park I, Carrillo RS, Bublil EM, Kraus JP. Engineering and Characterization of an Enzyme Replacement Therapy for Classical Homocystinuria. Biomacromolecules 2017; 18:1747-1761. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.7b00154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Majtan
- Department
of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado 80045, United States
| | - Insun Park
- Department
of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado 80045, United States
| | - Richard S. Carrillo
- Department
of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado 80045, United States
| | - Erez M. Bublil
- Orphan
Technologies Ltd., Rapperswil, CH-8640, Switzerland
| | - Jan P. Kraus
- Department
of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado 80045, United States
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35
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Jacobs RL, Jiang H, Kennelly JP, Orlicky DJ, Allen RH, Stabler SP, Maclean KN. Cystathionine beta-synthase deficiency alters hepatic phospholipid and choline metabolism: Post-translational repression of phosphatidylethanolamine N-methyltransferase is a consequence rather than a cause of liver injury in homocystinuria. Mol Genet Metab 2017; 120:325-336. [PMID: 28291718 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2017.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Classical homocystinuria (HCU) due to inactivating mutation of cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) is a poorly understood life-threatening inborn error of sulfur metabolism. A previously described cbs-/- mouse model exhibits a semi-lethal phenotype due to neonatal liver failure. The transgenic HO mouse model of HCU exhibits only mild liver injury and recapitulates multiple aspects of the disease as it occurs in humans. Disruption of the methionine cycle in HCU has the potential to impact multiple aspect of phospholipid (PL) metabolism by disruption of both the Kennedy pathway and phosphatidylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PEMT) mediated synthesis of phosphatidylcholine (PC). Comparative metabolomic analysis of HO mouse liver revealed decreased levels of choline, and choline phosphate indicating disruption of the Kennedy pathway. Alterations in the relative levels of multiple species of PL included significant increases in PL degradation products consistent with enhanced membrane PL turnover. A significant decrease in PC containing 20:4n6 which primarily formed by the methylation of phosphatidylethanolamine to PC was consistent with decreased flux through PEMT. Hepatic expression of PEMT in both the cbs-/- and HO models is post-translationally repressed with decreased levels of PEMT protein and activity that inversely-correlates with the scale of liver injury. Failure to induce further repression of PEMT in HO mice by increased homocysteine, methionine and S-adenosylhomocysteine or depletion of glutathione combined with examination of multiple homocysteine-independent models of liver injury indicated that repression of PEMT in HCU is a consequence rather than a cause of liver injury. Collectively, our data show significant alteration of a broad range of hepatic PL and choline metabolism in HCU with the potential to contribute to multiple aspects of pathogenesis in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- René L Jacobs
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G2E1, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G2E1, Canada
| | - Hua Jiang
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - John P Kennelly
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G2E1, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G2E1, Canada
| | - David J Orlicky
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Robert H Allen
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Sally P Stabler
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Kenneth N Maclean
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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36
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Rose P, Moore PK, Zhu YZ. H 2S biosynthesis and catabolism: new insights from molecular studies. Cell Mol Life Sci 2016; 74:1391-1412. [PMID: 27844098 PMCID: PMC5357297 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-016-2406-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Revised: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 11/01/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has profound biological effects within living organisms and is now increasingly being considered alongside other gaseous signalling molecules, such as nitric oxide (NO) and carbon monoxide (CO). Conventional use of pharmacological and molecular approaches has spawned a rapidly growing research field that has identified H2S as playing a functional role in cell-signalling and post-translational modifications. Recently, a number of laboratories have reported the use of siRNA methodologies and genetic mouse models to mimic the loss of function of genes involved in the biosynthesis and degradation of H2S within tissues. Studies utilising these systems are revealing new insights into the biology of H2S within the cardiovascular system, inflammatory disease, and in cell signalling. In light of this work, the current review will describe recent advances in H2S research made possible by the use of molecular approaches and genetic mouse models with perturbed capacities to generate or detoxify physiological levels of H2S gas within tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Rose
- School of Life Science, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN6 7TS, UK. .,State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmacy, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China.
