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Berndt C, Alborzinia H, Amen VS, Ayton S, Barayeu U, Bartelt A, Bayir H, Bebber CM, Birsoy K, Böttcher JP, Brabletz S, Brabletz T, Brown AR, Brüne B, Bulli G, Bruneau A, Chen Q, DeNicola GM, Dick TP, Distéfano A, Dixon SJ, Engler JB, Esser-von Bieren J, Fedorova M, Friedmann Angeli JP, Friese MA, Fuhrmann DC, García-Sáez AJ, Garbowicz K, Götz M, Gu W, Hammerich L, Hassannia B, Jiang X, Jeridi A, Kang YP, Kagan VE, Konrad DB, Kotschi S, Lei P, Le Tertre M, Lev S, Liang D, Linkermann A, Lohr C, Lorenz S, Luedde T, Methner A, Michalke B, Milton AV, Min J, Mishima E, Müller S, Motohashi H, Muckenthaler MU, Murakami S, Olzmann JA, Pagnussat G, Pan Z, Papagiannakopoulos T, Pedrera Puentes L, Pratt DA, Proneth B, Ramsauer L, Rodriguez R, Saito Y, Schmidt F, Schmitt C, Schulze A, Schwab A, Schwantes A, Soula M, Spitzlberger B, Stockwell BR, Thewes L, Thorn-Seshold O, Toyokuni S, Tonnus W, Trumpp A, Vandenabeele P, Vanden Berghe T, Venkataramani V, Vogel FCE, von Karstedt S, Wang F, Westermann F, Wientjens C, Wilhelm C, Wölk M, Wu K, Yang X, Yu F, Zou Y, Conrad M. Ferroptosis in health and disease. Redox Biol 2024; 75:103211. [PMID: 38908072 PMCID: PMC11253697 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a pervasive non-apoptotic form of cell death highly relevant in various degenerative diseases and malignancies. The hallmark of ferroptosis is uncontrolled and overwhelming peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids contained in membrane phospholipids, which eventually leads to rupture of the plasma membrane. Ferroptosis is unique in that it is essentially a spontaneous, uncatalyzed chemical process based on perturbed iron and redox homeostasis contributing to the cell death process, but that it is nonetheless modulated by many metabolic nodes that impinge on the cells' susceptibility to ferroptosis. Among the various nodes affecting ferroptosis sensitivity, several have emerged as promising candidates for pharmacological intervention, rendering ferroptosis-related proteins attractive targets for the treatment of numerous currently incurable diseases. Herein, the current members of a Germany-wide research consortium focusing on ferroptosis research, as well as key external experts in ferroptosis who have made seminal contributions to this rapidly growing and exciting field of research, have gathered to provide a comprehensive, state-of-the-art review on ferroptosis. Specific topics include: basic mechanisms, in vivo relevance, specialized methodologies, chemical and pharmacological tools, and the potential contribution of ferroptosis to disease etiopathology and progression. We hope that this article will not only provide established scientists and newcomers to the field with an overview of the multiple facets of ferroptosis, but also encourage additional efforts to characterize further molecular pathways modulating ferroptosis, with the ultimate goal to develop novel pharmacotherapies to tackle the various diseases associated with - or caused by - ferroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carsten Berndt
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Hamed Alborzinia
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM GGmbH), Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Stem Cells and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Vera Skafar Amen
- Rudolf Virchow Zentrum, Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging - University of Würzburg, Germany
| | - Scott Ayton
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Uladzimir Barayeu
- Division of Redox Regulation, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Environmental Medicine and Molecular Toxicology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Alexander Bartelt
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany; Institute for Diabetes and Cancer (IDC), Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany; German Center for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Hülya Bayir
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Christina M Bebber
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department of Translational Genomics, Cologne, Germany; CECAD Cluster of Excellence, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Kivanc Birsoy
- Laboratory of Metabolic Regulation and Genetics, Rockefeller University, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Jan P Böttcher
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Germany
| | - Simone Brabletz
- Department of Experimental Medicine 1, Nikolaus-Fiebiger Center for Molecular Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Brabletz
- Department of Experimental Medicine 1, Nikolaus-Fiebiger Center for Molecular Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany
| | - Ashley R Brown
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Bernhard Brüne
- Institute of Biochemistry1-Pathobiochemistry, Goethe-Universität, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Giorgia Bulli
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Alix Bruneau
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum (CVK) and Campus Charité Mitte (CCM), Berlin, Germany
| | - Quan Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Gina M DeNicola
- Department of Metabolism and Physiology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Tobias P Dick
- Division of Redox Regulation, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ayelén Distéfano
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas, CONICET, National University of Mar Del Plata, Argentina
| | - Scott J Dixon
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jan B Engler
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | | | - Maria Fedorova
- Center of Membrane Biochemistry and Lipid Research, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus and Faculty of Medicine of TU Dresden, Germany
| | - José Pedro Friedmann Angeli
- Rudolf Virchow Zentrum, Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging - University of Würzburg, Germany
| | - Manuel A Friese
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Dominic C Fuhrmann
- Institute of Biochemistry1-Pathobiochemistry, Goethe-Universität, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Ana J García-Sáez
- Institute for Genetics, CECAD, University of Cologne, Germany; Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | | | - Magdalena Götz
- Department of Physiological Genomics, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany; Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Center Munich, Germany
| | - Wei Gu
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, And Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Linda Hammerich
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum (CVK) and Campus Charité Mitte (CCM), Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Xuejun Jiang
- Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Aicha Jeridi
- Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI), Helmholtz Munich, Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC-M), Germany, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL)
| | - Yun Pyo Kang
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Seoul National University, Republic of Korea
| | | | - David B Konrad
- Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Kotschi
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Peng Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Marlène Le Tertre
- Center for Translational Biomedical Iron Research, Heidelberg University, Germany
| | - Sima Lev
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Deguang Liang
- Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Andreas Linkermann
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at the Technische Universität Dresden, Germany; Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Carolin Lohr
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Svenja Lorenz
- Institute of Metabolism and Cell Death, Helmholtz Center Munich, Germany
| | - Tom Luedde
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Axel Methner
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Germany
| | - Bernhard Michalke
- Research Unit Analytical Biogeochemistry, Helmholtz Center Munich, Germany
| | - Anna V Milton
- Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Junxia Min
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Eikan Mishima
- Institute of Metabolism and Cell Death, Helmholtz Center Munich, Germany
| | | | - Hozumi Motohashi
- Department of Gene Expression Regulation, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | | | - Shohei Murakami
- Department of Gene Expression Regulation, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - James A Olzmann
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA; Department of Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA; Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Gabriela Pagnussat
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas, CONICET, National University of Mar Del Plata, Argentina
| | - Zijan Pan
- School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
| | | | | | - Derek A Pratt
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Ottawa, Canada
| | - Bettina Proneth
- Institute of Metabolism and Cell Death, Helmholtz Center Munich, Germany
| | - Lukas Ramsauer
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Germany
| | | | - Yoshiro Saito
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Felix Schmidt
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Germany
| | - Carina Schmitt
- Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Almut Schulze
- Division of Tumour Metabolism and Microenvironment, DKFZ Heidelberg and DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Annemarie Schwab
- Department of Experimental Medicine 1, Nikolaus-Fiebiger Center for Molecular Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany
| | - Anna Schwantes
- Institute of Biochemistry1-Pathobiochemistry, Goethe-Universität, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Mariluz Soula
- Laboratory of Metabolic Regulation and Genetics, Rockefeller University, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Benedikt Spitzlberger
- Department of Immunobiology, Université de Lausanne, Switzerland; Center of Allergy and Environment (ZAUM), Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Center Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Brent R Stockwell
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York City, NY, USA; Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Leonie Thewes
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | | | - Shinya Toyokuni
- Department of Pathology and Biological Responses, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan; Center for Low-temperature Plasma Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan; Center for Integrated Sciences of Low-temperature Plasma Core Research (iPlasma Core), Tokai National Higher Education and Research System, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Wulf Tonnus
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at the Technische Universität Dresden, Germany
| | - Andreas Trumpp
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM GGmbH), Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Stem Cells and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Heidelberg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Vandenabeele
- VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tom Vanden Berghe
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Belgium; VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Vivek Venkataramani
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, University Hospital Würzburg, Germany
| | - Felix C E Vogel
- Division of Tumour Metabolism and Microenvironment, DKFZ Heidelberg and DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Silvia von Karstedt
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department of Translational Genomics, Cologne, Germany; CECAD Cluster of Excellence, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne, Germany
| | - Fudi Wang
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | | | - Chantal Wientjens
- Immunopathology Unit, Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Germany
| | - Christoph Wilhelm
- Immunopathology Unit, Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Germany
| | - Michele Wölk
- Center of Membrane Biochemistry and Lipid Research, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus and Faculty of Medicine of TU Dresden, Germany
| | - Katherine Wu
- Department of Pathology, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, NY, USA
| | - Xin Yang
- Institute for Cancer Genetics, And Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Fan Yu
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yilong Zou
- School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China; Westlake Four-Dimensional Dynamic Metabolomics (Meta4D) Laboratory, Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Marcus Conrad
- Institute of Metabolism and Cell Death, Helmholtz Center Munich, Germany.
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Eichwald T, da Silva LDB, Staats Pires AC, Niero L, Schnorrenberger E, Filho CC, Espíndola G, Huang WL, Guillemin GJ, Abdenur JE, Latini A. Tetrahydrobiopterin: Beyond Its Traditional Role as a Cofactor. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1037. [PMID: 37237903 PMCID: PMC10215290 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12051037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an endogenous cofactor for some enzymatic conversions of essential biomolecules, including nitric oxide, and monoamine neurotransmitters, and for the metabolism of phenylalanine and lipid esters. Over the last decade, BH4 metabolism has emerged as a promising metabolic target for negatively modulating toxic pathways that may result in cell death. Strong preclinical evidence has shown that BH4 metabolism has multiple biological roles beyond its traditional cofactor activity. We have shown that BH4 supports essential pathways, e.g., to generate energy, to enhance the antioxidant resistance of cells against stressful conditions, and to protect from sustained inflammation, among others. Therefore, BH4 should not be understood solely as an enzyme cofactor, but should instead be depicted as a cytoprotective pathway that is finely regulated by the interaction of three different metabolic pathways, thus assuring specific intracellular concentrations. Here, we bring state-of-the-art information about the dependency of mitochondrial activity upon the availability of BH4, as well as the cytoprotective pathways that are enhanced after BH4 exposure. We also bring evidence about the potential use of BH4 as a new pharmacological option for diseases in which mitochondrial disfunction has been implicated, including chronic metabolic disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and primary mitochondriopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuany Eichwald
- Laboratório de Bioenergética e Estresse Oxidativo—LABOX, Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88037-100, SC, Brazil; (T.E.); (L.N.); (C.C.F.); (G.E.)
- Laboratory for Energy Metabolism, Division of Metabolic Disorders, CHOC Children’s Hospital, Orange, CA 92868, USA; (W.-L.H.); (J.E.A.)
| | - Lucila de Bortoli da Silva
- Laboratório de Bioenergética e Estresse Oxidativo—LABOX, Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88037-100, SC, Brazil; (T.E.); (L.N.); (C.C.F.); (G.E.)
| | - Ananda Christina Staats Pires
- Laboratório de Bioenergética e Estresse Oxidativo—LABOX, Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88037-100, SC, Brazil; (T.E.); (L.N.); (C.C.F.); (G.E.)
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Laís Niero
- Laboratório de Bioenergética e Estresse Oxidativo—LABOX, Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88037-100, SC, Brazil; (T.E.); (L.N.); (C.C.F.); (G.E.)
| | - Erick Schnorrenberger
- Laboratório de Bioenergética e Estresse Oxidativo—LABOX, Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88037-100, SC, Brazil; (T.E.); (L.N.); (C.C.F.); (G.E.)
| | - Clovis Colpani Filho
- Laboratório de Bioenergética e Estresse Oxidativo—LABOX, Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88037-100, SC, Brazil; (T.E.); (L.N.); (C.C.F.); (G.E.)
| | - Gisele Espíndola
- Laboratório de Bioenergética e Estresse Oxidativo—LABOX, Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88037-100, SC, Brazil; (T.E.); (L.N.); (C.C.F.); (G.E.)
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Wei-Lin Huang
- Laboratory for Energy Metabolism, Division of Metabolic Disorders, CHOC Children’s Hospital, Orange, CA 92868, USA; (W.-L.H.); (J.E.A.)
| | - Gilles J. Guillemin
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - José E. Abdenur
- Laboratory for Energy Metabolism, Division of Metabolic Disorders, CHOC Children’s Hospital, Orange, CA 92868, USA; (W.-L.H.); (J.E.A.)
| | - Alexandra Latini
- Laboratório de Bioenergética e Estresse Oxidativo—LABOX, Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88037-100, SC, Brazil; (T.E.); (L.N.); (C.C.F.); (G.E.)
- Laboratory for Energy Metabolism, Division of Metabolic Disorders, CHOC Children’s Hospital, Orange, CA 92868, USA; (W.-L.H.); (J.E.A.)
