AOP2 (antioxidant protein 2): structure and function of a unique thiol-specific antioxidant

Structural and Functional Diversity of the Peroxiredoxin 6 Enzyme Family

Significance: Peroxiredoxins (Prdxs) with a single peroxidative cysteine (CP) in a conserved motif PXXX(T/S)XXCP within its thioredoxin fold, have been classified as the peroxiredoxin 6 (Prdx6 ) family. All Prdxs can reduce H2O2 and short chain hydroperoxides while Prdx6 in addition, can reduce phospholipid hydroperoxides (PLOOH) due to its ability to interact with peroxidized phospholipid substrate. The single CP of Prdx6 uses various external electron donors including glutathione thioredoxin, and ascorbic acid for resolution of its peroxidized state and, therefore, its peroxidase activity. Prdx6 proteins also exhibit Ca2+-independent phospholipase A2 (PLA2), lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase (LPCAT), and chaperone activities that depend on cellular localization and the oxidation and oligomerisation states of the protein. Thus, Prdx6 is a "moonlighting" enzyme. Recent Advance: Physiologically, Prdx6s have been reported to play an important role in protection against oxidative stress, repair of peroxidized cell membranes, mammalian lung surfactant turnover, activation of some NADPH oxidases, the regulation of seed germination in plants, as an indicator of cellular levels of reactive O2 species through Nrf-Klf9 activation, and possibly in male fertility, regulation of cell death through ferroptosis, cancer metastasis, and oxidative stress-related signalling pathways. Critical Issues: This review outlines Prdx6 enzyme unique structural features and explores its wide range of physiological functions. Yet, existing structural data falls short of fully revealing all of human Prdx6 multifunctional roles. Further endeavour is required to bridge this gap in its understanding. Although there are wide variations in both the structure and function of Prdx6 family members in various organisms, all Prdx6 proteins show the unique a long C-terminal extension that is also seen in Prdx1, but not in other Prdxs. Future Directions: As research data continues to accumulate, the potential for detailed insights into the role of C-terminal of Prdx6 in its oligomerisation and activities. There is a need for thorough exploration of structural characteristics of the various biological functions. Additionally, uncovering the interacting partners of Prdx6 and understanding its involvement in signalling pathways will significantly contribute to a more profound comprehension of its role.

Peroxiredoxin 6 in the repair of peroxidized cell membranes and cell signaling

Peroxiredoxin 6 represents a widely distributed group of peroxiredoxins that contain a single conserved cysteine in the protein monomer (1-cys Prdx). The cys when oxidized to the sulfenic form is reduced with glutathione (GSH) catalyzed by the π isoform of GSH-S-transferase. Three enzymatic activities of the protein have been described:1) peroxidase with H2O2, short chain hydroperoxides, and phospholipid hydroperoxides as substrates; 2) phospholipase A2 (PLA2); and 3) lysophosphatidylcholine acyl transferase (LPCAT). These activities have important physiological roles in antioxidant defense, turnover of cellular phospholipids, and the generation of superoxide anion via initiation of the signaling cascade for activation of NADPH oxidase (type 2). The ability of Prdx6 to reduce peroxidized cell membrane phospholipids (peroxidase activity) and also to replace the oxidized sn-2 fatty acyl group through hydrolysis/reacylation (PLA2 and LPCAT activities) provides a complete system for the repair of peroxidized cell membranes.

Differentially expressed proteins identified in overexpressed let-7a gastric carcinoma cells by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis

MicroRNAs are small noncoding RNA molecules that control the expression of target genes. Our previous studies show that let-7a decreased in gastric carcinoma and that up-regulation of let-7a by gene augmentation inhibited gastric carcinoma cell growth both in vitro and in vivo, whereas it remains largely unclear as to how let-7a affects tumor growth. In this study, proteins associated with the function of let-7a were detected in high-throughput screening. The cell line of SGC-7901 stably overexpressing let-7a was successfully established by gene clone. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) was used to separate the total proteins of SGC-7901/let-7a, SGC-7901/EV and SGC-7901, and PDQuest software was applied to analyze 2-DE images. Ten differential protein spots were identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry, and they may be the proteins associated with let-7a function. The overexpressed proteins include antioxidant protein 2, insulin-like growth factor binding protein 2, protein disulfide isomerase A2, C-1-tetrahydrofolate synthase, cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor1 (CDKN1) and Rho-GTPase activating protein 4. The underexpressed proteins consisted of S-phase kinase-associated protein 2 (Spk2), platelet membrane glycoprotein, fibronectin and Cks1 protein. Furthermore, the different expression levels of the partial proteins (CDKN1,Spk2 and Fibronectin) were confirmed by Western blot analysis. The data suggest that these differential proteins are involved in novel let-7a signal pathway, and these findings provided the basis to comprehensively investigate the functional mechanisms of let-7a in gastric carcinoma.

