Glutathionylation of mitochondrial proteins

Mitochondrial hydrogen peroxide production by pyruvate dehydrogenase and α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase in oxidative eustress and oxidative distress

Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) and α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (KGDH) are vital entry points for monosaccharides and amino acids into the Krebs cycle and thus integral for mitochondrial bioenergetics. Both complexes produce mitochondrial hydrogen peroxide (mH2O2) and are deactivated by electrophiles. Here, we provide an update on the role of PDH and KGDH in mitochondrial redox balance and their function in facilitating metabolic reprogramming for the propagation of oxidative eustress signals in hepatocytes and how defects in these pathways can cause liver diseases. PDH and KGDH are known to account for ∼45% of the total mH2O2 formed by mitochondria and display rates of production several-fold higher than the canonical source complex I. This mH2O2 can also be formed by reverse electron transfer (RET) in vivo, which has been linked to metabolic dysfunctions that occur in pathogenesis. However, the controlled emission of mH2O2 from PDH and KGDH has been proposed to be fundamental for oxidative eustress signal propagation in several cellular contexts. Modification of PDH and KGDH with protein S-glutathionylation (PSSG) and S-nitrosylation (PSNO) adducts serves as a feedback inhibitor for mH2O2 production in response to glutathione (GSH) pool oxidation. PSSG and PSNO adduct formation also reprogram the Krebs cycle to generate metabolites vital for interorganelle and intercellular signaling. Defects in the redox modification of PDH and KGDH cause the over generation of mH2O2, resulting in oxidative distress and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). In aggregate, PDH and KGDH are essential platforms for emitting and receiving oxidative eustress signals.

GAT107-mediated α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor signaling attenuates inflammatory lung injury and mortality in a mouse model of ventilator-associated pneumonia by alleviating macrophage mitochondrial oxidative stress via reducing MnSOD-S-glutathionylation

Supraphysiological concentrations of oxygen (hyperoxia) can compromise host defense and increase susceptibility to bacterial and viral infections, causing ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Compromised host defense and inflammatory lung injury are mediated, in part, by high extracellular concentrations of HMGB1, which can be decreased by GTS-21, a partial agonist of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR). Here, we report that a novel α7nAChR agonistic positive allosteric modulator (ago-PAM), GAT107, at 3.3 mg/kg, i.p., significantly decreased animal mortality and markers of inflammatory injury in mice exposed to hyperoxia and subsequently infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The incubation of macrophages with 3.3 μM of GAT107 significantly decreased hyperoxia-induced extracellular HMGB1 accumulation and HMGB1-induced macrophage phagocytic dysfunction. Hyperoxia-compromised macrophage function was correlated with impaired mitochondrial membrane integrity, increased superoxide levels, and decreased manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) activity. This compromised MnSOD activity is due to a significant increase in its level of glutathionylation. The incubation of hyperoxic macrophages with 3.3 μM of GAT107 significantly decreases the levels of glutathionylated MnSOD, and restores MnSOD activity and mitochondrial membrane integrity. Thus, GAT107 restored hyperoxia-compromised phagocytic functions by decreasing HMGB1 release, most likely via a mitochondrial-directed pathway. Overall, our results suggest that GAT107 may be a potential treatment to decrease acute inflammatory lung injury by increasing host defense in patients with VAP.

Regulation of Mitochondrial Hydrogen Peroxide Availability by Protein S-glutathionylation

BACKGROUND

It has been four decades since protein S-glutathionylation was proposed to serve as a regulator of cell metabolism. Since then, this redox-sensitive covalent modification has been identified as a cell-wide signaling platform required for embryonic development and regulation of many physiological functions.

SCOPE OF THE REVIEW

Mitochondria use hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) as a second messenger, but its availability must be controlled to prevent oxidative distress and promote changes in cell behavior in response to stimuli. Experimental data favor the function of protein S-glutathionylation as a feedback loop for the inhibition of mitochondrial H₂O₂ production.

MAJOR CONCLUSIONS

The glutathione pool redox state is linked to the availability of H₂O₂, making glutathionylation an ideal mechanism for preventing oxidative distress whilst playing a part in desensitizing mitochondrial redox signals.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

The biological significance of glutathionylation is rooted in redox status communication. The present review critically evaluates the experimental evidence supporting its role in negating mitochondrial H₂O₂ production for cell signaling and prevention of electrophilic stress.

S-Glutathionylation-Controlled Apoptosis of Lung Epithelial Cells; Potential Implications for Lung Fibrosis

Glutathione (GSH), a major antioxidant in mammalian cells, regulates several vital cellular processes, such as nutrient metabolism, protein synthesis, and immune responses. In addition to its role in antioxidant defense, GSH controls biological processes through its conjugation to reactive protein cysteines in a post-translational modification known as protein S-glutathionylation (PSSG). PSSG has recently been implicated in the pathogenesis of multiple diseases including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Hallmarks of IPF include repeated injury to the alveolar epithelium with aberrant tissue repair, epithelial cell apoptosis and fibroblast resistance to apoptosis, and the accumulation of extracellular matrix and distortion of normal lung architecture. Several studies have linked oxidative stress and PSSG to the development and progression of IPF. Additionally, it has been suggested that the loss of epithelial cell homeostasis and increased apoptosis, accompanied by the release of various metabolites, creates a vicious cycle that aggravates disease progression. In this short review, we highlight some recent studies that link PSSG to epithelial cell apoptosis and highlight the potential implication of metabolites secreted by apoptotic cells.

Protective Role of Mitochondrial Uncoupling Proteins against Age-Related Oxidative Stress in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

The accumulation of oxidative damage to DNA and other biomolecules plays an important role in the etiology of aging and age-related diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), atherosclerosis, and neurodegenerative disorders. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is especially sensitive to oxidative stress. Mitochondrial dysfunction resulting from the accumulation of mtDNA damage impairs normal cellular function and leads to a bioenergetic crisis that accelerates aging and associated diseases. Age-related mitochondrial dysfunction decreases ATP production, which directly affects insulin secretion by pancreatic beta cells and triggers the gradual development of the chronic metabolic dysfunction that characterizes T2D. At the same time, decreased glucose oxidation in skeletal muscle due to mitochondrial damage leads to prolonged postprandial blood glucose rise, which further worsens glucose homeostasis. ROS are not only highly reactive by-products of mitochondrial respiration capable of oxidizing DNA, proteins, and lipids but can also function as signaling and effector molecules in cell membranes mediating signal transduction and inflammation. Mitochondrial uncoupling proteins (UCPs) located in the inner mitochondrial membrane of various tissues can be activated by ROS to protect cells from mitochondrial damage. Mitochondrial UCPs facilitate the reflux of protons from the mitochondrial intermembrane space into the matrix, thereby dissipating the proton gradient required for oxidative phosphorylation. There are five known isoforms (UCP1-UCP5) of mitochondrial UCPs. UCP1 can indirectly reduce ROS formation by increasing glutathione levels, thermogenesis, and energy expenditure. In contrast, UCP2 and UCP3 regulate fatty acid metabolism and insulin secretion by beta cells and modulate insulin sensitivity. Understanding the functions of UCPs may play a critical role in developing pharmacological strategies to combat T2D. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the protective role of various UCP homologs against age-related oxidative stress in T2D.

Effect of erythromycin on the ultrastructure of human macrophages exposed to cigarette smoke extract in vitro

Macrophages serve an active role in the pathophysiology of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Erythromycin (EM) has been verified as an effective treatment for COPD. However, there are few studies on the effect of EM on the ultrastructure of macrophages exposed to cigarette smoke extract (CSE). In the present study, human macrophages were randomly divided into three groups: The control, CSE and the CSE+EM group, using electron microscopy, the effect of EM was evaluated by comparing the ultrastructural changes between these groups. The macrophages were additionally divided into a further four groups: The control, CSE, CSE+EM 24 h and CSE+EM 48 h groups. The generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in each group was evaluated by detecting fluorescence intensity. It was observed that the cellular ultrastructure of the CSE group exhibited abnormal changes, though this effect was reversed back to the level of the control in the CSE+EM group. Compared with the control group, the ROS expression level was significantly increased in the CSE group (P < .05); however, compared with the CSE group, the ROS concentration was decreased in the CSE+EM 24 h (P < .05) and CSE+EM 48 h groups (P < .05), though this was more apparent in the EM 48 h group. It was concluded that EM protects human macrophages against CSE. Moreover, it was hypothesized that EM may reduce the symptoms of patients with COPD by protecting the macrophage ultrastructure from the effects of CSE, resulting in the decreased generation of ROS, inhibiting autophagy and reducing endoplasmic reticulum stress.

