Transformation of arachidonic acid into an iodolactone by the rat thyroid

Selenium bioavailability modulates the sensitivity of thyroid cells to iodide excess

INTRODUCTION

Iodide is an essential micronutrient for the synthesis of thyroid hormones and its imbalance is involved in the origin of different thyroid pathological processes. Selenium (Se) is another essential trace element that contributes to thyroid preservation through the control of the redox homeostasis. Different studies have demonstrated that sodium-iodide-symporter (NIS) is downregulated in the presence of iodide excess and Se supplementation reverses this effect. We also demonstrated that NOX4-derived ROS are involved in NIS repression induced by iodide excess. The aim of this study was to investigate how Se bioavailability is decisive in the sensitivity to iodide excess on a differentiated rat thyroid cell line (FRTL-5).

RESULTS

We demonstrated that siRNA-mediated silencing of Nox4 suppressed AKT phosphorylation induced by iodide excess. Iodide increases TGF-β1 mRNA expression, AKT phosphorylation, ROS levels and decreases GPX1 and TXRND1 mRNAs expression while Se reversed these effects. Furthermore, iodide induced Nrf2 transcriptional activity only in Se-supplemented cultures, suggesting that Se positively influences Nrf2 activation and selenoenzyme response in FRTL-5. Se, also inhibited NF-κB phosphorylation induced by iodide excess. In addition, we found that iodide excess decreased total phosphatase activity and PTP1B and PTEN mRNA expression. Se supply restored only PTEN mRNA expression. Finally, we studied the 2-α-iodohexadecanal (2-IHD) effects since it has been proposed as intermediary of iodide action on thyroid autoregulation. 2-IHD stimulated PI3K/AKT activity and reduced NIS expression by a ROS-independent mechanism. Also, we found that 2-IHD increased TGF-β1 mRNA and TGF-β inhibitor (SB431542) reverses the 2-IHD inhibitory effect on NIS mRNA expression, suggesting that TGF-β1 signaling pathway could be involved. Although Se reduced 2-IHD-induced TGFB1 levels, it could not reverse its inhibitory effect on NIS expression.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that Se bioavailability may improve the expression of antioxidant genes through the activation of Nrf2, interfere in PI3K/AKT signaling and NIS expression by redox modulation.

Molecular Iodine Has Extrathyroidal Effects as an Antioxidant, Differentiator, and Immunomodulator

Most investigations of iodine metabolism in humans and animals have focused on its role in thyroid function. However, considerable evidence indicates that iodine could also be implicated in the physiopathology of other organs. We review the literature that shows that molecular iodine (I₂) exerts multiple and complex actions on the organs that capture it, not including its effects as part of thyroid hormones. This chemical form of iodine is internalized by a facilitated diffusion system that is evolutionary conserved, and its effects appear to be mediated by a variety of mechanisms and pathways. As an oxidized component, it directly neutralizes free radicals, induces the expression of type II antioxidant enzymes, or inactivates proinflammatory pathways. In neoplastic cells, I₂ generates iodolipids with nuclear actions that include the activation of apoptotic pathways and the inhibition of markers related to stem cell maintenance, chemoresistance, and survival. Recently, I2 has been postulated as an immune modulator that depending on the cellular context, can function as an inhibitor or activator of immune responses. We propose that the intake of molecular iodine is increased in adults to at least 1 mg/day in specific pathologies to obtain the potential extrathyroid benefits described in this review.

S1P and plasmalogen derived fatty aldehydes in cellular signaling and functions

Long-chain fatty aldehydes are present in low concentrations in mammalian cells and serve as intermediates in the interconversion between fatty acids and fatty alcohols. The long-chain fatty aldehydes are generated by enzymatic hydrolysis of 1-alkyl-, and 1-alkenyl-glycerophospholipids by alkylglycerol monooxygenase, plasmalogenase or lysoplasmalogenase while hydrolysis of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) by S1P lyase generates trans ∆2-hexadecenal (∆2-HDE). Additionally, 2-chloro-, and 2-bromo- fatty aldehydes are produced from plasmalogens or lysoplasmalogens by hypochlorous, and hypobromous acid generated by activated neutrophils and eosinophils, respectively while 2-iodofatty aldehydes are produced by excess iodine in thyroid glands. The 2-halofatty aldehydes and ∆2-HDE activated JNK signaling, BAX, cytoskeletal reorganization and apoptosis in mammalian cells. Further, 2-chloro- and 2-bromo-fatty aldehydes formed GSH and protein adducts while ∆2-HDE formed adducts with GSH, deoxyguanosine in DNA and proteins such as HDAC1 in vitro. ∆2-HDE also modulated HDAC activity and stimulated H3 and H4 histone acetylation in vitro with lung epithelial cell nuclear preparations. The α-halo fatty aldehydes elicited endothelial dysfunction, cellular toxicity and tissue damage. Taken together, these investigations suggest a new role for long-chain fatty aldehydes as signaling lipids, ability to form adducts with GSH, proteins such as HDACs and regulate cellular functions.