Peroxiredoxin 6: a bifunctional enzyme with glutathione peroxidase and phospholipase A₂ activities

Peroxiredoxin 6 (Prdx6) is the prototype and the only mammalian 1-Cys member of the Prdx family. Major differences from 2-Cys Prdxs include the use of glutathione (GSH) instead of thioredoxin as the physiological reductant, heterodimerization with πGSH S-transferase as part of the catalytic cycle, and the ability either to reduce the oxidized sn-2 fatty acyl group of phospholipids (peroxidase activity) or to hydrolyze the sn-2 ester (alkyl) bond of phospholipids (phospholipase A(2) [PLA(2)] activity). The bifunctional protein has separate active sites for peroxidase (C47, R132, H39) and PLA(2) (S32, D140, H26) activities. These activities are dependent on binding of the protein to phospholipids at acidic pH and to oxidized phospholipids at cytosolic pH. Prdx6 can be phosphorylated by MAP kinases at T177, which markedly increases its PLA(2) activity and broadens its pH-activity spectrum. Prdx6 is primarily cytosolic but also is targeted to acidic organelles (lysosomes, lamellar bodies) by a specific targeting sequence (amino acids 31-40). Oxidant stress and keratinocyte growth factor are potent regulators of Prdx6 gene expression. Prdx6 has important roles in both antioxidant defense based on its ability to reduce peroxidized membrane phospholipids and in phospholipid homeostasis based on its ability to generate lysophospholipid substrate for the remodeling pathway of phospholipid synthesis.

Proteomic analysis of colonic mucosa in a rat model of irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common functional disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. It is characterized by abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. Various studies have investigated the pathophysiologic processes underlying IBS, but the mechanism remains poorly understood. In the present study, we established an IBS model and identified differentially expressed proteins in colon tissue of IBS rats compared with healthy controls by 2-D gel electrophoresis, MALDI-TOF-MS, and Western blot analysis. Our results showed that 13 of the 1396 protein spots on 2-D gel were differently expressed between the IBS and control groups. Ontological analysis of these proteins revealed primary roles in catalytic activity (protein disulfide-isomerase A3, glyoxalase I, cathepsin S, alpha-enolase), structural support (cytokeratin 8), antioxidant activity (peroxiredoxin-6), protein binding (transgelin, serpin peptidase inhibitor B5), and signal transduction (40S ribosomal protein SA). Protein disulfide-isomerase A3 and cytokeratin 8 overexpression in IBS were confirmed by Western blot. The findings indicate that multiple proteins are involved in IBS processes that influence intestinal tract immunity, inflammation, and nerve regulation. Our study provides useful candidate genes and proteins for further investigation.

Uterine FK506-binding protein 52 (FKBP52)-peroxiredoxin-6 (PRDX6) signaling protects pregnancy from overt oxidative stress

Immunophilin FK506-binding protein 52 (FKBP52) is a cochaperone that binds to the progesterone receptor (PR) to optimize progesterone (P(4))-PR signaling. We recently showed that Fkbp52-deficient (Fkbp52(-/-)) mice have reduced uterine PR responsiveness and implantation failure which is rescued by excess P(4) supplementation in a genetic background-dependent manner. This finding led us to hypothesize that FKBP52 has functions in addition to optimizing PR activity. Using proteomics analysis, we found that uterine levels of peroxiredoxin-6 (PRDX6), a unique antioxidant, are significantly lower in Fkbp52(-/-) mice than in WT and PR-null (Pgr(-/-)) mice. We also found that Fkbp52(-/-) mice with reduced uterine PRDX6 levels are susceptible to paraquat-induced oxidative stress (OS), leading to implantation failure even with P(4) supplementation. The same dose of paraquat did not interfere with implantation in WT mice. Moreover, treatment with antioxidants alpha-tocopherol and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) attenuated paraquat-induced implantation failure in P(4)-treated Fkbp52(-/-) mice. Functional analyses using mouse embryonic fibroblasts show that Fkbp52 deficiency associated with reduced PRDX6 levels promotes H(2)O(2)-induced cell death, which is reversed by the addition of NAC or by forced expression of PRDX6, suggesting that Fkbp52 deficiency diminishes the threshold against OS by reducing PRDX6 levels. These findings provide evidence that heightened uterine OS in Fkbp52(-/-) females with reduced PRDX6 levels induces implantation failure even in the presence of excess P(4). This study shows that FKBP52-PRDX6 signaling protects pregnancy from overt OS.