ROS and miRNA Dysregulation in Ovarian Cancer Development, Angiogenesis and Therapeutic Resistance

The diverse repertoires of cellular mechanisms that progress certain cancer types are being uncovered by recent research and leading to more effective treatment options. Ovarian cancer (OC) is among the most difficult cancers to treat. OC has limited treatment options, especially for patients diagnosed with late-stage OC. The dysregulation of miRNAs in OC plays a significant role in tumorigenesis through the alteration of a multitude of molecular processes. The development of OC can also be due to the utilization of endogenously derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) by activating signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT and MAPK. Both miRNAs and ROS are involved in regulating OC angiogenesis through mediating multiple angiogenic factors such as hypoxia-induced factor (HIF-1) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The NAPDH oxidase subunit NOX4 plays an important role in inducing endogenous ROS production in OC. This review will discuss several important miRNAs, NOX4, and ROS, which contribute to therapeutic resistance in OC, highlighting the effective therapeutic potential of OC through these mechanisms.

Mitochondrial depletion of glutaredoxin 2 induces metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease in mice

Glutaredoxin 2 (Grx2) is a glutathione-dependent oxidoreductase that facilitates glutathionylation/de-glutathionylation of target proteins. The main variants of Grx2 are the mitochondrial Grx2a and the cytosolic Grx2c. The aim of this study was to investigate the specific role of mitochondrial Grx2 in vivo using a mitochondrial Grx2 depleted (mGD) mouse model. mGD mice displayed an altered mitochondrial morphology and functioning. Furthermore, the lack of Grx2 in the mitochondrial compartment is responsible for increased blood lipid levels under a normal diet, a metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) phenotype and a decreased glycogen storage capacity. In addition, depleting Grx2a leads to an alteration in abundance and in glutathionylation pattern of different mitochondrial enzymes, highlighting the selective role of Grx2 in the regulation of metabolic pathways. Overall, our findings identify the involvement of mitochondrial Grx2a in the regulation of cell metabolism and highlight a previously unknown association between Grx2 and MAFLD.

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Mitochondrial Grx2 depleted (mGD) mice display mitochondrial impairment.

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mGD mice show alterations in lipid metabolism and glycogen storage in the liver.

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Upon Grx2 deficiency the glutathionylation pattern of metabolic enzymes changes

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Mitochondrial Grx2 depletion is associated with MAFLD development

The relationship between serum thiol levels and thiol/disulfide homeostasis in women with tubal ectopic pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the thiol/disulfide homeostasis in tubal ectopic pregnancies in terms of early diagnosis of the disease.

DESIGN

A prospective case-control study was carried out between June 2017-February 2018 in the Gynaecology Department of Umraniye Medical and Research Hospital.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 42 women with ectopic pregnancy were compared with 44 healthy women who have intrauterine first trimester pregnancies. The thiol/disulfide homeostasis is evaluated with the spectrophotometric measurement method that was recently developed by Erel&Neselioglu.

RESULTS

Disulfide/native thiol and disulfide/total thiol ratios were increased (p = 0.018 and p = 0.023 respectively), while native thiol/total thiol ratios and native thiol levels were decreased in tubal ectopic pregnancy group according to control group (p = 0.023). Between control and tubal ectopic pregnancy groups no differences were measured in disulfide levels (p = 0.350). The area under curve for native thiol and total thiol were 0.937 and 0.927, respectively. The optimum cut off value for native thiol was 379.95 μmol/l with a sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 81%. The optimum cut off value for total thiol was 432.5 μmol/l had 92% sensitivity and 79% specificity.

LIMITATIONS

In the study, whether intrauterine pregnancies resulted in miscarriage or delivery can be examined.

CONCLUSION

Increased disulfide/native thiol levels, disulfide/total-thiol ratio and decreased native/total thiol ratio were found to be significantly associated with the presence of tubal ectopic pregnancy which can be useful for the early diagnosis of the disease.

Connecting the "Dots": From Free Radical Lipid Autoxidation to Cell Pathology and Disease

Our understanding of lipid peroxidation in biology and medicine is rapidly evolving, as it is increasingly implicated in various diseases but also recognized as a key part of normal cell function, signaling, and death (ferroptosis). Not surprisingly, the root and consequences of lipid peroxidation have garnered increasing attention from multiple disciplines in recent years. Here we "connect the dots" between the fundamental chemistry underpinning the cascade reactions of lipid peroxidation (enzymatic or free radical), the reactive nature of the products formed (lipid-derived electrophiles), and the biological targets and mechanisms associated with these products that culminate in cellular responses. We additionally bring light to the use of highly sensitive, fluorescence-based methodologies. Stemming from the foundational concepts in chemistry and biology, these methodologies enable visualizing and quantifying each reaction in the cascade in a cellular and ultimately tissue context, toward deciphering the connections between the chemistry and physiology of lipid peroxidation. The review offers a platform in which the chemistry and biomedical research communities can access a comprehensive summary of fundamental concepts regarding lipid peroxidation, experimental tools for the study of such processes, as well as the recent discoveries by leading investigators with an emphasis on significant open questions.

Electrophile Modulation of Inflammation: A Two-Hit Approach

Electrophilic small molecules have gained significant attention over the last decade in the field of covalent drug discovery. Long recognized as mediators of the inflammatory process, recent evidence suggests that electrophiles may modulate the immune response through the regulation of metabolic networks. These molecules function as pleiotropic signaling mediators capable of reversibly reacting with nucleophilic biomolecules, most notably at reactive cysteines. More specifically, electrophiles target critical cysteines in redox regulatory proteins to activate protective pathways such as the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2-Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Nrf2-Keap1) antioxidant signaling pathway while also inhibiting Nuclear Factor κB (NF-κB). During inflammatory states, reactive species broadly alter cell signaling through the oxidation of lipids, amino acids, and nucleic acids, effectively propagating the inflammatory sequence. Subsequent changes in metabolic signaling inform immune cell maturation and effector function. Therapeutic strategies targeting inflammatory pathologies leverage electrophilic drug compounds, in part, because of their documented effect on the redox balance of the cell. With mounting evidence demonstrating the link between redox signaling and metabolism, electrophiles represent ideal therapeutic candidates for the treatment of inflammatory conditions. Through their pleiotropic signaling activity, electrophiles may be used strategically to both directly and indirectly target immune cell metabolism.

An investigation into the impact of deleting one copy of the glutaredoxin-2 gene on diet-induced weight gain and the bioenergetics of muscle mitochondria in female mice fed a high fat diet

Our group recently documented that male mice containing a deletion for one copy of the glutaredoxin-2 (Grx2) gene were completely protected from developing diet-induced obesity (DIO). Objectives: Here, we conducted a similar investigation but with female littermates. Results: In comparison to our recent publication using male mice, exposure of WT and GRX2+/- female mice to a HFD from 3-to-10 weeks of age did not induce any changes in body mass, circulating blood glucose, food intake, hepatic glycogen levels, or abdominal fat pad mass. Examination of the bioenergetics of muscle mitochondria revealed no changes in the rate of superoxide ( O 2 ∙ - )/hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) or O₂ consumption under different states of respiration or alterations in lipid peroxidation adduct levels regardless of mouse strain or diet. Additionally, we measured the bioenergetics of mitochondria isolated from liver tissue and found that partial loss of GRX2 augmented respiration but did not alter ROS production. Discussion: Overall, our findings demonstrate there are sex differences in the protection of female GRX2+/- mice from DIO, fat accretion, intrahepatic lipid accumulation, and the bioenergetics of mitochondria from muscle and liver tissue.

Prooxidative chain transfer activity by thiol groups in biological systems

Cysteine is arguably the best-studied biological amino acid, whose thiol group frequently participates in catalysis or ligand binding by proteins. Still, cysteine's unusual biological distribution has remained mysterious, being strikingly underrepresented in transmembrane domains and on accessible protein surfaces, particularly in aerobic life forms (“cysteine anomaly”). Noting that lipophilic thiols have been used for decades as radical chain transfer agents in polymer chemistry, we speculated that the rapid formation of thiyl radicals in hydrophobic phases might provide a rationale for the cysteine anomaly. Hence, we have investigated the effects of dodecylthiol and related compounds in isolated biomembranes, cultivated human cells and whole animals (C. elegans). We have found that lipophilic thiols at micromolar concentrations were efficient accelerators, but not inducers of lipid peroxidation, catalyzed fatty acid isomerization to trans-fatty acids, and evoked a massive cellular stress response related to protein and DNA damage. These effects were specific for lipophilic thiols and were absent with thioethers, alcohols or hydrophilic compounds. Catalytic chain transfer activity by thiyl radicals appears to have deeply influenced the structural biology of life as reflected in the cysteine anomaly. Chain transfer agents represent a novel class of biological cytotoxins that selectively accelerate oxidative damage in vivo.