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Fernandes B, Cavaco-Paulo A, Matamá T. A Comprehensive Review of Mammalian Pigmentation: Paving the Way for Innovative Hair Colour-Changing Cosmetics. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12020290. [PMID: 36829566 PMCID: PMC9953601 DOI: 10.3390/biology12020290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
The natural colour of hair shafts is formed at the bulb of hair follicles, and it is coupled to the hair growth cycle. Three critical processes must happen for efficient pigmentation: (1) melanosome biogenesis in neural crest-derived melanocytes, (2) the biochemical synthesis of melanins (melanogenesis) inside melanosomes, and (3) the transfer of melanin granules to surrounding pre-cortical keratinocytes for their incorporation into nascent hair fibres. All these steps are under complex genetic control. The array of natural hair colour shades are ascribed to polymorphisms in several pigmentary genes. A myriad of factors acting via autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine mechanisms also contributes for hair colour diversity. Given the enormous social and cosmetic importance attributed to hair colour, hair dyeing is today a common practice. Nonetheless, the adverse effects of the long-term usage of such cosmetic procedures demand the development of new methods for colour change. In this context, case reports of hair lightening, darkening and repigmentation as a side-effect of the therapeutic usage of many drugs substantiate the possibility to tune hair colour by interfering with the biology of follicular pigmentary units. By scrutinizing mammalian pigmentation, this review pinpoints key targetable processes for the development of innovative cosmetics that can safely change the hair colour from the inside out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Fernandes
- CEB—Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Artur Cavaco-Paulo
- CEB—Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- LABBELS—Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- Correspondence: (A.C.-P.); (T.M.); Tel.: +351-253-604-409 (A.C.-P.); +351-253-601-599 (T.M.)
| | - Teresa Matamá
- CEB—Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- LABBELS—Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- Correspondence: (A.C.-P.); (T.M.); Tel.: +351-253-604-409 (A.C.-P.); +351-253-601-599 (T.M.)
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Liu J, Yang D, Piao C, Wang X, Sun X, Li Y, Zhang S, Wu X. UPLC-Q-TOF/MS Based Plasma Metabolomics for Identification of Paeonol's Metabolic Target in Endometriosis. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28020653. [PMID: 36677710 PMCID: PMC9864815 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28020653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common gynecological illness in women of reproductive age that significantly decreases life quality and fertility. Paeonol has been shown to play an important part in endometriosis treatments. Understanding the mechanism is critical for treating endometriosis. In this study, autologous transplantation combined with a 28 day ice water bath was used to create a rat model of endometriosis with cold clotting and blood stagnation. The levels of estradiol and progesterone in plasma were detected by ELISA, and the pathological changes of ectopic endometrial tissue were examined by H&E staining, which proved the efficacy of paeonol. For metabolomic analysis of plasma samples, UPLC-Q/TOF-MS was combined with multivariate statistical analysis to identify the influence of paeonol on small molecule metabolites relevant to endometriosis. Finally, the key targets were screened using a combination of network pharmacology and molecular docking approaches. The results showed that the pathological indexes of rats were improved and returned to normal levels after treatment with paeonol, which was the basis for confirming the efficacy of paeonol. Metabolomics results identified 13 potential biomarkers, and paeonol callbacks 7 of them, involving six metabolic pathways. Finally, four key genes were found for paeonol therapy of endometriosis, and the results of molecular docking revealed a significant interaction between paeonol and the four key genes. This study was successful in establishing a rat model of endometriosis with cold coagulation and blood stagnation. GCH1, RPL8, PKLR, and MAOA were the key targets of paeonol in the treatment of endometriosis. It is also demonstrated that metabolomic techniques give the potential and environment for comprehensively understanding drug onset processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Dongxia Yang
- Department of Gynecology Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Chengyu Piao
- Good Laboratory Practice of Drug, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Good Laboratory Practice of Drug, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Xiaolan Sun
- College of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Yongyan Li
- College of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Shuxiang Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Xiuhong Wu
- College of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-451-82193278
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Hussein D. In Silico Investigation of the Human GTP Cyclohydrolase 1 Enzyme Reveals the Potential of Drug Repurposing Approaches towards the Discovery of Effective BH 4 Therapeutics. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021210. [PMID: 36674724 PMCID: PMC9862521 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The GTP cyclohydrolase 1 enzyme (GTPCH1) is the rate-limiting enzyme of the tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) biosynthetic pathway. Physiologically, BH4 plays a crucial role as an essential cofactor for the production of catecholamine neurotransmitters, including epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine, as well as the gaseous signaling molecule, nitric oxide. Pathological levels of the cofactor have been reported in a number of disease states, such as inflammatory conditions, neuropathic pain and cancer. Targeting the GTPCH1 enzyme has great potential in the management of a number of disease pathologies associated with dysregulated BH4 physiology. This study is an in silico investigation of the human GTPCH1 enzyme using virtual screening and molecular dynamic simulation to identify molecules that can be repurposed to therapeutically target the enzyme. A three-tier molecular docking protocol was employed in the virtual screening of a comprehensive library of over 7000 approved medications and nutraceuticals in order to identify hit compounds capable of binding to the GTPCH1 binding pocket with the highest affinity. Hit compounds were further verified by molecular dynamic simulation studies to provide a detailed insight regarding the stability and nature of the binding interaction. In this study, we identify a number of drugs and natural compounds with recognized anti-inflammatory, analgesic and cytotoxic effects, including the aminosalicylate olsalazine, the antiepileptic phenytoin catechol, and the phlorotannins phlorofucofuroeckol and eckol. Our results suggest that the therapeutic and clinical effects of hit compounds may be partially attributed to the inhibition of the GTPCH1 enzyme. Notably, this study offers an understanding of the off-target effects of a number of compounds and advocates the potential role of aminosalicylates in the regulation of BH4 production in inflammatory disease states. It highlights an in silico drug repurposing approach to identify a potential means of safely targeting the BH4 biosynthetic pathway using established therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dania Hussein
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University, Khobar 31441, Saudi Arabia
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Vancassel S, Fanet H, Castanon N, Monchaux De Oliveira C, Cussotto S, Capuron L. Tetrahydrobiopterin modulates the behavioral neuroinflammatory response to an LPS challenge in mice. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 105:139-148. [PMID: 35781010 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2022.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is a necessary cofactor for the synthesis of monoamines from essential amino-acids, phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan. The BH4 synthesis pathway is induced by inflammatory factors but highly regulated processes maintain levels in a physiological range. However, BH4 activity can be durably altered in inflammation-related pathologies, such as certain types of depression, potentially involving impairment of dopaminergic neurotransmission. The purpose of this study was to investigate the response of the brain BH4 pathway to the inflammatory stimulus induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice. Brain expression of genes related to BH4 synthesis, levels of BH4, changes in L-aromatic amino acid precursors of monoamines and dopamine levels were determined. As secondary aim, the effect of acute BH4 supply under the inflammatory challenge was tested on these parameters and on the expression of inflammatory cytokines. Mice were also submitted to the sucrose preference test and to the open-field in order to asses hedonic and locomotor responses to LPS, in addition to their modulation by BH4 supply. The LPS challenge resulted in decreased striatal DA levels and increased Phenylalanine/Tyrosine ratio, suggesting reduced BH4 activity. BH4 supply was effective to increase striatal BH4 levels, to restore the LPS-induced decreased in DA levels in striatum and to dampen the LPS-induced expression of inflammatory cytokines. At the behavioral level, BH4 supply was able to restore the loss of locomotor response to amphetamine in the LPS treated mice, suggesting a modulation of the dopaminergic neurotransmission. These data suggest that BH4 can be considered as a potential add-on molecule, helping to maintain or restore dopaminergic neurotransmission in neuroinflammatory conditions..
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Affiliation(s)
- S Vancassel
- University of Bordeaux, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France.
| | - H Fanet
- University of Bordeaux, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France; OptiNutriBrain, International Associated Laboratory (NutriNeuro France-INAF Canada), Quebec City, Canada
| | - N Castanon
- University of Bordeaux, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - S Cussotto
- University of Bordeaux, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
| | - L Capuron
- University of Bordeaux, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
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Vasquez-Vivar J, Shi Z, Tan S. Tetrahydrobiopterin in Cell Function and Death Mechanisms. Antioxid Redox Signal 2022; 37:171-183. [PMID: 34806400 PMCID: PMC9293684 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2021.0136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Significance: Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is most well known as a required cofactor for enzymes regulating cellular redox homeostasis, aromatic amino acid metabolism, and neurotransmitter synthesis. Less well known are the effects dependent on the cofactor's availability, factors governing its synthesis and recycling, redox implications of the cofactor itself, and protein-protein interactions that underlie cell death. This review provides an understanding of the recent advances implicating BH4 in the mechanisms of cell death and suggestions of possible therapeutic interventions. Recent Advances: The levels of BH4 often reflect the sum of synthetic and recycling enzyme activities. Enhanced expression of GTP cyclohydrolase, the rate-limiting enzyme in biosynthesis, increases BH4, leading to improved cell function and survival. Pharmacologically increasing BH4 levels has similar beneficial effects, leading to enhanced production of neurotransmitters and nitric oxide or reducing oxidant levels. The GTP cyclohydrolase-BH4 pairing has been implicated in a type of cell death, ferroptosis. At the cellular level, BH4 counteracts anticancer therapies directed to enhance ferroptosis via glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) activity inhibition. Critical Issues: Because of the multitude of intertwined mechanisms, a clear relationship between BH4 and cell death is not well understood yet. The possibility that the cofactor directly influences cell viability has not been excluded in previous studies when modulating BH4-producing enzymes. Future Directions: The importance of cellular BH4 variations and BH4 biosynthetic enzymes to cell function and viability makes it essential to better characterize temporal changes, cofactor activity, and the influence on redox status, which in turn would help develop novel therapies. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 37, 171-183.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeannette Vasquez-Vivar
- Redox Biology Program, Department of Biophysics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Zhongjie Shi
- Department of Pediatrics, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Sidhartha Tan
- Department of Pediatrics, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Division of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Wayne State University and Central Michigan University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
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Hu Q, Wei W, Wu D, Huang F, Li M, Li W, Yin J, Peng Y, Lu Y, Zhao Q, Liu L. Blockade of GCH1/BH4 Axis Activates Ferritinophagy to Mitigate the Resistance of Colorectal Cancer to Erastin-Induced Ferroptosis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:810327. [PMID: 35223839 PMCID: PMC8866854 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.810327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis, a type of cell death triggered by excessive accumulation of iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, possesses an excellent potential in cancer treatment. However, many colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines are resistant to ferroptosis induced by erastin and RSL3, the classical ferroptotic inducers. Moreover, the underlying mechanism of resistance remains poorly elucidated. This study sought to discover the major factor contributing to ferroptosis resistance in CRC. The study findings will help design strategies for triggering ferroptosis for application in individualized tumor therapy. Here, we show that tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) determines the sensitivity of CRC cells to ferroptosis induced by erastin. GTP cyclohydrolase-1 (GCH1) is the first rate-limiting enzyme of BH4. Genetic or pharmacological inhibition of GCH1 decreased BH4 and assisted erastin in cell death induction, lipid peroxidation enhancement, and ferrous iron accumulation. BH4 supplementation completely inhibited ferroptotic features resulting from GCH1 knockdown. Unexpectedly, GCH1 knockdown failed to enhance RSL3-induced cell death in CRC. Mechanistically, GCH1 knockdown drastically activated ferritinophagy during erastin treatment rather than RSL3 treatment. Administration of an autophagy inhibitor reversed erastin resistance in GCH1-knockdown cells. GCH1 inhibitor and erastin co-treatment in vivo synergistically inhibited tumor growth in CRC. Overall, our results identified GCH1/BH4 metabolism as a burgeoning ferroptosis defense mechanism in CRC. Inhibiting GCH1/BH4 metabolism promoted erastin-induced ferroptosis by activating ferritinophagy, suggesting that combining GCH1 inhibitors with erastin in the treatment of CRC is a novel therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Wanhui Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Daiqian Wu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Fengxing Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Mengting Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenjie Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Jingwen Yin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanan Peng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuanyuan Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiu Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Qiu Zhao, ; Lan Liu,
