Antioxidant and pharmacodynamic effects of pyridoindole stobadine

Oxidative Degradation of High-Molar-Mass Hyaluronan: Effects of Some Indole Derivatives to Hyaluronan Decay

Indole derivatives such as isatin (a natural compound), cemtirestat, stobadine, and its derivatives (synthetic compounds) are known to have numerous positive effects on human health due to regulation of oxidative status. The aim of the study was to assess radical scavenging capacities of these compounds and explore their potential protective effects against reactive oxygen species formed during Cu(II) ions and ascorbate-induced degradation of high-molar-mass hyaluronan. Based on the IC₅₀ values determined by the ABTS assay, the most effective compound was SM1M3EC2·HCl reaching the value ≈ 11 µmol/L. The lowest IC₅₀ value reached in the DPPH assay was reported for cemtirestat ≈ 3 µmol/L. Great potency of inhibition of hyaluronan degradation was shown by cemtirestat, followed by isatin even at low concentration 10 µmol/L. On the other hand, stobadine·2HCl had also a protective effect on hyaluronan degradation, however at greater concentrations compared to cemtirestat or isatin. SME1i-ProC2·HCl reported to be a less effective compound and SM1M3EC2·HCl can be considered almost ineffective compared to stobadine·2HCl. In conclusion, our results showed that both isatin and cemtirestat were capable of attenuating the degradation of high-molar-mass hyaluronan due to their ability to complex/sequester cupric ions.

Synthesis of Indolines and Derivatives by Aza-Heck Cyclization

For the first time, an aza-Heck cyclization that allows the preparation of indoline scaffolds is described. Using N-hydroxy anilines as electrophiles, which can be easily accessed from the corresponding nitroarenes, this method provides indolines bearing pendant functionality and complex ring topologies. Synthesis of challenging indolines, such as those bearing fully substituted carbon atoms at C2, is also possible using this method.

Lipoxidation in cardiovascular diseases

Lipids can go through lipid peroxidation, an endogenous chain reaction that consists in the oxidative degradation of lipids leading to the generation of a wide variety of highly reactive carbonyl species (RCS), such as short-chain carbonyl derivatives and oxidized truncated phospholipids. RCS exert a wide range of biological effects due to their ability to interact and covalently bind to nucleophilic groups on other macromolecules, such as nucleic acids, phospholipids, and proteins, forming reversible and/or irreversible modifications and generating the so-called advanced lipoxidation end-products (ALEs). Lipoxidation plays a relevant role in the onset of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), mainly in the atherosclerosis-based diseases in which oxidized lipids and their adducts have been extensively characterized and associated with several processes responsible for the onset and development of atherosclerosis, such as endothelial dysfunction and inflammation. Herein we will review the current knowledge on the sources of lipids that undergo oxidation in the context of cardiovascular diseases, both from the bloodstream and tissues, and the methods for detection, characterization, and quantitation of their oxidative products and protein adducts. Moreover, lipoxidation and ALEs have been associated with many oxidative-based diseases, including CVD, not only as potential biomarkers but also as therapeutic targets. Indeed, several therapeutic strategies, acting at different levels of the ALEs cascade, have been proposed, essentially blocking ALEs formation, but also their catabolism or the resulting biological responses they induce. However, a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of formation and targets of ALEs could expand the available therapeutic strategies.

Effect of high-fat-fructose diet on synaptic plasticity in hippocampus and lipid profile of blood serum of rat: pharmacological possibilities of affecting risk factors

The aim of this study was to determine pharmacological possibilities of influencing the risk factors of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Hypertriacylglycerolemic (HTG) rats fed with high-fat-fructose diet (HFFD) were used as a model of the MetS. Wistar rats fed with standard diet were used as negative control group. HTG rats fed with HFFD for 8 weeks were used as positive control group. The effects of atorvastatin and SMe1EC2 were tested. The compounds were administered to the HTG rats after 5 weeks of HFFD, once a day for 3 weeks. After 8 weeks, the blood serum lipid profile and electrophysiology of neurotransmission in hippocampal sections were evaluated in vitro. SMe1EC2 and atorvastatin had a significant effect on total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol) and atorvastatin had a significant effect on triacylglycerols (TGs). SMe1EC2 improved the long-term potentiation (LTP) course in the hippocampus.

Acute Impact of Selected Pyridoindole Derivatives on Fos Expression in Different Structures of the Rat Brain

The impacts of three pyridoindole derivatives (PDs), designated as PD144, PD143, and PD104, which have previously been shown to have antidepressant (PD144) and anxiolytic (PD143, PD104) properties, were investigated on the Fos expressions in 11 different rat brain areas, including the medial prefrontal cortex, striatum, septum, accumbens nucleus (shell, core), bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus, central amygdala, locus coeruleus, dorsal raphe nucleus, and the solitary tract nucleus. Control rats received vehicle, while the other three groups the PDs in a dose of 25 mg/kg/b.w. The animals were transcardially perfused with a fixative 90 min after the treatments. Coronal sections of 40-µm thickness were processed for Fos-immunostaining by avidin-biotin-peroxidase complex and visualized by nickel-intensified diaminobenzidine complex. Fos-labeled sections were counterstained with neuropeptides including corticoliberine (CRH), oxytocin (OXY), vasopressin (AVP), and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) and processed for immunofluorescence staining using Alexa Fluor 555 dye. In all the three groups of animals, the upregulation of PDs-induced Fos expression only in 2 of 11 brain areas was investigated, namely, in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and the central amygdaloid nucleus (CeA). The other brain structures studied were devoid of Fos expression. Counterstaining of the Fos-labeled CeA-containing sections with VIP antibody revealed that the Fos expression stimulated by the PDs was upregulated in all the CeA subdivisions (lateral, ventral, capsular), except the medial one. Dual immunoprocessings showed Fos/CRH-labeling in both the PVN and the amygdala and Fos/OXY in the PVN. No Fos/AVP colocalizations were seen in the PVN. The obtained data provide the first view on the intracerebral effects of three new PDs derivatives, which effects were restricted only to the PVN and CeA areas. The present data may help to improve our understanding of the impact of the selected PDs on the brain and to anticipate possible behavioral and neuroendocrine consequences.

Key Targets for Multi-Target Ligands Designed to Combat Neurodegeneration

HIGHLIGHTS Compounds that interact with multiple targets but minimally with the cytochrome P450 system (CYP) address the many factors leading to neurodegeneration.Acetyl- and Butyryl-cholineEsterases (AChE, BChE) and Monoamine Oxidases A/B (MAO A, MAO B) are targets for Multi-Target Designed Ligands (MTDL).ASS234 is an irreversible inhibitor of MAO A >MAO B and has micromolar potency against the cholinesterases.ASS234 is a poor CYP substrate in human liver, yielding the depropargylated metabolite.SMe1EC2, a stobadine derivative, showed high radical scavenging property, in vitro and in vivo giving protection in head trauma and diabetic damage of endothelium.Control of mitochondrial function and morphology by manipulating fission and fusion is emerging as a target area for therapeutic strategies to decrease the pathological outcome of neurodegenerative diseases. Growing evidence supports the view that neurodegenerative diseases have multiple and common mechanisms in their aetiologies. These multifactorial aspects have changed the broadly common assumption that selective drugs are superior to "dirty drugs" for use in therapy. This drives the research in studies of novel compounds that might have multiple action mechanisms. In neurodegeneration, loss of neuronal signaling is a major cause of the symptoms, so preservation of neurotransmitters by inhibiting the breakdown enzymes is a first approach. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors are the drugs preferentially used in AD and that one of these, rivastigmine, is licensed also for PD. Several studies have shown that monoamine oxidase (MAO) B, located mainly in glial cells, increases with age and is elevated in Alzheimer (AD) and Parkinson's Disease's (PD). Deprenyl, a MAO B inhibitor, significantly delays the initiation of levodopa treatment in PD patients. These indications underline that AChE and MAO are considered a necessary part of multi-target designed ligands (MTDL). However, both of these targets are simply symptomatic treatment so if new drugs are to prevent degeneration rather than compensate for loss of neurotransmitters, then oxidative stress and mitochondrial events must also be targeted. MAO inhibitors can protect neurons from apoptosis by mechanisms unrelated to enzyme inhibition. Understanding the involvement of MAO and other proteins in the induction and regulation of the apoptosis in mitochondria will aid progress toward strategies to prevent the loss of neurons. In general, the oxidative stress observed both in PD and AD indicate that antioxidant properties are a desirable part of MTDL molecules. After two or more properties are incorporated into one molecule, the passage from a lead compound to a therapeutic tool is strictly linked to its pharmacokinetic and toxicity. In this context the interaction of any new molecules with cytochrome P450 and other xenobiotic metabolic processes is a crucial point. The present review covers the biochemistry of enzymes targeted in the design of drugs against neurodegeneration and the cytochrome P450-dependent metabolism of MTDLs.