Biogenic Iodine and Iodine-Containing Metabolites

This review is intended as a comprehensive survey of iodinated metabolites possessing carbon–iodine covalent bond, which have been obtained from living organisms. Generally thought to be minor components produced by many different organisms these interesting compounds now number more than 110. Many from isolated and identified iodine-containing metabolites showed high biological activities. Recent research, especially in the marine area, indicates this number will increase in the future. Sources of iodinated metabolites include microorganisms, algae, marine invertebrates, and some animals. Their origin and possible biological significance have also been discussed.

Regulation of NADPH oxidase NOX4 by delta iodolactone (IL-δ) in thyroid cancer cells

INTRODUCTION

Iodine is not used only by the thyroid to synthesize thyroid hormones but also directly influences a number of thyroid parameters such as thyroid proliferation and function. Several iodinated lipids, biosynthesized by the thyroid, were postulated as intermediaries in the action of iodide. Among these, iodolactone (IL-δ) and 2-iodohexadecanal (2-IHDA) have shown to inhibit several thyroid parameters. The antiproliferative effect of IL-δ is not restricted to the thyroid gland. IL-δ exhibits anti-tumor properties in breast cancer, neuroblastoma, glioblastoma, melanoma and lung carcinoma cells suggesting that IL-δ could be used as a chemotherapeutic agent. Moreover in a colon cancer cell line (HT-29), IL-δ induced cell death, and this effect was mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. The aim of the present study was to analyze the sources of reactive oxygen species induced by IL-δ and to explore the contribution of ROS induced by IL-δ on cell proliferation and apoptosis.

METHODOLOGY AND RESULTS

Cancer thyroid follicular (WRO) and papilar (TPC-1) cells lines were treated with IL-δ. Proliferation and apoptosis was analyzed. IL-δ caused a significant loss of cell viability on WRO and TPC-1 cells in a concentration dependent manner and induced apoptosis after 3 h of treatment. Furthermore, IL-δ (10 μM) increased ROS production (39% WRO and 20% TPC-1). The concomitant treatment of WRO and TPC-1 cells with Trolox or NAC plus IL-δ abrogated the augment of ROS induced by IL-δ exposure. Additionally Trolox and NAC reversed the effect of IL-δ on cell proliferation and apoptosis. Only in WRO cells IL-δ upregulates NADPH oxidase NOX4 expression, and siRNA targeted knock-down of NOX4 attenuates ROS production, apoptosis (p < 0.05) and the inhibitory effect of IL-δ on cell proliferation and PCNA expression (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effect of IL-δ is mediated by different mechanisms and pathway involving different sources of ROS generation depending on the cellular context.

Effects of 2-iodohexadecanal in the physiology of thyroid cells

Iodide has direct effects on thyroid function. Several iodinated lipids are biosynthesized by the thyroid and they were postulated as intermediaries in the action of iodide. Among them, 2-iodohexadecanal (2-IHDA) has been identified and proposed to play a role in thyroid autoregulation. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of iodide and 2-IHDA on thyroid cell physiology. For this purpose, FRTL-5 thyroid cells were incubated with the two compounds during 24 or 48 h and several thyroid parameters were evaluated such as: iodide uptake, intracellular calcium and H₂O₂ levels. To further explore the molecular mechanism involved in 2-IHDA action, transcript and protein levels of genes involved in thyroid hormone biosynthesis, as well as the transcriptional expression of these genes were evaluated in the presence of iodide and 2-IHDA. The results obtained indicate that 2-IHDA reproduces the action of excess iodide on the "Wolff-Chaikoff" effect as well as on thyroid specific genes transcription supporting its role in thyroid autoregulation.

6-iodolactone, key mediator of antitumoral properties of iodine

An iodinated derivative of arachidonic acid, 5-hydroxy-6-iodo-8,11,14-eicosatrienoic acid, δ-lactone (6-IL) has been implicated as a possible intermediate in the autoregulation of the thyroid gland by iodine. In addition to antiproliferative and apoptotic effects observed in thyrocytes, this iodolipid could also exert similar actions in cells derived from extrathyroidal tissues like mammary gland, prostate, colon, or the nervous system. In mammary cancer (solid tumors or tumor cell lines), 6-IL has been detected after molecular iodine (I2) supplement, and is a potent activator of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor type gamma (PPARγ). These observations led us to propose I2 supplement as a novel coadjutant therapy which, by inducing differentiation mechanisms, decreases tumor progression and prevents chemoresistance. Some kinds of tumoral cells, in contrast to normal cells, contain high concentrations of arachidonic acid, making the I2 supplement a potential "magic bullet" that enables local, specific production of 6-IL, which then exerts antineoplastic actions with minimal deleterious effects on normal tissues.

Naturally occurring organoiodines

This review, with 290 references, presents the fascinating area of iodinated natural products over the past hundred years for the first time.

The extrathyronine actions of iodine as antioxidant, apoptotic, and differentiation factor in various tissues

BACKGROUND

Seaweed is an important dietary component and a rich source of iodine in several chemical forms in Asian communities. Their high consumption of this element (25 times higher than in Western countries) has been associated with the low incidence of benign and cancerous breast and prostate disease in Japanese people.