[Peroxiredoxins, a new family of antioxidant proteins]

Current ideas are discussed about the structures and mechanisms of action of proteins that have been united at present into a family of thiol-specific antioxidants or peroxiredoxins, which protect the cells of different organisms from the action of hydrogen peroxide. Peroxiredoxins fulfill the same function as antioxidant enzymes such as catalases and glutathione-dependent peroxidases; however, their catalytic activity is lower than that of these enzymes. The level of expression of genes of peroxiredoxins is increased in many pathological states accompanied by oxidative stress, and today there is direct evidence for the important role of peroxiredoxins in the vital activity of cells.

Mitogen-activated protein kinase-mediated phosphorylation of peroxiredoxin 6 regulates its phospholipase A(2) activity

Prdx6 (peroxiredoxin 6), a bifunctional protein with both GSH peroxidase and PLA(2) (phospholipase A(2)) [aiPLA(2) (acidic calcium-independent PLA(2))] activities, is responsible for the metabolism of lung surfactant phospholipids. We propose that the aiPLA(2) activity of the enzyme is regulated through phosphorylation. Incubation of isolated rat alveolar type II cells (AECII) with PMA, a PKC (protein kinase C) agonist, had no effect on Prdx6 expression but led to approximately 75% increase in aiPLA(2) activity that was abolished by pretreatment of cells with the MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) inhibitors, SB202190 or PD98059. Prdx6 phosphorylation after incubation of AECII with PMA was demonstrated by autoradiography after immunoprecipitation with either anti-phosphothreonine o-phosphoserine antibodies. in vitro, several active isoforms of ERK (extracellular-signal-regulated kinase) and p38 phosphorylated Prdx6, resulting in an 11-fold increase in aiPLA(2) activity. The increased activity was calcium-independent and was abolished by the aiPLA(2) inhibitors, surfactant protein A and hexadecyl-3-trifluorethylglycero-sn-2-phospho-methanol (MJ33). The peroxidase activity of Prdx6 was unaffected by phosphorylation. Mass spectroscopic analysis of in vitro phosphorylated Prdx6 showed a unique phosphorylation site at Thr-177 and mutation of this residue abolished protein phosphorylation and the increase in MAPK-mediated activity. These results show that the MAPKs can mediate phosphorylation of Prdx6 at Thr-177 with a consequent marked increase in its aiPLA(2) activity.

Investigating transcriptional regulation of Prdx6 in mouse liver cells

Prdx6, a unique member of the peroxiredoxin family of antioxidants, is highly expressed in liver and protects cells from oxidative damage by reducing H2O2 and various lipid peroxides. We investigated the transcriptional regulation of Prdx6 in the H2.35 mouse hepatocyte cell line and sought to determine the mechanism of basal and induced expression. We found that Prdx6 expression is down-regulated upon serum deprivation and subsequently induced in a time-dependent manner in response to KGF, TNF-alpha, dexamethasone, and H2O2. Inhibitors of both PKC and MEK largely prevented Prdx6 induction by KGF and, to a lesser extent, TNF-alpha. Interestingly, inhibition of NF-kappaB led to a marked increase in Prdx6 regulation in the absence or presence of inducers, suggesting a normal role for NF-kappaB in Prdx6 suppression. Using reporter constructs from the mouse gene, we found that the first 160 bp of the proximal promoter was sufficient for low levels of expression, and expression increased sixfold with 1200 bp of the proximal promoter. These regions were not, however, sufficient to mediate up-regulation by the known Prdx6 inducers in our system. Together, these data support multiple pathways of Prdx6 regulation and reveal important promoter regions that mediate its transcriptional regulation.