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Intramembrane thiol groups are prooxidants that promote lipid peroxidation in vivo.

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Intramembrane thiols also cause protein oxidation, DNA damage and cytotoxicity.

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Thiol groups in hydrophobic biological environments act as chain transfer catalysts.

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Thiol groups do not induce radical formation, but accelerate radical propagation.

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Thiyl radicals are the carriers of biological chain transfer catalysis.

Molecular basis for the distinct functions of redox-active and FeS-transfering glutaredoxins

Despite their very close structural similarity, CxxC/S-type (class I) glutaredoxins (Grxs) act as oxidoreductases, while CGFS-type (class II) Grxs act as FeS cluster transferases. Here we show that the key determinant of Grx function is a distinct loop structure adjacent to the active site. Engineering of a CxxC/S-type Grx with a CGFS-type loop switched its function from oxidoreductase to FeS transferase. Engineering of a CGFS-type Grx with a CxxC/S-type loop abolished FeS transferase activity and activated the oxidative half reaction of the oxidoreductase. The reductive half-reaction, requiring the interaction with a second GSH molecule, was enabled by switching additional residues in the active site. We explain how subtle structural differences, mostly depending on the structure of one particular loop, act in concert to determine Grx function.

Immunological Techniques to Assess Protein Thiol Redox State: Opportunities, Challenges and Solutions

To understand oxidative stress, antioxidant defense, and redox signaling in health and disease it is essential to assess protein thiol redox state. Protein thiol redox state is seldom assessed immunologically because of the inability to distinguish reduced and reversibly oxidized thiols by Western blotting. An underappreciated opportunity exists to use Click PEGylation to realize the transformative power of simple, time and cost-efficient immunological techniques. Click PEGylation harnesses selective, bio-orthogonal Click chemistry to separate reduced and reversibly oxidized thiols by selectively ligating a low molecular weight polyethylene glycol moiety to the redox state of interest. The resultant ability to disambiguate reduced and reversibly oxidized species by Western blotting enables Click PEGylation to assess protein thiol redox state. In the present review, to enable investigators to effectively harness immunological techniques to assess protein thiol redox state we critique the chemistry, promise and challenges of Click PEGylation.

Deletion of the Glutaredoxin-2 Gene Protects Mice from Diet-Induced Weight Gain, Which Correlates with Increased Mitochondrial Respiration and Proton Leaks in Skeletal Muscle

Aims: The aim of this study was to determine whether deleting the gene encoding glutaredoxin-2 (GRX2) could protect mice from diet-induced weight gain. Results: Subjecting wild-type littermates to a high fat diet (HFD) induced a significant increase in overall body mass, white adipose tissue hypertrophy, lipid droplet accumulation in hepatocytes, and higher circulating insulin and triglyceride levels. In contrast, GRX2 heterozygotes (GRX2^+/-) fed an HFD had a body mass, white adipose tissue weight, and hepatic and circulating lipid and insulin levels similar to littermates fed a control diet. Examination of the bioenergetics of muscle mitochondria revealed that this protective effect was associated with an increase in respiration and proton leaks. Muscle mitochondria from GRX2^+/- mice had a ∼2- to 3-fold increase in state 3 (phosphorylating) respiration when pyruvate/malate or succinate served as substrates and a ∼4-fold increase when palmitoyl-carnitine was being oxidized. Proton leaks were ∼2- to 3-fold higher in GRX2^+/- muscle mitochondria. Treatment of mitochondria with either guanosine diphosphate, genipin, or octanoyl-carnitine revealed that the higher rate of O₂ consumption under state 4 conditions was associated with increased leaks through uncoupling protein-3 and adenine nucleotide translocase. GRX2^+/- mitochondria also had better protection from oxidative distress. Innovation: For the first time, we demonstrate that deleting the Grx2 gene can protect from diet-induced weight gain and the development of obesity-related disorders. Conclusions: Deleting the Grx2 gene protects mice from diet-induced weight gain. This effect was related to an increase in muscle fuel combustion, mitochondrial respiration, proton leaks, and reactive oxygen species handling. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 31, 1272-1288.

Catalyst-free Click PEGylation reveals substantial mitochondrial ATP synthase sub-unit alpha oxidation before and after fertilisation

Using non-reducing Western blotting to assess protein thiol redox state is challenging because most reduced and oxidised forms migrate at the same molecular weight and are, therefore, indistinguishable. While copper catalysed Click chemistry can be used to ligate a polyethylene glycol (PEG) moiety termed Click PEGylation to mass shift the reduced or oxidised form as desired, the potential for copper catalysed auto-oxidation is problematic. Here we define a catalyst-free trans-cyclooctene-methyltetrazine (TCO-Tz) inverse electron demand Diels Alder chemistry approach that affords rapid (k ~2000 M-1 s-1), selective and bio-orthogonal Click PEGylation. We used TCO-Tz Click PEGylation to investigate how fertilisation impacts reversible mitochondrial ATP synthase F1-Fo sub-unit alpha (ATP-α-F1) oxidation-an established molecular correlate of impaired enzyme activity-in Xenopus laevis. TCO-Tz Click PEGylation studies reveal substantial (~65%) reversible ATP-α-F1 oxidation at evolutionary conserved cysteine residues (i.e., C244 and C294) before and after fertilisation. A single thiol is, however, preferentially oxidised likely due to greater solvent exposure during the catalytic cycle. Selective reduction experiments show that: S-glutathionylation accounts for ~50-60% of the reversible oxidation observed, making it the dominant oxidative modification type. Intermolecular disulphide bonds may also contribute due to their relative stability. Substantial reversible ATP-α-F1 oxidation before and after fertilisation is biologically meaningful because it implies low mitochondrial F1-Fo ATP synthase activity. Catalyst-free TCO-Tz Click PEGylation is a valuable new tool to interrogate protein thiol redox state in health and disease.

Sex-dependent Differences in the Bioenergetics of Liver and Muscle Mitochondria from Mice Containing a Deletion for glutaredoxin-2

Our group recently published a study demonstrating that deleting the gene encoding the matrix thiol oxidoreductase, glutaredoxin-2 (GRX2), alters the bioenergetics of mitochondria isolated from male C57BL/6N mice. Here, we conducted a similar study, examining H₂O₂ production and respiration in mitochondria isolated from female mice heterozygous (GRX2+/−) or homozygous (GRX2−/−) for glutaredoxin-2. First, we observed that deleting the Grx2 gene does not alter the rate of H₂O₂ production in liver and muscle mitochondria oxidizing pyruvate, α-ketoglutarate, or succinate. Examination of the rates of H₂O₂ release from liver mitochondria isolated from male and female mice revealed that (1) sex has an impact on the rate of ROS production by liver and muscle mitochondria and (2) loss of GRX2 only altered ROS release in mitochondria collected from male mice. Assessment of the bioenergetics of these mitochondria revealed that loss of GRX2 increased proton leak-dependent and phosphorylating respiration in liver mitochondria isolated from female mice but did not alter rates of respiration in liver mitochondria from male mice. Furthermore, we found that deleting the Grx2 gene did not alter rates of respiration in muscle mitochondria collected from female mice. This contrasts with male mice where loss of GRX2 substantially augmented proton leaks and ADP-stimulated respiration. Our findings indicate that some fundamental sexual dimorphisms exist between GRX2-deficient male and female rodents.

The combination of ascorbate and menadione causes cancer cell death by oxidative stress and replicative stress

The combination of ascorbate and menadione (VC:VK3 = 100:1) is an investigational treatment for cancer under clinical trials. Dehydroascorbic acid (DHA), the oxidized form of ascorbate, can be taken up by cells via glucose transporters, over-expressed in many cancer cells. It has been known that the combination of VC/VK3 kills cancer cells by inducing hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) via a redox cycling reaction. However, the mechanism has not been fully understood yet. Intracellularly, DHA is reduced to ascorbate by NADPH via GSH and glutaredoxin as well as by thioredoxin (Trx) and the selenoenzyme thioredoxin reductase (TrxR). These two systems are also critical as electron donors for ribonucleotide reductase (RNR), which produces deoxyribonucleotides de novo for DNA replication and DNA repair and is highly expressed in tumor cells. We found that RNR was highly sensitive to VC/VK3 in vitro with similar effects as observed with H₂O₂. In cancer cells, VC/VK3 inhibited RNR mainly by targeting its R2 subunit. More importantly, both the Trx and GSH systems were oxidized by the combination, which resulted in the loss of GSH, increased protein glutathionylation, and highly oxidized Trx1. The mechanism of cell death induced by VC/VK3 was also elucidated. We found that VC/VK3 inhibited glutathione peroxidase activity and led to an elevated level of lipid peroxidation, which triggered apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) mediated cell death pathway. Therefore, the combination not only induced replicative stress by inhibiting RNR, but also oxidative stress by targeting anti-oxidant systems and triggered AIF-mediated cancer cell death.