SUMMARY

We review evidence showing that, in addition to being a component of the thyroid hormone, iodine can be an antioxidant as well as an antiproliferative and differentiation agent that helps to maintain the integrity of several organs with the ability to take up iodine. In animal and human studies, molecular iodine (I2) supplementation exerts a suppressive effect on the development and size of both benign and cancerous neoplasias. Investigations by several groups have demonstrated that these effects can be mediated by a variety of mechanisms and pathways, including direct actions, in which the oxidized iodine dissipates the mitochondrial membrane potential, thereby triggering mitochondrion-mediated apoptosis, and indirect effects through iodolipid formation and the activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors type gamma, which, in turn, trigger apoptotic or differentiation pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

We propose that the International Council for the Control of Iodine Deficient Disorders recommend that iodine intake be increased to at least 3 mg/day of I2 in specific pathologies to obtain the potential extrathyroidal benefits described in the present review.

6 Iodo-δ-lactone: a derivative of arachidonic acid with antitumor effects in HT-29 colon cancer cells

BACKGROUND

IL-δ (5-hydroxy-6 iodo-8,11,14-eicosatrienoic delta lactone) an iodinated arachidonic acid (AA) derivative, is one of the iodolipids biosynthesized by the thyroid. Although IL-δ regulates several thyroid parameters such as cell proliferation and goiter growth it was found that this iodolipid inhibits the growth of other non thyroid cell lines.

OBJECTIVES

To study the effect of IL-δ on cell proliferation and apoptosis in the colon cancer cell line HT-29.

RESULTS

Treatment with IL-δ reduced cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner: 1μM 20%, 5μM 25%, 10μM 31%, 50μM 47% and caused a significant decrease of PCNA expression (25%). IL-δ had pro-apoptotic effects, evidenced by morphological features of programmed cell death such as pyknosis, karyorrhexis, cell shrinkage and cell blebbing observed by fluorescence microscopy, and an increase in caspase-3 activity and in Bax/Bcl-2 ratio (2.5 after 3h of treatment). Furthermore, IL-δ increased ROS production (30%) and lipid peroxidation levels (19%), suggesting that apoptosis could be a result of increased oxidative stress. A maximum increase in c-fos and c-jun protein expression in response to IL-δ was observed 1h after initiation of the treatment. IL-δ also induced a tumour growth delay of 70% compared to the control group in NIH nude mice implanted with HT-29 cells.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that IL-δ inhibits cell growth and induces apoptosis in the colon cancer cell line, HT-29 and opens the possibility that IL-δ could be a potential useful chemotherapy agent.

6 Iodo-delta-lactone reproduces many but not all the effects of iodide

BACKGROUND

Iodide has direct effects on thyroid function. Several iodinated lipids are biosynthesized by the thyroid and they were postulated as intermediaries in the action of iodide. Among them 6 iodo-delta-lactone (IL-delta) has been identified and proposed to play a role in thyroid autoregulation. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of iodide and IL-delta on several thyroid parameters.

METHODS

Thyroid bovine follicles were incubated with the different compounds during three days.

RESULTS

KI and IL-delta inhibited iodide uptake, total protein and Tg synthesis but only KI had an effect on NIS and Tg mRNAs levels. Both compounds inhibited Na+/K+ ATPase and deoxy-glucose uptake. As PAX 8, FOXE 1 and TITF1 are involved in the regulation of thyroid specific genes their mRNA levels were measured. While iodide inhibited the expression of the first two, the expression of TITF1 was stimulated by iodide and IL-delta had no effect on these parameters.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that IL-delta reproduces some but not all the effects of excess iodide. These observations apply for higher micromolar concentrations of iodide while no such effects could be demonstrated at nanomolar iodide concentrations.

Role of lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress in the association between thyroid diseases and breast cancer

Evidence is accumulating for a role of the thyroid in the natural history of breast cancer, although no plausible mechanism has been advanced to explain this association. We believe that the thyroid disease-breast cancer relationship provides a unique opportunity to find out the causes of breast cancer. Both diseases are female predominant, with specifically identified biological pathways and genetic and environmental determinants, and seeing them in concert provides an opportunity to identify the most relevant mechanistic pathways. In this communication, we advance a plausible mechanism to explain the thyroid disease-breast cancer relationship. We specifically propose that the reduction in risk associated with hyperthyroidism or increased levels of thyroid hormones, or iodine, may derive from the pro-oxidant properties of these compounds, i.e., from its ability to generate oxidative stress-induced apoptosis. Conversely, the increased risk from hypothyroidism may derive from its ability to inhibit this stress-mediated apoptotic process.