Antioxidant action of SMe1EC2, the low-basicity derivative of the pyridoindole stobadine, in cell free chemical models and at cellular level

The aim of the study was to evaluate the antioxidant action of SMe1EC2, the structural analogue of the hexahydropyridoindole antioxidant stobadine. The antiradical activity of SMe1EC2 was found to be higher when compared to stobadine, as determined both in cell-free model systems of AAPH-induced oxidation of dihydrorhodamine 123 and 2′,7′-dichloro-dihydrofluorescein diacetate, and in the cellular system of stimulated macrophages RAW264.7. Analysis of proliferation of HUVEC and HUVEC-ST cells revealed absence of cytotoxic effect of SMe1EC2 at concentrations below 100 µM. The antioxidant activity of SMe1EC2, superior to the parent drug stobadine, is accounted for by both the higher intrinsic free radical scavenging action and by the better bioavailability of the low-basicity SMe1EC2 relative to the high-basicity stobadine.

Microwave Assisted Synthesis of Novel Imidazolopyridinyl Indoles as Potent Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Agents

We describe herein the design, synthesis, and pharmacological evaluation of novel series of imidazolopyridinyl indole analogues as potent antioxidants and antimicrobials. These novel compounds (3a–i) were synthesized by reacting 3,5-disubstituted-indole-2-carboxylic acid (1a–i) with 2,3-diamino pyridine (2) in excellent yield. The novel products were confirmed by their IR,1H NMR,13C NMR, mass spectral, and analytical data. These compounds were screened for their antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Among the compounds tested,3a–dshowed the highest total antioxidant capacity, scavenging, and antimicrobial activities. Compounds3c-dand3g-hhave shown excellent ferric reducing activity.

Antioxidant action of the hexahydropyridoindole SMe1EC2 in the cellular system of isolated red blood cells in vitro

OBJECTIVES

The subject of this study was the hexahydropyridoindole compound SMe1EC2 with reported antioxidant and neuroprotective effects and low toxicity. In this study, the antioxidant action of SMe1EC2 was investigated in a greater detail in the system of isolated rat erythrocytes.

METHODS

First, the compound was subjected to the DPPH test. Second, the overall antioxidant action of the compound was studied in the cellular system of isolated rat erythrocytes oxidatively stressed by free radicals derived from either the hydrophilic azoinitiator AAPH or the lipophilic t-BuOOH, and compared with reference antioxidants.

RESULTS

The DPPH test revealed significant antiradical activity of SMe1EC2 comparable with that of the standard trolox. In the cellular system, SMe1EC2 protected red blood cells against free radical-initiated hemolysis. The overall antioxidant efficacy of SMe1EC2 relative to the reference antioxidant stobadine was strongly affected by the lipophilicity of the initiating free radical species.

CONCLUSIONS

The results proved high antiradical efficacy of SMe1EC2. In the system of t-BuOOH/isolated erythrocytes, a model cellular system of endogenously generated peroxyl radicals, SMe1EC2 significantly exceeded the parent stobadine in its antioxidant action. Considering the reported results of preclinical studies of SMe1EC2 showing its profound neuroprotective effects and low toxicity, the compound represents an example of a potential pharmacologically practicable antioxidant drug.

Anxiolytic activity of pyridoindole derivatives SMe1EC2 and SMe1M2: behavioral analysis using rat model

Anxiety and mood disorders have become very significant affections in the last decades. According to WHO at least one mental disease occurred per year in 27% of EU inhabitants (more than 82 mil. people). It is estimated that by 2020, depression will be the main cause of morbidity in the developed countries. These circumstances call for research for new prospective drugs with anxiolytic and antidepressive properties exhibiting no toxicity and withdrawal effect and possessing beneficial properties, like antioxidant and/or neuroprotective effects. The aim of this study was to obtain information about psychopharmacological properties of pyridoindole derivatives SMe1EC2 and SMe1M2, using non-invasive behavioral methods in rats.The battery of ethological tests (open field, elevated plus-maze, light/dark box exploration, forced swim test) was used to obtain information about anxiolytic and antidepressant activity of the pyridoindole derivatives. The substances were administered intraperitoneally 30 minutes before the tests at doses of 1, 10 and 25 mg/kg.In the behavioral tests, SMe1EC2 was found to exert anxiolytic activity in elevated plus maze with no affection of locomotor activity. The highest dose of SMe1M2 increased the time spent in the lit part of the Light/Dark box, however this result was influenced by inhibition of motor activity of the rats. Similar findings were observed also in elevated plus-maze, although these results were not statistically significant.In conclusion, from the results of our study it is evident that both pyridoindoles acted on the CNS. In the highest dose, SMe1M2 was found to possess rather sedative than anxiolytic or antidepressant activity.

Oxidative stress induced by the Fe/ascorbic acid system or model ischemia in vitro: effect of carvedilol and pyridoindole antioxidant SMe1EC2 in young and adult rat brain tissue

New effective strategies and new highly effective neuroprotective agents are being searched for the therapy of human stroke and cerebral ischemia. The compound SMe1EC2 is a new derivative of stobadine, with enhanced antioxidant properties compared to the maternal drug. Carvedilol, a non-selective beta-blocker, possesses besides its cardioprotective and vasculoprotective properties also an antioxidant effect. We compared the effect of carvedilol and SMe1EC2, antioxidants with a similar chemical structure, in two experimental models of oxidative stress in young and adult rat brain tissue. SMe1EC2 was found to improve the resistance of hippocampal neurons to ischemia in vitro in young and even in 18-month-old rats and inhibited formation of protein carbonyl groups induced by the Fe²⁺/ascorbic acid pro-oxidative system in brain cortex homogenates of young rats. Carvedilol exerted a protective effect only in the hippocampus of 2-month-old rats and that at the concentration 10-times higher than did SMe1EC2. The inhibitory effect of carvedilol on protein carbonyl formation induced by the pro-oxidative system was not proved in the cortex of either young or adult rats. An increased baseline level of the content of protein carbonyl groups in the adult versus young rat brain cortex confirmed age-related changes in neuronal tissue and may be due to increased production of reactive oxygen species and low antioxidant defense mechanisms in the adult rat brain. The results revealed the new pyridoindole SMe1EC2 to be more effective than carvedilol in neuroprotection of rat brain tissue in both experimental models involving oxidative stress.

The new pyridoindole antioxidant SMe1EC2 and its intervention in hypoxia/hypoglycemia-induced impairment of longterm potentiation in rat hippocampus

Previously, the pyridoindole SMe1EC2 was proved to inhibit lipoperoxidation and carbonylation of proteins in rat brain cortex in the system Fe²⁺/ascorbate and improvement of resistance of the rat hippocampus was reported against ischemic conditions in vitro (hypoxia/hypoglycemia) expressed by the enhanced neuronal response recovery in reoxygenation. The hippocampus fulfils many of the criteria for a neuronal correlate of learning and memory. Recently, an impairment of hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP) was reported under oxidative stress. Different therapies, including antioxidants, have been studied intensively concerning the impairment of neuronal plasticity. In this study marked reduction of LTP, elicited by a single burst (100 Hz, 1s) in the CA3-CA1 area of rat hippocampal slices, was shown due to transient hypoxia/hypoglycemia compared to control slices. On the basis of previously reported antioxidant and neuroprotective effects of SMe1EC2, its effect on loss of LTP in the hippocampus due to ischemic conditions was studied in vitro. The pyridoindole tested improved hypoxia/hypoglycemia-induced reduction of LTP compared to untreated hypoxic slices. An opposite effect of SMe1EC2 on LTP induction was found in control slices. The mechanism of SMe1EC2 action on LTP in ischemic conditions has been suggested to differ from the mechanism of its effect in “normoxia” and may be due to different redox status in control and ischemic brain tissue. The manifested LTP-protective effect of SMe1EC2 observed in the rat hippocampus exposed to ischemia in vitro may find exploitation in therapy associated with injured neuronal plasticity in some conditions, including ischemia, trauma and aging in man.