Mitochondrial complex I in the post-ischemic heart: reperfusion-mediated oxidative injury and protein cysteine sulfonation

A serious consequence of ischemia-reperfusion injury (I/R) is oxidative damage leading to mitochondrial dysfunction. Such I/R-induced mitochondrial dysfunction is observed as impaired state 3 respiration and overproduction of O₂^-. The cascading ROS can propagate cysteine oxidation on mitochondrial complex I and add insult to injury. Herein we employed LC-MS/MS to identify protein sulfonation of complex I in mitochondria from the infarct region of rat hearts subjected to 30-min of coronary ligation and 24-h of reperfusion in vivo as well as the mitochondria of sham controls. Mitochondrial preparations from the I/R regions had enhanced sulfonation levels on the cysteine ligands of iron‑sulfur clusters, including N3 (C₄₂₅), N1b (C₉₂), N4 (C₂₂₆), N2 (C₁₅₈/C₁₈₈), and N1a (C₁₃₄/C₁₃₉). The 4Fe-4S centers of N3, N1b, N4, and N2 are key redox-active components of complex I, thus sulfonation of metal-binding sites impaired the main electron transfer pathway. The binuclear N1a has a very low redox potential and an antioxidative function. Increased C₁₃₄/C₁₃₉ sulfonation by I/R impaired the N1a cluster, potentially contributing to overall O₂^- generation by the FMN moiety of complex I. MS analysis also revealed I/R-mediated increased sulfonation at the core subunits of 51 kDa (C₁₂₅, C₁₈₇, C₂₀₆, C₂₃₈, C₂₅₅, C₂₈₆), 75 kDa (C₃₆₇, C₅₅₄, C₅₆₄, C₇₂₇), 49 kDa (C₁₄₆, C₃₂₆, C₃₄₇), and PSST (C₁₈₈). These results were consistent with the consensus indicating that 51 kDa and 75 kDa are two of major subunits hosting regulatory thiols, and their enhanced sulfonation by I/R predisposed the myocardium to further oxidant stress with impaired ubiquinone reduction. MS analysis further showed I/R-mediated enhanced sulfonation at the supernumerary subunits of 42 kDa (C₆₇, C₁₁₂, C₁₈₃, C₂₅₃), 15 kDa (C₄₃), and 13 kDa (C₇₉). The 42 kDa protein is metazoan-specific, which was reported to stabilize mammalian complex I. C₄₃ of the 15 kDa subunit forms an intramolecular disulfide bond with C₅₆, which was reported to stabilize complex I structure. C₇₉ of the 13 kDa subunit is involved in Zn²⁺-binding, which was reported functionally important for complex I assembly. C₇₉ sulfonation by I/R was found to impair Zn²⁺-binding. No significant enhancement of protein sulfonation was observed in mitochondrial complex I from the rat heart subjected to 30-min ischemia alone in vivo despite a decreased state 3 respiration, suggesting that the physiologic conditions of hyperoxygenation during reperfusion mediated an increase in complex I sulfonation and oxidative injury. In conclusion, sulfonation of specific cysteines of complex I mediates I/R-induced mitochondrial dysfunction via impaired ETC activity, increasing ^•O₂^- production, and mediating redox dysfunction of complex I.

Post-Translational Oxidative Modifications of Mitochondrial Complex I (NADH: Ubiquinone Oxidoreductase): Implications for Pathogenesis and Therapeutics in Human Diseases

Mitochondrial complex I (NADH: ubiquinone oxidoreductase; CI) is central to the electron transport chain (ETC), oxidative phosphorylation, and ATP production in eukaryotes. CI is a multi-subunit complex with a complicated yet organized structure that optimally connects electron transfer with proton translocation and forms higher-order supercomplexes with other ETC complexes. Efforts to understand the molecular genetics, expression profile of subunits, and structure-function relationship of CI have increased over the years due to the direct role of the complex in human diseases. Although mutations in the nuclear and mitochondrial genes of CI and altered expression of subunits could potentially lower CI activity leading to mitochondrial dysfunction in many diseases, oxidative post-translational modifications (PTMs) have emerged as an important mechanism contributing to altered CI activity. These mainly include reversible and irreversible cysteine modifications, tyrosine nitration, carbonylation, and tryptophan oxidation that are generated following exposure to reactive oxygen species/reactive nitrogen species. Interestingly, oxidative PTMs could contribute either to CI damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, and ensuing cell death or a response mechanism with potential cytoprotective effects. This has also emerged as a promising field for structural biologists since analysis of PTMs could assist in understanding the structure-function relationship of the complex and correlate electron transfer mechanism with energy production. However, analysis of PTMs of CI and their contribution to CI function are incomplete in many physiological and pathological conditions. This review aims to highlight the role of oxidative PTMs in modulating CI activity with implications toward pathobiology of CNS diseases and novel therapeutics.

Positive Regulation of Interleukin-1β Bioactivity by Physiological ROS-Mediated Cysteine S-Glutathionylation

Reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced cysteine S-glutathionylation is an important posttranslational modification (PTM) that controls a wide range of intracellular protein activities. However, whether physiological ROS can modulate the function of extracellular components via S-glutathionylation is unknown. Using a screening approach, we identified ROS-mediated cysteine S-glutathionylation on several extracellular cytokines. Glutathionylation of the highly conserved Cys-188 in IL-1β positively regulates its bioactivity by preventing its ROS-induced irreversible oxidation, including sulfinic acid and sulfonic acid formation. We show this mechanism protects IL-1β from deactivation by ROS in an in vivo system of irradiation-induced bone marrow (BM) injury. Glutaredoxin 1 (Grx1), an enzyme that catalyzes deglutathionylation, was present and active in the extracellular space in serum and the BM, physiologically regulating IL-1β glutathionylation and bioactivity. Collectively, we identify cysteine S-glutathionylation as a cytokine regulatory mechanism that could be a therapeutic target in the treatment of various infectious and inflammatory diseases.

Redox Aspects of Chaperones in Cardiac Function

Molecular chaperones are stress proteins that allow the correct folding or unfolding as well as the assembly or disassembly of macromolecular cellular components. Changes in expression and post-translational modifications of chaperones have been linked to a number of age- and stress-related diseases including cancer, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular diseases. Redox sensible post-translational modifications, such as S-nitrosylation, glutathionylation and phosphorylation of chaperone proteins have been reported. Redox-dependent regulation of chaperones is likely to be a phenomenon involved in metabolic processes and may represent an adaptive response to several stress conditions, especially within mitochondria, where it impacts cellular bioenergetics. These post-translational modifications might underlie the mechanisms leading to cardioprotection by conditioning maneuvers as well as to ischemia/reperfusion injury. In this review, we discuss this topic and focus on two important aspects of redox-regulated chaperones, namely redox regulation of mitochondrial chaperone function and cardiac protection against ischemia/reperfusion injury.

Native and exotic oysters in Brazil: Comparative tolerance to hypercapnia

Environmental hypercapnia in shallow coastal marine ecosystems can be exacerbated by increasing levels of atmospheric CO₂. In these ecosystems organisms are expected to become increasingly subjected to pCO₂ levels several times higher than those inhabiting ocean waters (e.g.: 10,000µatm), but still our current understanding on different species capacity to respond to such levels of hypercapnia is limited. Oysters are among the most important foundation species inhabiting these coastal ecosystems, although natural oyster banks are increasingly threatened worldwide. In the present study we studied the effects of hypercapnia on two important oyster species, the pacific oyster C. gigas and the mangrove oyster C. brasiliana, to bring new insights on different species response mechanisms towards three hypercapnic levels (ca. 1,000; 4,000; 10,000 µatm), by study of a set of biomarkers related to metabolic potential (electron transport system - ETS), antioxidant capacity (SOD, CAT, GSH), cellular damage (LPO) and energetic fitness (GLY), in two life stages (juvenile and adult) after 28 days of exposure. Results showed marked differences between each species tolerance capacity to hypercapnia, with contrasting metabolic readjustment strategies (ETS), different antioxidant response capacities (SOD, CAT, GSH), which generally allowed to prevent increased cellular damage (LPO) and energetic impairment (GLY) in both species. Juveniles were more responsive to hypercapnia stress in both congeners, and are likely to be most sensitive to extreme hypercapnia in the environment. Juvenile C. gigas presented more pronounced biochemical alterations at intermediate hypercapnia (4,000µatm) than C. brasiliana. Adult C. gigas showed biochemical alterations mostly in response to high hypercapnia (10,000µatm), while adult C. brasiliana were less responsive to this environmental stressor, despite presenting decreased metabolic potential. Our data bring new insights on the biochemical performance of two important oyster species, and suggest that the duration of extreme hypercapnia events in the ecosystem may pose increased challenges for these organisms as their tolerance capacity may be time limited.