From the molecular characterization of iodide transporters to the prevention of radioactive iodide exposure

In the event of a nuclear reactor accident, the major public health risk will likely result from the release and dispersion of volatile radio-iodines. Upon body exposure and food ingestion, these radio-iodines are concentrated in the thyroid, resulting in substantial thyroidal irradiation and accordingly causing thyroid cancers. Stable potassium iodide (KI) effectively blocks thyroid iodine uptake and is thus used in iodide prophylaxis for reactor accidents. The efficiency of KI is directly related to the physiological inhibition of the thyroid function in the presence of high plasma iodide concentrations. This regulation is called the Wolff-Chaikoff effect. However, to be fully effective, KI should be administered shortly before or immediately after radioiodine exposure. If KI is provided only several hours after exposure, it will elicit the opposite effect e.g. lead to an increase in the thyroid irradiation dose. To date, clear evaluation of the benefit and the potential toxicity of KI administration remain difficult, and additional data are needed. We outline in this review the molecular characterization of KI-induced regulation of the thyroid function. Significant advances in the knowledge of the iodide transport mechanisms and thyroid physiology have been made. Recently developed molecular tools should help clarify iodide metabolism and the Wolff-Chaikoff effect. The major goals are clarifying the factors which increase thyroid cancer risk after a reactor accident and improving the KI administration protocol. These will ultimately lead to the development of novel strategies to decrease thyroid irradiation after radio-iodine exposure.

Is iodine a gatekeeper of the integrity of the mammary gland?

This paper reviews evidence showing iodine as an antioxidant and antiproliferative agent contributing to the integrity of normal mammary gland. Seaweed is an important dietary component in Asian communities and a rich source of iodine in several chemical forms. The high consumption of this element (25 times more than in Occident) has been associated with the low incidence of benign and cancer breast disease in Japanese women. In animal and human studies, molecular iodine (I(2)) supplementation exerts a suppressive effect on the development and size of both benign and cancer neoplasias. This effect is accompanied by a significant reduction in cellular lipoperoxidation. Iodine, in addition to its incorporation into thyroid hormones, is bound into antiproliferative iodolipids in the thyroid called iodolactones, which may also play a role in the proliferative control of mammary gland. We propose that an I(2) supplement should be considered as an adjuvant in breast cancer therapy.

Loss of heterozygocity at the thyroid peroxidase gene locus in solitary cold thyroid nodules

Germline mutations in both alleles of the thyroid peroxidase (TPO) gene have been reported as a frequent cause of congenital hypothyroidism resulting from a total iodide organification defect (TIOD). Because TPO mutations have a prevalence of 1 in 66,000 newborns and is inherited in an autosomal recessive mode the frequency of a heterozygous germline mutation in the TPO gene should reach about 1 in 260 in the population. A somatic TPO mutation coinciding with a somatic loss of one of the TPO alleles or a TPO germline mutation could lead to somatic loss of TPO activity with impairment of thyroid hormone synthesis and decrease of growth control. The latter would lead to increased thyroid epithelial cell proliferation and the subsequent development of a scintigraphically cold thyroid nodule (CTN). To test this hypothesis we studied 40 CTN for the presence of mutations or loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in the TPO gene. For comparisons we also studied LOH in 17 autonomously functioning thyroid nodules (AFTN). Genomic DNA was extracted from nodular and surrounding tissue, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplified, sequenced, and analyzed for LOH. In 6 CTNs of 37 informative cases we detected LOH using the genomic markers sRA, D2S2268, and D2S319 within or near the TPO gene locus (2p24-25). In contrast, a genomic marker closer to the centromer (D2S144, 2p24-21) shows LOH in only 1 CTN. We did not detect LOH in AFTN. In none of the cases a germline or somatic mutation in the TPO gene was detectable in the TPO gene. LOH in 6 of 37 CTNs suggests that genetic defects at the TPO or the chromosomal locus 2p24-25 might play a role in the etiology of CTNs. However, we did not find the combination of LOH with a somatic mutation in the TPO gene. It is therefore likely that a gene defect near the TPO locus is part of the neoplastic process in a subgroup of CTNs.

Regulation of transforming growth factor beta 1 messenger ribonucleic acid expression in porcine thyroid follicles in vitro by growth factors, iodine, or delta-iodolactone

Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF beta 1) is an autocrine growth factor for thyrocytes and is supposed to be the mediator of iodine-induced growth inhibition of thyroid epithelial cells, but this is still controversial. We further investigated this hypothesis using intact porcine thyroid follicles ex vivo in a three-dimensional culture system. In this culture system it has been shown previously that both iodide as well as delta-iodolactone, the putative iodocompound mediating thyroid cell proliferation, inhibit growth of these follicles. We measured the amount of TGF beta 1 mRNA expression in these follicles after treatment either with thyrotropin (TSH), epidermal growth factor (EGF), or transforming growth factor alpha (TGF alpha) for growth stimulation or with inorganic iodine or delta-iodolactone in concentrations known to inhibit growth. TGF beta 1-mRNA was detected by Northern blot analysis. The known major transcript of 2.5 kb was detected in a steady state level up to 48 hours in untreated thyroid follicles. EGF and TGF alpha (5 ng/mL each) enhanced TGF beta 1 mRNA about threefold within 4 and 8 hours. This increase of TGF beta 1 mRNA was slightly decreased by simultaneous incubation with delta-iodolactone (1 microM) or iodide (40 microM KI). In contrast, both TSH (1 mU/mL) and forskolin (16 microM) decreased TGF beta 1 mRNA expression to about 70%, and this effect was abolished when follicles were pretreated with iodide (40 microM KI) in a concentration known to inhibit TSH action on cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) formation and proliferation. Iodide or delta-iodolactone alone had no significant effect on basal TGF beta 1 mRNA expression. We conclude that the growth inhibitory effect of iodide as well as of delta-iodolactone is not mediated through TGF beta 1 in intact porcine thyroid follicles ex vivo. The stimulatory effect of EGF and TGF alpha on TGF beta 1 expression might be related to extracellular matrix modulation during proliferation.