| | - Philip K Moore
- Department of Pharmacology, National University of Singapore, Lee Kong Chian Wing, UHL #05-02R, 21 Lower Kent Ridge Road, Singapore, 119077, Singapore
| | - Yi Zhun Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and School of Pharmacy, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China
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37
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Bublil EM, Majtan T, Park I, Carrillo RS, Hůlková H, Krijt J, Kožich V, Kraus JP. Enzyme replacement with PEGylated cystathionine β-synthase ameliorates homocystinuria in murine model. J Clin Invest 2016; 126:2372-84. [PMID: 27183385 DOI: 10.1172/jci85396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Homocystinuria, which typically results from cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) deficiency, is the most common defect of sulfur amino acid metabolism. CBS condenses homocysteine and serine to cystathionine that is then converted to cysteine. Individuals with homocystinuria have markedly elevated plasma levels of homocysteine and methionine and reduced concentrations of cystathionine and cysteine. Clinical disease manifestations include thromboembolism and neuropsychiatric, ocular, and skeletal complications. Here, we have shown that administration of PEGylated CBS into the circulation of homocystinuria model mice alters the extra- and intracellular equilibrium of sulfur amino acids, resulting in a decrease of approximately 75% in plasma total homocysteine (tHcy) and normalization of cysteine concentrations. Moreover, the decrease in homocysteine and the normalization of cysteine in PEGylated CBS-treated model mice were accompanied by improvement of histopathological liver symptoms and increased survival. Together, these data suggest that CBS enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) is a promising approach for the treatment of homocystinuria and that ERT for metabolic diseases may not necessitate introduction of the deficient enzyme into its natural intracellular compartment.
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38
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Gupta S, Wang L, Kruger WD. Betaine supplementation is less effective than methionine restriction in correcting phenotypes of CBS deficient mice. J Inherit Metab Dis 2016; 39:39-46. [PMID: 26231230 PMCID: PMC4784539 DOI: 10.1007/s10545-015-9883-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2015] [Revised: 07/03/2015] [Accepted: 07/07/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Cystathionine beta synthase (CBS) deficiency is a recessive inborn error of metabolism characterized by elevated serum total homocysteine (tHcy). Betaine supplementation, which can lower tHcy by stimulating homocysteine remethylation to methionine, is often given to CBS deficient patients in combination with other treatments such as methionine restriction and supplemental B-vitamins. However, the effectiveness of betaine supplementation by itself in the treatment of CBS deficiency has not been well explored. Here, we have examined the effect of a betaine supplemented diet on the Tg-I278T Cbs (-/-) mouse model of CBS deficiency and compared its effectiveness to our previously published data using a methionine restricted diet. Tg-I278T Cbs (-/-) mice on betaine, from the time of weaning until for 240 days of age, had a 40 % decrease in mean tHcy level and a 137 % increase in serum methionine levels. Betaine-treated Tg-I278T Cbs (-/-) mice also exhibited increased levels of betaine-dependent homocysteine methyl transferase (BHMT), increased levels of the lipogenic enzyme stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase (SCD-1), and increased lipid droplet accumulation in the liver. Betaine supplementation largely reversed the hair loss phenotype in Tg-I278T Cbs (-/-) animals, but was far less effective than methionine restriction in reversing the weight-loss, fat-loss, and osteoporosis phenotypes. Surprisingly, betaine supplementation had several negative effects in control Tg-I278T Cbs (+/-) mice including decreased weight gain, lean mass, and bone mineral density. Our findings indicate that while betaine supplementation does have some beneficial effects, it is not as effective as methionine restriction for reversing the phenotypes associated with severe CBS deficiency in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sapna Gupta
- Cancer Biology Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, 19111, USA
| | - Liqun Wang
- Cancer Biology Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, 19111, USA
| | - Warren D Kruger
- Cancer Biology Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, 19111, USA.
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19111, USA.