| | - Lan Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Qiu Zhao, ; Lan Liu,
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Jayaram R, Jones M, Reilly S, Crabtree MJ, Pal N, Goodfellow N, Nahar K, Simon J, Carnicer R, DeSilva R, Ratnatunga C, Petrou M, Sayeed R, Roalfe A, Channon KM, Bashir Y, Betts T, Hill M, Casadei B. Atrial nitroso-redox balance and refractoriness following on-pump cardiac surgery: a randomized trial of atorvastatin. Cardiovasc Res 2022; 118:184-195. [PMID: 33098411 PMCID: PMC8752359 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvaa302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Systemic inflammation and increased activity of atrial NOX2-containing NADPH oxidases have been associated with the new onset of atrial fibrillation (AF) after cardiac surgery. In addition to lowering LDL-cholesterol, statins exert rapid anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, the clinical significance of which remains controversial. METHODS AND RESULTS We first assessed the impact of cardiac surgery and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) on atrial nitroso-redox balance by measuring NO synthase (NOS) and GTP cyclohydrolase-1 (GCH-1) activity, biopterin content, and superoxide production in paired samples of the right atrial appendage obtained before (PRE) and after CPB and reperfusion (POST) in 116 patients. The effect of perioperative treatment with atorvastatin (80 mg once daily) on these parameters, blood biomarkers, and the post-operative atrial effective refractory period (AERP) was then evaluated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 80 patients undergoing cardiac surgery on CPB. CPB and reperfusion led to a significant increase in atrial superoxide production (74% CI 71-76%, n = 46 paired samples, P < 0.0001) and a reduction in atrial tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) (34% CI 33-35%, n = 36 paired samples, P < 0.01), and in GCH-1 (56% CI 55-58%, n = 26 paired samples, P < 0.001) and NOS activity (58% CI 52-67%, n = 20 paired samples, P < 0.001). Perioperative atorvastatin treatment prevented the effect of CPB and reperfusion on all parameters but had no significant effect on the postoperative right AERP, troponin release, or NT-proBNP after cardiac surgery. CONCLUSION Perioperative statin therapy prevents post-reperfusion atrial nitroso-redox imbalance in patients undergoing on-pump cardiac surgery but has no significant impact on postoperative atrial refractoriness, perioperative myocardial injury, or markers of postoperative LV function. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01780740.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raja Jayaram
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, L6, West Wing, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Michael Jones
- Cardiology, Oxford Heart Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Svetlana Reilly
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, L6, West Wing, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Mark J Crabtree
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, L6, West Wing, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Nikhil Pal
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, L6, West Wing, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Nicola Goodfellow
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, L6, West Wing, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Keshav Nahar
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, L6, West Wing, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Jillian Simon
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, L6, West Wing, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Ricardo Carnicer
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, L6, West Wing, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Ravi DeSilva
- Cardiothoracic Surgery, Oxford Heart Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Chandana Ratnatunga
- Cardiothoracic Surgery, Oxford Heart Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Mario Petrou
- Cardiothoracic Surgery, Oxford Heart Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Rana Sayeed
- Cardiothoracic Surgery, Oxford Heart Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Andrea Roalfe
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Keith M Channon
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, L6, West Wing, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Yaver Bashir
- Cardiology, Oxford Heart Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Timothy Betts
- Cardiology, Oxford Heart Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Michael Hill
- Clinical Trial Service Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Barbara Casadei
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, L6, West Wing, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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Khairallah A, Ross CJ, Tastan Bishop Ö. GTP Cyclohydrolase I as a Potential Drug Target: New Insights into Its Allosteric Modulation via Normal Mode Analysis. J Chem Inf Model 2021; 61:4701-4719. [PMID: 34450011 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.1c00898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Guanosine triphosphate (GTP) cyclohydrolase I (GCH1) catalyzes the conversion of GTP into dihydroneopterin triphosphate (DHNP). DHNP is the first intermediate of the folate de novo biosynthesis pathway in prokaryotic and lower eukaryotic microorganisms and the tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) biosynthesis pathway in higher eukaryotes. The de novo folate biosynthesis provides essential cofactors for DNA replication, cell division, and synthesis of key amino acids in rapidly replicating pathogen cells, such as Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum), a causative agent of malaria. In eukaryotes, the product of the BH4 biosynthesis pathway is essential for the production of nitric oxide and several neurotransmitter precursors. An increased copy number of the malaria parasite P. falciparum GCH1 gene has been reported to influence antimalarial antifolate drug resistance evolution, whereas mutations in the human GCH1 are associated with neuropathic and inflammatory pain disorders. Thus, GCH1 stands as an important and attractive drug target for developing therapeutics. The GCH1 intrinsic dynamics that modulate its activity remains unclear, and key sites that exert allosteric effects across the structure are yet to be elucidated. This study employed the anisotropic network model to analyze the intrinsic motions of the GCH1 structure alone and in complex with its regulatory partner protein. We showed that the GCH1 tunnel-gating mechanism is regulated by a global shear motion and an outward expansion of the central five-helix bundle. We further identified hotspot residues within sites of structural significance for the GCH1 intrinsic allosteric modulation. The obtained results can provide a solid starting point to design novel antineuropathic treatments for humans and novel antimalarial drugs against the malaria parasite P. falciparum GCH1 enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afrah Khairallah
- Research Unit in Bioinformatics (RUBi), Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Rhodes University, Grahamstown 6140, South Africa
| | - Caroline J Ross
- Research Unit in Bioinformatics (RUBi), Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Rhodes University, Grahamstown 6140, South Africa
| | - Özlem Tastan Bishop
- Research Unit in Bioinformatics (RUBi), Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Rhodes University, Grahamstown 6140, South Africa
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de Melo FHM, Gonçalves DA, de Sousa RX, Icimoto MY, Fernandes DDC, Laurindo FRM, Jasiulionis MG. Metastatic Melanoma Progression Is Associated with Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase Uncoupling Induced by Loss of eNOS:BH4 Stoichiometry. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9556. [PMID: 34502464 PMCID: PMC8430733 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is the most aggressive type of skin cancer due to its high capability of developing metastasis and acquiring chemoresistance. Altered redox homeostasis induced by increased reactive oxygen species is associated with melanomagenesis through modulation of redox signaling pathways. Dysfunctional endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) produces superoxide anion (O2-•) and contributes to the establishment of a pro-oxidant environment in melanoma. Although decreased tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) bioavailability is associated with eNOS uncoupling in endothelial and human melanoma cells, in the present work we show that eNOS uncoupling in metastatic melanoma cells expressing the genes from de novo biopterin synthesis pathway Gch1, Pts, and Spr, and high BH4 concentration and BH4:BH2 ratio. Western blot analysis showed increased expression of Nos3, altering the stoichiometry balance between eNOS and BH4, contributing to NOS uncoupling. Both treatment with L-sepiapterin and eNOS downregulation induced increased nitric oxide (NO) and decreased O2• levels, triggering NOS coupling and reducing cell growth and resistance to anoikis and dacarbazine chemotherapy. Moreover, restoration of eNOS activity impaired tumor growth in vivo. Finally, NOS3 expression was found to be increased in human metastatic melanoma samples compared with the primary site. eNOS dysfunction may be an important mechanism supporting metastatic melanoma growth and hence a potential target for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana Henriques Machado de Melo
- Pharmacology Department, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-090, Brazil
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedical Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-060, Brazil
| | - Diego Assis Gonçalves
- Micro-Imuno-Parasitology Department, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-090, Brazil;
- Parasitology Department, Microbiology and Immunology, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora 36036-900, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Xisto de Sousa
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Sciences, São Paulo 01221-020, Brazil;
| | - Marcelo Yudi Icimoto
- Biophysics Department, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-090, Brazil;
| | - Denise de Castro Fernandes
- Vascular Biology Laboratory, Heart Institute (InCor), University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo 05508-060, Brazil; (D.d.C.F.); (F.R.M.L.)
| | - Francisco R. M. Laurindo
- Vascular Biology Laboratory, Heart Institute (InCor), University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo 05508-060, Brazil; (D.d.C.F.); (F.R.M.L.)
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Fanet H, Capuron L, Castanon N, Calon F, Vancassel S. Tetrahydrobioterin (BH4) Pathway: From Metabolism to Neuropsychiatry. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 19:591-609. [PMID: 32744952 PMCID: PMC8573752 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x18666200729103529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Tetrahydrobipterin (BH4) is a pivotal enzymatic cofactor required for the synthesis of serotonin, dopamine and nitric oxide. BH4 is essential for numerous physiological processes at periphery and central levels, such as vascularization, inflammation, glucose homeostasis, regulation of oxidative stress and neurotransmission. BH4 de novo synthesis involves the sequential activation of three enzymes, the major controlling point being GTP cyclohydrolase I (GCH1). Complementary salvage and recycling pathways ensure that BH4 levels are tightly kept within a physiological range in the body. Even if the way of transport of BH4 and its ability to enter the brain after peripheral administration is still controversial, data showed increased levels in the brain after BH4 treatment. Available evidence shows that GCH1 expression and BH4 synthesis are stimulated by immunological factors, notably pro-inflammatory cytokines. Once produced, BH4 can act as an anti- inflammatory molecule and scavenger of free radicals protecting against oxidative stress. At the same time, BH4 is prone to autoxidation, leading to the release of superoxide radicals contributing to inflammatory processes, and to the production of BH2, an inactive form of BH4, reducing its bioavailability. Alterations in BH4 levels have been documented in many pathological situations, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and depression, in which increased oxidative stress, inflammation and alterations in monoaminergic function are described. This review aims at providing an update of the knowledge about metabolism and the role of BH4 in brain function, from preclinical to clinical studies, addressing some therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- H. Fanet
- INRAe, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
- Université de Bordeaux, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Neurosciences Axis, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- OptiNutriBrain International Associated Laboratory (NurtriNeuro France-INAF Canada), Quebec City, Canada
| | - L. Capuron
- INRAe, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
- Université de Bordeaux, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
- OptiNutriBrain International Associated Laboratory (NurtriNeuro France-INAF Canada), Quebec City, Canada
| | - N. Castanon
- INRAe, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
- Université de Bordeaux, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
- OptiNutriBrain International Associated Laboratory (NurtriNeuro France-INAF Canada), Quebec City, Canada
| | - F. Calon
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Neurosciences Axis, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- OptiNutriBrain International Associated Laboratory (NurtriNeuro France-INAF Canada), Quebec City, Canada
| | - S. Vancassel
- INRAe, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
- Université de Bordeaux, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
- OptiNutriBrain International Associated Laboratory (NurtriNeuro France-INAF Canada), Quebec City, Canada
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Biophysical and structural investigation of the regulation of human GTP cyclohydrolase I by its regulatory protein GFRP. J Struct Biol 2020; 213:107691. [PMID: 33387654 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsb.2020.107691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
GTP Cyclohydrolase I (GCH1) catalyses the conversion of guanosine triphosphate (GTP) to dihydroneopterin triphosphate (H2NTP), the initiating step in the biosynthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4). BH4 functions as co-factor in neurotransmitter biosynthesis. BH4 homeostasis is a promising target to treat pain disorders in patients. The function of mammalian GCH1s is regulated by a metabolic sensing mechanism involving a regulator protein, GCH1 feedback regulatory protein (GFRP). Dependent on the relative cellular concentrations of effector ligands, BH4 and phenylalanine, GFRP binds GCH1 to form inhibited or activated complexes, respectively. We determined high-resolution structures of the ligand-free and -bound human GFRP and GCH1-GFRP complexes by X-ray crystallography. Highly similar binding modes of the substrate analogue 7-deaza-GTP to active and inhibited GCH1-GFRP complexes confirm a novel, dissociation rate-controlled mechanism of non-competitive inhibition to be at work. Further, analysis of all structures shows that upon binding of the effector molecules, the conformations of GCH1 or GFRP are altered and form highly complementary surfaces triggering a picomolar interaction of GFRP and GCH1 with extremely slow koff values, while GCH1-GFRP complexes rapidly disintegrate in absence of BH4 or phenylalanine. Finally, comparing behavior of full-length and N-terminally truncated GCH1 we conclude that the disordered GCH1 N-terminus does not have impact on complex formation and enzymatic activity. In summary, this comprehensive and methodologically diverse study helps to provide a better understanding of the regulation of GCH1 by GFRP and could thus stimulate research on GCH1 modulating drugs.