Inhibition of human thyroid adenylyl cyclase by 2-iodoaldehydes

2-Iodohexadecanal (IHDA), which can be formed upon addition of iodine to the vinyl ether group of plasmalogens, has been identified as a major thyroid iodolipid (Pereira et al. (1990) J. Biol. Chem. 265, 17018-17025). In this study, we have investigated the possibility that it would be a mediator of the inhibitory effect of iodide on thyroid adenylyl cyclase. In human thyroid membranes, IHDA inhibited the adenylyl cyclase activity stimulated by thyrotropin (TSH), GTP-gamma-S or forskolin (FSK), whereas it did not decrease the specific binding of TSH to its receptors. The inhibitory effect on the cyclase reached a maximum after a 1-h-pre-incubation of the membranes with IHDA at 30 degrees C and was poorly reversible. It was also observed following a 4-h incubation with IHDA at 4 degrees C, a condition in which adenylyl cyclase is protected against heat inactivation. IHDA decreased the Vmax of adenylyl cyclase, but had no effect on the Km for ATPMg2-.IHDA also inhibited the FSK-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity in liver and kidney cortex membranes, but had no effect on the Mg(2+)-ATPase activity of thyroid membranes. The inhibitory effect of IHDA has also been demonstrated in intact cells. As in membranes, IHDA decreased the rise in cAMP induced by TSH in cultured dog thyroid cells and this inhibition was maintained following pretreatment of the cells with pertussis toxin. In order to evaluate the specificity of the IHDA action, various analogs have been synthesized. This study has permitted the identification of two major structural features required for the inhibition of human thyroid adenylyl cyclase; the terminal aldehyde function and an iodine atom at C2, other halogens being ineffective. In conclusion, we have shown that IHDA exerts a direct inhibitory effect at or near adenylyl cyclase; all the properties of this effect characterized so far are identical to those of the adenylyl cyclase inhibition obtained following the exposure of thyroid tissue to iodide.

Longchain serum fatty acids and risk of thyroid cancer: a population-based case-control study in Norway

Epidemiologic studies have shown an association between seafood consumption and risk of thyroid cancer. Fish meals increase the serum concentrations of the longchain fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5,n-3) (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (22:6,n-3) (DHA), for days. The hypothesis that serum concentrations of fatty acids may be associated with thyroid cancer risk therefore was tested in a population-based case-control study with 74 cases and 221 matched controls. Seventy-three cases with sera in the Norwegian serum bank (JANUS) were identified in the Norwegian Cancer Registry and matched with three controls, also in JANUS, on age, gender, place of residence, and time of blood sampling. One [corrected] case was matched with two controls. Serum concentrations of 11 longchain fatty acids were determined blindly by gas chromatography for all subjects. Controls were divided into three groups with increasing serum fatty acid concentrations, and odds ratios between cases and controls were estimated relative to the group with lowest serum level by univariate and multivariate analyses. The main finding was a significant inverse relation between the sum of arachidonic acid (20:4,n-6) (AA) and DHA serum concentrations and thyroid cancer risk. The significance of this association was weakened when the analyses were restricted to the papillary type of thyroid carcinoma. It was of the same order of magnitude whether the period between blood sampling and diagnosis was greater than eight years, or eight or less years. High EPA/AA ratio, indicating consumption of fish fat, was not associated significantly with increased thyroid-cancer risk.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Studies on the goiter inhibiting action of iodolactones

The thyroid gland synthesizes 6-delta-iodolactone, a compound shown to inhibit goiter growth in vivo and cell proliferation in culture. The present studies were performed to characterize this effect further with the aim of exploring the possible therapeutic action of iodolactones. Prevention assay: rats were treated simultaneously with a goitrogen, methylmercaptoimidazole, and either 6-delta-iodo-lactone or 14-iodo-omega-lactone, a synthetic derivative, given either i.p. or p. o. Both compounds caused a significant decrease in thyroid weight irrespective of the route of administration, but oral administration was less effective. A dose-response relationship was observed, the minimal effective dose (i.p.) being 3 micrograms/day. Involution assay: goiter was first induced with methylmercaptoimidazole and then the iodolactones were injected. Both compounds caused a significant involution, which was dose-related. Acute (10 days) administration of the iodolactones did not produce significant changes in several serum parameters (total T3 and T4, cholesterol, total protein, urea and acetylcholinesterase). These results give further support to the potential therapeutic application of iodolactones.