Protection of the vascular endothelium in experimental situations

One of the factors proposed as mediators of vascular dysfunction observed in diabetes is the increased generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This provides support for the use of antioxidants as early and appropriate pharmacological intervention in the development of late diabetic complications. In streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes in rats we observed endothelial dysfuction manifested by reduced endothelium-dependent response to acetylcholine of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and aorta, as well as by increased endothelaemia. Changes in endothelium-dependent relaxation of SMA were induced by injury of the nitric oxide radical (·NO)-signalling pathway since the endothelium-derived hyperpolarising factor (EDHF)-component of relaxation was not impaired by diabetes. The endothelial dysfunction was accompanied by decreased ·NO bioavailabity as a consequence of reduced activity of eNOS rather than its reduced expression. The results obtained using the chemiluminiscence method (CL) argue for increased oxidative stress and increased ROS production. The enzyme NAD(P)H-oxidase problably participates in ROS production in the later phases of diabetes. Oxidative stress was also connected with decreased levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) in the early phase of diabetes. After 10 weeks of diabetes, adaptational mechanisms probably took place because GSH levels were not changed compared to controls. Antioxidant properties of SMe1EC2 found in vitro were partly confirmed in vivo. Administration of SMe1EC2 protected endothelial function. It significantly decreased endothelaemia of diabetic rats and improved endothelium-dependent relaxation of arteries, slightly decreased ROS-production and increased bioavailability of ·NO in the aorta. Further studies with higher doses of SMe1EC2 may clarify the mechanism of its endothelium-protective effect in vivo.

Glycoxidative stress and cardiovascular complications in experimentally-induced diabetes: effects of antioxidant treatment

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common metabolic disease, representing a serious risk factor for the development of cardiovascular complications, such as coronary heart disease, peripheral arterial disease and hypertension. Oxidative stress (OS), a feature of DM, is defined as an increase in the steady-state levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and may occur as a result of increased free radical generation and/or decreased anti-oxidant defense mechanisms. Increasing evidence indicates that hyperglycemia is the initiating cause of the tissue damage in DM, either through repeated acute changes in cellular glucose metabolism, or through long-term accumulation of glycated biomolecules and advanced glycation end products (AGEs). AGEs are formed by the Maillard process, a non-enzymatic reaction between ketone group of the glucose molecule or aldehydes and the amino groups of proteins that contributes to the aging of proteins and to the pathological complications of DM. In the presence of uncontrolled hyperglycemia, the increased formation of AGEs and lipid peroxidation products exacerbate intracellular OS and results in a loss of molecular integrity, disruption in cellular signaling and homeostasis, followed by inflammation and tissue injury such as endothelium dysfunction, arterial stiffening and microvascular complications. In addition to increased AGE production, there is also evidence of multiple pathways elevating ROS generation in DM, including; enhanced glucose auto-oxidation, increased mitochondrial superoxide production, protein kinase C-dependent activation of NADPH oxidase, uncoupled endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity, increased substrate flux through the polyol pathway and stimulation of eicosanoid metabolism. It is, therefore, not surprising that the correction of these variables can result in amelioration of diabetic cardiovascular abnormalities. A linking element between these phenomena is cellular redox imbalance due to glycoxidative stress (GOS). Thus, recent interest has focused on strategies to prevent, reverse or retard GOS in order to modify the natural history of diabetic cardiovascular abnormalities. This review will discuss the links between GOS and diabetes-induced cardiovascular disorders and the effect of antioxidant therapy on altering the development of cardiovascular complications in diabetic animal models.

Myocardial Ca2+ handling and cell-to-cell coupling, key factors in prevention of sudden cardiac deathThis article is one of a selection of papers published in a special issue on Advances in Cardiovascular Research

Using whole-heart preparations, we tested our hypothesis that Ca2+ handling is closely related to cell-to-cell coupling at the gap junctions and that both are critical for the development and particularly the termination of ventricular fibrillation (VF) and hence the prevention of sudden arrhythmic death. Intracellular free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i), ECG, and left ventricular pressure were continuously monitored in isolated guinea pig hearts before and during development of low K+-induced sustained VF and during its conversion into sinus rhythm facilitated by stobadine. We also examined myocardial ultrastructure to detect cell-to-cell coupling alterations. We demonstrated that VF occurrence was preceded by a 55.9% ± 6.2% increase in diastolic [Ca2+]i, which was associated with subcellular alterations indicating Ca2+ overload of the cardiomyocytes and disorders in coupling among the cells. Moreover, VF itself further increased [Ca2+]i by 58.2% ± 3.4% and deteriorated subcellular and cell-to-cell coupling abnormalities that were heterogeneously distributed throughout the myocardium. In contrast, termination of VF and its conversion into sinus rhythm was marked by restoration of basal [Ca2+]i, resulting in recovery of intercellular coupling linked with synchronous contraction. Furthermore, we have shown that hearts exhibiting lower SERCA2a (sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase) activity and abnormal intercellular coupling (as in older guinea pigs) are more prone to develop Ca2+ overload associated with cell-to-cell uncoupling than hearts with higher SERCA2a activity (as in young guinea pigs). Consequently, young animals are better able to terminate VF spontaneously. These findings indicate the crucial role of Ca2+ handling in relation to cell-to-cell coupling in both the occurrence and termination of malignant arrhythmia.

Metabolism-induced oxidative stress is a mediator of glucose toxicity in HT22 neuronal cells

Oxidative stress has been widely considered as a key player in the adverse effects of hyperglycaemia to various tissues, including neuronal cells. This study examined the participation of oxidative stress in injurious effects of high glucose on HT22 cells along with the activity of proteasome, a proteolytic system responsible for degradation of oxidized proteins. Although 10-fold glucose concentration caused non-significant viability changes, a significant reduction of cell proliferation was found. Moreover, the cell morphology was also altered. These changes were followed by an enhancement of intracellular ROS generation, however without any significant boost of the carbonyl group concentration in proteins. Correspondingly, only a slight decline in the 20S proteasome activity was found in high-glucose-treated cells. On the other hand, substances affecting glucose metabolism or antioxidants partially preserved the oxidative stress in high glucose treated cells. In summary, these results highlight the role of metabolic oxidative stress in hyperglycaemia affecting neurons.

Ferritin oxidation and proteasomal degradation: Protection by antioxidants

The accumulation of oxidatively damaged proteins is a well-known hallmark of aging and several neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and Huntigton's diseases. These highly oxidized protein aggregates are in general not degradable by the main intracellular proteolytic machinery, the proteasomal system. One possible strategy to reduce the accumulation of such oxidized protein aggregates is the prevention of the formation of oxidized protein derivatives or to reduce the protein oxidation to a degree that can be handled by the proteasome. To do so an antioxidative strategy might be successful. Therefore, we undertook the present study to test whether antioxidants are able to prevent the protein oxidation and to influence the proteasomal degradation of moderate oxidized proteins. As a model protein we choose ferritin. H2O2 induced a concentration dependent increase of protein oxidation accompanied by an increased proteolytic susceptibility. This increase of proteolytic susceptibility is limited to moderate hydrogen peroxide concentrations, whereas higher concentrations are accompanied by protein aggregate formation. Protective effects of the vitamin E derivative Trolox, the pyridoindole derivative Stobadine and of the standardized extracts of flavonoids from bark of Pinus Pinaster Pycnogenol and from leaves of Ginkgo biloba (EGb 761) were studied on moderate damaged ferritin.

Advances in pharmacological strategies for the prevention of cataract development

Cataractous-opacification of the lens is one of the leading causes of blindness in India. The situation can be managed by surgical removal of the cataractous lens. Various pharmacological strategies have been proposed for the prevention and treatment of cataract. Information on possible benefits of putative anticataract agents comes from a variety of approaches, ranging from laboratory experiments, both in vitro and in vivo, to epidemiological studies in patients. This review deals with the various mechanisms, and possible pharmacological interventions for the prevention of cataract. The article also reviews research on potential anticataractous agents, including aldose reductase inhibitors, glutathione boosters, antiglycating agents, vitamins and various drugs from indigenous sources.