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Ebenhoch R, Prinz S, Kaltwasser S, Mills DJ, Meinecke R, Rübbelke M, Reinert D, Bauer M, Weixler L, Zeeb M, Vonck J, Nar H. A hybrid approach reveals the allosteric regulation of GTP cyclohydrolase I. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:31838-31849. [PMID: 33229582 PMCID: PMC7750480 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2013473117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Guanosine triphosphate (GTP) cyclohydrolase I (GCH1) catalyzes the conversion of GTP to dihydroneopterin triphosphate (H2NTP), the initiating step in the biosynthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4). Besides other roles, BH4 functions as cofactor in neurotransmitter biosynthesis. The BH4 biosynthetic pathway and GCH1 have been identified as promising targets to treat pain disorders in patients. The function of mammalian GCH1s is regulated by a metabolic sensing mechanism involving a regulator protein, GCH1 feedback regulatory protein (GFRP). GFRP binds to GCH1 to form inhibited or activated complexes dependent on availability of cofactor ligands, BH4 and phenylalanine, respectively. We determined high-resolution structures of human GCH1-GFRP complexes by cryoelectron microscopy (cryo-EM). Cryo-EM revealed structural flexibility of specific and relevant surface lining loops, which previously was not detected by X-ray crystallography due to crystal packing effects. Further, we studied allosteric regulation of isolated GCH1 by X-ray crystallography. Using the combined structural information, we are able to obtain a comprehensive picture of the mechanism of allosteric regulation. Local rearrangements in the allosteric pocket upon BH4 binding result in drastic changes in the quaternary structure of the enzyme, leading to a more compact, tense form of the inhibited protein, and translocate to the active site, leading to an open, more flexible structure of its surroundings. Inhibition of the enzymatic activity is not a result of hindrance of substrate binding, but rather a consequence of accelerated substrate binding kinetics as shown by saturation transfer difference NMR (STD-NMR) and site-directed mutagenesis. We propose a dissociation rate controlled mechanism of allosteric, noncompetitive inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Ebenhoch
- Medicinal Chemistry, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, 88397 Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | - Simone Prinz
- Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Susann Kaltwasser
- Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Deryck J Mills
- Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Robert Meinecke
- Medicinal Chemistry, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, 88397 Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | - Martin Rübbelke
- Medicinal Chemistry, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, 88397 Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | - Dirk Reinert
- Medicinal Chemistry, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, 88397 Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | - Margit Bauer
- Medicinal Chemistry, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, 88397 Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | - Lisa Weixler
- Medicinal Chemistry, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, 88397 Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | - Markus Zeeb
- Medicinal Chemistry, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, 88397 Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | - Janet Vonck
- Structural Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biophysics, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Herbert Nar
- Medicinal Chemistry, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, 88397 Biberach an der Riss, Germany;
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15
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Agarwal P, Meena S, Meena LS. Comprehensive analysis of GTP cyclohydrolase I activity in Mycobacterium tuberculosis H 37 Rv via in silico studies. Biotechnol Appl Biochem 2020; 68:756-768. [PMID: 32691412 DOI: 10.1002/bab.1988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
GTP cyclohydrolase I enzyme (GTPCH-I) is a rate limiting enzyme in the biosynthesis pathway of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) and tetrahydrofolate (THF) compounds; latter being are an essential compounds involved in many biological functions. This enzyme has been evaluated structurally and functionally in many organisms to understand its putative role in cell processes, kinetics, regulations, drug targeting in infectious diseases, pain sensitivity in humans, and so on. In Mycobacterium tuberculosis (a human pathogen causing tuberculosis), this GTPCH-I activity has been predicted to be present in Rv3609c gene (folE) of H37 Rv strain, which till date has not been studied in detail. In order to understand in depth, the structure and function of folE protein in M. tuberculosis H37 Rv, in silico study was designed by using many different bioinformatics tools. Comparative and structural analysis predicts that Rv3609c gene is similar to folE protein ortholog of Listeria monocytogenes (cause food born disease), and uses zinc ion as a cofactor for its catalysis. Result shows that mutation of folE protein at 52th residue from tyrosine to glycine or variation in pH and temperature can lead to high destability in protein structure. Studies here have also predicted about the functional regions and interacting partners involved with folE protein. This study has provided clues to carry out experimentally the analysis of folE protein in mycobacteria and if found suitable will be used for drug targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preeti Agarwal
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, Mall Road, Delhi, India
| | - Swati Meena
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, Mall Road, Delhi, India
| | - Laxman S Meena
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, Mall Road, Delhi, India
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16
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Fanet H, Ducrocq F, Tournissac M, Oummadi A, Lo A, Bourrassa P, De Smedt-Peyrusse V, Azzougen B, Capuron L, Layé S, Moussa F, Trifilieff P, Calon F, Vancassel S. Tetrahydrobiopterin administration facilitates amphetamine-induced dopamine release and motivation in mice. Behav Brain Res 2020; 379:112348. [PMID: 31711897 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2019.112348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Dopamine (DA) is a critical neurotransmitter involved in motivational processes. Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an essential cofactor for tyrosine hydroxylase, the rate-limiting enzyme in DA synthesis. Decreases in BH4 levels are observed in several DA-related neuropsychiatric diseases involving impairment in motivation. Yet, whether BH4 could be used to treat motivational deficits has not been comprehensively investigated. To investigate the effects of exogenous BH4 administration on the dopaminergic system and related behaviors, we acutely injected mice with BH4 (50 mg/kg). Passage of BH4 through the blood brain barrier and accumulation in brain was measured using the in situ brain perfusion technique. DA release was then recorded using in-vivo micro-dialysis and motivation was evaluated through operant conditioning paradigms in basal condition and after an amphetamine (AMPH) injection. First, we showed that BH4 crosses the blood-brain barrier and that an acute peripheral injection of BH4 is sufficient to increase the concentrations of biopterins in the brain, without affecting BH4- and DA-related protein expression. Second, we report that this increase in BH4 enhanced AMPH-stimulated DA release in the nucleus accumbens. Finally, we found that BH4-induced DA release led to improved performance of a motivational task. Altogether, these findings suggest that BH4, through its action on the dopaminergic tone, could be used as a motivational enhancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Fanet
- INRA, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France; Université de Bordeaux, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France; Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Neurosciences Axis, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; OptiNutriBrain International Associated Laboratory (NurtriNeuro France-INAF Canada), Quebec City, Canada
| | - F Ducrocq
- INRA, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France; Université de Bordeaux, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
| | - M Tournissac
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Neurosciences Axis, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; OptiNutriBrain International Associated Laboratory (NurtriNeuro France-INAF Canada), Quebec City, Canada
| | - A Oummadi
- INRA, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France; Université de Bordeaux, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
| | - A Lo
- LETIAM, Lip(Sys)2' EA7357, IUT d'Orsay, Université Paris Sud 11, Plateau de Moulon, Orsay, France; Biochemistry and Neuropediatrics Department, Groupe Hospitalier Trousseau Laroche-Guyon, 26 Avenue du Dr Arnold Netter, Paris, France
| | - P Bourrassa
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Neurosciences Axis, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; OptiNutriBrain International Associated Laboratory (NurtriNeuro France-INAF Canada), Quebec City, Canada
| | | | - B Azzougen
- INRA, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France; Université de Bordeaux, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
| | - L Capuron
- INRA, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
| | - S Layé
- INRA, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France; OptiNutriBrain International Associated Laboratory (NurtriNeuro France-INAF Canada), Quebec City, Canada
| | - F Moussa
- LETIAM, Lip(Sys)2' EA7357, IUT d'Orsay, Université Paris Sud 11, Plateau de Moulon, Orsay, France; Biochemistry and Neuropediatrics Department, Groupe Hospitalier Trousseau Laroche-Guyon, 26 Avenue du Dr Arnold Netter, Paris, France
| | - P Trifilieff
- INRA, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
| | - F Calon
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Neurosciences Axis, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada; OptiNutriBrain International Associated Laboratory (NurtriNeuro France-INAF Canada), Quebec City, Canada
| | - S Vancassel
- INRA, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France; OptiNutriBrain International Associated Laboratory (NurtriNeuro France-INAF Canada), Quebec City, Canada.
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17
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Kraft VN, Bezjian CT, Pfeiffer S, Ringelstetter L, Müller C, Zandkarimi F, Merl-Pham J, Bao X, Anastasov N, Kössl J, Brandner S, Daniels JD, Schmitt-Kopplin P, Hauck SM, Stockwell BR, Hadian K, Schick JA. GTP Cyclohydrolase 1/Tetrahydrobiopterin Counteract Ferroptosis through Lipid Remodeling. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2020; 6:41-53. [PMID: 31989025 PMCID: PMC6978838 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.9b01063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 606] [Impact Index Per Article: 151.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death linking iron, lipid, and glutathione levels to degenerative processes and tumor suppression. By performing a genome-wide activation screen, we identified a cohort of genes antagonizing ferroptotic cell death, including GTP cyclohydrolase-1 (GCH1) and its metabolic derivatives tetrahydrobiopterin/dihydrobiopterin (BH4/BH2). Synthesis of BH4/BH2 by GCH1-expressing cells caused lipid remodeling, suppressing ferroptosis by selectively preventing depletion of phospholipids with two polyunsaturated fatty acyl tails. GCH1 expression level in cancer cell lines stratified susceptibility to ferroptosis, in accordance with its expression in human tumor samples. The GCH1-BH4-phospholipid axis acts as a master regulator of ferroptosis resistance, controlling endogenous production of the antioxidant BH4, abundance of CoQ10, and peroxidation of unusual phospholipids with two polyunsaturated fatty acyl tails. This demonstrates a unique mechanism of ferroptosis protection that is independent of the GPX4/glutathione system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa
A. N. Kraft
- Institute
of Molecular Toxicology and Pharmacology, Genetics and Cellular Engineering
Group, HelmholtzZentrum Muenchen, Ingolstaedter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Carla T. Bezjian
- Department
of Chemistry, Columbia University, 550 West 120th Street, MC4846, New York, New York 10027, United States
| | - Susanne Pfeiffer
- Institute
of Molecular Toxicology and Pharmacology, Genetics and Cellular Engineering
Group, HelmholtzZentrum Muenchen, Ingolstaedter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Larissa Ringelstetter
- Institute
of Molecular Toxicology and Pharmacology, Assay Development and Screening
Platform, HelmholtzZentrum Muenchen, Ingolstaedter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Constanze Müller
- Research
Unit Analytical BioGeoChemistry, HelmholtzZentrum
Muenchen, Ingolstaedter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Fereshteh Zandkarimi
- Department
of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, New York 10027, United States
| | - Juliane Merl-Pham
- Research
Unit Protein Science, HelmholtzZentrum Muenchen, Ingolstaedter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Xuanwen Bao
- Institute
of Radiation Biology, HelmholtzZentrum Muenchen, Ingolstaedter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Natasa Anastasov
- Institute
of Radiation Biology, HelmholtzZentrum Muenchen, Ingolstaedter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Johanna Kössl
- Institute
of Molecular Toxicology and Pharmacology, Genetics and Cellular Engineering
Group, HelmholtzZentrum Muenchen, Ingolstaedter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Brandner
- Institute
of Molecular Toxicology and Pharmacology, Assay Development and Screening
Platform, HelmholtzZentrum Muenchen, Ingolstaedter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Jacob D. Daniels
- Department
of Pharmacology, Columbia University, New York, New York 10027, United States
| | - Philippe Schmitt-Kopplin
- Research
Unit Analytical BioGeoChemistry, HelmholtzZentrum
Muenchen, Ingolstaedter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Stefanie M. Hauck
- Research
Unit Protein Science, HelmholtzZentrum Muenchen, Ingolstaedter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Brent R. Stockwell
- Department
of Chemistry, Columbia University, 550 West 120th Street, MC4846, New York, New York 10027, United States
- Department
of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, New York 10027, United States
- E-mail:
| | - Kamyar Hadian
- Institute
of Molecular Toxicology and Pharmacology, Assay Development and Screening
Platform, HelmholtzZentrum Muenchen, Ingolstaedter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
- E-mail:
| | - Joel A. Schick
- Institute
of Molecular Toxicology and Pharmacology, Genetics and Cellular Engineering
Group, HelmholtzZentrum Muenchen, Ingolstaedter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
- E-mail:
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18
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Vancassel S, Capuron L, Castanon N. Brain Kynurenine and BH4 Pathways: Relevance to the Pathophysiology and Treatment of Inflammation-Driven Depressive Symptoms. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:499. [PMID: 30140200 PMCID: PMC6095005 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of depressive disorders is growing worldwide, notably due to stagnation in the development of drugs with greater antidepressant efficacy, the continuous large proportion of patients who do not respond to conventional antidepressants, and the increasing rate of chronic medical conditions associated with an increased vulnerability to depressive comorbidities. Accordingly, better knowledge on the pathophysiology of depression and mechanisms underlying depressive comorbidities in chronic medical conditions appears urgently needed, in order to help in the development of targeted therapeutic strategies. In this review, we present evidence pointing to inflammatory processes as key players in the pathophysiology and treatment of depressive symptoms. In particular, we report preclinical and clinical findings showing that inflammation-driven alterations in specific metabolic pathways, namely kynurenine and tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) pathways, leads to substantial alterations in the metabolism of serotonin, glutamate and dopamine that are likely to contribute to the development of key depressive symptom dimensions. Accordingly, anti-inflammatory interventions targeting kynurenine and BH4 pathways may be effective as novel treatment or as adjuvants of conventional medications rather directed to monoamines, notably when depressive symptomatology and inflammation are comorbid in treated patients. This notion is discussed in the light of recent findings illustrating the tight interactions between known antidepressant drugs and inflammatory processes, as well as their therapeutic implications. Altogether, this review provides valuable findings for moving toward more adapted and personalized therapeutic strategies to treat inflammation-related depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Vancassel
- UMR 1286, Laboratory of Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology (NutriNeuro), INRA, Bordeaux, France
- UMR 1286, Laboratory of Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology (NutriNeuro), Bordeaux University, Bordeaux, France
| | - Lucile Capuron
- UMR 1286, Laboratory of Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology (NutriNeuro), INRA, Bordeaux, France
- UMR 1286, Laboratory of Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology (NutriNeuro), Bordeaux University, Bordeaux, France
| | - Nathalie Castanon
- UMR 1286, Laboratory of Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology (NutriNeuro), INRA, Bordeaux, France
- UMR 1286, Laboratory of Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology (NutriNeuro), Bordeaux University, Bordeaux, France
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19
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Scherer T, Allegri G, Sarkissian CN, Ying M, Grisch-Chan HM, Rassi A, Winn SR, Harding CO, Martinez A, Thöny B. Tetrahydrobiopterin treatment reduces brain L-Phe but only partially improves serotonin in hyperphenylalaninemic ENU1/2 mice. J Inherit Metab Dis 2018; 41:709-718. [PMID: 29520738 PMCID: PMC6041158 DOI: 10.1007/s10545-018-0150-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2017] [Revised: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA) caused by hepatic phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) deficiency has severe consequences on brain monoamine neurotransmitter metabolism. We have studied monoamine neurotransmitter status and the effect of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) treatment in Pahenu1/enu2 (ENU1/2) mice, a model of partial PAH deficiency. These mice exhibit elevated blood L-phenylalanine (L-Phe) concentrations similar to that of mild hyperphenylalaninemia (HPA), but brain levels of L-Phe are still ~5-fold elevated compared to wild-type. We found that brain L-tyrosine, L-tryptophan, BH4 cofactor and catecholamine concentrations, and brain tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) activity were normal in these mice but that brain serotonin, 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid (5HIAA) and 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG) content, and brain TH protein, as well as tryptophan hydroxylase type 2 (TPH2) protein levels and activity were reduced in comparison to wild-type mice. Parenteral L-Phe loading conditions did not lead to significant changes in brain neurometabolite concentrations. Remarkably, enteral BH4 treatment, which normalized brain L-Phe levels in ENU1/2 mice, lead to only partial recovery of brain serotonin and 5HIAA concentrations. Furthermore, indirect evidence indicated that the GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH) feedback regulatory protein (GFRP) complex may be a sensor for brain L-Phe elevation to ameliorate the toxic effects of HPA. We conclude that BH4 treatment of HPA toward systemic L-Phe lowering reverses elevated brain L-Phe content but the recovery of TPH2 protein and activity as well as serotonin levels is suboptimal, indicating that patients with mild HPA and mood problems (depression or anxiety) treated with the current diet may benefit from supplementation with BH4 and 5-OH-tryptophan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Scherer
- Department of Pediatrics, Divisions of Metabolism and of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Gabriella Allegri
- Department of Pediatrics, Divisions of Metabolism and of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | - Ming Ying
- Department of Biomedicine and K.G. Jebsen Centre for Neuropsychiatric Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Hiu Man Grisch-Chan
- Department of Pediatrics, Divisions of Metabolism and of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Anahita Rassi
- Department of Pediatrics, Divisions of Metabolism and of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Shelley R Winn
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Oregon Science & Health University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Cary O Harding
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Oregon Science & Health University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Aurora Martinez
- Department of Biomedicine and K.G. Jebsen Centre for Neuropsychiatric Disorders, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Beat Thöny
- Department of Pediatrics, Divisions of Metabolism and of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
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20
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Nasser A, Møller AT, Hellmund V, Thorborg SS, Jespersgaard C, Bjerrum OJ, Dupont E, Nachman G, Lykkesfeldt J, Jensen TS, Møller LB. Heterozygous mutations in GTP-cyclohydrolase-1 reduce BH4 biosynthesis but not pain sensitivity. Pain 2018; 159:1012-1024. [PMID: 29470312 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Human studies have demonstrated a correlation between noncoding polymorphisms of "the pain protective" haplotype in the GCH1 gene that encodes for GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH1)-which leads to reduced tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) production in cell systems-and a diminished perception of experimental and clinical pain. Here, we investigate whether heterozygous mutations in the GCH1 gene which lead to a profound BH4 reduction in patients with dopa-responsive dystonia (DRD) have any effect on pain sensitivity. The study includes an investigation of GCH1-associated biomarkers and pain sensitivity in a cohort of 22 patients with DRD and 36 controls. The patients with DRD had, when compared with controls, significantly reduced levels of BH4, neopterin, biopterin, and GTPCH1 in their urine, blood, or cytokine-stimulated fibroblasts, but their pain response with respect to non-painful stimulation, (acute) stimulus-evoked pain, or pain response after capsaicin-induced sensitization was not significantly different. A family-specific cohort of 11 patients with DRD and 11 controls were included in this study. The patients with DRD were heterozygous for the pain protective haplotype in cis with the GCH1 disease-causing mutation, c.899T>C. No effect on pain perception was observed for this combined haplotype. In conclusion, a reduced concentration of BH4 is not sufficient to alter ongoing pain sensitivity or evoked pain responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arafat Nasser
- Applied Human Molecular Genetics, Clinical Genetic Clinic, Kennedy Center, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Anette Torvin Møller
- Department of Neurology, Danish Pain Research Center, Aarhus University Hospital, Århus, Denmark
| | - Vibe Hellmund
- Department of Neurology, Danish Pain Research Center, Aarhus University Hospital, Århus, Denmark
| | - Sidsel Salling Thorborg
- Applied Human Molecular Genetics, Clinical Genetic Clinic, Kennedy Center, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Cathrine Jespersgaard
- Applied Human Molecular Genetics, Clinical Genetic Clinic, Kennedy Center, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Ole J Bjerrum
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Erik Dupont
- Department of Neurology, Aarhus University Hospital, Århus, Denmark
| | - Gösta Nachman
- Department of Biology, Section of Ecology and Evolution, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Jens Lykkesfeldt
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Troels Staehelin Jensen
- Department of Neurology, Danish Pain Research Center, Aarhus University Hospital, Århus, Denmark
| | - Lisbeth Birk Møller
- Applied Human Molecular Genetics, Clinical Genetic Clinic, Kennedy Center, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
- Department of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, Roskilde, Denmark
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21
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Heikal L, Starr A, Hussein D, Prieto-Lloret J, Aaronson P, Dailey LA, Nandi M. l-Phenylalanine Restores Vascular Function in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats Through Activation of the GCH1-GFRP Complex. JACC Basic Transl Sci 2018; 3:366-377. [PMID: 29963647 PMCID: PMC6018612 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacbts.2018.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Revised: 10/27/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Tetrahydrobiopterin is an essential cofactor for NO production. Limitation of endogenous tetrahydrobiopterin reduces NO bioavailability, enhances oxidative stress, and impairs vascular function. Orally supplemented tetrahydrobiopterin has therapeutic challenges because it is rapidly oxidized in vivo. Here, the authors demonstrate that l-phenylalanine, when administered orally, raises vascular tetrahydrobiopterin, restores NO, reduces superoxide, and enhances vascular function in spontaneously hypertensive rats. This effect is achieved by activation of a protein complex (GCH1-GFRP) involved in the biosynthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin. Activation of this protein complex by l-phenylalanine or its analogues represents a novel therapeutic target for vascular disorders underpinned by reduced NO bioavailability.