Mitochondria Alkylation and Cellular Trafficking Mapped with a Lipophilic BODIPY-Acrolein Fluorogenic Probe

Protein and DNA alkylation by endogenously produced electrophiles is associated with the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, to epigenetic alterations and to cell signaling and redox regulation. With the goal of visualizing, in real-time, the spatiotemporal response of the cell milieu to electrophiles, we have designed a fluorogenic BODIPY-acrolein probe, AcroB, that undergoes a >350-fold fluorescence intensity enhancement concomitant with protein adduct formation. AcroB enables a direct quantification of single post-translational modifications occurring on cellular proteins via recording fluorescence bursts in live-cell imaging studies. In combination with super-resolution imaging, protein alkylation events may be registered and individually counted, yielding a map of protein-electrophile reactions within the cell lipid milieu. Alkylation is predominantly observed within mitochondria, a source, yet not a sink, of AcroB adducts, illustrating that a mitochondrial constitutive excretion mechanism ensures rapid disposal of compromised proteins. Sorting within the Golgi apparatus and trafficking along microtubules and through the cell endo- and exocytic pathways can be next visualized via live-cell imaging. Our results offer a direct visualization of cellular response to a noncanonical acrolein warhead. We envision AcroB will enable new approaches for diagnosis of pathologies associated with defective cellular trafficking. AcroB may help elucidate key aspects of mitochondria electrophile adduct excretion and cell endocytic and exocytic pathways. Conceptually, AcroB provides a new paradigm on fluorescence microscopy studies where chemical perturbation is achieved and simultaneously reported by the probe.

S-glutathionylation of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase induces formation of C150-C154 intrasubunit disulfide bond in the active site of the enzyme

BACKGROUND

Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) is a glycolytic protein involved in numerous non-glycolytic functions. S-glutathionylated GAPDH was revealed in plant and animal tissues. The role of GAPDH S-glutathionylation is not fully understood.

METHODS

Rabbit muscle GAPDH was S-glutathionylated in the presence of H₂O₂ and reduced glutathione (GSH). The modified protein was assayed by MALDI-MS analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic light scattering, and ultracentrifugation.

RESULTS

Incubation of GAPDH in the presence of H₂O₂ together with GSH resulted in the complete inactivation of the enzyme. In contrast to irreversible oxidation of GAPDH by H₂O₂, this modification could be reversed in the excess of GSH or dithiothreitol. By data of MALDI-MS analysis, the modified protein contained both mixed disulfide between Cys150 and GSH and the intrasubunit disulfide bond between Cys150 and Cys154 (different subunits of tetrameric GAPDH may contain different products). S-glutathionylation results in loosening of the tertiary structure of GAPDH, decreases its affinity to NAD⁺ and thermal stability.

CONCLUSIONS

The mixed disulfide between Cys150 and GSH is an intermediate product of S-glutathionylation: its subsequent reaction with Cys154 results in the intrasubunit disulfide bond in the active site of GAPDH. The mixed disulfide and the C150-C154 disulfide bond protect GAPDH from irreversible oxidation and can be reduced in the excess of thiols. Conformational changes that were observed in S-glutathionylated GAPDH may affect interactions between GAPDH and other proteins (ligands), suggesting the role of S-glutathionylation in the redox signaling.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

The manuscript considers one of the possible mechanisms of redox regulation of cell functions.

Modulation of the specific glutathionylation of mitochondrial proteins in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae under basal and stress conditions

The potential biological consequences of oxidative stress and changes in glutathione levels include the oxidation of susceptible protein thiols and reversible covalent binding of glutathione to the -SH groups of proteins by S-glutathionylation. Mitochondria are central to the response to oxidative stress and redox signaling. It is therefore crucial to explore the adaptive response to changes in thiol-dependent redox status in these organelles. We optimized the purification protocol of glutathionylated proteins in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and present a detailed proteomic analysis of the targets of protein glutathionylation in cells undergoing constitutive metabolism and after exposure to various stress conditions. This work establishes the physiological importance of the glutathionylation process in S. cerevisiae under basal conditions and provides evidence for an atypical and unexpected cellular distribution of the process between the cytosol and mitochondria. In addition, our data indicate that each oxidative condition (diamide, GSSG, H₂O₂, or the presence of iron) elicits an adaptive metabolic response affecting specific mitochondrial metabolic pathways, mainly involved in the energetic maintenance of the cells. The correlation of protein modifications with intracellular glutathione levels suggests that protein deglutathionylation may play a role in protecting mitochondria from oxidative stress. This work provides further insights into the diversity of proteins undergoing glutathionylation and the role of this post-translational modification as a regulatory process in the adaptive response of the cell.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and oxidative stress in heroin-dependent male patients undergoing methadone maintenance treatment

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and oxidative stress may play a role in patients with heroin dependence. The aim of this study was to investigate the serum levels and activities of BDNF and oxidative stress markers, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), protein carbonyl content (PCC), and 8-hydroxy 2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), in heroin-dependent patients undergoing methadone maintenance treatment (MMT). 60 heroin-dependent male MMT patients and 30 healthy males were recruited for this study. The serum BDNF and oxidative stress markers of these subjects were measured with assay kits. Analyses of covariance (ANCOVAs) with age and body mass index adjustments indicated that the serum levels of BDNF in the MMT patients were significantly higher than those in the healthy controls (F=5.169; p=0.026). However, there were no significant differences between the heroin-dependent patients and the healthy controls in the serum levels or activities of oxidative stress markers (p>0.05). In conclusion, our results suggest that MMT increases BDNF levels in heroin-dependent patients, and that patients undergoing MMT might be in a balanced state of reduced oxidation.

Thioredoxin-1 Attenuates Ventricular and Mitochondrial Postischemic Dysfunction in the Stunned Myocardium of Transgenic Mice

AIM

We evaluated the effect of thioredoxin1 (Trx1) system on postischemic ventricular and mitochondrial dysfunction using transgenic mice overexpressing cardiac Trx1 and a dominant negative (DN-Trx1) mutant (C32S/C35S) of Trx1. Langendorff-perfused hearts were subjected to 15 min of ischemia followed by 30 min of reperfusion (R). We measured left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP, mmHg), left ventricular end diastolic pressure (LVEDP, mmHg), and t63 (relaxation index, msec). Mitochondrial respiration, SERCA2a, phospholamban (PLB), and phospholamban phosphorylation (p-PLB) Thr17 expression (Western blot) were also evaluated.

RESULTS

At 30 min of reperfusion, Trx1 improved contractile state (LVDP: Trx1: 57.4 ± 4.9 vs. Wt: 27.1 ± 6.3 and DN-Trx1: 29.2 ± 7.1, p < 0.05); decreased myocardial stiffness (LVEDP: Wt: 24.5 ± 4.8 vs. Trx1: 11.8 ± 2.9, p < 0.05); and improved the isovolumic relaxation (t63: Wt: 63.3 ± 3.2 vs. Trx1: 51.4 ± 1.9, p < 0.05). DN-Trx1 mice aggravated the myocardial stiffness and isovolumic relaxation. Only the expression of p-PLB Thr17 increased at 1.5 min R in Wt and DN-Trx1 groups. At 30 min of reperfusion, state 3 mitochondrial O2 consumption was impaired by 13% in Wt and by 33% in DN-Trx1. ADP/O ratios for Wt and DN-Trx1 decrease by 25% and 28%, respectively; whereas the Trx1 does not change after ischemia and reperfusion (I/R). Interestingly, baseline values of complex I activity were increased in Trx1 mice; they were 24% and 47% higher than in Wt and DN-Trx1 mice, respectively (p < 0.01).

INNOVATION AND CONCLUSION

These results strongly suggest that Trx1 ameliorates the myocardial effects of I/R by improving the free radical-mediated damage in cardiac and mitochondrial function, opening the possibility of new therapeutic strategies in coronary artery disease. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 25, 78-88.

Post-Translational Modifications of Cardiac Mitochondrial Proteins in Cardiovascular Disease: Not Lost in Translation

Protein post-translational modifications (PTMs) are crucial in regulating cellular biology by playing key roles in processes such as the rapid on and off switching of signaling network and the regulation of enzymatic activities without affecting gene expressions. PTMs lead to conformational changes in the tertiary structure of protein and resultant regulation of protein function such as activation, inhibition, or signaling roles. PTMs such as phosphorylation, acetylation, and S-nitrosylation of specific sites in proteins have key roles in regulation of mitochondrial functions, thereby contributing to the progression to heart failure. Despite the extensive study of PTMs in mitochondrial proteins much remains unclear. Further research is yet to be undertaken to elucidate how changes in the proteins may lead to cardiovascular and metabolic disease progression in particular. We aimed to summarize the various types of PTMs that occur in mitochondrial proteins, which might be associated with heart failure. This study will increase the understanding of cardiovascular diseases through PTM.