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39
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Huang CW, Moore PK. H2S Synthesizing Enzymes: Biochemistry and Molecular Aspects. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2015; 230:3-25. [PMID: 26162827 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-18144-8_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a biologically active gas that is synthesized naturally by three enzymes, cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE), cystathionine β-synthetase (CBS) and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST). These enzymes are constitutively present in a wide array of biological cells and tissues and their expression can be induced by a number of disease states. It is becoming increasingly clear that H2S is an important mediator of a wide range of cell functions in health and in disease. This review therefore provides an overview of the biochemical and molecular regulation of H2S synthesizing enzymes both in physiological conditions and their modulation in disease states with particular focus on their regulation in asthma, atherosclerosis and diabetes. The importance of small molecule inhibitors in the study of molecular pathways, the current use of common H2S synthesizing enzyme inhibitors and the relevant characteristics of mice in which these enzymes have been genetically deleted will also be summarized. With a greater understanding of the molecular regulation of these enzymes in disease states, as well as the availability of novel small molecules with high specificity targeted towards H2S producing enzymes, the potential to regulate the biological functions of this intriguing gas H2S for therapeutic effect can perhaps be brought one step closer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caleb Weihao Huang
- Neurobiology Group, Life Sciences Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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40
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Jiang H, Hurt KJ, Breen K, Stabler SP, Allen RH, Orlicky DJ, Maclean KN. Sex-specific dysregulation of cysteine oxidation and the methionine and folate cycles in female cystathionine gamma-lyase null mice: a serendipitous model of the methylfolate trap. Biol Open 2015; 4:1154-62. [PMID: 26276101 PMCID: PMC4582125 DOI: 10.1242/bio.013433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to its role in the endogenous synthesis of cysteine, cystathionine gamma-lyase (CGL) is a major physiological source of the vasorelaxant hydrogen sulfide. Cgl null mice are potentially useful for studying the influence of this compound upon vascular tone and endothelial function. Here, we confirm a previous report that female Cgl null mice exhibit an approximate 45-fold increase in plasma total homocysteine compared to wild type controls. This level of homocysteine is approximately 3.5-fold higher than that observed in male Cgl null mice and is essentially equivalent to that observed in mouse models of cystathionine beta synthase deficient homocystinuria. Cgl null mice of both sexes exhibited decreased expression of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase and cysteinesulfinate decarboxylase compared to WT controls. Female Cgl null mice exhibited a sex-specific induction of betaine homocysteine S-methyltransferase and methionine adenosyltransferase 1, alpha and a 70% decrease in methionine synthase expression accompanied by significantly decreased plasma methionine. Decreased plasma cysteine levels in female Cgl null mice were associated with sex-specific dysregulation of cysteine dioxygenase expression. Comparative histological assessment between cystathionine beta-synthase and Cgl null mice indicated that the therapeutic potential of cystathionine against liver injury merits possible further investigation. Collectively, our data demonstrates the importance of considering sex when investigating mouse models of inborn errors of metabolism and indicate that while female Cgl null mice are of questionable utility for studying the physiological role of hydrogen sulfide, they could serve as a useful model for studying the consequences of methionine synthase deficiency and the methylfolate trap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Jiang
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - K Joseph Hurt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Kelsey Breen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Sally P Stabler
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Robert H Allen
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - David J Orlicky
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Kenneth N Maclean
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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41
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Homocysteine Induces Collagen I Expression by Downregulating Histone Methyltransferase G9a. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0130421. [PMID: 26192994 PMCID: PMC4508059 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0130421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) leads to several clinical manifestations including hepatic fibrosis. Excess deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) components including collagen is the eponymous lesion of liver fibrosis. In this study, we demonstrated that elevated concentration of Hcy induced the expression of collagen type I in cultured human liver cells as well as in liver tissue of HHcy mice. Meanwhile, Hcy inhibited the expression of histone methyltransferase G9a. Mechanistically, silencing endogenous G9a by siRNA enhanced the promoter activity of COL1A1 in LO2 cells. Conversely, overexpressing G9a inhibited the promoter activity of COL1A1. CHIP assay demonstrated that G9a binds to the neuron-restrictive silencer element (NRSE) on the promoter of COL1A1. Hcy treatment decreased the binding of G9a on NRSE, which in turn decreased the level of H3K9me2 on the promoter of COL1A1, led to upregulation of COL1A1. Taken together, these results provide a novel mechanism on explaining how HHcy promotes ECM production.