Reduced nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability correlates with impaired cardiovascular function. NO is extremely labile and has been challenging to develop as a therapeutic agent. However, NO bioavailability could be enhanced by pharmacologically targeting endogenous NO regulatory pathways. Tetrahydrobiopterin, an essential cofactor for NO production, is synthesized by GTP cyclohydrolase-1 (GCH1), which complexes with GCH1 feedback regulatory protein (GFRP). The dietary amino acid l-phenylalanine activates this complex, elevating vascular BH4. Here, the authors demonstrate that l-phenylalanine administration restores vascular function in a rodent model of hypertension, suggesting the GCH1-GFRP complex represents a rational therapeutic target for diseases underpinned by endothelial dysfunction.
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Key Words
- ACh, acetylcholine
- ANOVA, analysis of variance
- BH2, dihydrobiopterin
- BH4, tetrahydrobiopterin
- EC50, effective concentration for 50% maximal response
- EDHF, endothelium derived hyperpolarizing factor
- GCH1, GTP cyclohydrolase-1
- GFRP, GCH1 feedback regulatory protein
- L-phe, l-phenylalanine
- L-tyr, l-tyrosine
- NO, nitric oxide
- ROS, reactive oxygen species
- SHR, spontaneously hypertensive rat(s)
- WKY, Wistar Kyoto rat(s)
- cardiovascular disease
- eNOS, endothelial nitric oxide synthase
- endothelium
- l-phenylalanine
- nitric oxide
- tetrahydrobiopterin
- vascular activity
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Affiliation(s)
- Lamia Heikal
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Starr
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dania Hussein
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jesus Prieto-Lloret
- Division of Asthma, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Phil Aaronson
- Division of Asthma, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lea Ann Dailey
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Manasi Nandi
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.,Cardiovascular Division, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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Nardecchia F, Chiarotti F, Carducci C, Santagata S, Valentini G, Angeloni A, Blau N, Leuzzi V. Altered tetrahydrobiopterin metabolism in patients with phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency. Eur J Pediatr 2017; 176:917-924. [PMID: 28540433 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-017-2932-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Revised: 05/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) cofactor is essential for the activity of various enzymes, including phenylalanine (Phe) hydroxylase. In phenylketonuria (PKU) patients, who are chronically exposed to high Phe levels, high urinary excretion of BH4 metabolites neopterin and biopterin is observed. The aim of this longitudinal study was to investigate consistence and variability of the urinary excretion of pterins (neopterin and biopterin) in PKU patients in relation to age and concomitant blood Phe and tyrosine levels. The study was based on the result of 274 pterin examinations (3-13 exams per subject) performed in 47 PKU patients (aged 6 days to 37 years). Multivariate analysis showed that urinary biopterin and neopterin excretion was affected by age and concomitant blood Phe concentration. The influence of blood Phe on both biopterin and neopterin levels was greater in patients younger than 4 months. Later on, interindividual variability was higher than intraindividual variability for both biopterin and neopterin. CONCLUSION Common metabolic (blood Phe levels) and individual (age) factors implicated in the assessment of PKU outcome account only marginally and transiently for the variability of neopterin and biopterin excretion in PKU patients. Other unknown homeostatic factors may probably affect the individual response to chronically elevated Phe levels. What is Known: • In PKU patients, a high urinary excretion of biopterin and neopterin is found. • Biopterin and neopterin excretion is influenced by age and phenylalanine levels. W hat is New: • Blood phenylalanine concentration is the major determinant on pterin excretion in PKU patients in the first months of life. • In older PKU patients, the influence of phenylalanine on pterin excretion is less prominent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Nardecchia
- Department of Pediatrics, Child Neurology and Psychiatry, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Via dei Sabelli 108, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavia Chiarotti
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Carducci
- Department of Experimental Medicine, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Santagata
- Department of Experimental Medicine, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Valentini
- Department of Pediatrics, Child Neurology and Psychiatry, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Via dei Sabelli 108, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Angeloni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Nenad Blau
- Dietmar-Hopp-Metabolic Center, University Children's Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Vincenzo Leuzzi
- Department of Pediatrics, Child Neurology and Psychiatry, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Via dei Sabelli 108, 00185, Rome, Italy.
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23
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Alkaitis MS, Ackerman HC. Tetrahydrobiopterin Supplementation Improves Phenylalanine Metabolism in a Murine Model of Severe Malaria. ACS Infect Dis 2016; 2:827-838. [PMID: 27641435 PMCID: PMC6289270 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.6b00124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an essential cofactor for both phenylalanine hydroxylase and nitric oxide synthase. Patients with severe malaria have low urinary BH4, elevated plasma phenylalanine, and impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation, suggesting that BH4 depletion may limit phenylalanine metabolism and nitric oxide synthesis. We infected C57BL/6 mice with Plasmodium berghei ANKA to characterize BH4 availability and to investigate the effects of BH4 supplementation. P. berghei ANKA infection lowered BH4 in plasma, erythrocytes, and brain tissue but raised it in aorta and liver tissue. The ratio of BH4 to 7,8-BH2 (the major product of BH4 oxidation) was decreased in plasma, erythrocytes, and brain tissue, suggesting that oxidation contributes to BH4 depletion. The continuous infusion of sepiapterin (a BH4 precursor) and citrulline (an arginine precursor) raised the concentrations of BH4 and arginine in both blood and tissue compartments. The restoration of systemic BH4 and arginine availability in infected mice produced only a minor improvement in whole blood nitrite concentrations, a biomarker of NO synthesis, and failed to prevent the onset of severe disease symptoms. However, sepiapterin and citrulline infusion reduced the ratio of phenylalanine to tyrosine in plasma, aortic tissue, and brain tissue. In summary, BH4 depletion in P. berghei infection may compromise both nitric oxide synthesis and phenylalanine metabolism; however, these findings require further investigation in human patients with severe malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew S. Alkaitis
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
- Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Hans C. Ackerman
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
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24
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Strasser B, Sperner-Unterweger B, Fuchs D, Gostner JM. Mechanisms of Inflammation-Associated Depression: Immune Influences on Tryptophan and Phenylalanine Metabolisms. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2016; 31:95-115. [PMID: 27278641 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2016_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Metabolic parameters have a direct role in the regulation of immune cell function. Thereby the inflammation-induced metabolism of aromatic amino acids, most importantly of tryptophan and phenylalanine, plays a central role. In addition, neuropsychiatric conditions that go along with disorders that are characterized by acute or chronic inflammation, such as the development of depression, decreased quality of life or cognitive impairments, are connected to disturbed amino acid and subsequent neurotransmitter metabolism.The bioanalytical procedures for the determination of concentrations of tryptophan and phenylalanine and their respective first stable intermediates kynurenine and tyrosine as well as some analytical finesses and potential sources of errors are discussed in this chapter. Monitoring of these immunometabolic parameters throughout therapies in addition to biomarkers of immune response and inflammation such as neopterin can be useful to determine disease progression but also to plan psychiatric interventions timely, thus to establish personalized treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Strasser
- Division of Medical Biochemistry, Biocenter, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Dietmar Fuchs
- Division of Biological Chemistry, Biocenter, Innsbruck Medical University, Innrain 80, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Johanna M Gostner
- Division of Medical Biochemistry, Biocenter, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
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25
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Hussein D, Starr A, Heikal L, McNeill E, Channon KM, Brown PR, Sutton BJ, McDonnell JM, Nandi M. Validating the GTP-cyclohydrolase 1-feedback regulatory complex as a therapeutic target using biophysical and in vivo approaches. Br J Pharmacol 2015; 172:4146-57. [PMID: 26014146 PMCID: PMC4543619 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2014] [Revised: 05/12/2015] [Accepted: 05/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 6R-L-erythro-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4 ) is an essential cofactor for nitric oxide biosynthesis. Substantial clinical evidence indicates that intravenous BH4 restores vascular function in patients. Unfortunately, oral BH4 has limited efficacy. Therefore, orally bioavailable pharmacological activators of endogenous BH4 biosynthesis hold significant therapeutic potential. GTP-cyclohydrolase 1 (GCH1), the rate limiting enzyme in BH4 synthesis, forms a protein complex with GCH1 feedback regulatory protein (GFRP). This complex is subject to allosteric feed-forward activation by L-phenylalanine (L-phe). We investigated the effects of L-phe on the biophysical interactions of GCH1 and GFRP and its potential to alter BH4 levels in vivo. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Detailed characterization of GCH1-GFRP protein-protein interactions were performed using surface plasmon resonance (SPR) with or without L-phe. Effects on systemic and vascular BH4 biosynthesis in vivo were investigated following L-phe treatment (100 mg·kg(-1) , p.o.). KEY RESULTS GCH1 and GFRP proteins interacted in the absence of known ligands or substrate but the presence of L-phe doubled maximal binding and enhanced binding affinity eightfold. Furthermore, the complex displayed very slow association and dissociation rates. In vivo, L-phe challenge induced a sustained elevation of aortic BH4 , an effect absent in GCH1(fl/fl)-Tie2Cre mice. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Biophysical data indicate that GCH1 and GFRP are constitutively bound. In vivo, data demonstrated that L-phe elevated vascular BH4 in an endothelial GCH1 dependent manner. Pharmacological agents which mimic the allosteric effects of L-phe on the GCH1-GFRP complex have the potential to elevate endothelial BH4 biosynthesis for numerous cardiovascular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Hussein
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College LondonLondon, UK
| | - A Starr
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College LondonLondon, UK
| | - L Heikal
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College LondonLondon, UK
| | - E McNeill
- British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe HospitalOxford, UK
| | - K M Channon
- British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe HospitalOxford, UK
| | - P R Brown
- The Randall Division of Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College LondonLondon, UK
| | - B J Sutton
- The Randall Division of Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College LondonLondon, UK
| | - J M McDonnell
- The Randall Division of Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College LondonLondon, UK
| | - M Nandi
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College LondonLondon, UK
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Wyler SC, Donovan LJ, Yeager M, Deneris E. Pet-1 Controls Tetrahydrobiopterin Pathway and Slc22a3 Transporter Genes in Serotonin Neurons. ACS Chem Neurosci 2015; 6:1198-205. [PMID: 25642596 PMCID: PMC4504805 DOI: 10.1021/cn500331z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Coordinated serotonin (5-HT) synthesis and reuptake depends on coexpression of Tph2, Aadc (Ddc), and Sert (Slc6a4) in brain 5-HT neurons. However, other gene products play critical roles in brain 5-HT synthesis and transport. For example, 5-HT synthesis depends on coexpression of genes encoding the enzymatic machinery necessary for the production and regeneration of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4). In addition, the organic cation transporter 3 (Oct3, Slc22a3) functions as a low affinity, high capacity 5-HT reuptake protein in 5-HT neurons. The regulatory strategies controlling BH4 and Oct3 gene expression in 5-HT neurons have not been investigated. Our previous studies showed that Pet-1 is a critical transcription factor in a regulatory program that controls coexpression of Tph2, Aadc, and Sert in 5-HT neurons. Here, we investigate whether a common regulatory program determines global 5-HT synthesis and reuptake through coordinate transcriptional control. We show with comparative microarray profiling of flow sorted YFP(+) Pet-1(-/-) and wild type 5-HT neurons that Pet-1 regulates BH4 pathway genes, Gch1, Gchfr, and Qdpr. Thus, Pet-1 coordinates expression of all rate-limiting enzymatic (Tph2, Gch1) and post-translational regulatory (Gchfr) steps that determine the level of mammalian brain 5-HT synthesis. Moreover, Pet-1 globally controls acquisition of 5-HT reuptake in dorsal raphe 5-HT neurons by coordinating expression of Slc6a4 and Slc22a3. In situ hybridizations revealed that virtually all 5-HT neurons in the dorsal raphe depend on Pet-1 for Slc22a3 expression; similar results were obtained for Htr1a. Therefore, few if any 5-HT neurons in the dorsal raphe are resistant to loss of Pet-1 for their full neuron-type identity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mia Yeager
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University Cleveland, Ohio, 44106, United States
| | - Evan Deneris
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University Cleveland, Ohio, 44106, United States
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27
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Ma S, Ma CCH. Recent developments in the effects of nitric oxide-donating statins on cardiovascular disease through regulation of tetrahydrobiopterin and nitric oxide. Vascul Pharmacol 2014; 63:63-70. [PMID: 25139660 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2014.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2014] [Revised: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Since the discovery of the importance of nitric oxide (NO) to the human body three decades ago, numerous laboratory and clinical studies have been done to explore its potential therapeutic actions on many organs. In the cardiovascular system, NO works as a volatile signaling molecule regulating the vascular permeability and vascular tone, preventing thrombosis and inflammation, as well as inhibiting the smooth muscle hyperplasia. Thus, NO is important in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. NO is synthesized by NO synthase (NOS) with tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) as the crucial cofactor. Many studies have been done to form nitric oxide donors so as to deliver NO directly to the vessel walls. In addition, NO moieties have been incorporated into existing therapeutic agents to enhance the NO bioavailability, including statins. Statins are inhibitors of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme (HMG-CoA), the rate-limiting enzyme of the mevalonate pathway. By inhibiting this pathway, statins lower blood cholesterol and exert their pleiotropic effects through activity in reaction cascades, such as Rho/ROCK and Rac 1/NADPH oxidase pathways. Statins have also been observed to implement their non-lipid effects by promoting BH4 synthesis with increase of NO bioavailability. Furthermore, NO-donating statins in laboratory studies have demonstrated to produce better therapeutic effects than their parent's drugs. They offer better anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and antithrombotic actions on cardiovascular system. They also cause better revascularization in peripheral ischemia and produce greater enhancement in limb reperfusion and salvage. In addition, it has been shown that NO-donating statin caused less myotoxicity, the most common side effect related to treatment with statins. The initial studies have demonstrated the superior therapeutic effects of NO-donating statins while producing fewer side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sze Ma
- Hong Kong Baptist Hospital, Hong Kong; National University Ireland, Ireland; Royal College of Physicians of Ireland, Ireland
| | - Christopher Cheng-Hwa Ma
- NHS Dumfries & Galloway, GMC 7411692, United Kingdom; King's College London School of Medicine, United Kingdom.