Protective effect of antioxidants against sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) oxidation by Fenton reaction, however without prevention of Ca-pump activity

The Ca(2+)-ATPase of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SERCA) of rabbit skeletal muscle was oxidized by Fe2+/H2O2/ascorbic acid (AA), a system which generates HO(.) radicals according to the Fenton reaction: (Fe2(+)+H2O2-->HO(.)+OH(-)+Fe(3+)) under conditions similar to the pathological state of inflammation. Under these conditions, when hydroxyl-radicals and/or ferryl-radicals are generated, a 50% decrease of the SERCA activity was observed, a significant decrease of SH groups and an increase of protein carbonyl groups and lipid peroxidation were identified. Two new bands, time dependent in density, appeared in the SERCA protein electrophoresis after incubation with the Fenton system (at approximately 50 and 75kDa), probably due to structural changes as supported also by trypsin digestion. Immunoblotting of DNPH derivatized protein bound carbonyls detected a time dependent increase after incubation of SERCA with the Fenton system. Trolox and the pyridoindole stobadine (50microM) protected SR against oxidation induced via the Fenton system by preventing SH group oxidation and lipid peroxidation. Pycnogenol((R)) and EGb761 (40microg/ml) protected SERCA in addition against protein bound carbonyl formation. In spite of the antioxidant effects, trolox and stobadine were not able to prevent a decrease in the SERCA Ca(2+)-ATPase activity. Pycnogenol and EGb761 even enhanced the decrease of the Ca(2+)-ATPase activity induced by the Fenton system, probably by secondary oxidative reactions.

Stobadine-induced hastening of sensorimotor recovery after focal ischemia/reperfusion is associated with cerebrovascular protection

In a model of 1 hour-intraluminal occlusion of rat middle cerebral artery (MCA), we investigated the spontaneous recovery of vascular functions and functional deficit together with ischemia volume evolution at 24 h, 3 days and 7 days of reperfusion. Infarct cerebral volumes and edema were quantified with histological methods. Endothelium-dependent and smooth muscle potassium inward rectifier current (Kir2.x)-dependent relaxing responses of MCA were tested using Halpern arteriograph and Kir2.x current density evaluated on MCA myocytes with whole-cell patch-clamp technique. Sensorimotor recovery was estimated according to performances obtained with adhesive removal test and prehensile traction test. A time-dependent improvement of smooth muscle K(+)-dependent vasorelaxation and Kir2.x current density is observed at 7 days of reperfusion while endothelium-dependent relaxation is still impaired. In parallel a significant reduction of functional deficit is observed at 7 days of reperfusion together with a time-matched reduction of striatal infarct and edema volumes. Administration of an antioxidant agent, stobadine, at time of reperfusion and 5 h later allowed: (i) a neuroprotective effect with a significant reduction of infarct size compared to vehicle-treated rats; (ii) a prevention of endothelial-dependent relaxation and Kir2.x current density reductions of MCA ipsilateral to occlusion; (iii) a hastening of the functional recovery. The beneficial effect of stobadine underlines a link between vascular protection, neuronal protection and sensorimotor recovery that could become a promising pharmacological target in the treatment of cerebral ischemia.

Effects of stobadine and vitamin E in diabetes-induced retinal abnormalities: involvement of oxidative stress

BACKGROUND

Because hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress may be a cause of retinopathy, this study examined the hypothesis that administration of exogenous antioxidants, stobadine (ST) and vitamin E (vitE), can restore retinal abnormalities in experimental diabetes.

METHODS

Normal and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced male Wistar rats received daily intraoral doses of ST (24.7 mg/kg) and vitE (alpha-dl-tocopherol acetate, 400-500 IU/kg) individually or in combinations for 8 months. The biochemical parameters including aldose reductase enzyme (AR) activity and lipid peroxidation (MDA), and histopathological changes such as retinal capillary basement membrane thickness (RCBMT) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression were evaluated.

RESULTS

A 37.99% increase in RCBMT was observed in rats after 8 months diabetes duration. The increase in RCBMT was 12.34% in diabetic rats treated with ST and 23.07% in diabetic rats treated with vitE. In diabetic rats treated with antioxidant combination, just a 4.38% increase was observed in RCBMT. The excess VEGF immunoreactivity and increased MDA and AR activity determined in diabetic retina were significantly attenuated by individual antioxidant treatments. Although both antioxidants decreased blood glucose, HbA1c, fructosamine and triglyceride levels in diabetic rats, poor glycemic control was maintained in all experimental groups during the treatment period. However, the antioxidant combination led to almost complete amelioration in retinal MDA and RCBMT in diabetic rats.

CONCLUSIONS

The ability of antioxidant combination to arrest retinal abnormalities and lipid peroxidation even in the presence of poor glycemic control might advocate the key role of direct oxidative damage and the protective action of antioxidants in retinal alterations associated with diabetic retinopathy.

Inhibitory effect of stobadine on FMLP-induced chemiluminescence in human whole blood and isolated polymorphonuclear leukocytes

The chemiluminescence (CL) technique with luminol and isoluminol was used to characterize the effect of stobadine on reactive oxygen metabolites (ROM) generation in human whole blood and in isolated polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) stimulated with N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenyl-alanine (FMLP). In whole blood and in isolated PMNL, stobadine in the concentrations of 1, 10 and 100 micromol/L significantly inhibited the CL signal after FMLP, which activated predominantly extracellular generation of ROM. The same concentrations of stobadine were effective on CL in a cell-free system. On the other hand, myeloperoxidase (MPO) liberation was decreased by stobadine only in the concentration of 100 micromol/L. The results showed stobadine to act as a potent inhibitor/scavenger of extracellularly produced ROM in human PMNL and indicated interference of stobadine with ROM as well as with signalling events resulting in NADPH-oxidase activation and MPO liberation.

Stobadine protects rat kidney against ischaemia/reperfusion injury

1. Ischaemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, one of the main causes of acute renal failure, still needs satisfactory treatment for routine clinical application. Stobadine, a novel synthetic pyridoindole anti-oxidant, has the ability to reduce tissue injury induced by mechanisms involving reactive oxygen species during I/R. The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of stobadine on renal I/R injury. 2. Forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups as follows: sham, I/R, stobadine treated and I/R + stobadine treated. Stobadine (2 mg/kg, i.v.) was given intravenously to two groups of rats. The stobadine-treated group was treated with stobadine following sham operation before the abdominal wall was closed, whereas the I/R + stobadine group received stobadine at the beginning of reperfusion. Renal I/R was achieved by occluding the renal arteries bilaterally for 40 min, followed by 6 h reperfusion. Immediately thereafter, blood was drawn and tissue samples were harvested to assess: (i) serum levels of blood urea nitrogen and creatinine; (ii) serum and/or tissue levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6PD), 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6-PGD), glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx); (iii) renal morphology; and (iv) immunohistochemical staining for P-selectin. 3. Stobadine was able to significantly attenuate the renal dysfunction as a result of renal I/R injury. Ischaemia-reperfusion resulted in a significant increase in serum and kidney MDA levels and a decrease in serum and kidney GSH. Stobadine treatment at the beginning of reperfusion attenuated both the increased MDA levels and decreased GSH secondary to I/R injury. In addition, the decreased G-6PD activity observed after I/R was significantly attenuated by stobadine treatment. Stobadine did not alter 6-PGD activity after I/R. Neither GR nor GPx activity was significantly changed in the I/R alone or the I/R + stobadine groups compared with the sham group. In addition, stobadine decreased the morphological deterioration and high P-selectin immunoreactivity secondary to renal I/R injury. 4. A pyridoindole anti-oxidant, stobadine exerts a renal protective effect in renal I/R injury, which is probably due to its radical-scavenging and anti-oxidant activities.

Effects of antioxidant stobadine on protein carbonylation, advanced oxidation protein products and reductive capacity of liver in streptozotocin-diabetic rats: role of oxidative/nitrosative stress

BACKGROUND

Increased oxidative/nitrosative stress is important in the pathogenesis of diabetic complications, and the protective effects of antioxidants are a topic of intense research. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a pyridoindole antioxidant stobadine (STB) have a protective effect on tissue oxidative protein damage represented by the parameters such as protein carbonylation (PC), protein thiol (P-SH), total thiol (T-SH) and non-protein thiol (Np-SH), nitrotyrosine (3-NT), and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) in streptozotocin-diabetic rats.

METHODS

Diabetes was induced in male Wistar rats by intraperitonal injection of streptozotocin (55 mg/kg). Some of the non-diabetic (control) and diabetic rats treated with STB (24.7 mg/kg/day) during 16 weeks, and the effects on blood glucose, PC, AOPP, 3-NT, P-SH, T-SH and Np-SH were studied. Biomarkers were assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or by colorimetric methods.

RESULTS

Administration of stobadine to diabetic animals lowered elevated blood glucose levels by approximately 16% relative to untreated diabetic rats. Although stobadine decreased blood glucose, poor glycemic control was maintained in stobadine treated diabetic rats during the treatment period. Biochemical analyses of liver proteins showed significant diminution of sulfhydryl groups, P-SH, T-SH, Np-SH, and elevation of carbonyl groups in diabetic animals in comparison to healthy controls. As a biomarker of nitrosative stress, 3-NT levels did not significantly change by diabetes induction or by stobadine treatment when compared to control animals. However, the treatment with stobadine resulted in a significant decrease in PC, AOPP levels and normalized P-SH, T-SH, Np-SH groups in liver of diabetic animals.