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42
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Jiang H, Stabler SP, Allen RH, Abman SH, Maclean KN. Altered hepatic sulfur metabolism in cystathionine β-synthase-deficient homocystinuria: regulatory role of taurine on competing cysteine oxidation pathways. FASEB J 2014; 28:4044-54. [PMID: 24891521 DOI: 10.1096/fj.14-253633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 05/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Cystathionine β-synthase-deficient homocystinuria (HCU) is a serious life-threatening inborn error of sulfur metabolism with poorly understood pathogenic mechanisms. We investigated the effect of HCU on hepatic cysteine oxidation in a transgenic mouse model of the disease. Cysteine dioxygenase (CDO) protein levels were 90% repressed without any change in mRNA levels. Cysteinesulfinic acid decarboxylase (CSAD) was induced at both the mRNA (8-fold) and protein (15-fold) levels. Cysteine supplementation normalized CDO protein levels without reversing the induction of CSAD. Regulatory changes in CDO and CSAD expression were proportional to homocysteine elevation, indicating a possible threshold effect. Hepatic and blood taurine levels in HCU animals were decreased by 21 and 35%, respectively, and normalized by cysteine supplementation. Expression of the cytoplasmic (GOT1) and mitochondrial (GOT2) isoforms of glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase were repressed in HCU animals by 86 and 30%, respectively. HCU induced regulatory changes in CSAD, CDO, and GOT1 expression were normalized by taurine supplementation, indicating that cysteine is not the only sulfur compound that regulates hepatic cysteine oxidation. Collectively, our results indicate that HCU induces significant alterations of sulfur metabolism with the potential to contribute to pathogenesis and that cysteine and taurine have the potential to serve as adjunctive treatments in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sally P Stabler
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Robert H Allen
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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43
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Gupta S, Melnyk SB, Kruger WD. Cystathionine β-synthase-deficient mice thrive on a low-methionine diet. FASEB J 2013; 28:781-90. [PMID: 24189943 DOI: 10.1096/fj.13-240770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) deficiency is a recessive inborn error of metabolism characterized by elevated serum total homocysteine (tHcy). Previously, our laboratory developed a mouse model of CBS deficiency, TgI278T Cbs(-)/(-) (abbreviated as Cbs(-/-)), characterized by low weight, low adiposity, decreased Scd-1 expression, facial alopecia, and osteoporosis. To determine the potential benefit of a methionine-restricted diet (MRD), we fed Cbs(-/-) and Cbs(+/-) control mice either an MRD or a regular diet (RD) from weaning till 240 d of age. Cbs(-/-) mice fed the MRD had a 77% decrease in tHcy, 28% increase in weight, 130% increase in fat mass, 82% increase in Scd-1 expression, and 10.6% increase in bone density and entirely lacked the alopecia phenotype observed in age-matched Cbs(-/-) mice fed the RD. At the end of the study, Cbs(-/-) mice fed the MRD were phenotypically indistinguishable from Cbs(+/-) mice fed the RD. Notably, whereas the MRD diet was highly beneficial to Cbs(-/-) mice, it had nearly opposite effect on Cbs(+/-) mice. These studies show that a low-methionine diet can correct the phenotypic consequences of loss of CBS and provide a striking example of how genotype and diet can interact to influence phenotype in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sapna Gupta
- 1Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA.