Inhibition of H2O2 production by iodoaldehydes in cultured dog thyroid cells

2-Iodohexadecanal (IHDA) has been identified as a major thyroid iodolipid which can be formed upon addition of iodine to the vinyl ether group of plasmalogens (Pereira et al., 1990). In order to test whether IHDA plays a role in the thyroid autoregulation by iodide, we have investigated its effects on the production of H2O2 by cultured dog thyroid cells. IHDA inhibited the formation of H2O2 in dog thyroid cells stimulated by carbamylcholine (CCHOL). In the presence of BSA, which potentiated its action, the effect of IHDA was maximal after 2 h and had an IC50 around 5 microM. The effect of IHDA was not decreased by methimazole, which abolished the inhibition by iodide. IHDA also inhibited the stimulatory effect of bradykinin, but had only a marginal effect on the production of H2O2 induced by ionomycin or phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA). The accumulation of inositol phosphates in CCHOL-stimulated thyroid cells was decreased by IHDA. As evaluated by measurements of 51Cr release and [3H]thymidine incorporation into DNA, IHDA had no adverse effect on thyroid cell viability. Several analogs of IHDA, of which the synthesis is described, have been tested for their inhibitory activity. This allowed the identification of two major structural features required for the biological activity: the carbonyl group at C1 and an halogen atom at C2, with iodine conferring a greater activity than bromine, while chlorine and fluorine were inactive. In conclusion, IHDA inhibits the production of H2O2 in CCHOL-stimulated dog thyroid cells by decreasing the phospholipase C cascade activity. This effect involves both the aldehyde function and the iodine atom. These results suggest that IHDA might be the mediator of some of the regulatory actions of iodide on the thyroid gland.

Inhibition of thyroid NADPH-oxidase by 2-iodohexadecanal in a cell-free system

The major nonpolar iodolipid formed in horse thyroid cells has recently been identified as 2-iodohexadecanal (2-IHDA). We have investigated in vitro the effect of 2-IHDA on the NADPH-oxidase, NADPH-cytochrome c reductase, and thyroid peroxidase (TPO) activities of a porcine thyroid plasma membrane preparation. 2-IHDA inhibited NADPH-oxidase activity, with half-inhibition at 3-5 microM, but it had no effect on NADPH-cytochrome c reductase. It inhibited the TPO-catalyzed iodination of protein, but not iodide oxidation. Hexadecanal also inhibited NADPH-oxidase. Inhibition by the non-iodinated lipid aldehydes depended on the length of their aliphatic chain: dodecanal and tridecanal gave maximal inhibition. Free iodide, 2-iodohexadecanol and palmitic acid all had no inhibitory effect. Washing treated membranes showed that the inhibition of NADPH-oxidase by hexadecanal was fully reversible, whereas that of 2-IHDA and other iodinated or brominated alkanals was irreversible. Thus the interaction between some residues of the thyroid NADPH-oxidase and the lipid aldehyde groups was favored or stabilized by the iodine atom. Modification of primary amine and thiol groups of NADPH-oxidase inhibited its activity. These groups could also be the target of lipid aldehydes. We suggest that 2-IHDA, because it inhibits TPO and more profoundly the H2O2-generating system in thyroid plasma membrane, modulates iodide metabolism in the thyrocyte and may mediate the Wolff-Chaikoff effect.

Chlorohydrin formation from unsaturated fatty acids reacted with hypochlorous acid

Stimulated neutrophils produce hypochlorous acid (HOCl) via the myeloperoxidase-catalyzed reaction of hydrogen peroxide with chloride. The reactions of HOCl with oleic, linoleic, and arachidonic acids both as free fatty acids or bound in phosphatidylcholine have been studied. The products were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry of the methylated and trimethylsilylated derivatives. Oleic acid was converted to the two 9,10-chlorohydrin isomers in near stoichiometric yield. Linoleic acid, at low HOCl:fatty acid ratios, yielded predominantly a mixture of the four possible monochlorohydrin isomers. Bischlorohydrins were also formed, in increasing amounts at higher HOCl concentrations. Arachidonic acid gave a complex mixture of mono- and bischlorohydrins, the relative proportions depending on the amount of HOCl added. Linoleic acid appears to be slightly more reactive than oleic acid with HOCl. Reactions of oleic and linoleic acids with myeloperoxidase, hydrogen peroxide, and chloride gave chlorohydrin products identical to those with HOCl. Lipid chlorohydrins have received little attention as products of reactions of neutrophil oxidants. They are more polar than the parent fatty acids, and if formed in cell membranes could cause disruption to membrane structure. Since cellular targets for HOCl appear to be membrane constituents, chlorohydrin formation from unsaturated lipids could be significant in neutrophil-mediated cytotoxicity.

Thyroid autoregulation. Inhibition of goiter growth and of cyclic AMP formation in rat thyroid by iodinated derivatives of arachidonic acid