Secretory cells of the airway express molecules of the chemoreceptive cascade

Airway secretion is maintained by specialized non-ciliated epithelial cells whose phenotype varies with their topographical location. In addition, specialized epithelial cells located in the airway contain the molecular machinery of chemoreceptive elements. Our aim has been to evaluate whether the secretory cells themselves possess a chemoreceptive capability, which requires the simultaneous presence of chemosensory and secretory mechanisms. We performed immunohistochemical analysis with antibodies against the Clara-cell-specific secretory proteins, CC10 and CC26, as secretory markers. As chemoreceptive markers, we employed antibodies against alpha-gustducin and phospholipase C beta 2 (PLCbeta2), two components of the taste transduction pathway. We also attempted to characterize further the secretory cell type by using a marker of chloride secretion, cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR). We found alpha-gustducin localized in non-ciliated cells of the epithelium lining the trachea and bronchioles of adult rats, where it was also co-expressed with CC10 and CC26. Ultrastructural immunohistochemistry revealed alpha-gustducin in the apical cytoplasm of secretory cells, concentrated around and inside the granules. CFTR was also observed in a subpopulation of non-ciliated epithelial cells, co-localized with some alpha-gustducin- and PLCbeta2-immunoreactive cells, at all levels of the airway epithelium. We conclude that non-ciliated epithelial cells of the rat airway express components of distinct signaling mechanisms and suggest that secretory events are driven by a molecular mechanism activated by the binding of luminal substances to G-protein-coupled receptors.

Gastrodia elata blume and an active component, p-hydroxybenzyl alcohol reduce focal ischemic brain injury through antioxidant related gene expressions

Ischaemic stroke is a leading cause of death and long-lasting disability. Gastrodia elata blume (GEB) is a Chinese herb that is widely used to treat convulsive disorders, such as epilepsy, and p-hydroxybenzyl alcohol (HBA) is the active ingredient in GEB. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of GEB and HBA on the brain damage and transcriptional levels of Protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) and 1-Cys peroxiredoxin (1-Cys Prx) genes known to play a role in antioxidant systems after transient focal ischemia in the rat brain. Focal ischemia was induced in rats by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). All animals underwent ischemia for 1 h, followed by 24 h of reperfusion. Coronal brain slices were stained with 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride or total RNA was extracted for the analysis of gene expression. Histopathologic analysis revealed a significant (p<0.05) decrease in infarct size in the ipsilateral brain with GEB extracts or HBA. Moreover, the levels of PDI and 1-Cys Prx transcription were significantly increased in the GEB extract- or HBA-treated group compared with the untreated group (p<0.05). This study therefore indicated that GEB and HBA provide neuroprotection by preventing brain damage through the increased expression of genes encoding antioxidant proteins after transient focal cerebral ischemia and may be effective as neuroprotective agents at the cellular and molecular levels in the brain.

Proteomic analysis of rat hippocampus after repeated psychosocial stress

Since stress plays a role in the onset and physiopathology of psychiatric diseases, animal models of chronic stress may offer insights into pathways operating in mood disorders. The aim of this study was to identify the molecular changes induced in rat hippocampus by repeated exposure to psychosocial stress with a proteomic technique. In the social defeat model, the experimental animal was defeated by a dominant male eight times. Additional groups of rats were submitted to a single defeat or placed in an empty cage (controls). The open field test was carried out on parallel animal groups. The day after the last exposure, levels of hippocampal proteins were compared between groups after separation by 2-D gel electrophoresis and image analysis. Spots showing significantly altered levels were submitted to peptide fingerprinting mass spectrometry for protein identification. The intensity of 69 spots was significantly modified by repeated stress and 21 proteins were unambiguously identified, belonging to different cellular functions, including protein folding, signal transduction, synaptic plasticity, cytoskeleton regulation and energy metabolism. This work identified molecular changes in protein levels caused by exposure to repeated psychosocial stress. The pattern of changes induced by repeated stress was quantitatively and qualitatively different from that observed after a single exposure. Several changed proteins have already been associated with stress-related responses; some of them are here described for the first time in relation to stress.

Saitohin, Which Is Nested in the tau Locus and Confers Allele-specific Susceptibility to Several Neurodegenerative Diseases, Interacts with Peroxiredoxin 6

Saitohin is a gene unique to humans and their closest relatives, the function of which is not yet known. Saitohin contains a single polymorphism (Q7R), and its Q and R alleles belong to the H1 and H2 tau haplotype, respectively. The Saitohin Q allele confers susceptibility to several neurodegenerative diseases. To get a handle on Saitohin function, we used it as a bait in a yeast two-hybrid screen. By this assay and subsequent co-immunoprecipitation and glutathione S-transferase pull-down assays, we discovered and confirmed that Saitohin interacts with peroxiredoxin 6, a unique member of that family that is bifunctional and the levels of which increase in Pick disease. The strength of the interaction appeared to be allele-specific, giving the first distinction between the two forms of Saitohin.