CONCLUSIONS

The results are in accordance with the pro-oxidant role of chronic hyperglycemia, and the ability of stobadine to attenuate protein oxidation and improving tissue reductive capacity may account, at least partly for its observed beneficial effects on tissue function in diabetes.

The α 1-adrenolytic and structural evaluation of new pyridoindole derivatives

α1 — adrenolytic activities of pyridoindole derivatives recently synthesized in the Institute of Experimental Pharmacology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, were measured. A characteristic set of derivatives (five active, one with a threshold activity and two inactive) was chosen and an elementary structure-activity study was performed. The structure and energy properties were estimated by quantum-chemical semiempirical AM1 and molecular mechanics methods. The ionization constants pKα of the individual derivatives were calculated by program Pallas or estimated by potenciometric titration. The α 1 blocking activities were measured by rat thoracic aorta model. The experimental model used was not α 1 — adrenoreceptor subtypes specific, however, the α 1D subtype could be considered to be a predominant type in a rat aorta. The obtained physico-chemical parameters were then compared with the blocking activities of the derivatives and following determining characters for α 1 — adrenolytic activities were determined: 1) the polarity of the substituted phenol ring represented by a map of molecular electrostatic potential and 2) the hexahydro-pyridine nitrogen pKα constant, which represents the ability of the compound to be protonated by physiologic pH.

Development of the new group of indole-derived neuroprotective drugs affecting oxidative stress

1. The role of oxidative stress, and accordingly uncontrolled reactive oxygen species generation/action, have been widely documented in a number of different neuronal pathologies. However, the concept of pharmacological interventions in prevention and therapy of oxidative stress-related diseases has not found adequate application in clinical practice. This may be due to the insufficient efficacy of drugs available, their unsuitable pharmacokinetics, side effects, toxicity, etc. 2. Based on stobadine, (--)-cis-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,4a,5,9b-hexahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, a well-known antioxidant, free radical scavenger, and neuroprotectant, it was attempted to develop new stobadine derivatives with improved pharmacodynamic and toxicity profiles, on applying molecular design, synthesis and adequate tests. Stobadine molecule was modified mostly by electron donating substitution on the benzene ring and by alkoxycarbonyl substitution at N-2 position. A total of >70 derivatives were prepared. 3. In a mice model of head trauma, some of the new stobadine derivatives administered i.v. immediately after the trauma, significantly improved sensomotoric outcome in the animals assessed 1 h later. Accordingly, decrease in brain edema was proved histologically as well as by brain wet weight assessment. 4. Putative neuroprotective action of the compounds was confirmed on rat hippocampal slices exposed to reversible 6 min hypoxia/low glucose by analysis of synaptic transmission in CA1 region neurons. Irreversible impairment of neurotransmission resulting from the hypoxia was significantly reduced by the presence of SMe1EC2, one of the new compounds, in concentration range 0.03-10.0x10(-6) mol l(-1). Both the neuroprotective and antioxidant effect of the compound closely resembled those of stobadine, melatonin, 21-aminosteroids, alpha-phenyl-tert-butylnitrone and others, all well-established antioxidants, except the range of effective concentrations was by 1-2 orders lower in SMe1EC2. 5. A remarkable antioxidant efficacy was observed in the new compounds in rat brain homogenates exposed to iron/ascorbate system by protection of lipids and creatine kinase against the oxidative impairment. A link between the neuroprotective and antioxidant/ scavenger properties in the compounds can be assumed. 6. Acute toxicity of some of the new pyridoindoles was diminished compared to stobadine. That might be due to the virtually full elimination of stobadine's undesired alpha (1)-adrenolytic activity attained by appropriate modifications of its molecule. 7. The new pyridoindoles extend the range of available neuroprotectants interfering with oxidative stress in neuronal tissue.

Free radical scavenging and antioxidant activities of substituted hexahydropyridoindoles. Quantitative structure-activity relationships

New synthetic substituted hexahydropyridoindoles were studied for their radical scavenging ability in a system of an ethanolic solution of alpha,alpha'-diphenyl-beta-picrylhydrazyl and for their lipid peroxidation inhibitory properties in a suspension of unilamellar dioleoylphosphatidylcholine liposomes. The activities in both in vitro systems were correlated with several structural parameters. In the homogeneous system of alpha,alpha'-diphenyl-beta-picrylhydrazyl, the sum of aromatic substitution constants (sigma(+)) and the hydration energy were shown to be effective predictors of the radical scavenging activity of the hexahydropyridoindole derivatives. Moreover, in the heterogeneous system comprising a model liposomal membrane, the overall antioxidant activity of the compounds was affected by their lipid-phase availability governed by the lipophilicity and basicity of the molecules.

Thoracic Vagal Efferent Nerve Stimulation Evokes Substance P-Induced Early Airway Bronchonstriction and Late Proinflammatory and Oxidative Injury in the Rat Respiratory Tract

Electrical stimulation of efferent thoracic vagus nerve (TVN) evoked neurogenic inflammation in respiratory tract of atropine-treated rats by an undefined mechanism. We explored whether efferent TVN stimulation via substance P facilitates neurogenic inflammation via action of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) activation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Our results showed that increased frequency of TVN stimulation concomitantly increased substance P-enhanced hypotension, and bronchoconstriction (increases in smooth muscle electromyographic activity and total pulmonary resistance). The enhanced SP release evoked the appearance of endothelial gap in silver-stained leaky venules, India-ink labeled extravasation, and accumulations of inflammatory cells in the respiratory tract, contributing to trachea plasma extravasation as well as increases in blood O (2)(-) and H(2)O(2) ROS amount. L-732138 (NK(1) receptor antagonist), SR-48968 (NK(2) receptor antagonist), dimethylthiourea (H(2)O(2) scavenger) or catechins (O (2)(-) and H(2)O(2) scavenger) pretreatment reduced efferent TVN stimulation-enhanced hypotension, bronchoconstriction, and plasma extravasation. Increased frequency of TVN stimulation significantly upregulated the expression of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) in nuclear protein and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) in total protein of the lower respiratory tract tissue. The upregulation of NF-kappaB and ICAM-1 was attenuated by NK receptor antagonist and antioxidants. In conclusion, TVN efferent stimulation increases substance P release to trigger NF-kappaB mediated ICAM-1 expression and O (2)(-) and H(2)O(2) ROS production in the respiratory tract.

Reactive oxygen species mediate abnormal contractile response to sympathetic nerve stimulation and noradrenaline in the vas deferens of chronically diabetic rats: effects of in vivo treatment with antioxidants

Previous studies suggest that a link exists between increased oxidative stress and diabetic neuropathy. Moreover, antioxidants may protect neurones from the degenerative effects of reactive oxygen species. In our study, we used streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats in a 8-month chronic diabetes model to study the effects of in vivo treatment with stobadine (ST), a pyridoindole antioxidant, and vitamin E. STZ-diabetic rats were treated with ST (24.7 mg/kg/day), vitamin E (D,L-alpha-tocopheryl acetate, 400-500 IU/kg/day) or ST plus vitamin E through an intra-oral catheter for a 8-month period beginning 10 days after STZ injection. Blood glucose and HbA1c levels were increased in diabetic rats by about 400 and 100%, respectively. Antioxidant treatment significantly decreased haemoglobin glycosylation (P < 0.05). We also determined the effects of chronic diabetes on sympathetic neurotransmission by measuring the contractility of isolated vas deferens. Furthermore, we investigated contractions elicited by electrical field stimulation (EFS) (1-64 Hz) which were significantly decreased in diabetic rats when compared with control rats. Treatment with ST or vitamin E alone partly enhanced the amplitude of the contractions induced by EFS, but a combination of ST and vitamin E treatment showed no additional effects. Contractile response of the vas deferens to exogenous noradrenaline, was increased in diabetic rats when compared with control rats. While the addition of vitamin E alone had no effect, ST completely returned noradrenaline-induced contractions to basal levels. The tension induced by 120 mm KCl was not statistically different among the experimental groups. In normal rats, EFS-induced contractions were significantly inhibited by pyrogallol (10(-4) m), a free-radical generator. Percentage inhibition of pyrogallol on EFS (32 Hz)-induced contractions in ring sections was 48 +/- 5.8 in control, 75 +/- 5.5 in untreated-diabetic, 54 +/- 2.7 in ST-treated diabetic, and 58 +/- 4.7 in vitamin E-treated diabetic rats. Combining both ST and vitamin E treatment had the same effects as each antioxidant alone with a percent inhibition of 48 +/- 6.8. These results are consistent with the degenerative changes seen in sympathetic nerves and the abnormal function observed in chronically diabetic rats, leading to a decrease in EFS response and an increase in response to adrenergic agonists in the vas deferens. Furthermore, we demonstrated that reactive oxygen species are responsible for impaired sympathetic neurotransmission and abnormal function of diabetic vas deferens, and that a combination of antioxidants may be better for the therapy of reproductive system disabilities in male diabetics.