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Hydrogen sulfide in paraventricular nucleus enhances sympathetic activity and cardiac sympathetic afferent reflex in chronic heart failure rats. PLoS One 2012; 7:e50102. [PMID: 23166827 PMCID: PMC3499499 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0050102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2012] [Accepted: 10/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intracerebroventricular infusion of NaHS, a hydrogen sulfide (H(2)S) donor, increased mean arterial pressure (MAP). This study was designed to determine the roles of H(2)S in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) in modulating sympathetic activity and cardiac sympathetic afferent reflex (CSAR) in chronic heart failure (CHF). METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS CHF was induced by left descending coronary artery ligation in rats. Renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) and MAP were recorded under anesthesia. CSAR was evaluated by the RSNA and MAP responses to epicardial application of capsaicin. PVN microinjection of low doses of a H(2)S donor, GYY4137 (0.01 and 0.1 nmol), had no significant effects on RSNA, MAP and CSAR. High doses of GYY4137 (1, 2 and 4 nmol) increased baseline RSNA, MAP and heart rate (HR), and enhanced CSAR. The effects were greater in CHF rats than sham-operated rats. A cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS) inhibitor, hydroxylamine (HA) in PVN had no significant effect on the RSNA, MAP and CSAR. CBS activity and H(2)S level in the PVN were decreased in CHF rats. No significant difference in CBS level in PVN was found between sham-operated rats and CHF rats. Stimulation of cardiac sympathetic afferents with capsaicin decreased CBS activity and H(2)S level in the PVN in both sham-operated rats and CHF rats. CONCLUSIONS Exogenous H(2)S in PVN increases RSNA, MAP and HR, and enhances CSAR. The effects are greater in CHF rats than those in sham-operated rats. Endogenous H(2)S in PVN is not responsible for the sympathetic activation and enhanced CSAR in CHF rats.
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Zhao JY, Yang XY, Shi KH, Sun SN, Hou J, Ye ZZ, Wang J, Duan WY, Qiao B, Chen YJ, Shen HB, Huang GY, Jin L, Wang HY. A functional variant in the cystathionine β-synthase gene promoter significantly reduces congenital heart disease susceptibility in a Han Chinese population. Cell Res 2012; 23:242-253. [PMID: 22986502 DOI: 10.1038/cr.2012.135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Homocysteine is an independent risk factor for various cardiovascular diseases. There are two ways to remove homocysteine from embryonic cardiac cells: remethylation to form methionine or transsulfuration to form cysteine. Cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) catalyzes the first step of homocysteine transsulfuration as a rate-limiting enzyme. In this study, we identified a functional variant -4673C>G (rs2850144) in the CBS gene promoter region that significantly reduces the susceptibility to congenital heart disease (CHD) in a Han Chinese population consisting of 2 340 CHD patients and 2 270 controls. Individuals carrying the heterozygous CG and homozygous GG genotypes had a 15% (odds ratio (OR) = 0.85, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.75-0.96, P = 0.011) and 40% (OR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.49-0.73, P = 1.78 × 10(-7)) reduced risk to develop CHD than the wild-type CC genotype carriers in the combined samples, respectively. Additional stratified analyses demonstrated that CBS -4673C>G is significantly related to septation defects and conotruncal defects. In vivo detection of CBS mRNA levels in human cardiac tissues and in vitro luciferase assays consistently showed that the minor G allele significantly increased CBS transcription. A functional analysis revealed that both the attenuated transcription suppressor SP1 binding affinity and the CBS promoter hypomethylation specifically linked with the minor G allele contributed to the remarkably upregulated CBS expression. Consequently, the carriers with genetically increased CBS expression would benefit from the protection due to the low homocysteine levels maintained by CBS in certain cells during the critical heart development stages. These results shed light on unexpected role of CBS and highlight the importance of homocysteine removal in cardiac development.Cell Research advance online publication 18 September 2012; doi:10.1038/cr.2012.135.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Yuan Zhao
- 1] The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering and MOE Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, 220 Handan Road, Shanghai 200433, China [2] Institute of Sports Science and Technology, Administration of Sports of Anhui Province, 97 Wuhu Road, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