Transcripts associated with Prdx6 (peroxiredoxin 6) and related genes in mouse

PRDX6 is a cytosolic member of the peroxiredoxin family of antioxidant proteins, which protect cells from oxidative damage by reducing cellular peroxides. Knockout studies and transgenic overexpression of Prdx6 in mice have demonstrated an important role for this protein in the defense against oxidative stress. Using Northern blotting with various Prdx6 probes, we have revealed the existence of multiple transcripts with distinct tissue distributions and regulation, including the major 1.4-kb transcript highly expressed in liver and lung, and two additional transcripts expressed primarily in liver. We hypothesized that these additional transcripts correspond either to alternative Prdx6 mRNAs or to highly related genes such as the intronless genes Aop2-rs1 and Aop2-rs2. A combination of Northern blotting, RACE, and EST and genomic sequence analysis has determined that all three liver transcripts are derived from the Prdx6 gene, as they are absent in Prdx6-null mice and differ in their 3' UTRs, suggesting the utilization of different transcription termination signal sequences which we have identified by sequence analysis. We found the Aop2-rs1 gene to be exclusively expressed in testis as a 1.2-kb transcript and have identified putative regulatory elements in its promoter. In contrast, Aop2-rs2 appears not to be expressed in any tissues, although we have evidence for the existence of other related genes that are expressed in a tissue-specific manner. Since the Prdx6 transcripts exhibit differential regulation in response to growth and oxidative stress, further investigation may reveal their distinct roles in the cell and mechanism of regulation.

Identification of epithelial auto-antigens associated with periodontal disease

We previously reported evidence that patients with periodontitis have serum antibodies to oral Gram positive bacteria that are cross-reactive with epithelial antigens. In the present report cross-reactive epithelial antigens including CD24, lactate dehydrogenase A [LDM-A], antioxidant protein 2 [AOP 2] and nuclear factor of activated T cells 5 [NFAT 5], were identified by screening a cDNA expression library with pooled patient sera. Titres of antibodies to CD24 peptide correlated negatively with indices of periodontal disease severity. Strong expression of CD24 in the reactive periodontal epithelium and inflamed gingival attachment contrasted with low to undetectable expression in the external gingival epithelium. In periodontitis, a local action of these auto-reactive antibodies could modulate the regulatory potential associated with expression of CD24 in this epithelium.

The Serotonin 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C Receptors Interact with Specific Sets of PDZ Proteins

The 5-hydroxytryptamine type 2A (5-HT(2A)) receptor and the 5-HT(2C) receptor are closely related members of the G-protein-coupled receptors activated by serotonin that share very similar pharmacological profiles and cellular signaling pathways. These receptors express a canonical class I PDZ ligand (SXV) at their C-terminal extremity. Here, we have identified proteins that interact with the PDZ ligand of the 5-HT(2A) and 5-HT(2C) receptors by a proteomic approach associating affinity chromatography using immobilized synthetic peptides encompassing the PDZ ligand and mass spectrometry. We report that both receptor C termini interact with specific sets of PDZ proteins in vitro. The 5-HT(2C) receptor but not the 5-HT(2A) receptor binds to the Veli-3.CASK.Mint1 ternary complex and to SAP102. In addition, the 5-HT(2C) receptor binds more strongly to PSD-95 and MPP-3 than the 5-HT(2A) receptor. In contrast, a robust interaction between the 5-HT(2A) receptor and the channel-interacting PDZ protein CIPP was found, whereas CIPP did not significantly associate with the 5-HT(2C) receptor. We also show that residues located at the -1 position and upstream the PDZ ligand in the C terminus of the 5-HT(2A) and 5-HT(2C) receptors are major determinants in their interaction with specific PDZ proteins. Immunofluorescence and electron microscopy studies strongly suggested that these specific interactions also take place in living cells and that the 5-HT(2) receptor-PDZ protein complexes occur in intracellular compartments. The interaction of the 5-HT(2A) and the 5-HT(2C) receptor with specific sets of PDZ proteins may contribute to their different signal transduction properties.

Proteomic analysis of protein changes developing in rat hippocampus after chronic antidepressant treatment: Implications for depressive disorders and future therapies