Role of oxidatively modified low density lipoproteins and anti-oxidants in atherothrombosis

Retrospective studies have demonstrated an association between coronary artery disease (CAD) and increased plasma levels of oxidised low density lipoproteins (LDL). A very recent prospective study in heart transplant patients has demonstrated that oxidised LDL is an independent risk factor for transplant CAD, thus further supporting the hypothesis that oxidised LDL is actively involved in the development of CAD. The increase of circulating oxidised LDL is most probably caused by back-diffusion from the atherosclerotic arterial wall in the blood, independent of plaque rupture. Indeed, plasma levels of oxidised LDL were very similar in patients with stable CAD and in patients with acute coronary syndromes. These were, however, associated with increased release of malondialdehyde (MDA)-modified LDL. Oxidised LDL may be generated by radical-mediated or by lipoxygenase or phospholipase catalysed lipid oxidation, and by myeloperoxidase catalysed protein and lipid oxidation. Prostaglandin synthesis by endothelial cells under oxidative stress and platelet activation are associated with the release of aldehydes; these induce the oxidative modification of the apolipoprotein B-100 moiety of LDL in the absence of lipid peroxidation, and thus generate MDA-modified LDL. Efficient prevention of in vivo oxidation may involve efficient cholesterol lowering, improving the anti-oxidative status of LDL by increasing the anti-oxidant content and increasing the oleate content of LDL, and by shifting the LDL away from phenotype B (characterised by small dense LDL particles). Anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory enzymes associated with HDL may inhibit the oxidation of LDL or reverse the atherothrombotic effects of LDL.

Antioxidants prevented oxidative injury of SR induced by Fe2+/H2O2/ascorbate system but failed to prevent Ca2+-ATPase activity decrease

Dysfunction of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+-ATPase induced by oxidative stress may be a contributing factor to the development of serious age related diseases. Incubation of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) vesicles of rabbit skeletal muscles with Fe2+/H2O2/ascorbate decreased the SH group content of SR approximately to 35% and Ca2+-ATPase activity to 50% of control not oxidized sample. Protein carbonyls increased twofold, lipid peroxidation was also significantly elevated. The antioxidant effects of trolox, the pyridoindole derivative stobadine and of the standardized extracts from bark of Pinus Pinaster PycnogenolR (Pyc) and from leaves of Ginkgo biloba (EGb 761) were studied on oxidatively injured SR. All antioxidants exerted preventive effects against the oxidized lipids and protein SH groups of SR vesicles. Trolox and stobadine did not influence protein carbonyl formation, while flavonoid extracts prevented carbonyl generation, probably by binding to protein. The preventive effects of the antioxidants studied on lipids and protein SH groups were however not associated with protection of Ca2+-ATPase activity. Stobadine and trolox exerted no effect on enzyme activity, Pyc and EGb 761 enhanced the inhibitory effect of Ca2+-ATPase activity in oxidatively injured SR. Concluding, under the conditions of oxidative stress induced by Fe2+/H2O2/ascorbate against SR of rabbit skeletal muscle, the agents studied demonstrated antioxidant effects yet failed to protect Ca2+-ATPase activity.

Oxidative damage to Ca2+-ATPase sarcoplasmic reticulum by HOCl and protective effect of some antioxidants

Injury of rabbit skeletal sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) induced by hypochlorous acid (HOCl) was studied. HOCl inhibited Ca2+-ATPase activity in a concentration-dependent manner (IC50=100 micromol/l). The concentration of 13.5 micromol/l HOCl reduced the level of sulfhydryl (SH) groups by 50%, yet it did not influence the enzyme activity. In comparison with SH group oxidation and enzyme activity inhibition, a significantly longer time was necessary for the generation of protein carbonyls in SR injured by HOCl. Protective effects of some antioxidants (stobadine, trolox, EGb 761, Pycnogenol) were studied in SR oxidatively injured by HOCl. Trolox and EGb 761 exerted a protective effect on ATPase activity and on SH groups of SR oxidatively modified by HOCl. Stobadine and Pycnogenol inhibited markedly protein carbonyl formation. Stobadine was the only antioxidant able to scavenge HOCl. In conclusion, the protective effects of antioxidants against decrease of Ca2+-ATPase activity induced by HOCl might be caused by protection of SH groups. The compounds with both antioxidant and Ca2+-ATPase protecting effect offer dual defense against tissue damage occurring, e.g. in aging process.

Application of preparative high-speed counter-current chromatography for the separation of flavonoids from the leaves of Byrsonima crassa Niedenzu (IK)

The methanolic extract of the leaves of the medicinal plant Byrsonima crassa (Malpighiaceae) contain flavonoids with antioxidant activity. They were separated in a preparative scale using high-speed counter-current chromatography. The optimum solvent system used was composed of a mixture of ethyl acetate-n-propanol-water (140:8:80 (v/v/v)) and led to a successful separation between monoglucosilated flavonoids (quercetin-3-O-alpha-L-arabinoside, quercetin-3-O-beta-D-galactoside) and the biflavonoid amentoflavone in only 3.5 h. The purities of quercetin-3-O-alpha-L-arabinoside (95 mg), quercetin-3-O-beta-D-galactoside (16 mg) and the biflavonoid amentoflavone (114 mg) were all isolated at purity over 95%. Identification was performed by 1H NMR, 13C NMR and UV analyses.

Pentose phosphate pathway, glutathione-dependent enzymes and antioxidant defense during oxidative stress in diabetic rodent brain and peripheral organs: effects of stobadine and vitamin E

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of treatment with antioxidant stobadine (ST) on the activities of enzymes related with pentose phosphate pathway and glutathione-dependent metabolism and the other markers of oxidative stress in brain and peripheral organs of diabetic rats, and to compare the effects of ST treatment alone with the effects of treatments with another antioxidant vitamin E and ST plus vitamin E. Rats were made diabetic by the injection of streptozotocin (STZ; 55 mg/kg IP), and, 2 days later, some control and diabetic rats were left untreated or treated with ST (24.7 mg/kg/day, orally), vitamin E (400-500 U/kg/day, orally), or both substances together. In the brain, although 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase activity (6-PGD) did not change, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity (G-6PD) was markedly increased in diabetic rats compared with controls; only combined treatment with ST and vitamin E produced a partial prevention on this alteration. The aorta G-6PD and 6-PGD of diabetic rats were 52% and 36% of control values, respectively. Neither single treatments with each antioxidant nor their combination altered the G-6PD and 6-PGD in aorta of diabetic rats. Glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx) activity was increased by STZ-diabetes in brain, heart, and kidney. In diabetic brain, vitamin E alone or combination with ST kept GSHPx at normal levels. Diabetes-induced stimulation in GSHPx did not decrease in response to the treatment with vitamin E in heart and kidney, but was greatly prevented by ST alone. The activity of glutathione reductase (GR) was decreased in brain and heart of diabetic rats. The treatment with each antioxidant or with a combination of both agents completely prevented this deficiency and resulted in further activation of GR in diabetic tissues. Glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity did not significantly change in diabetic brain and aorta. GST was stimulated by all treatment protocols in the brain of diabetic rats and was depressed in aorta of control rats. Catalase (CAT) was activated in diabetic heart but depressed in diabetic kidney. Diabetes-induced abnormalities in CAT activity did not respond to vitamin E alone in heart, was moderately ameliorated by the treatment with this vitamin in kidney, and was completely prevented by ST alone in both tissues. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity of brain and heart was unchanged by the diabetes but inhibited in diabetic kidney after the treatment ST alone or ST plus vitamin E. The lipid peroxidation (MDA) was increased in diabetic brain and heart. ST or vitamin E alone partly prevented diabetes-induced increase in MDA in brain and heart; however, antioxidant combination achieved a completely amelioration in MDA of these tissues of diabetic rats. Kidney MDA levels were similar in control and untreated diabetic animals. ST and vitamin E treatments, when applied separately or together, significantly reduced kidney MDA in both control and diabetic rats; and the combined effect of antioxidants was greater than that of each alone. These results are consistent with the degenerative role of hyperglycemia on cellular reducing equivalent homeostasis and antioxidant defense, and provide further evidence that pharmacological intervention of different antioxidants may have significant implications in the prevention of the prooxidant feature of diabetes and protects redox status of the cells.