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Starr A, Sand CA, Heikal L, Kelly PD, Spina D, Crabtree M, Channon KM, Leiper JM, Nandi M. Overexpression of GTP cyclohydrolase 1 feedback regulatory protein is protective in a murine model of septic shock. Shock 2014; 42:432-9. [PMID: 25046538 PMCID: PMC4851220 DOI: 10.1097/shk.0000000000000235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Overproduction of nitric oxide (NO) by inducible NO synthase contributes toward refractory hypotension, impaired microvascular perfusion, and end-organ damage in septic shock patients. Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an essential NOS cofactor. GTP cyclohydrolase 1 (GCH1) is the rate-limiting enzyme for BH4 biosynthesis. Under inflammatory conditions, GCH1 activity and hence BH4 levels are increased, supporting pathological NOS activity. GCH1 activity can be controlled through allosteric interactions with GCH1 feedback regulatory protein (GFRP). We investigated whether overexpression of GFRP can regulate BH4 and NO production and attenuate cardiovascular dysfunction in sepsis. Sepsis was induced in mice conditionally overexpressing GFRP and wild-type littermates by cecal ligation and puncture. Blood pressure was monitored by radiotelemetry, and mesenteric blood flow was quantified by laser speckle contrast imaging. Blood biochemistry data were obtained using an iSTAT analyzer, and BH4 levels were measured in plasma and tissues by high-performance liquid chromatography. Increased BH4 and NO production and hypotension were observed in all mice, but the extents of these pathophysiological changes were attenuated in GFRP OE mice. Perturbations in blood biochemistry were similarly attenuated in GFRP OE compared with wild-type controls. These results suggest that GFRP overexpression regulates GCH1 activity during septic shock, which in turn limits BH4 bioavailability for iNOS. We conclude that the GCH1-GFRP axis is a critical regulator of BH4 and NO production and the cardiovascular derangements that occur in septic shock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Starr
- *Pharmacology and Therapeutics Group, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Biomedical Sciences, King’s College London; and MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London; and British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Claire A. Sand
- *Pharmacology and Therapeutics Group, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Biomedical Sciences, King’s College London; and MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London; and British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Lamia Heikal
- *Pharmacology and Therapeutics Group, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Biomedical Sciences, King’s College London; and MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London; and British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Peter D. Kelly
- *Pharmacology and Therapeutics Group, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Biomedical Sciences, King’s College London; and MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London; and British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Domenico Spina
- *Pharmacology and Therapeutics Group, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Biomedical Sciences, King’s College London; and MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London; and British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Crabtree
- *Pharmacology and Therapeutics Group, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Biomedical Sciences, King’s College London; and MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London; and British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Keith M. Channon
- *Pharmacology and Therapeutics Group, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Biomedical Sciences, King’s College London; and MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London; and British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - James M. Leiper
- *Pharmacology and Therapeutics Group, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Biomedical Sciences, King’s College London; and MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London; and British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Manasi Nandi
- *Pharmacology and Therapeutics Group, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Biomedical Sciences, King’s College London; and MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London; and British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Bendall JK, Douglas G, McNeill E, Channon KM, Crabtree MJ. Tetrahydrobiopterin in cardiovascular health and disease. Antioxid Redox Signal 2014; 20:3040-77. [PMID: 24294830 PMCID: PMC4038990 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2013.5566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2013] [Revised: 11/01/2013] [Accepted: 12/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) functions as a cofactor for several important enzyme systems, and considerable evidence implicates BH4 as a key regulator of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in the setting of cardiovascular health and disease. BH4 bioavailability is determined by a balance of enzymatic de novo synthesis and recycling, versus degradation in the setting of oxidative stress. Augmenting vascular BH4 levels by pharmacological supplementation has been shown in experimental studies to enhance NO bioavailability. However, it has become more apparent that the role of BH4 in other enzymatic pathways, including other NOS isoforms and the aromatic amino acid hydroxylases, may have a bearing on important aspects of vascular homeostasis, inflammation, and cardiac function. This article reviews the role of BH4 in cardiovascular development and homeostasis, as well as in pathophysiological processes such as endothelial and vascular dysfunction, atherosclerosis, inflammation, and cardiac hypertrophy. We discuss the therapeutic potential of BH4 in cardiovascular disease states and attempt to address how this modulator of intracellular NO-redox balance may ultimately provide a powerful new treatment for many cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer K Bendall
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, University of Oxford , John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
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30
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Biochemical and functional characterization of Plasmodium falciparum GTP cyclohydrolase I. Malar J 2014; 13:150. [PMID: 24745605 PMCID: PMC4005822 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2875-13-150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2013] [Accepted: 12/17/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Antifolates are currently in clinical use for malaria preventive therapy and treatment. The drugs kill the parasites by targeting the enzymes in the de novo folate pathway. The use of antifolates has now been limited by the spread of drug-resistant mutations. GTP cyclohydrolase I (GCH1) is the first and the rate-limiting enzyme in the folate pathway. The amplification of the gch1 gene found in certain Plasmodium falciparum isolates can cause antifolate resistance and influence the course of antifolate resistance evolution. These findings showed the importance of P. falciparum GCH1 in drug resistance intervention. However, little is known about P. falciparum GCH1 in terms of kinetic parameters and functional assays, precluding the opportunity to obtain the key information on its catalytic reaction and to eventually develop this enzyme as a drug target. Methods Plasmodium falciparum GCH1 was cloned and expressed in bacteria. Enzymatic activity was determined by the measurement of fluorescent converted neopterin with assay validation by using mutant and GTP analogue. The genetic complementation study was performed in ∆folE bacteria to functionally identify the residues and domains of P. falciparum GCH1 required for its enzymatic activity. Plasmodial GCH1 sequences were aligned and structurally modeled to reveal conserved catalytic residues. Results Kinetic parameters and optimal conditions for enzymatic reactions were determined by the fluorescence-based assay. The inhibitor test against P. falciparum GCH1 is now possible as indicated by the inhibitory effect by 8-oxo-GTP. Genetic complementation was proven to be a convenient method to study the function of P. falciparum GCH1. A series of domain truncations revealed that the conserved core domain of GCH1 is responsible for its enzymatic activity. Homology modelling fits P. falciparum GCH1 into the classic Tunnelling-fold structure with well-conserved catalytic residues at the active site. Conclusions Functional assays for P. falciparum GCH1 based on enzymatic activity and genetic complementation were successfully developed. The assays in combination with a homology model characterized the enzymatic activity of P. falciparum GCH1 and the importance of its key amino acid residues. The potential to use the assay for inhibitor screening was validated by 8-oxo-GTP, a known GTP analogue inhibitor.
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Pathak R, Pawar SA, Fu Q, Gupta PK, Berbée M, Garg S, Sridharan V, Wang W, Biju PG, Krager KJ, Boerma M, Ghosh SP, Cheema AK, Hendrickson HP, Aykin-Burns N, Hauer-Jensen M. Characterization of transgenic Gfrp knock-in mice: implications for tetrahydrobiopterin in modulation of normal tissue radiation responses. Antioxid Redox Signal 2014; 20:1436-46. [PMID: 23521531 PMCID: PMC3936502 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2012.5025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2012] [Revised: 02/22/2013] [Accepted: 03/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
AIMS The free radical scavenger and nitric oxide synthase cofactor, 5,6,7,8-tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), plays a well-documented role in many disorders associated with oxidative stress, including normal tissue radiation responses. Radiation exposure is associated with decreased BH4 levels, while BH4 supplementation attenuates aspects of radiation toxicity. The endogenous synthesis of BH4 is catalyzed by the enzyme guanosine triphosphate cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH1), which is regulated by the inhibitory GTP cyclohydrolase I feedback regulatory protein (GFRP). We here report and characterize a novel, Cre-Lox-driven, transgenic mouse model that overexpresses Gfrp. RESULTS Compared to control littermates, transgenic mice exhibited high transgene copy numbers, increased Gfrp mRNA and GFRP expression, enhanced GFRP-GTPCH1 interaction, reduced BH4 levels, and low glutathione (GSH) levels and differential mitochondrial bioenergetic profiles. After exposure to total body irradiation, transgenic mice showed decreased BH4/7,8-dihydrobiopterin ratios, increased vascular oxidative stress, and reduced white blood cell counts compared with controls. INNOVATION AND CONCLUSION This novel Gfrp knock-in transgenic mouse model allows elucidation of the role of GFRP in the regulation of BH4 biosynthesis. This model is a valuable tool to study the involvement of BH4 in whole body and tissue-specific radiation responses and other conditions associated with oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupak Pathak
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | - Snehalata A. Pawar
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | - Qiang Fu
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | - Prem K. Gupta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | - Maaike Berbée
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | - Sarita Garg
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | - Vijayalakshmi Sridharan
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | - Wenze Wang
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | - Prabath G. Biju
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | - Kimberly J. Krager
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | - Marjan Boerma
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | - Sanchita P. Ghosh
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Amrita K. Cheema
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Howard P. Hendrickson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | - Nukhet Aykin-Burns
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
| | - Martin Hauer-Jensen
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas
- Surgical Service, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, Little Rock, Arkansas
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Immune changes and neurotransmitters: possible interactions in depression? Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2014; 48:268-76. [PMID: 23085509 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2012.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2012] [Revised: 09/28/2012] [Accepted: 10/01/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
A disturbed metabolism of catecholamines and other neurotransmitters appears to play a major role in the pathogenesis of neurospychiatric symptoms, such as changes in mood and depression. This symptomatology is common in patients with chronic inflammatory disorders such as infections, autoimmune diseases, or cancer. The pathogenesis of these symptoms is still unclear. Pro-inflammatory stimuli interfere not only with the neural circuits and neurotransmitters of the serotonergic system but also with those of the adrenergic system. The pro-inflammatory cytokine interferon-γ stimulates the biosynthesis of 5,6,7,8-tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), which is a co-factor for several aromatic amino acid mono-oxygenases and is rate-limiting for the biosynthesis of the neurotransmitter serotonin and the catecholamines dopamine, epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline). Interferon-γ triggers the high output of reactive oxygen species in macrophages, which can destroy the oxidation-labile BH4. Recent data suggests that oxidative loss of BH4 in chronic inflammatory conditions can reduce the biosynthesis of catecholamines, which may relate to disturbed adrenergic neurotransmitter pathways in patients.