It is recognized that monoamine reuptake inhibitors (MARIs) exert beneficial effects in the treatment of major depression and general anxiety disorder. The aim of this study was to identify proteins regulated by this class of antidepressant using a proteome differential profiling approach. Either venlafaxine or fluoxetine was administered systemically to adult rats for 2 weeks, and protein patterns from rat hippocampal cytosolic extracts were compared by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Silver-stained protein spots displaying differential expression were identified by mass spectrometry. Thirty-three protein spots were modulated by both drug treatments compared to controls. The classification of several proteins that were sorted by function suggested convergent pathway activities for both MARIs at the post-receptor level. These included proteins associated with neurogenesis (insulin like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), glia maturation factor [GMF]-beta), outgrowth/maintenance of neuronal processes (hippocampal cholinergic neurostimulating peptide [HCNP], PCTAIRE-3), and with neural regeneration/axonal guidance collapsin response mediator protein (CRMP-2) systems. Other modulated proteins indicated an increase in neuronal vesicular cell trafficking and synaptic plasticity (Ras-related protein 4a (Rab4a), Ras-related protein 1b (Rab1b), heat shock protein 10 [HSP10]), as well as neurosteroidogenic (hydroxysteroid sulfotransferase A) and possible anti-apoptotic (dimethylargininase-1 L-N,N-dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase-1 [DDAH-1], pyruvate dehydrogenase-E1 [PDH-E1], antioxidant protein-2 [AOP-2]) pathway-mediated regulatory events. Parallel studies to investigate further the effects of venlafaxine and fluoxetine on adult hippocampal neurogenesis in vivo by quantitative bromodeoxyuridine immunolabeling revealed a significant drug-induced increase in the proliferation rate and long-term survivability of progenitor stem cells located in the subgranular zone. These data suggest that MARIs share wide-ranging proteome changes within the hippocampal formation, beyond 5-HT/NE neurotransmission. This may reflect long-term functional adaptations required for antidepressant activity.

Identification of multiple transcripts for antioxidant protein 2 (Aop2): differential regulation by oxidative stress and growth factors

Antioxidant protein 2 is a unique member of the thiol-specific antioxidant family of proteins known to reduce reactive oxygen species in the presence of thiol-containing electron donors. It is also a candidate atherosclerosis susceptibility gene in mice. In the present study, we sought to characterize the transcripts of this gene, and determine which, if any, are regulated by conditions associated with oxidative stress. We have identified multiple Aop2 transcripts by Northern blot, each exhibiting a unique tissue distribution. These include the previously reported 1.47 kb major transcript, two alternative Aop2 transcripts found exclusively in liver, and a testis-specific transcript believed to be the highly related intronless gene Aop2-rs1. Treatment of a murine hepatocyte cell line with glucose oxidase led to the specific and transient induction of the 1.47 kb transcript, while the 3.1 kb transcript was regulated by serum deprivation and re-stimulation with either keratinocyte growth factor or serum in a time-dependent manner. Since these ROS-inducing stimuli involve different mechanisms of action and cellular responses, our data suggest that alternative Aop2 transcripts may play distinct roles in different oxidative stress responses, and possibly in atherosclerosis.

Role of the PLA2-independent peroxiredoxin VI activity in the survival of immortalized fibroblasts exposed to cytotoxic oxidative stress

Peroxiredoxin VI (PrxVI) is a bifunctional enzyme with non-selenium glutathione peroxidase and Ca2+-independent acidic phospholipase A2 activities. We demonstrate that transfection-mediated PrxVI overexpression protects immortalized human WI-38 and murine NIH3T3 fibroblasts against cytotoxic doses of tert-butylhydroperoxide and H2O2. Mutants for either glutathione peroxidase or phospholipase A2 activity show that glutathione peroxidase but not phospholipase A2 activity is required to promote cell survival after stress. Also, ectopic PrxVI overexpression does not protect telomerase-stabilized WI-38 fibroblasts against stress-induced premature senescence.

Overexpression of Prdx6 reduces H2O2 but does not prevent diet-induced atherosclerosis in the aortic root

The mammalian 1-Cys peroxiredoxin (Prdx6) is a unique member of the peroxiredoxin family of proteins capable of protecting cells from metal-catalyzed oxidative damage. We recently identified Prdx6 as a candidate for the quantitative trait locus Ath1, a gene responsible for a difference in diet-induced atherosclerosis susceptibility in mice. To investigate the role of Prdx6 in atherosclerosis, we generated transgenic mice that overexpress the Prdx6 allele from the Ath1-resistant 129/SvJ strain on an Ath1-susceptible C57BL/6J background. These mice expressed significantly elevated levels of Prdx6 mRNA and protein in multiple tissues including liver, aorta, and peritoneal macrophages, which accumulated significantly lower levels of hydrogen peroxide, revealing an enhanced antioxidant activity in these mice. However, overexpression of Prdx6 had no protective effect on LDL oxidation in vitro, and transgenic mice fed an atherogenic diet for 10 weeks did not possess an increased resistance to atherosclerosis nor did they maintain the high prediet plasma HDL levels consistent with the Ath1-resistant phenotype. In addition, the Prdx6 allele from the susceptible strain was shown to have a higher antioxidant activity than that of the resistant strains. These data suggest that the increased peroxidase activity attributable to Prdx6 overexpression in transgenic mice is not sufficient to protect mice from atherosclerosis, and that Prdx6 is not likely to be the gene underlying Ath1.