Thyroid autoregulation has been related to intraglandular content of an unknown putative iodocompund. Data from different laboratories have shown that the thyroid is capable of producing different iodolipids, including iodinated derivatives of arachidonic acid; such as 5-hydroxy-6-iodo-8, 11, 14-eicosatrienoic-delta-lactone (IL-delta). Previous results from our laboratory showed that a semi-purified preparation of iodinated arachidonic acid exerts an inhibitory action in vitro on calf thyroid. In the present studies three purified iodinated derivatives of arachidonic acid were synthesized: IL-delta; 14-iodo-15-hydroxy-5, 8, 11-eicosatrienoic acid (I-OH-A) and its corresponding omega-lactone (IL-omega). Their action on MMI-induced goiter was studied in rats. Administration of MMI to rats during 10 days increased thyroid weight by 124%. This effect was significantly inhibited by the simultaneous injection of 5 micrograms/day of I-OH-A (57% inhibition of MMI action), IL-W (39%), IL-delta (33%) and T3 (95%), while arachidonic acid was without action. No inhibition was found with 1.25 micrograms/day Kl, a dose equivalent to that which could be originated from total dehalogenation of the iodocompounds. These results support the idea that these iodocompounds have an intrinsic biologic activity and that there is a correlation between action and chemical structure. Serum TSH was increased around 15-20 fold after MMI administration. Chronic or acute injection of I-OH-A failed to alter TSH levels, indicating that this iodocompound exerts its action directly on the gland, without altering TSH concentration.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Thyroid autoregulation. Inhibitory effects of iodinated derivatives of arachidonic acid on iodine metabolism

Thyroid autoregulation has been linked to an organified iodocompound. Since several iodolipids are produced by the gland their possible role in thyroid autoregulation was examined. The following pure synthetic compounds were prepared: 1) 14-iodo-15-hydroxy-5,8,11-eicosatrienoic acid (I-OH-A); 2) its omega lactone (IL-omega); 3) 5-hydroxy-6-iodo-8,11,14-eicosatrienoic acid delta lactone (IL-delta). Their action on iodine metabolism was studied. Iodine uptake was measured in calf thyroid slices. At 10(-4)M I-OH-A caused a 64% decrease in the T/M ratio, while IL-omega inhibited it by 36% and IL-delta was without effect. At 10(-5)M the inhibition was 44% for I-OH-A and 19% for IL-omega, while T3 was without action. A possible isotopic dilution effect was excluded, and no change in iodine efflux was observed. The inhibition by I-OH-A of iodide uptake was observed after only 15 min preincubation. This compound also decreased 125I accumulation in rats. In calf thyroid slices, I-OH-A at 10(-4)M, inhibited PB125I formation by 80%, IL-omega by 62% and IL-delta by 37%. T3 and arachidonic acid were without action. I-OH-A also caused a dose-dependent inhibition of TSH-stimulated iodide organification. The present results demonstrate, for the first time, that iodinated derivatives of arachidonic acid inhibit thyroid function and mimic the effect of iodide on thyroid autoregulation.

Involvement of cyclic AMP, iodide and metabolites of arachidonic acid in the regulation of cell proliferation of isolated porcine thyroid follicles

Experiments with primary cultures of isolated porcine thyroid follicles were performed in serum-free well-defined medium to investigate different pathways that may be involved in the regulation of thyroid cell growth. The incorporation of [3H]thymidine into DNA within 72 h was about 25-fold with fetal calf serum (FCS, 1%), 20-fold with epidermal growth factor (EGF, 1 ng/ml) and 3.5-fold with insulin (10 micrograms/ml) as compared to controls. Bovine TSH significantly reduced the basal and insulin-induced growth rate at concentrations of 10(-6) to 10(-4) U/ml and 10(-4) U/ml, respectively. Forskolin stimulated cyclic AMP accumulation in thyroid cells and significantly reduced FCS-, EGF- or insulin-induced growth. In contrast, a 2- to 7-fold increase in FCS-, insulin- or EGF-induced growth rate was found, when cyclic AMP formation was inhibited by 2',5'-dideoxyadenosine (DDA). Iodide was stimulatory at low concentrations (1 microM) and inhibitory at higher concentrations (40-80 microM) on FCS-induced growth rate. The inhibitory effect of iodide was blocked by propylthiouracil (PTU), indicating that an iodinated compound is responsible for this effect. Indomethacin, a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, did not inhibit EGF- and insulin-induced growth up to a concentration of 100 microM. However, nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) and BW-755C, which are lipoxygenase inhibitors, strongly inhibited the growth of thyroid cells at micromolar concentrations. These data clearly show that (1) bovine TSH is not a growth factor for isolated thyroid cells in vitro, (2) thyroid cell proliferation, induced by FCS, EGF and insulin is under negative control of cyclic AMP. (3) Iodide controls dose-dependently thyroid cell growth by iodinated metabolites, probably modulating 2 different pathways: (a) at low iodide concentrations, an iodinated compound enhances the growth rate by inhibition of cyclic AMP formation, and (b) at high concentrations, iodide diminishes the growth rate by inhibiting the response to growth factors. (4) Metabolite(s) of lipoxygenase appear to be involved in intracellular signal transduction evoked by growth factors in thyroid cells.