Protein S-glutathionlyation links energy metabolism to redox signaling in mitochondria

At its core mitochondrial function relies on redox reactions. Electrons stripped from nutrients are used to form NADH and NADPH, electron carriers that are similar in structure but support different functions. NADH supports ATP production but also generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide (O2·-) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). NADH-driven ROS production is counterbalanced by NADPH which maintains antioxidants in an active state. Mitochondria rely on a redox buffering network composed of reduced glutathione (GSH) and peroxiredoxins (Prx) to quench ROS generated by nutrient metabolism. As H₂O₂ is quenched, NADPH is expended to reactivate antioxidant networks and reset the redox environment. Thus, the mitochondrial redox environment is in a constant state of flux reflecting changes in nutrient and ROS metabolism. Changes in redox environment can modulate protein function through oxidation of protein cysteine thiols. Typically cysteine oxidation is considered to be mediated by H₂O₂ which oxidizes protein thiols (SH) forming sulfenic acid (SOH). However, problems begin to emerge when one critically evaluates the regulatory function of SOH. Indeed SOH formation is slow, non-specific, and once formed SOH reacts rapidly with a variety of molecules. By contrast, protein S-glutathionylation (PGlu) reactions involve the conjugation and removal of glutathione moieties from modifiable cysteine residues. PGlu reactions are driven by fluctuations in the availability of GSH and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and thus should be exquisitely sensitive to changes ROS flux due to shifts in the glutathione pool in response to varying H₂O₂ availability. Here, we propose that energy metabolism-linked redox signals originating from mitochondria are mediated indirectly by H₂O₂ through the GSH redox buffering network in and outside mitochondria. This proposal is based on several observations that have shown that unlike other redox modifications PGlu reactions fulfill the requisite criteria to serve as an effective posttranslational modification that controls protein function.

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Mitochondria employ redox buffering networks to regulate bioenergetics.

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PGlu reactions link energy/nutrient metabolism to redox signaling.

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Other redox modifications lack regulatory features.

Modulation of the matrix redox signaling by mitochondrial Ca2+

Mitochondria sense, shape and integrate signals, and thus function as central players in cellular signal transduction. Ca²⁺ waves and redox reactions are two such intracellular signals modulated by mitochondria. Mitochondrial Ca²⁺ transport is of utmost physio-pathological relevance with a strong impact on metabolism and cell fate. Despite its importance, the molecular nature of the proteins involved in mitochondrial Ca²⁺ transport has been revealed only recently. Mitochondrial Ca²⁺ promotes energy metabolism through the activation of matrix dehydrogenases and down-stream stimulation of the respiratory chain. These changes also alter the mitochondrial NAD(P)H/NAD(P)⁺ ratio, but at the same time will increase reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Reducing equivalents and ROS are having opposite effects on the mitochondrial redox state, which are hard to dissect. With the recent development of genetically encoded mitochondrial-targeted redox-sensitive sensors, real-time monitoring of matrix thiol redox dynamics has become possible. The discoveries of the molecular nature of mitochondrial transporters of Ca²⁺ combined with the utilization of the novel redox sensors is shedding light on the complex relation between mitochondrial Ca²⁺ and redox signals and their impact on cell function. In this review, we describe mitochondrial Ca²⁺ handling, focusing on a number of newly identified proteins involved in mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uptake and release. We further discuss our recent findings, revealing how mitochondrial Ca²⁺ influences the matrix redox state. As a result, mitochondrial Ca²⁺ is able to modulate the many mitochondrial redox-regulated processes linked to normal physiology and disease.

S-Glutathionylation and Redox Protein Signaling in Drug Addiction

Drug addiction is a chronic relapsing disorder that comes at a high cost to individuals and society. Therefore understanding the mechanisms by which drugs exert their effects is of prime importance. Drugs of abuse increase the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species resulting in oxidative stress. This change in redox homeostasis increases the conjugation of glutathione to protein cysteine residues; a process called S-glutathionylation. Although traditionally regarded as a protective mechanism against irreversible protein oxidation, accumulated evidence suggests a more nuanced role for S-glutathionylation, namely as a mediator in redox-sensitive protein signaling. The reversible modification of protein thiols leading to alteration in function under different physiologic/pathologic conditions provides a mechanism whereby change in redox status can be translated into a functional response. As such, S-glutathionylation represents an understudied means of post-translational protein modification that may be important in the mechanisms underlying drug addiction. This review will discuss the evidence for S-glutathionylation as a redox-sensing mechanism and how this may be involved in the response to drug-induced oxidative stress. The function of S-glutathionylated proteins involved in neurotransmission, dendritic spine structure, and drug-induced behavioral outputs will be reviewed with specific reference to alcohol, cocaine, and heroin.

Increased TRPC5 glutathionylation contributes to striatal neuron loss in Huntington's disease

Aberrant glutathione or Ca(2+) homeostasis due to oxidative stress is associated with the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders. The Ca(2+)-permeable transient receptor potential cation (TRPC) channel is predominantly expressed in the brain, which is sensitive to oxidative stress. However, the role of the TRPC channel in neurodegeneration is not known. Here, we report a mechanism of TRPC5 activation by oxidants and the effect of glutathionylated TRPC5 on striatal neurons in Huntington's disease. Intracellular oxidized glutathione leads to TRPC5 activation via TRPC5 S-glutathionylation at Cys176/Cys178 residues. The oxidized glutathione-activated TRPC5-like current results in a sustained increase in cytosolic Ca(2+), activated calmodulin-dependent protein kinase and the calpain-caspase pathway, ultimately inducing striatal neuronal cell death. We observed an abnormal glutathione pool indicative of an oxidized state in the striatum of Huntington's disease transgenic (YAC128) mice. Increased levels of endogenous TRPC5 S-glutathionylation were observed in the striatum in both transgenic mice and patients with Huntington's disease. Both knockdown and inhibition of TRPC5 significantly attenuated oxidation-induced striatal neuronal cell death. Moreover, a TRPC5 blocker improved rearing behaviour in Huntington's disease transgenic mice and motor behavioural symptoms in littermate control mice by increasing striatal neuron survival. Notably, low levels of TRPC1 increased the formation of TRPC5 homotetramer, a highly Ca(2+)-permeable channel, and stimulated Ca(2+)-dependent apoptosis in Huntington's disease cells (STHdh(Q111/111)). Taken together, these novel findings indicate that increased TRPC5 S-glutathionylation by oxidative stress and decreased TRPC1 expression contribute to neuronal damage in the striatum and may underlie neurodegeneration in Huntington's disease.

Antioxidative and proteolytic systems protect mitochondria from oxidative damage in S-deficient Arabidopsis thaliana

We examined the functioning of the antioxidative defense system in Arabidopsis thaliana under sulphur (S) deficiency with an emphasis on the role of mitochondria. In tissue extracts and in isolated mitochondria from S-deficient plants, the concentration of non-protein thiols declined but protein thiols did not change. Superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide were accumulated in leaf blades and the generation of superoxide anion by isolated mitochondria was higher. Lower abundance of reduced (GSH) plus oxidized (GSSG) glutathione in the leaf and root tissues, and leaf mitochondria from S-deficient plants was accompanied by a decrease in the level of GSH and the changes in the GSH/GSSG ratios. In the chloroplasts, the total level of glutathione decreased. Lower levels of reduced (AsA) and oxidized (DHA) ascorbate were reflected in much higher ratios of AsA/DHA. Sulphur deficiency led to an increase in the activity of cytosolic, mitochondrial and chloroplastic antioxidative enzymes, peroxidases, catalases and superoxide dismutases. The protein carbonyl level was higher in the leaves of S-deficient plants and in the chloroplasts, while in the roots, leaf and root mitochondria it remained unchanged. Protease activity in leaf extracts of S-deficient plants was higher, but in root extracts it did not differ. The proteolytic system reflected subcellular specificity. In leaf and root mitochondria the protease activity was higher, whereas in the chloroplasts it did not change. We propose that the preferential incorporation of S to protein thiols and activation of antioxidative and proteolytic systems are likely important for the survival of S-deficient plants and that the mitochondria maintain redox homeostasis.