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Jiang H, Stabler SP, Allen RH, Maclean KN. Altered expression of apoA-I, apoA-IV and PON-1 activity in CBS deficient homocystinuria in the presence and absence of treatment: possible implications for cardiovascular outcomes. Mol Genet Metab 2012; 107:55-65. [PMID: 22633282 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2012.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2012] [Accepted: 04/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Classical homocystinuria (HCU) is caused by mutations in cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS) which, if untreated, typically results in cognitive impairment, thromboembolic complications and connective tissue disturbances. Paraoxonase-1 (PON1) and apolipoprotein apoA-I are both synthesized in the liver and contribute to much of the cardioprotective effects of high density lipoprotein. Additionally, apoA-I exerts significant neuro-protective effects that act to preserve cognition. Previous work in a Cbs null mouse model that incurs significant liver injury, reported that HCU dramatically decreases PON1 expression. Conflicting reports exist in the literature concerning the relative influence of homocysteine and cysteine upon apoA-I expression. We investigated expression of PON1 and apoA-I in the presence and absence of homocysteine lowering therapy, in both the HO mouse model of HCU and human subjects with this disorder. We observed no significant change in plasma PON1 paraoxonase activity in either mice or humans with HCU indicating that this enzyme is unlikely to contribute to the cardiovascular sequelae of HCU. Plasma levels of apoA-I were unchanged in mice with mildly elevated homocysteine due to CBS deficiency but were significantly diminished in both mice and humans with HCU. Subsequent experiments revealed that HCU acts to dramatically decrease apoA-I levels in the brain. Cysteine supplementation in HO mice had no discernible effect on plasma levels of apoA-I while treatment to lower homocysteine normalized plasma levels of this lipoprotein in both HO mice and humans with HCU. Our results indicate that plasma apoA-I levels in HCU are inversely related to homocysteine and are consistent with a plausible role for decreased expression of apoA-I as a contributory factor for both cardiovascular disease and cognitive impairment in HCU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Jiang
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045-0511, USA
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Maclean KN, Greiner LS, Evans JR, Sood SK, Lhotak S, Markham NE, Stabler SP, Allen RH, Austin RC, Balasubramaniam V, Jiang H. Cystathionine protects against endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced lipid accumulation, tissue injury, and apoptotic cell death. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:31994-2005. [PMID: 22854956 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.355172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cystathionine (R-S-(2-amino-2-carboxyethyl)-l-homocysteine) is a non-proteinogenic thioether containing amino acid. In mammals, cystathionine is formed as an intermediate of the transsulfuration pathway by the condensation of serine and homocysteine (Hcy) in a reaction catalyzed by cystathionine β-synthase (CBS). Cystathionine is subsequently converted to cysteine plus ammonia and α-ketobutyrate by the action of cystathionine γ-lyase (CGL). Pathogenic mutations in CBS result in CBS-deficient homocystinuria (HCU) which, if untreated, results in mental retardation, thromboembolic complications and connective tissue disorders. Currently there is no known function for cystathionine other than serving as an intermediate in transsulfuration and to date, the possible contribution of the abolition of cystathionine synthesis to pathogenesis in HCU has not been investigated. Using both mouse and cell-culture models, we have found that cystathionine is capable of blocking the induction of hepatic steatosis and kidney injury, acute tubular necrosis, and apoptotic cell death by the endoplasmic reticulum stress inducing agent tunicamycin. Northern and Western blotting analysis indicate that the protective effects of cystathionine occur without any obvious alteration of the induction of the unfolded protein response. Our data constitute the first experimental evidence that the abolition of cystathionine synthesis may contribute to the pathology of HCU and that this compound has therapeutic potential for disease states where ER stress is implicated as a primary initiating pathogenic factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth N Maclean
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA
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Novel structural arrangement of nematode cystathionine β-synthases: characterization of Caenorhabditis elegans CBS-1. Biochem J 2012; 443:535-47. [PMID: 22240119 PMCID: PMC3316156 DOI: 10.1042/bj20111478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
CBSs (cystathionine β-synthases) are eukaryotic PLP (pyridoxal 5 *-phosphate)-dependent proteins that maintain cellular homocysteine homoeostasis and produce cystathionine and hydrogen sulfide. In the present study, we describe a novel structural arrangement of the CBS enzyme encoded by the cbs-1 gene of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. The CBS-1 protein contains a unique tandem repeat of two evolutionarily conserved catalytic regions in a single polypeptide chain. These repeats include a catalytically active C-terminal module containing a PLP-binding site and a less conserved N-terminal module that is unable to bind the PLP cofactor and cannot catalyse CBS reactions, as demonstrated by analysis of truncated variants and active-site mutant proteins. In contrast with other metazoan enzymes, CBS-1 lacks the haem and regulatory Bateman domain essential for activation by AdoMet (S-adenosylmethionine) and only forms monomers. We determined the tissue and subcellular distribution of CBS-1 and showed that cbs-1 knockdown by RNA interference leads to delayed development and to an approximately 10-fold elevation of homocysteine concentrations in nematode extracts. The present study provides the first insight into the metabolism of sulfur amino acids and hydrogen sulfide in C. elegans and shows that nematode CBSs possess a structural feature that is unique among CBS proteins.