Further characterization of the iodide inhibitory effect on the cyclic AMP system in dog thyroid slices

Iodide inhibits cyclic AMP accumulation in the thyroid by a process which is prevented by inhibition of iodide uptake and of thyroid peroxidase. By a similar process, it also exerts other independent effects such as the enhancement of iodinated protein release. Iodide inhibited the stimulation of adenylate cyclase by prostaglandin E1, cholera toxin and forskolin. The action of iodide was not relieved by phosphodiesterase inhibitors and was not additive with the effect of norepinephrine or adenosine. Iodide did not decrease the cellular level of ATP. The data are compatible with an inhibition of adenylate cyclase beyond the level of the receptor, presumably at the level of the catalytic unit or its interaction with the positive transducing unit NS. The effect of iodide required TSH for its expression but not for its installation. It was decreased under all conditions in which iodide organification was decreased: decreased iodide or increased methimazole concentration, absence of calcium in the medium, etc. However, the relation between iodide binding to proteins and effect was not linear. The effect was not relieved by washing in the absence of iodide and in the presence of perchlorate, but it was partly reversible in the presence of methimazole propylthiouracyl or thiourea. It was not relieved by cooling to 20 degrees C and cytochalasin b, which block stimulated thyroglobulin hydrolysis and iodothyronine release, nor by actinomycin D, cycloheximide, puromycin, mepacrine or indomethacin. The data suggest that iodide binds to a saturable cell component by a reaction which is reversible only in the presence of thiol-containing drugs.

Novel Haloperoxidase Reaction: Synthesis of Dihalogenated Products

The enzymatic synthesis of vicinal, dihalogenated products from alkenes and alkynes is described. The enzymatic reaction required an alkene or alkyne, dilute hydrogen peroxide, a haloperoxidase, and molar amounts of halide ions. Vicinal dichloro, dibromo, and diiodo products could be formed. A hydroxyl group on the carbon adjacent to the carbon-carbon double or triple bond lowered the halide ion concentration needed to produce the dihalo product. This reaction offers one explanation for the origin of natural, vicinal, dihalogenated products, such as those found frequently in marine microogranisms.

Iodination of arachidonic acid mediated by eosinophil peroxidase, myeloperoxidase and lactoperoxidase. Identification and comparison of products

Arachidonic acid undergoes iodination in the presence of hydrogen peroxide, iodide, and either eosinophil peroxidase, myeloperoxidase or lactoperoxidase. The profile of products generated by each of the three peroxidases is similar as determined by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Structural analysis of the products indicate that: 1, each of the four double bonds in arachidonic acid is susceptible to iodination; 2, arachidonic acid can be multiply iodinated; and 3, the carboxylate moiety does not participate in the formation of all products. The isomeric composition of the isolated products indicates that peroxidase-mediated iodination of arachidonate is not stereoselective.

Eicosanoids: prostaglandins, thromboxanes, leukotrienes, and other derivatives of carbon-20 unsaturated fatty acids

In recent years, knowledge of the biochemistry of oxygenated metabolites of arachidonic acid has greatly increased. Their biological functions in acceleration and prevention of platelet aggregation and in inflammatory and immune reactions are becoming much clearer. The therapeutic value, particularly of PGI2 as well as selective inhibitors of synthesis, is also rapidly advancing. Despite much effort, the functional importance of prostaglandins and thromboxanes in the cNS in normal ongoing physiological processes is still quite uncertain. However, when parenchymal or vascular elements are damaged or invaded by extraneural cells, the synthesis of one or the other member of the eicosanoids is greatly increased and contributes significantly to pathophysiological reactions. Thus, prevention of synthesis is likely to have increasing importance in clinical neurology, particularly in cerebrovascular diseases.

Novel transformations of arachidonic acid by the rat thyroid in vitro

The transformation of arachidonic acid by the rat thyroid in vitro has been investigated. At least two metabolites have been partially characterized: they differed from known metabolites of arachidonic acid in terms of retention volume in liquid chromatography, ultraviolet spectrophotometry and pharmacology (formation not inhibited by indomethacin and enhanced by eicosatetraynoic acid). The analysis by chemical ionization mass spectrometry suggested that these metabolites might be diketo-monohydroxy- and monoketo-dihydroxy-compounds. The conversion of arachidonic acid into these compounds was stimulated by ionophore A23187, decreased by the peroxidase inhibitor methimazole and potentiated by iodide, suggesting that this pathway is under the control of Ca2+ and of a peroxidase product.

Iodination of docosahexaenoic acid by lactoperoxidase and thyroid gland in vitro: formation of an lodolactone

In the presence of iodide, hydrogen peroxide and lactoperoxidase, docosahexaenoic acid (22:6 omega 3) was converted into iodinated compounds. The major product was identified as 5-iodo-4-hydroxy-7, 10, 13, 16, 19-docosapentaenoic acid, gamma-lactone, on the basis of 125 I incorporation, mass spectrometry, chemical modifications and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Iodolactonization of docosahexaenoic acid occurred in the rat thyroid in vitro and was inhibited by the peroxidase inhibit or methimazole. These data indicate that formation of an idolactone constitutes one pathway of docosahexaenoic acid metabolism which could be expressed in tissues containing an iodide peroxidase.

Lactoperoxidase-catalyzed iodination of arachidonic acid: formation of macrolides

In the presence of iodide and hydrogen peroxide, lactoperoxidase catalyzed the conversion of arachidonic acid into several iodinated products; the major one was previously identified as an iodo-delta-lactone. Two minor and less polar products have now been characterized as 15-iodo-14-hydroxyeicosatrienoic acid, omega-lactone and 14-iodo-15-hydroxyeicosatrienoic acid, omega-lactone, on the basis of 125I incorporation, mass spectrometry, proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy and chemical modifications.