Intrauterine programming of fetal islet gene expression in rats--effects of maternal protein restriction during gestation revealed by proteome analysis

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Fetal undernutrition can result in intrauterine growth restriction and increased incidence of Type 2 diabetes mellitus. Intrauterine malnutrition in form of an isocaloric low-protein diet given to female rats throughout gestation decreases islet-cell proliferation, islet size and pancreatic insulin content, while increasing the apoptotic rate and sensitivity to nitrogen oxide and interleukin-1beta. Hence, the influence of a low-protein diet on the development of beta-cells and islets could also be of interest for the pathogenesis of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes mellitus. We hypothesise that the effects of a low-protein diet in utero are caused by intrauterine programming of beta-cell gene expression.

METHODS

Pregnant Wistar rats were fed a low-protein diet (8% protein) or a control diet (20% protein) throughout gestation. At day 21.5 of gestation fetal pancreata were removed, digested and cultured for 7 days. Neoformed islets were collected and analysed by proteome analysis comprising 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

A total of 2810 different protein spots were identified, 70 of which were changed due to the low-protein diet. From 45 of the changed protein spots, identification was obtained by mass spectrometry (64% success rate). Proteins induced by the low-protein diet were grouped according to their biological functions, e.g. cell cycle and differentiation, protein synthesis and chaperoning.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Our study offers a possible explanation of the alterations induced by a low-protein diet in islets. It shows that in Wistar rats the intrauterine milieu could program islet gene expression in ways unfavourable for the future of the progeny. This could be important for our understanding of the development of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Proteomic analysis of astrocytic secretion in the mouse. Comparison with the cerebrospinal fluid proteome

Astrocytes, the most abundant cell type in the central nervous system, are intimately associated with synapses. They play a pivotal role in neuronal survival and the brain inflammatory response. Some astrocytic functions are mediated by the secretion of polypeptides. Using a proteomic approach, we have identified more than 30 proteins released by cultured astrocytes. These include proteases and protease inhibitors, carrier proteins, and antioxidant proteins. Exposing astrocytes to brefeldin A, which selectively blocks secretory vesicle assembly, suppressed the release of some of these proteins. This indicates that astrocytes secrete these proteins by a classic vesicular mechanism and others by an alternative pathway. Astrocytes isolated from different brain regions secreted a similar pattern of proteins. However, the secretion of some of them, including metalloproteinase inhibitors and apolipoprotein E, was region-specific. In addition, pro-inflammatory treatments modified the profile of astrocytic protein secretion. Finally, more than two thirds of the proteins identified in the astrocyte-conditioned medium were detectable in the mouse cerebrospinal fluid, suggesting that astrocytes contribute to the cerebrospinal fluid protein content. In conclusion, this study provides the first unbiased characterization of the major proteins released by astrocytes, which may play a crucial role in the modulation of neuronal survival and function.

Aberrant expression of peroxiredoxin subtypes in neurodegenerative disorders

An increasing body of evidence indicates that oxidative stress and damage play a role in the pathogenesis of a number of diseases associated with neurodegeneration, including Down syndrome (DS), Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Pick's disease (PD). Although oxidative stress is a common element in these diseases, specific clinico-pathological phenotypes have been described for each disorder. Development of these phenotypes might be linked, among others, to differences in antioxidant response. The present study is designed to investigate expression of peroxiredoxins (Prxs), the newly characterized family of highly conserved antioxidant enzymes, and other antioxidant enzymes in frontal cortex and cerebellum of DS, AD and PD patients using the technique of proteomics. Levels of Prx I, Mn superoxide dismutase (SOD2) and glutathione-S-transferase omega1 in DS, AD and PD were not significantly different from that of controls in both brain regions investigated. In contrast, Prx II was significantly increased (P<0.05) in frontal cortex of DS, AD and PD, whereas Prx III was decreased in frontal cortex of DS (P<0.01) and PD (P<0.001). Interestingly, Prx VI displayed a significant increase (P<0.05) only in PD frontal cortex. The present data indicate that differential regulation of antioxidant enzymes exist in DS, AD and PD, suggestive of the diversity as well as distinct functional roles of these proteins. Moreover, while up-regulation of Prx II appears to provide evidence for the existence of compensatory response in increased cell loss, up-regulation of Prx VI may be used to discriminate PD from AD as well as DS.