Glutaredoxin 2a overexpression in macrophages promotes mitochondrial dysfunction but has little or no effect on atherogenesis in LDL-receptor null mice

AIMS

Reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated formation of mixed disulfides between critical cysteine residues in proteins and glutathione, a process referred to as protein S-glutathionylation, can lead to loss of enzymatic activity and protein degradation. Since mitochondria are a major source of ROS and a number of their proteins are susceptible to protein-S-glutathionylation, we examined if overexpression of mitochondrial thioltranferase glutaredoxin 2a (Grx2a) in macrophages of dyslipidemic atherosclerosis-prone mice would prevent mitochondrial dysfunction and protect against atherosclerotic lesion formation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We generated transgenic Grx2aMac(LDLR-/-) mice, which overexpress Grx2a as an EGFP fusion protein under the control of the macrophage-specific CD68 promoter. Transgenic mice and wild type siblings were fed a high fat diet for 14 weeks at which time we assessed mitochondrial bioenergetic function in peritoneal macrophages and atherosclerotic lesion formation. Flow cytometry and Western blot analysis demonstrated transgene expression in blood monocytes and peritoneal macrophages isolated from Grx2aMac(LDLR-/-) mice, and fluorescence confocal microscopy studies confirmed that Grx2a expression was restricted to the mitochondria of monocytic cells. Live-cell bioenergetic measurements revealed impaired mitochondrial ATP turnover in macrophages isolated from Grx2aMac(LDLR-/-) mice compared to macrophages isolated from non-transgenic mice. However, despite impaired mitochondrial function in macrophages of Grx2aMac(LDLR-/-) mice, we observed no significant difference in the severity of atherosclerosis between wildtype and Grx2aMac(LDLR-/-) mice.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that increasing Grx2a activity in macrophage mitochondria disrupts mitochondrial respiration and ATP production, but without affecting the proatherogenic potential of macrophages. Our data suggest that macrophages are resistant against moderate mitochondrial dysfunction and rely on alternative pathways for ATP synthesis to support the energetic requirements.

Manganese (III) meso-tetrakis N-ethylpyridinium-2-yl porphyrin acts as a pro-oxidant to inhibit electron transport chain proteins, modulate bioenergetics, and enhance the response to chemotherapy in lymphoma cells

The manganese porphyrin, manganese (III) meso-tetrakis N-ethylpyridinium-2-yl porphyrin (MnTE-2-PyP(5+)), acts as a pro-oxidant in the presence of intracellular H2O2. Mitochondria are the most prominent source of intracellular ROS and important regulators of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Due to the increased oxidants near and within the mitochondria, we hypothesized that the mitochondria are a target of the pro-oxidative activity of MnTE-2-PyP(5+) and that we could exploit this effect to enhance the chemotherapeutic response in lymphoma. In this study, we demonstrate that MnTE-2-PyP(5+) modulates the mitochondrial redox environment and sensitizes lymphoma cells to antilymphoma chemotherapeutics. MnTE-2-PyP(5+) increased dexamethasone-induced mitochondrial ROS and oxidation of the mitochondrial glutathione pool in lymphoma cells. The combination treatment induced glutathionylation of Complexes I, III, and IV in the electron transport chain, and decreased the activity of Complexes I and III, but not the activity of Complex IV. Treatment with the porphyrin and dexamethasone also decreased cellular ATP levels. Rho(0) malignant T-cells with impaired mitochondrial electron transport chain function were less sensitive to the combination treatment than wild-type cells. These findings suggest that mitochondria are important for the porphyrin's ability to enhance cell death. MnTE-2-PyP(5+) also augmented the effects of 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2DG), an antiglycolytic agent. In combination with 2DG, MnTE-2-PyP(5+) increased protein glutathionylation, decreased ATP levels more than 2DG treatment alone, and enhanced 2DG-induced cell death in primary B-ALL cells. MnTE-2-PyP(5+) did not enhance dexamethasone- or 2DG-induced cell death in normal cells. Our findings suggest that MnTE-2-PyP(5+) has potential as an adjuvant for the treatment of hematologic malignancies.

Mitochondrial DNA alteration in obstructive sleep apnea

Background

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSAS) is a disease associated with the increase of cardiovascular risk and it is characterized by repeated episodes of Intermittent Hypoxia (IH) which inducing oxidative stress and systemic inflammation. Mitochondria are cell organelles involved in the respiratory that have their own DNA (MtDNA). The aim of this study was to investigate if the increase of oxidative stress in OSAS patients can induce also MtDNA alterations.

Methods

46 OSAS patients (age 59.27 ± 11.38; BMI 30.84 ± 3.64; AHI 36.63 ± 24.18) were compared with 36 control subjects (age 54.42 ± 6.63; BMI 29.06 ± 4.7; AHI 3.8 ± 1.10). In blood cells Content of MtDNA and nuclear DNA (nDNA) was measured in OSAS patients by Real Time PCR. The ratio between MtDNA/nDNA was then calculated. Presence of oxidative stress was evaluated by levels of Reactive Oxygen Metabolites (ROMs), measured by diacron reactive oxygen metabolite test (d-ROM test).

Results

MtDNA/nDNA was higher in patients with OSAS than in the control group (150.94 ± 49.14 vs 128.96 ± 45.8; p = 0.04), the levels of ROMs were also higher in OSAS subjects (329.71 ± 70.17 vs 226 ± 36.76; p = 0.04) and they were positively correlated with MtDNA/nDNA (R = 0.5, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

In OSAS patients there is a Mitochondrial DNA damage induced by the increase of oxidative stress. Intermittent hypoxia seems to be the main mechanism which leads to this process.

Hitting the Bull's-Eye in Metastatic Cancers-NSAIDs Elevate ROS in Mitochondria, Inducing Malignant Cell Death

Tumor metastases that impede the function of vital organs are a major cause of cancer related mortality. Mitochondrial oxidative stress induced by hypoxia, low nutrient levels, or other stresses, such as genotoxic events, act as key drivers of the malignant changes in primary tumors to enhance their progression to metastasis. Emerging evidence now indicates that mitochondrial modifications and mutations resulting from oxidative stress, and leading to OxPhos stimulation and/or enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, are essential for promoting and sustaining the highly metastatic phenotype. Moreover, the modified mitochondria in emerging or existing metastatic cancer cells, by their irreversible differences, provide opportunities for selectively targeting their mitochondrial functions with a one-two punch. The first blow would block their anti-oxidative defense, followed by the knockout blow—promoting production of excess ROS, capitulating the terminal stage—activation of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP), specifically killing metastatic cancer cells or their precursors. This review links a wide area of research relevant to cellular mechanisms that affect mitochondria activity as a major source of ROS production driving the pro-oxidative state in metastatic cancer cells. Each of the important aspects affecting mitochondrial function are discussed including: hypoxia, HIFs and PGC1 induced metabolic changes, increased ROS production to induce a more pro-oxidative state with reduced antioxidant defenses. It then focuses on how the mitochondria, as a major source of ROS in metastatic cancer cells driving the pro-oxidative state of malignancy enables targeting drugs affecting many of these altered processes and why the NSAIDs are an excellent example of mitochondria-targeted agents that provide a one-two knockout activating the mPTP and their efficacy as selective anticancer metastasis drugs.

Changes in the mitochondrial antioxidant systems in neurodegenerative diseases and acute brain disorders

Oxidative and nitrosative stress (ONS) contributes to the pathogenesis of most brain maladies, and the magnitude of ONS is related to the ability of cellular antioxidants to neutralize the accumulating reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS). While the major ROS/RNS scavengers and regenerators of bio-oxidized molecules, superoxide dysmutases (SODs), glutathione (GSH), thioredoxin (Trx) and peroxiredoxin (Prx), are distributed in all cellular compartments. This review specifically focuses on the role of the systems operating in mitochondria. There is a growing consensus that the mitochondrial SOD isoform - SOD2 and GSH are critical for the cellular antioxidant defense. Variable changes of the expression or activities of one or more of the mitochondrial antioxidant systems have been documented in the brains derived from human patients and/or in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease), cerebral ischemia, toxic brain cell damage associated with overexposure to mercury or excitotoxins, or hepatic encephalopathy. In many cases, ambiguity of the responses of the different antioxidant systems in one and the same disease needs to be more conclusively evaluated before the balance of the changes is viewed as beneficial or detrimental. Modulation of the mitochondrial antioxidant systems may in the future become a target of antioxidant therapy.