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Maclean KN, Jiang H, Greiner LS, Allen RH, Stabler SP. Long-term betaine therapy in a murine model of cystathionine beta-synthase deficient homocystinuria: decreased efficacy over time reveals a significant threshold effect between elevated homocysteine and thrombotic risk. Mol Genet Metab 2012; 105:395-403. [PMID: 22192524 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2011.11.190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2011] [Accepted: 11/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Classical homocystinuria (HCU) is caused by deficiency of cystathionine β-synthase and is characterized by connective tissue disturbances, mental retardation and cardiovascular disease. Treatment for pyridoxine non-responsive HCU typically involves lowering homocysteine levels with a methionine-restricted diet and dietary supplementation with betaine. Compliance with the methionine-restricted diet is difficult and often poor. Investigating optimization of the efficacy of long-term betaine treatment in isolation from a methionine-restricted diet is precluded by ethical considerations regarding patient risk. The HO mouse model of HCU developed in our laboratory, exhibits constitutive expression of multiple pro-inflammatory cytokines and a hypercoagulative phenotype both of which respond to short-term betaine treatment. Investigation of the effects of long-term betaine treatment in the absence of methionine-restriction in HO HCU mice revealed that the ability of betaine treatment to lower homocysteine diminished significantly over time. Plasma metabolite analysis indicated that this effect was due at least in part, to reduced betaine-homocysteine S-methyltransferase (BHMT) mediated remethylation of homocysteine. Western blotting analysis revealed that BHMT protein levels are significantly repressed in untreated HCU mice but are significantly induced in the presence of betaine treatment. The observed increase in plasma homocysteine during prolonged betaine treatment was accompanied by a significant increase in the plasma levels of TNF-alpha and IL-1beta and reversion to a hypercoagulative phenotype. Our findings are consistent with a relatively sharp threshold effect between severely elevated plasma homocysteine and thrombotic risk in HCU and indicate that the HO mouse model can serve as a useful tool for both testing novel treatment strategies and examining the optimal timing and dosing of betaine treatment with a view toward optimizing clinical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth N Maclean
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045-0511, USA.
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The use of mouse models for understanding the biology of down syndrome and aging. Curr Gerontol Geriatr Res 2012; 2012:717315. [PMID: 22461792 PMCID: PMC3296169 DOI: 10.1155/2012/717315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2011] [Accepted: 12/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Down syndrome is a complex condition caused by trisomy of human chromosome 21. The biology of aging may be different in individuals with Down syndrome; this is not well understood in any organism. Because of its complexity, many aspects of Down syndrome must be studied either in humans or in animal models. Studies in humans are essential but are limited for ethical and practical reasons. Fortunately, genetically altered mice can serve as extremely useful models of Down syndrome, and progress in their production and analysis has been remarkable. Here, we describe various mouse models that have been used to study Down syndrome. We focus on segmental trisomies of mouse chromosome regions syntenic to human chromosome 21, mice in which individual genes have been introduced, or mice in which genes have been silenced by targeted mutagenesis. We selected a limited number of genes for which considerable evidence links them to aspects of Down syndrome, and about which much is known regarding their function. We focused on genes important for brain and cognitive function, and for the altered cancer spectrum seen in individuals with Down syndrome. We conclude with observations on the usefulness of mouse models and speculation on future directions.
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