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Meiser J, Weindl D, Hiller K. Complexity of dopamine metabolism. Cell Commun Signal 2013; 11:34. [PMID: 23683503 PMCID: PMC3693914 DOI: 10.1186/1478-811x-11-34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 418] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2013] [Accepted: 05/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
: Parkinson's disease (PD) coincides with a dramatic loss of dopaminergic neurons within the substantia nigra. A key player in the loss of dopaminergic neurons is oxidative stress. Dopamine (DA) metabolism itself is strongly linked to oxidative stress as its degradation generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) and DA oxidation can lead to endogenous neurotoxins whereas some DA derivatives show antioxidative effects. Therefore, DA metabolism is of special importance for neuronal redox-homeostasis and viability.In this review we highlight different aspects of dopamine metabolism in the context of PD and neurodegeneration. Since most reviews focus only on single aspects of the DA system, we will give a broader overview by looking at DA biosynthesis, sequestration, degradation and oxidation chemistry at the metabolic level, as well as at the transcriptional, translational and posttranslational regulation of all enzymes involved. This is followed by a short overview of cellular models currently used in PD research. Finally, we will address the topic from a medical point of view which directly aims to encounter PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Meiser
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, 7, avenue des Hauts-Fourneaux, L-4362 Esch-Belval, Luxembourg
| | - Daniel Weindl
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, 7, avenue des Hauts-Fourneaux, L-4362 Esch-Belval, Luxembourg
| | - Karsten Hiller
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, 7, avenue des Hauts-Fourneaux, L-4362 Esch-Belval, Luxembourg
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Gräwert T, Fischer M, Bacher A. Structures and reaction mechanisms of GTP cyclohydrolases. IUBMB Life 2013; 65:310-22. [PMID: 23457054 DOI: 10.1002/iub.1153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2013] [Accepted: 01/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
GTP cyclohydrolases generate the first committed intermediates for the biosynthesis of certain vitamins/cofactors (folic acid, riboflavin, deazaflavin, and tetrahydrobiopterin), deazapurine antibiotics, some t-RNA bases (queuosine, archaeosine), and the phytotoxin, toxoflavin. They depend on divalent cations for hydrolytic opening of the imidazole ring of the substrate, guanosine triphosphate (GTP). Surprisingly, the ring opening reaction is not the rate-limiting step for GTP cyclohydrolases I and II whose mechanism have been studied in some detail. GTP cyclohydrolase I, Ib, and II are potential targets for novel anti-infectives. Genetic factors modulating the activity of human GTP cyclohydrolase are highly pleiotropic, since the signal transponders whose biosyntheses require their participation (nitric oxide, catecholamines) impact a very wide range of physiological phenomena. Recent studies suggest that human GTP cyclohydrolase may become an oncology target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Gräwert
- Hamburg School of Food Science, Institut für Lebensmittelchemie, Grindelallee 117, 20146 Hamburg, Germany
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Kapatos G. The neurobiology of tetrahydrobiopterin biosynthesis: a model for regulation of GTP cyclohydrolase I gene transcription within nigrostriatal dopamine neurons. IUBMB Life 2013; 65:323-33. [PMID: 23457032 DOI: 10.1002/iub.1140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2012] [Accepted: 01/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Within the brain, the reduced pteridine cofactor 6R-L-erythro-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is absolutely required for the synthesis of the monoamine (MA) neurotransmitters dopamine (DA), norepinephrine, epinephrine (E), and serotonin (5-HT), the novel gaseous neurotransmitter nitric oxide and the production of yet to be identified 1-O-alkylglycerol-derived lipids. GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH) catalyzes the first and limiting step in the BH4 biosynthetic pathway, which is now thought to involve up to eight different proteins supporting six alternate de novo and two alternate salvage pathways. Gene expression analysis across different regions of the human brain shows the abundance of transcripts coding for all eight of these proteins to be highly correlated with each other and to be enriched within human MA neurons. The potential for multiple routes for BH4 synthesis therefore exists within the human brain. GTPCH expression is particularly heterogeneous across different populations of human and rodent MA-containing neurons, with low expression levels and therefore BH4 being a characteristic of nigrostriatal DA (NSDA) neurons. Basic knowledge of how GCH1 gene transcription is controlled within NSDA neurons may explain the distinctive susceptibility of these neurons to human genetic mutations that result in BH4 deficiency. A model for cyclic adenosine monophosphate-dependent GCH1 transcription is described that involves a unique combination of DNA regulatory sequences and transcription factors. This model proposes that low levels of GCH1 transcription within NSDA neurons are driven by their distinctive physiology, suggesting that pharmacological manipulation of GCH1 gene transcription can be used to modify BH4 levels and therefore DA synthesis in the basal ganglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Kapatos
- Department of Pharmacology, Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.
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Abstract
6R l-erythro-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an essential cofactor for several enzymes including phenylalanine hydroxylase and the nitric oxide synthases (NOS). Oral supplementation of BH4 has been successfully employed to treat subsets of patients with hyperphenylalaninaemia. More recently, research efforts have focussed on understanding whether BH4 supplementation may also be efficacious in cardiovascular disorders that are underpinned by reduced nitric oxide bioavailability. Whilst numerous preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated a positive association between enhanced BH4 and vascular function, the efficacy of orally administered BH4 in human cardiovascular disease remains unclear. Furthermore, interventions that limit BH4 bioavailability may provide benefit in diseases where nitric oxide over production contributes to pathology. This review describes the pathways involved in BH4 bio-regulation and discusses other endogenous mechanisms that could be harnessed therapeutically to manipulate vascular BH4 levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Starr
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics Group, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Biomedical Sciences, King's College London, Franklin Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street,London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
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Kim H, Kim K, Yim J. Biosynthesis of drosopterins, the red eye pigments ofDrosophila melanogaster. IUBMB Life 2013; 65:334-40. [DOI: 10.1002/iub.1145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2012] [Accepted: 01/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Sarkissian CN, Ying M, Scherer T, Thöny B, Martinez A. The mechanism of BH4 -responsive hyperphenylalaninemia--as it occurs in the ENU1/2 genetic mouse model. Hum Mutat 2012; 33:1464-73. [PMID: 22644647 DOI: 10.1002/humu.22128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2011] [Accepted: 05/15/2012] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The Pah(enu1/enu2) (ENU1/2) mouse is a heteroallelic orthologous model displaying blood phenylalanine (Phe) concentrations characteristic of mild hyperphenylalaninemia. ENU1/2 mice also have reduced liver phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) protein content (∼20% normal) and activity (∼2.5% normal). The mutant PAH protein is highly ubiquitinated, which is likely associated with its increased misfolding and instability. The administration of a single subcutaneous injection of l-Phe (1.1 mg l-Phe/g body weight) leads to an approximately twofold to threefold increase of blood Phe and phenylalanine/tyrosine (Phe/Tyr) ratio, and a 1.6-fold increase of both nonubiquitinated PAH protein content and PAH activity. It also results in elevated concentrations of liver 6R-l-erythro-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrobiopterin (BH(4)), potentially through the influence of Phe on GTP cyclohydrolase I and its feedback regulatory protein. The increased BH(4) content seems to stabilize PAH. Supplementing ENU1/2 mice with BH(4) (50 mg/kg/day for 10 days) reduces the blood Phe/Tyr ratio within the mild hyperphenylalaninemic range; however, PAH content and activity were not elevated. It therefore appears that BH(4) supplementation of ENU1/2 mice increases Phe hydroxylation levels through a kinetic rather than a chaperone stabilizing effect. By boosting blood Phe concentrations, and by BH(4) supplementation, we have revealed novel insights into the processing and regulation of the ENU1/2-mutant PAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christineh N Sarkissian
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University-Montreal Children's Hospital Research Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO), a key regulator of cardiovascular function, is synthesized from L-arginine and oxygen by the enzyme nitric oxide synthase (NOS). This reaction requires tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) as a cofactor. BH4 is synthesized from guanosine triphosphate (GTP) by GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH) and recycled from 7,8-dihydrobiopterin (BH2) by dihydrofolate reductase. Under conditions of low BH4 bioavailability relative to NOS or BH2, oxygen activation is "uncoupled" from L-arginine oxidation, and NOS produces superoxide (O (2) (-) ) instead of NO. NOS-derived superoxide reacts with NO to produce peroxynitrite (ONOO(-)), a highly reactive anion that rapidly oxidizes BH4 and propagates NOS uncoupling. BH4 depletion and NOS uncoupling contribute to overload-induced heart failure, hypertension, ischemia/reperfusion injury, and atrial fibrillation. L-arginine depletion, methylarginine accumulation, and S-glutathionylation of NOS also promote uncoupling. Recoupling NOS is a promising approach to treating myocardial and vascular dysfunction associated with heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew S. Alkaitis
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Mark J. Crabtree
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
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Kolluru GK, Bir SC, Kevil CG. Endothelial dysfunction and diabetes: effects on angiogenesis, vascular remodeling, and wound healing. Int J Vasc Med 2012; 2012:918267. [PMID: 22611498 PMCID: PMC3348526 DOI: 10.1155/2012/918267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 302] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2011] [Accepted: 10/18/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by inappropriate hyperglycemia due to lack of or resistance to insulin. Patients with DM are frequently afflicted with ischemic vascular disease or wound healing defect. It is well known that type 2 DM causes amplification of the atherosclerotic process, endothelial cell dysfunction, glycosylation of extracellular matrix proteins, and vascular denervation. These complications ultimately lead to impairment of neovascularization and diabetic wound healing. Therapeutic angiogenesis remains an attractive treatment modality for chronic ischemic disorders including PAD and/or diabetic wound healing. Many experimental studies have identified better approaches for diabetic cardiovascular complications, however, successful clinical translation has been limited possibly due to the narrow therapeutic targets of these agents or the lack of rigorous evaluation of pathology and therapeutic mechanisms in experimental models of disease. This paper discusses the current body of evidence identifying endothelial dysfunction and impaired angiogenesis during diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Christopher G. Kevil
- Department of Pathology, LSU Health Sciences Center-Shreveport, 1501 Kings Highway, Shreveport, LA 71130, USA
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Abstract
Understanding and consequently treating neuropathic pain effectively is a challenge for modern medicine, as unlike inflammation, which can be controlled relatively well, chronic pain due to nerve injury is refractory to most current therapeutics. Here we define a target pathway for a new class of analgesics, tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) synthesis and metabolism. BH4 is an essential co-factor in the synthesis of serotonin, dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine and nitric oxide and as a result, its availability influences many systems, including neurons. Following peripheral nerve damage, levels of BH4 are dramatically increased in sensory neurons, consequently this has a profound effect on the physiology of these cells, causing increased activity and pain hypersensitivity. These changes are principally due to the upregulation of the rate limiting enzyme for BH4 synthesis GTP Cyclohydrolase 1 (GCH1). A GCH1 pain-protective haplotype which decreases pain levels in a variety of settings, by reducing the levels of endogenous activation of this enzyme, has been characterized in humans. Here we define the control of BH4 homeostasis and discuss the consequences of large perturbations within this system, both negatively via genetic mutations and after pathological increases in the production of this cofactor that result in chronic pain. We explain the nature of the GCH1 reduced-function haplotype and set out the potential for a ' BH4 blocking' drug as a novel analgesic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alban Latremoliere
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Children’s Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, 3 Blackfan Circle, CLS 12260, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Michael Costigan
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Children’s Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, 3 Blackfan Circle, CLS 12260, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Li L, Du Y, Chen W, Fu H, Harrison DG. A novel high-throughput screening assay for discovery of molecules that increase cellular tetrahydrobiopterin. JOURNAL OF BIOMOLECULAR SCREENING 2011; 16:836-44. [PMID: 21693765 PMCID: PMC4677475 DOI: 10.1177/1087057111411088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH(4)) is an essential cofactor for the nitric oxide (NO) synthases and the aromatic amino acid hydroxylases. Insufficient BH(4) has been implicated in various cardiovascular and neurological disorders. GTP cyclohydrolase 1 (GTPCH-1) is the rate-limiting enzyme for de novo biosynthesis of BH(4). The authors have recently shown that the interaction of GTPCH-1 with GTP cyclohydrolase feedback regulatory protein (GFRP) inhibits endothelial GTPCH-1 enzyme activity, BH(4) levels, and NO production. They propose that agents that disrupt the GTPCH-1/GFRP interaction can increase cellular GTPCH-1 activity, BH(4) levels, and NO production. They developed and optimized a novel time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer (TR-FRET) assay to monitor the interaction of GTPCH-1 and GFRP. This assay is highly sensitive and stable and has a signal-to-background ratio (S/B) greater than 12 and a Z' factor greater than 0.8. This assay was used in an ultra-high-throughput screening (uHTS) format to screen the Library of Pharmacologically Active Compounds. Using independent protein-protein interaction and cellular activity assays, the authors identified compounds that disrupt GTPCH-1/GFRP binding and increase endothelial cell biopterin levels. Thus, this TR-FRET assay could be applied in future uHTS of additional libraries to search for molecules that increase GTPCH-1 activity and BH(4) levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- The Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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McHugh PC, Joyce PR, Deng X, Kennedy MA. A polymorphism of the GTP-cyclohydrolase I feedback regulator gene alters transcriptional activity and may affect response to SSRI antidepressants. THE PHARMACOGENOMICS JOURNAL 2011; 11:207-13. [PMID: 20351752 DOI: 10.1038/tpj.2010.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2009] [Revised: 01/03/2010] [Accepted: 02/28/2010] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH(4)) is an essential cofactor for synthesis of many neurotransmitters including serotonin. In serotonergic neurons, BH(4) is tightly regulated by GTP-cyclohydrolase I feedback regulator (GFRP). Given the pivotal role of the serotonergic system in mood disorders and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) antidepressant function, we tested the hypothesis that GFRP gene (GCHFR) variants would modify response to antidepressants in subjects with major depression. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs7164342 and rs7163862) in the GCHFR promoter were identified and occurred as two haplotypes (GA or TT). A multiple regression analysis revealed that homozygous individuals for the TT haplotype were less likely to respond to the SSRI fluoxetine than to the tricyclic antidepressant nortriptyline (P = 0.037). Moreover, the TT haplotype showed a reduced transcription rate in luciferase reporter gene assays, which may impact on BH(4)-mediated neurotransmitter production, thus suggesting a biological process through which GCHFR promoter variants might influence antidepressant response.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C McHugh
- Department of Pathology, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand.