S-glutathionylation reactions in mitochondrial function and disease

Mitochondria are highly efficient energy-transforming organelles that convert energy stored in nutrients into ATP. The production of ATP by mitochondria is dependent on oxidation of nutrients and coupling of exergonic electron transfer reactions to the genesis of transmembrane electrochemical potential of protons. Electrons can also prematurely “spin-off” from prosthetic groups in Krebs cycle enzymes and respiratory complexes and univalently reduce di-oxygen to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) superoxide (O₂•⁻) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), important signaling molecules that can be toxic at high concentrations. Production of ATP and ROS are intimately linked by the respiratory chain and the genesis of one or the other inherently depends on the metabolic state of mitochondria. Various control mechanisms converge on mitochondria to adjust ATP and ROS output in response to changing cellular demands. One control mechanism that has gained a high amount of attention recently is S-glutathionylation, a redox sensitive covalent modification that involves formation of a disulfide bridge between glutathione and an available protein cysteine thiol. A number of S-glutathionylation targets have been identified in mitochondria. It has also been established that S-glutathionylation reactions in mitochondria are mediated by the thiol oxidoreductase glutaredoxin-2 (Grx2). In the following review, emerging knowledge on S-glutathionylation reactions and its importance in modulating mitochondrial ATP and ROS production will be discussed. Major focus will be placed on Complex I of the respiratory chain since (1) it is a target for reversible S-glutathionylation by Grx2 and (2) deregulation of Complex I S-glutathionylation is associated with development of various disease states particularly heart disease. Other mitochondrial enzymes and how their S-glutathionylation profile is affected in different disease states will also be discussed.

Glutathionylation of the L-type Ca2+ channel in oxidative stress-induced pathology of the heart

There is mounting evidence to suggest that protein glutathionylation is a key process contributing to the development of pathology. Glutathionylation occurs as a result of posttranslational modification of a protein and involves the addition of a glutathione moiety at cysteine residues. Such modification can occur on a number of proteins, and exerts a variety of functional consequences. The L-type Ca2+ channel has been identified as a glutathionylation target that participates in the development of cardiac pathology. Ca2+ influx via the L-type Ca2+ channel increases production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cardiomyocytes during periods of oxidative stress. This induces a persistent increase in channel open probability, and the resulting constitutive increase in Ca2+ influx amplifies the cross-talk between the mitochondria and the channel. Novel strategies utilising targeted peptide delivery to uncouple mitochondrial ROS and Ca2+ flux via the L-type Ca2+ channel following ischemia-reperfusion have delivered promising results, and have proven capable of restoring appropriate mitochondrial function in myocytes and in vivo.

Compartment-specific importance of glutathione during abiotic and biotic stress

The tripeptide thiol glutathione (γ-L-glutamyl-L-cysteinyl-glycine) is the most important sulfur containing antioxidant in plants and essential for plant defense against abiotic and biotic stress conditions. It is involved in the detoxification of reactive oxygen species (ROS), redox signaling, the modulation of defense gene expression, and the regulation of enzymatic activities. Even though changes in glutathione contents are well documented in plants and its roles in plant defense are well established, still too little is known about its compartment-specific importance during abiotic and biotic stress conditions. Due to technical advances in the visualization of glutathione and the redox state through microscopical methods some progress was made in the last few years in studying the importance of subcellular glutathione contents during stress conditions in plants. This review summarizes the data available on compartment-specific importance of glutathione in the protection against abiotic and biotic stress conditions such as high light stress, exposure to cadmium, drought, and pathogen attack (Pseudomonas, Botrytis, tobacco mosaic virus). The data will be discussed in connection with the subcellular accumulation of ROS during these conditions and glutathione synthesis which are both highly compartment specific (e.g., glutathione synthesis takes place in chloroplasts and the cytosol). Thus this review will reveal the compartment-specific importance of glutathione during abiotic and biotic stress conditions.

Perspectives on mitochondrial uncoupling proteins-mediated neuroprotection

The integrity of mitochondrial function is essential to cell life. It follows that disturbances of mitochondrial function will lead to disruption of cell function, expressed as disease or even death. Considering that neuronal uncoupling proteins (UCPs) decrease reactive oxygen species (ROS) production at the expense of energy production, it is important to understand the underlying mechanisms by which UCPs control the balance between the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and ROS in the context of normal physiological activity and in pathological conditions. Here we review the current understanding of neuronal UCPs-mediated respiratory uncoupling process by performing a survey in their physiology and regulation. The latest findings regarding neuronal UCPs physiological roles and their involvement and interest as potential targets for therapeutic intervention in brain diseases will also be exploited.

Glutaredoxin-2 is required to control oxidative phosphorylation in cardiac muscle by mediating deglutathionylation reactions

Glutaredoxin-2 (Grx2) modulates the activity of several mitochondrial proteins in cardiac tissue by catalyzing deglutathionylation reactions. However, it remains uncertain whether Grx2 is required to control mitochondrial ATP output in heart. Here, we report that Grx2 plays a vital role modulating mitochondrial energetics and heart physiology by mediating the deglutathionylation of mitochondrial proteins. Deletion of Grx2 (Grx2(-/-)) decreased ATP production by complex I-linked substrates to half that in wild type (WT) mitochondria. Decreased respiration was associated with increased complex I glutathionylation diminishing its activity. Tissue glucose uptake was concomitantly increased. Mitochondrial ATP output and complex I activity could be recovered by restoring the redox environment to that favoring the deglutathionylated states of proteins. Grx2(-/-) hearts also developed left ventricular hypertrophy and fibrosis, and mice became hypertensive. Mitochondrial energetics from Grx2 heterozygotes (Grx2(+/-)) were also dysfunctional, and hearts were hypertrophic. Intriguingly, Grx2(+/-) mice were far less hypertensive than Grx2(-/-) mice. Thus, Grx2 plays a vital role in modulating mitochondrial metabolism in cardiac muscle, and Grx2 deficiency leads to pathology. As mitochondrial ATP production was restored by the addition of reductants, these findings may be relevant to novel redox-related therapies in cardiac disease.

MnSOD in oxidative stress response-potential regulation via mitochondrial protein influx

SIGNIFICANCE

The mitochondrial antioxidant manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) is encoded by genomic DNA and its dismutase function is fully activated in the mitochondria to detoxify free radical O2(•-) generated by mitochondrial respiration. Accumulating evidence shows an extensive communication between the mitochondria and cytoplasm under oxidative stress. Not only is the MnSOD gene upregulated by oxidative stress, but MnSOD activity can be enhanced via the mitochondrial protein influx (MPI).

RECENT ADVANCES

A cluster of MPI containing cytoplasmic/nuclear proteins, such as cyclins, cyclin-dependent kinases, and p53 interact with and alter MnSOD activity. These proteins modulate MnSOD superoxide scavenging activity via post-translational modifications in the mitochondria. In addition to well-established pathways in gene expression, recent findings suggest that MnSOD enzymatic activity can also be enhanced by phosphorylation of specific motifs in mitochondria. This review attempts to discuss the pre- and post-translational regulation of MnSOD, and how these modifications alter MnSOD activity, which induces a cell adaptive response to oxidative stress.

CRITICAL ISSUES

MnSOD is biologically significant to aerobic cells. Its role in protecting the cells against the deleterious effects of reactive oxygen species is evident. However, the exact network of MnSOD-associated cellular adaptive reaction to oxidative stress and its post-translational modifications, especially its enzymatic enhancement via phosphorylation, is not yet fully understood.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

The broad discussion of the multiple aspects of MnSOD regulation, including gene expression, protein modifications, and enzymatic activity, will shed light onto the unknown mechanisms that govern the prosurvival networks involved in cellular and mitochondrial adaptive response to genotoxic environment.

The use of the Cre/loxP system to study oxidative stress in tissue-specific manganese superoxide dismutase knockout models

SIGNIFICANCE

Respiring mitochondria are a significant site for reactions involving reactive oxygen and nitrogen species that contribute to irreversible cellular, structural, and functional damage leading to multiple pathological conditions. Manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) is a critical component of the antioxidant system tasked with protecting the oxidant-sensitive mitochondrial compartment from oxidative stress. Since global knockout of MnSOD results in significant cardiac and neuronal damage leading to early postnatal lethality, this approach has limited use for studying the mechanisms of oxidant stress and the development of disease in specific tissues lacking MnSOD. To circumvent this problem, a number of investigators have employed the Cre/loxP system to precisely knockout MnSOD in individual tissues.

RECENT ADVANCES

Multiple tissue and organ-specific Cre-expressing mice have been generated, which greatly enhance the specificity of MnSOD knockout in tissues and organ systems that were once difficult, if not impossible to study.

CRITICAL ISSUES

Evaluating the contribution of MnSOD deficiency to oxidant-mediated mitochondrial damage requires careful consideration of the promoter system used for creating the tissue-specific knockout animal, in addition to the collection and interpretation of multiple indices of oxidative stress and damage.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Expanded use of well-characterized tissue-specific promoter elements and inducible systems to drive the Cre/loxP recombinational events will lead to a spectrum of MnSOD tissue knockout models, and a clearer understanding of the role of MnSOD in preventing mitochondrial dysfunction in human disease.