Pyridoindole antioxidant stobadine protected bovine serum albumin against the hydroxyl radical mediated cross-linking in vitro

On exposure to free radicals generated by the Fenton reaction system of Fe(2+)/EDTA/H(2)O(2)/ascorbate, bovine serum albumin (BSA), used as a model of water-soluble protein, was losing its water solubility depending on the concentration of the chelated iron. The precipitate was found irreversibly insoluble even in concentrated urea. In the soluble fraction, SDS-PAGE analysis proved the presence of dimers and trimers of BSA, accompanied by enhanced bityrosine fluorescence. The pyridoindole antioxidant stobadine inhibited the process of albumin insolubilization in a concentration-dependent manner, the protective effect being more efficient than that of 2-keto-4-methiolbutyric acid (KMBA). Stobadine was, however, less effective than trolox. The inhibitory effect of the antioxidants, expressed as IC(50), correlated well with the reciprocal values of corresponding second order rate constants for scavenging OHz.rad; radicals. The results indicated that the insolubilization of BSA induced by the Fenton system of Fe(2+)/EDTA/H(2)O(2)/ascorbate was caused by OHz.rad; radical mediated cross-linking of the albumin. The model system proved to be suitable for convenient testing of OHz.rad; radical scavenging ability of new antioxidants in a non-lipid environment.

Substance P via NK1 receptor facilitates hyperactive bladder afferent signaling via action of ROS

We explored whether substance P (SP) via neurokinin (NK) receptor facilitates bladder afferent signaling and reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation in bladder in association with neurogenic inflammation. We evaluated ROS activity and cystometrograms as well as pelvic nervous activity in anesthetized rat bladder with SP stimulation. Our results showed that endogenous SP via NK(1), not NK(2), receptor mediated a micturition reflex. An increase in SP by electrical stimulation of the pelvic nerve or an increase in exogenous SP by intra-arterial or intrathecal administration can facilitate myogenic and neurogenic bladder contractions. Furthermore, exaggerated SP release increased ROS in the bladder and whole blood via increased mast cell degranulation, intercellular adhesion molecule expression, and leukocyte adhesion, a primary source of ROS in the inflamed bladder. Treatment with NK(1)-receptor antagonists or ROS scavengers reduced bladder intercellular adhesion molecule expression and ROS and ameliorated the hyperactive bladder response. Our study indicates that the mechanism by which SP participates in the neurogenic bladder may be complicated by its proinflammatory activity and its ability to stimulate ROS generation.

Evaluation of the antiulcerogenic activity of violacein and its modulation by the inclusion complexation with beta-cyclodextrin

The effects of beta-cyclodextrin (betaCD) inclusion complexation on the ability of violacein to prevent gastric ulceration in mice were studied. Violacein-betaCD inclusion complexes were prepared in 1:1 and 1:2 molar ratios and analysed by differential scanning calorimetry and powder X-ray diffractometry. Violacein previously administered orally at 10 mg/kg significantly reduced indomethacin-induced gastric lesions, as well as 100 mg/kg of cimetidine (positive control). However, betaCD complexation in both molar ratios significantly potentiated the protective action of violacein. In the HCl--ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model, violacein and the 1:2 inclusion complex (10 mg/kg, p.o.) inhibited gastric damage by almost 85%, whereas a 63% reduction was observed for the positive control, lansoprazole, at 30 mg/kg. In contrast, treatment with the 1:1 inclusion complex resulted in almost total disappearance of the antiulcer activity in this model. No significant changes in stress-induced gastric injury were found. In addition, the 1:2 inclusion complex improved the antilipoperoxidant activity of violacein in rat liver cells exposed to t-butyl hydroperoxide, whereas the 1:1 complex was less active than violacein. In summary, the 1:2 betaCD inclusion complex has gastroprotective properties similar to or higher than that of violacein. An increase in mucosal defensive mechanisms and protection against peroxidative damage might be involved.

Structural aspects of antioxidant activity of substituted pyridoindoles

Stobadine and its two structural analogues, dehydrostobadine and N-acetylated stobadine were used to examine how structural alteration in the close proximity of the indolic nitrogen would influence the antioxidant activity of the substituted pyridoindoles. The compounds were tested for their efficiency to scavenge stable free radicals of alpha,alpha'-diphenyl-beta-picrylhydrazyl as well as for their ability to prevent 2,2'-azobis-(2-amidinopropane)hydrochloride induced peroxidation of dioleoyl phosphatidylcholine liposomes. The results proved that the substituted pyridoindoles can act as potent scavengers of peroxyl radicals both in aqueous and lipid phases, the antioxidant activity being comparable with that of Trolox. Structural changes in the proximity of the indolic nitrogen were found crucial for the radical scavenging efficiency: aromatisation of the pyridoindole skeleton in dehydrostobadine lowered the antioxidant activity, while acetylation of the indolic nitrogen completely abolished the ability to scavenge peroxyl radicals. The results are in agreement with the notion that the antioxidant activity of stobadine and of the related pyridoindoles may be mediated via the indolic nitrogen centre. When stobadine and Trolox were present simultaneously in liposomal incubations, Trolox spared stobadine in a dose-dependent manner; a direct interaction of Trolox with stobadinyl radical appears to be a plausible explanation with possible consequences for the antioxidant capacity of stobadine under in vivo conditions, where re-cycling of stobadine by vitamin E might occur.

In vivo treatment with stobadine prevents lipid peroxidation, protein glycation and calcium overload but does not ameliorate Ca2+ -ATPase activity in heart and liver of streptozotocin-diabetic rats: comparison with vitamin E

Hyperglycemia leads to excess production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation and protein glycation that may impair cellular calcium homeostasis and results in calcium sequestration and dysfunction in diabetic tissues. Stobadine (ST) is a pyridoindole antioxidant has been postulated as a new cardio- and neuroprotectant. This study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that the treatment with ST inhibits calcium accumulation, reduces lipid peroxidation and protein glycation and can change Ca2+,Mg2+-ATPase activity in diabetic animals. The effects of vitamin E treatment were also evaluated and compared with the effects of combined treatment with ST. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin (STZ, 55 mg/kg i.p.). Some of diabetic rats and their age-matched controls were treated orally with a low dose of ST (24.7 mg/kg/day), vitamin E (400-500 IU/kg/day) or ST plus vitamin E for 10 weeks. ST and vitamin E separately produced, in a similar degree, reduction in diabetes-induced hyperglycemia. Each antioxidant alone significantly lowered the levels of plasma lipid peroxidation, cardiac and hepatic protein glycation in diabetic rats but vitamin E treatment was found to be more effective than ST treatment alone. Diabetes-induced increase in plasma triacylglycerol levels was not significantly altered by vitamin E treatment but markedly reduced by ST alone. The treatment with each antioxidant completely prevented calcium accumulation in diabetic heart and liver. Microsomal Ca2+,Mg2+-ATPase activity significantly decreased in both tissues of untreated diabetic rats. ST alone significantly increased microsomal Ca2+,Mg2+-ATPase activity in the heart of normal rats. However, neither treatment with ST nor vitamin E alone, nor their combination did change cardiac Ca2+,Mg2+-ATPase activity in diabetic heart. In normal rats, neither antioxidant had a significant effect on hepatic Ca2+,Mg2+-ATPase activity. Hepatic Ca2+,Mg2+-ATPase activity of diabetic rats was not changed by single treatment with ST, while vitamin E alone completely prevented diabetes-induced inhibition in microsomal Ca2+,Mg2+-ATPase activity in liver. Combined treatment with ST and vitamin E provided more benefits in the reduction of hyperglycemia and lipid peroxidation in diabetic animals. This study describes potential mechanisms on cellular effects of ST in the presence of diabetes-induced hyperglycemia that may delay or inhibit the development of diabetic complications. The use of ST together with vitamin E can better control hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress.