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Shiraishi H, Ikemoto K, Tada S, Udagawa Y, Ohtsuki M, Sumi-Ichinose C, Kondo K, Nomura T. Cilostazol inhibits cytokine-induced tetrahydrobiopterin biosynthesis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. J Atheroscler Thromb 2011; 18:312-7. [PMID: 21224523 DOI: 10.5551/jat.6361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Cilostazol, a type III phosphodiesterase inhibitor, is utilized for the treatment of intermittent claudication and is considered to have the beneficial effects against the atherogenic process. In the present study, we examined the effects of cilostazol on BH(4) biosynthesis in HUVEC treated with a mixture of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IFN-γ and TNF-α. METHODS Isolated HUVECs were grown to confluence and treated with IFN-γ (300 units/mL) and TNF-α (300 units/mL) for 16 h in order to stimulate BH(4) biosynthesis. The BH(4) levels were measured by HPLC. The mRNA expression of GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH), the rate-limiting enzyme of BH(4) biosynthesis, and GTPCH feedback regulatory protein (GFRP) were quantified by real-time PCR. The GTPCH protein expression was assessed by western blot analysis. RESULTS Cilostazol significantly reduced the BH(4) levels in cytokine-stimulated HUVEC. Cilostazol produced a concomitant increase in the cAMP levels in HUVEC. Cilostazol decreased the GTPCH activity as well as the expression of GTPCH mRNA and protein. 8-bromo-cAMP (8Br-cAMP), a cell-permeable cAMP analogue, did not reproduce the effects of cilostazol. Cilostazol did not affect the cytokine-induced inhibition of GFRP mRNA expression. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that cilostazol inhibited cytokine-stimulated BH(4) biosynthesis via a cAMP-independent mechanism in HUVEC. Our data indicate that cilostazol reduced GTPCH activity and did so by suppressing the GTPCH protein levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Shiraishi
- Department of Pharmacology, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
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Higgins CE, Gross SS. The N-terminal peptide of mammalian GTP cyclohydrolase I is an autoinhibitory control element and contributes to binding the allosteric regulatory protein GFRP. J Biol Chem 2010; 286:11919-28. [PMID: 21163945 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110.196204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH) is the rate-limiting enzyme for biosynthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), an obligate cofactor for NO synthases and aromatic amino acid hydroxylases. BH4 can limit its own synthesis by triggering decameric GTPCH to assemble in an inhibitory complex with two GTPCH feedback regulatory protein (GFRP) pentamers. Subsequent phenylalanine binding to the GTPCH·GFRP inhibitory complex converts it to a stimulatory complex. An N-terminal inhibitory peptide in GTPCH may also contribute to autoregulation of GTPCH activity, but mechanisms are undefined. To characterize potential regulatory actions of the N-terminal peptide in rat GTPCH, we expressed, purified, and characterized a truncation mutant, devoid of 45 N-terminal amino acids (Δ45-GTPCH) and contrasted its catalytic and GFRP binding properties to wild type GTPCH (wt-GTPCH). Contrary to prior reports, we show that GFRP binds wt-GTPCH in the absence of any small molecule effector, resulting in allosteric stimulation of GTPCH activity: a 20% increase in Vmax, 50% decrease in KmGTP, and increase in Hill coefficient to 1.6, from 1.0. These features of GFRP-stimulated wt-GTPCH activity were phenocopied by Δ45-GTPCH in the absence of bound GFRP. Addition of GFRP to Δ45-GTPCH failed to elicit complex formation or a substantial further increase in GTPCH catalytic activity. Expression of Δ45-GTPCH in HEK-293 cells elicited 3-fold greater BH4 accumulation than an equivalent of wt-GTPCH. Together, results indicate that the N-terminal peptide exerts autoinhibitory control over rat GTPCH and is required for GFRP binding on its own. Displacement of the autoinhibitory peptide provides a molecular mechanism for physiological up-regulation of GTPCH activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina E Higgins
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10021, USA
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Abstract
Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is a multifunctional cofactor of aromatic amino acid hydroxylases and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) as well as an intracellular antioxidant in animals. Through regulation of NOS activity BH4 plays a pivotal role not only in a variety of normal cellular functions but also in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, which develop under oxidative stress conditions. It appears that a balanced interplay between BH4 and NOS is crucial for cellular fate. If cellular BH4 homeostasis maintained by BH4 synthesis and regeneration fails to cope with increased oxidative stress, NOS is uncoupled to generate superoxide rather than NO and, in turn, exacerbates impaired BH4 homeostasis, thereby leading to cell death. The fundamental biochemical events involved in the BH4-NOS interplay are essentially the same, as revealed in mammalian endothelial, cardiac, and neuronal cells. This review summarizes information on the cellular BH4 homeostasis in mammals, focusing on its regulation under normal and oxidative stress conditions.
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Li L, Rezvan A, Salerno JC, Husain A, Kwon K, Jo H, Harrison DG, Chen W. GTP cyclohydrolase I phosphorylation and interaction with GTP cyclohydrolase feedback regulatory protein provide novel regulation of endothelial tetrahydrobiopterin and nitric oxide. Circ Res 2010; 106:328-36. [PMID: 19926872 PMCID: PMC2818799 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.109.210658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH-1) is the rate-limiting enzyme involved in de novo biosynthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH(4)), an essential cofactor for NO synthases and aromatic amino acid hydroxylases. GTPCH-1 undergoes negative feedback regulation by its end-product BH(4) via interaction with the GTP cyclohydrolase feedback regulatory protein (GFRP). Such a negative feedback mechanism should maintain cellular BH(4) levels within a very narrow range; however, we recently identified a phosphorylation site (S81) on human GTPCH-1 that markedly increases BH(4) production in response to laminar shear. OBJECTIVE We sought to define how S81 phosphorylation alters GTPCH-1 enzyme activity and how this is modulated by GFRP. METHODS AND RESULTS Using prokaryotically expressed proteins, we found that the GTPCH-1 phospho-mimetic mutant (S81D) has increased enzyme activity, reduced binding to GFRP and resistance to inhibition by GFRP compared to wild-type GTPCH-1. Using small interfering RNA or overexpressing plasmids, GFRP was shown to modulate phosphorylation of GTPCH-1, BH(4) levels, and NO production in human endothelial cells. Laminar, but not oscillatory shear stress, caused dissociation of GTPCH-1 and GFRP, promoting GTPCH-1 phosphorylation. We also found that both GTPCH-1 phosphorylation and GFRP downregulation prevents endothelial NO synthase uncoupling in response to oscillatory shear. Finally oscillatory shear was associated with impaired GTPCH-1 phosphorylation and reduced BH(4) levels in vivo. CONCLUSIONS These studies provide a new mechanism for regulation of endothelial GTPCH-1 by its phosphorylation and interplay with GFRP. This mechanism allows for escape from GFRP negative feedback and permits large amounts of BH(4) to be produced in response to laminar shear stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322
- Graduate Program of Molecular and Systems Pharmacology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - Amir Rezvan
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - John C. Salerno
- Department of Biology and Physics, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA 30144
| | - Ahsan Husain
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - Kihwan Kwon
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - Hanjoong Jo
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering at Georgia Tech and Emory University, Decatur, GA 30033
| | - David G. Harrison
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322
- Graduate Program of Molecular and Systems Pharmacology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322
- Atlanta Veterans Administration Hospital, Decatur, GA 30033
| | - Wei Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322
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Byun J, Yoon J, Baek K. Analysis of two promoters that control the expression of the GTP cyclohydrolase I gene in Drosophila melanogaster. Mol Cells 2009; 27:583-9. [PMID: 19387565 DOI: 10.1007/s10059-009-0072-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2009] [Revised: 03/03/2009] [Accepted: 03/05/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH) is a key enzyme in the de novo synthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin. Previously, the Drosophila melanogaster GTPCH gene has been shown to be expressed from two different promoters (P1 and P2). In our study, the 5'-flanking DNA regions required for P1 and P2 promoter activities were characterized using transient expression assay. The DNA regions between -98 and +31, and between -73 and +35 are required for efficient P1 and P2 promoter activities, respectively. The regions between -98 and -56 and between -73 and -41 may contain critical elements required for the expression of GTPCH in Drosophila. By aligning the nucleotide sequences in the P1 and P2 promoter regions of the Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila virilis GTPCH genes, several conserved elements including palindromic sequences in the regions critical for P1 and P2 promoter activities were identified. Western blot analysis of transgenic flies transformed using P1 or P2 promoter-lacZ fusion plasmids further revealed that P1 promoter expression is restricted to the late pupae and adult developmental stages but that the P2 promoter driven expression of GTPCH is constitutive throughout fly development. In addition, X-gal staining of the embryos and imaginal discs of transgenic flies suggests that the P2 promoter is active from stage 13 of embryo and is generally active in most regions of the imaginal discs at the larval stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaegoo Byun
- Graduate School of Biotechnology, Kyung Hee University, 446-701 Yongin, Korea
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49
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Tatham AL, Crabtree MJ, Warrick N, Cai S, Alp NJ, Channon KM. GTP cyclohydrolase I expression, protein, and activity determine intracellular tetrahydrobiopterin levels, independent of GTP cyclohydrolase feedback regulatory protein expression. J Biol Chem 2009; 284:13660-13668. [PMID: 19286659 PMCID: PMC2679467 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m807959200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2008] [Revised: 03/10/2009] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH) is a key enzyme in the synthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), a required cofactor for nitricoxide synthases and aromatic amino acid hydroxylases. Alterations of GTPCH activity and BH4 availability play an important role in human disease. GTPCH expression is regulated by inflammatory stimuli, in association with reduced expression of GTP cyclohydrolase feedback regulatory protein (GFRP). However, the relative importance of GTPCH expression versus GTPCH activity and the role of GFRP in relation to BH4 bioavailability remain uncertain. We investigated these relationships in a cell line with tet-regulated GTPCH expression and in the hph-1 mouse model of GTPCH deficiency. Doxycycline exposure resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in GTPCH protein and activity, with a strong correlation between GTPCH expression and BH4 levels (r(2) = 0.85, p < 0.0001). These changes in GTPCH and BH4 had no effect on GFRP expression or protein levels. GFRP overexpression and knockdown in tet-GCH cells did not alter GTPCH activity or BH4 levels, and GTPCH-specific knockdown in sEnd.1 endothelial cells had no effect on GFRP protein. In mouse liver we observed a graded reduction of GTPCH expression, protein, and activity, from wild type, heterozygote, to homozygote littermates, with a striking linear correlation between GTPCH expression and BH4 levels (r(2) = 0.82, p < 0.0001). Neither GFRP expression nor protein differed between wild type, heterozygote, nor homozygote mice, despite the substantial differences in BH4. We suggest that GTPCH expression is the primary regulator of BH4 levels, and changes in GTPCH or BH4 are not necessarily accompanied by changes in GFRP expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy L Tatham
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Mark J Crabtree
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas Warrick
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Shijie Cai
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas J Alp
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Keith M Channon
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, United Kingdom.
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50
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Chavan B, Beazley W, Wood JM, Rokos H, Ichinose H, Schallreuter KU. H(2)O(2) increases de novo synthesis of (6R)-L-erythro-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrobiopterin via GTP cyclohydrolase I and its feedback regulatory protein in vitiligo. J Inherit Metab Dis 2009; 32:86-94. [PMID: 19101819 DOI: 10.1007/s10545-008-0971-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2008] [Revised: 09/28/2008] [Accepted: 11/07/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Patients with vitiligo accumulate up to 10(-3) mol/L concentrations of H(2)O(2) in their epidermis, which in turn affects many metabolic pathways in this compartment, including the synthesis and recycling of the cofactor (6R)-L-erythro-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrobiopterin (6BH(4)). De novo synthesis of 6BH(4) is dependent on the rate-limiting enzyme GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCHI) together with its feedback regulatory protein (GFRP). This step is controlled by 6BH(4) and the essential amino acid L-phenylalanine. In the study presented here we wanted to investigate whether H(2)O(2) affects the GTPCHI/GFRP cascade in these patients. Our results demonstrated concentration-dependent regulation of rhGTPCHI where 100 micromol/L H(2)O(2) was the optimum concentration for the activation of the enzyme and >300 micromol/L resulted in a decrease in activity. Oxidation of GFRP and GTPCHI does not affect feedback regulation via L-phenylalanine and 6BH(4). In vitiligo a constant upregulation of 6BH(4) de novo synthesis results from epidermal build up of L-phenylalanine that is not controlled by H(2)O(2). Taking the results together, 6BH(4) de novo synthesis is controlled by H(2)O(2) in a concentration-dependent manner, but H(2)O(2)-mediated oxidation does not affect the functionality of the GTPCHI/GFRP complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Chavan
- Clinical and Experimental Dermatology/Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
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