Antioxidant protein 2 prevents methemoglobin formation in erythrocyte hemolysates

Antioxidant protein 2 (AOP2) is a member of a family of thiol-specific antioxidants, recently renamed peroxiredoxins, that evolved as part of an elaborate system to counteract and control detrimental effects of oxygen radicals. AOP2 is found in endothelial cells, erythrocytes, monocytes, T and B cells, but not in granulocytes. AOP2 was found solely in the cytoplasm and was not associated with the nuclear or membrane fractions; neither was it detectable in plasma. Further experiments focused on the function of AOP2 in erythrocytes where it is closely associated with the hemoglobin complex, particularly with the heme. An investigation of the mechanism of this interaction demonstrated that the conserved cysteine-47 in AOP2 seems to play a role in AOP2-heme interactions. Recombinant AOP2 prevented induced as well as noninduced methemoglobin formation in erythrocyte hemolysates, indicating its antioxidant properties. We conclude that AOP2 is part of a sophisticated system developed to protect and support erythrocytes in their many physiological functions.

Identification of 30 protein species involved in replicative senescence and stress-induced premature senescence

Exposure of human proliferative cells to subcytotoxic stress triggers stress-induced premature senescence (SIPS) which is characterized by many biomarkers of replicative senescence. Proteomic comparison of replicative senescence and stress-induced premature senescence indicates that, at the level of protein expression, stress-induced premature senescence and replicative senescence are different phenotypes sharing however similarities. In this study, we identified 30 proteins showing changes of expression level specific or common to replicative senescence and/or stress-induced premature senescence. These changes affect different cell functions, including energy metabolism, defense systems, maintenance of the redox potential, cell morphology and transduction pathways.

Expression patterns of antioxidant proteins in brains of patients with sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease

Using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) and Western blot analysis, we were able to identify and quantify six antioxidant proteins, peroxiredoxin (Prx) I, Prx II, Prx III, 1-Cys Prx, putative peroxisomal antioxidant enzyme (PLP), and mitochondrial Mn superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD) in two individual brain regions, cerebellum and frontal cortex of patients with sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jacob (sCJD). Among six antioxidant proteins, 1-Cys Prx showed significant increase (P > 0.05) in sCJD frontal cortex whereas Prx I was decreased (P > 0.01). In cerebellum, levels of all antioxidant proteins studied were comparable to those of controls. Our findings provide evidence for the link between aberrant expression of antioxidant proteins, 1-Cys Prx and Prx I and CJD neuropathogenesis and we discuss the neuropathological meaning of these dysregulated antioxidant proteins in sCJD brain.

LEDGF, a survival factor, activates stress-related genes

LEDGF is a survival factor and it enhances survival of various cell types against stress. LEDGF is also a transcriptional activator and it binds to promoter elements of heat shock and stress-related genes to activate expression of these genes. The elevated levels of the stress-related family of proteins, such as heat shock proteins, antioxidant proteins, and detoxication enzymes might suppress apoptosis induced by stress. The protective mechanisms against stress in mammalian cells and in yeast are surprisingly similar.

Antioxidant proteins in fetal brain: superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD-1) protein is not overexpressed in fetal Down syndrome

Exposure of living organisms to reactive oxygen species (ROS), notably oxygen free radicals and hydrogen peroxide is closely linked to the very fact of aerobic life. Oxidants, however, are not always detrimental for cell survival, indeed moderate concentrations of ROS serve as signaling molecules. To maintain this level, cells have evolved an antioxidant defense system. Disruption of this balance leads either to oxidative or reductive stress. Down syndrome (DS) is a genetic disorder associated with oxidative stress. Overexpression of superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD-1) as a result of gene loading is suggested to be responsible for this phenomenon. To examine this view, we investigated the expression of thirteen different proteins involved in the cellular antioxidant defense system in brains of control and DS fetuses by two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) coupled with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectroscopy (MALDI-MS). No detectable change was found in expression of SOD-1, catalase, phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, antioxidant enzyme AOE372, thioredoxin-like protein and selenium binding protein between control and DS fetuses. By contrast, a significant reduction was observed in levels of glutathione synthetase (P < 0.01), glutathione-S-transferase mu2 (P < 0.01), glutathione-S-transferase p (P < 0.05), antioxidant protein 2 (P < 0.05), thioredoxin peroxidase-I (P < 0.05) and thioredoxin peroxidase-II (P < 0.01) in DS compared with controls. The data suggest that oxidative stress in fetal DS does not result from overexpression of SOD-1 protein, rather oxidative stress appears to be the consequence of low levels of reducing agents and enzymes involved in removal of hydrogen peroxide.