Effect of pineal indoles on activities of the antioxidant defense enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione reductase, and levels of reduced and oxidized glutathione in rat tissues

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups. Two of the groups received a single intraperitoneal injection of melatonin and 5-methoxytryptamine (5 mg/kg body weight), respectively, at 9 PM. One group received an intraperitoneal injection of 5-methoxytryptophol (5 mg/kg body weight) at 9 AM. The remaining group received alcoholic saline (vehicle) and served as the control. All rats were sacrificed 90 min after injection and the livers, kidneys, and brains were dissected. The activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione reductase in the organs were measured. It was found that both melatonin and 5-methoxytryptamine were approximately equipotent in enhancing the activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione reductase in the kidney and liver, while 5-methoxytryptophol displayed a weaker effect. Both melatonin and 5-methoxytryptamine augmented the level of reduced glutathione in the kidney and liver, while 5-methoxytryptophol did so only in the kidney. All three pineal indoles increased the activity of superoxide dismutase and lowered the ratio of oxidized to reduced glutathione in the brain.

Iron-induced lipid peroxidation and protein modification in endoplasmic reticulum membranes. Protection by stobadine

Treatment with FeSO(4)/EDTA (0.2 micromol Fe(II) per mg of protein) was used to study the effect of oxidative stress on lipid peroxidation and structural properties of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes isolated from rabbit brain. Oxidative stress resulted in conjugated diene formation and a decrease of 1-anilino-8-naphthalenesulfonate (ANS) fluorescence in a time-dependent manner. In contrast, fluorescence anisotropy of 1, 6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene was increased early after the initiation of lipid peroxidation and no further increase was observed after 1, 2 and 3 h of peroxidation. FeSO(4)/EDTA treatment was accompanied by formation of conjugates of lipid peroxidation products with membrane proteins, as detected by the increase in fluorescence excitation (350-360 nm) and emission (440-450 nm) maximum. Oxidative stress also induced a marked decrease of the intrinsic fluorescence of aromatic amino acids, suggesting modification or changes in the environment of these amino acid residue(s). The lipid antioxidant, stobadine, completely prevented the changes of ANS fluorescence and production of peroxidized lipid-protein conjugates whereas tryptophan fluorescence was only partially protected. These results suggest that Fe(II) induces both lipid-mediated- and lipid peroxidation independent-modification of ER membrane proteins. The study also demonstrates that stobadine is a potent inhibitor of Fe(II)-induced protein modification.

Extraction and chromatographic separation methods in pharmacokinetic studies of Stobadine--an indole-related antioxidant and free-radical scavenger

This overview provides comprehensive information on the most relevant results of Stobadine preclinical disposition studies. In order to investigate pharmacokinetic processes of the drug in rats, dogs and in human volunteers, several bioanalytical assays based on radiometric, spectrofluorometric, as well as chromatographic determination methods were developed and implemented. In small laboratory animals, the drug absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination were investigated by administering 3H-labeled Stobadine. Spectrofluorometry was used alternatively for the determination of cold/unlabeled Stobadine in extracts of biomaterials sampled from larger animal species. The chromatographic separation methods proved, however, to be the most advantageous for determining details of the drug disposition and fate in the body.

Effects of stobadine, melatonin, and other antioxidants on hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced synaptic transmission failure in rat hippocampal slices

In vitro reversible ischemia was simulated with rat hippocampal slices in order to test the neuroprotective activity of selected antioxidants with emphasis on the pyridoindole stobadine. Slices were exposed to hypoxia (HYP) combined with lowered D-glucose concentration to induce synaptic transmission (ST) failure, which turned out to be irreversible in approximately 80%-100% of slices during reoxygenation (ROX). The amplitude of population spikes (PoS) evoked trans-synaptically by electrical stimulation of Schäffer collaterals and recorded in CA1 neurons was the parameter of ST. Pretreatment of slices with stobadine dissolved in slice superfusion media (1 to 100 microM) improved ST recovery after 20-min tissue ROX. Stobadine decreased the number of irreversibly damaged slices and increased the average amplitude of PoS during tissue ROX. The concentration-response relationship of protective activity was bell-shaped, with maximum at 3-30 microM. Moreover, the half-time of PoS decay (t1/2) during HYP was significantly delayed in stobadine treated groups (10 to 100 microM). The neurohormone melatonin (30 to 100 microM) and 21-aminosteroid U-74389G (10 microM) revealed similar protective activity on ST recovery and on t1/2 during HYP. Trolox (200 microM) improved the PoS recovery, yet it had no effect on t1/2. The iron chelator deferoxamine (250 and 500 microM) had no protective effects at all. alpha-Tocopherol administered to animals orally (200 mg/kg for 10 days) only marginally improved the PoS recovery. Comparing the protective effect of compounds tested on PoS recovery, we assume the following rank order of potency: U-74389G > stobadine > melatonin >> trolox. Our findings suggest that stobadine as well as trolox, U-74389G and melatonin, antioxidants with remarkably different chemical structures, exerted neuroprotective activity, probably determined by antioxidative properties of these compounds. Moreover, stobadine, U-74389G, and melatonin were able to delay the early ST decay during HYP, which might indicate improved energetic state of neurons in the treated tissue. The study supports the notion about the neuroprotective activity of certain antioxidants.

Indole derivatives as neuroprotectants

It seems to be satisfactorily proved that reactive oxygen species (ROS) participate in numerous pathological processes in the nervous system (NS). Compounds able to interfere with the action of ROS might be useful in prevention and treatment of these pathologies. The search is focused on compounds with a suitable spectrum of pharmacological and pharmacokinetic properties, among which indole derivatives are distinct group with great potential to be further developed. The paper presents an overview of indole derived compounds in which protective action has been demonstrated in the NS in situations in which ROS are excessively generated, such as chemically induced oxidative stress, hypoxia/reoxygenation, ischemia/reperfusion. These compounds include indoleamines (melatonin), carbazoles (carvedilol), carbolines (tetrahydrocarbolines, pyrimidoindoles, vinpocetine). Special attention is paid to the gamma-carboline stobadine. A range of effects which seem to be associated with its neuroprotective actions (antioxidant and ROS scavenging effects, capability to pass the hematoencephalic barrier, pharmacokinetic properties, etc.) are considered. A novel compound with pyrimidoindole structure (U-101033E) is mentioned. Attention is drawn also to the neurotoxic potential demonstrated in some carbolines (2-amino-alpha-carboline, halogenated tetrahydro-beta-carboline "TaClo", harmane, norharmane). The indole nucleus seems to be a promising basis for design and synthesis of new derivatives able to protect the NS against oxidative stress in a variety of acute and chronic NS pathologies.

Effect of stobadine, U-74389G, trolox and melatonin on resistance of rat hippocampal slices to oxidative stress

Reactive oxygen species have been suggested to participate in the impairment of nervous tissue by oxidative stress, induced by hypoxia (HYP) followed by reoxygenation (ROX). Although the mechanisms of such injury are rather complex, antioxidants might exert some protective action under such circumstances. This study tested the effect of a series of compounds interfering with the generation and action of reactive oxygen species on impairment of synaptic transmission in the CA1 region of rat hippocampal slices exposed to HYP followed by ROX in vitro. Shortlasting HYP (typically 4.5-7.5 min under the conditions used) resulted in fast decay of the amplitude of population spikes evoked in the CA1 neurons by stimulation of Schäffer collaterals. The impairment was mostly irreversible. However, in the presence of the antioxidants stobadine, 21-aminosteroid U-74389G, melatonin and trolox (with optimal concentrations of 10-30 micromol/l, 10 micromol/l, 30-100 micromol/l and 200 micromol/l, respectively), the irreversible damage of the transmission was significantly diminished. The decay of the synaptic transmission failure during HYP was also delayed by stobadine, U-74389G and melatonin. The results demonstrated that compounds with antioxidant activity may effectively protect nervous tissue during HYP and ROX.

Evaluation of long-term administration of the antioxidant stobadine on exploratory behaviour in rats of both genders

Stobadine (STO) is a prospective neuro- and cardioprotective drug with high antioxidative properties. The aim of this study was to ascertain the effect of long-term administration of STO on exploratory behaviour and habituation processes in adult virgin female and male rats. Stobadine was administered by oral gavage in a single dose of 50 mg kg(-1) day(-1) for a total of 56 days. The animals were tested for exploratory behaviour-intensity of motor and vertical activity in an open field test in three blocks of measurements (initial screening; after 56 days of STO administration; and 28 days after the last treatment). The rate of decline of motor activity was evaluated during four consecutive days of testing (interrupted habituation). Administration of STO resulted in transient inhibition of exploratory behaviour in female rats without overtly detectable toxicity. Exploratory behaviour of males was not affected by STO treatment.