Quantitation of superoxide generation and substrate utilization by vascular NAD(P)H oxidase

Quantifying dynamic range in red blood cell energetics: Evidence of progressive energy failure during storage

BACKGROUND

During storage, red blood cells (RBCs) undergo significant biochemical and morphologic changes, referred to collectively as the "storage lesion". It was hypothesized that these defects may arise from disrupted oxygen-based regulation of RBC energy metabolism, with resultant depowering of intrinsic antioxidant systems.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

As a function of storage duration, the dynamic range in RBC metabolic response to three models of biochemical oxidant stress (methylene blue, hypoxanthine/xanthine oxidase, and diamide) was assessed, comparing glycolytic flux by NMR and UHPLC-MS methodologies. Blood was processed/stored under standard conditions (AS-1 additive solution) with leukoreduction. Over a 6-week period, RBC metabolic and antioxidant status were assessed at baseline and following exposure to the three biochemical oxidant models. Comparison was made of glycolytic flux (¹ H-NMR tracking of [2-¹³ C]-glucose and metabolomic phenotyping with [1,2,3-¹³ C₃ ] glucose), reducing equivalent (NADPH/NADP⁺ ) recycling, and thiol-based (GSH/GSSG) antioxidant status.

RESULTS

As a function of storage duration, we observed the following: (1) a reduction in baseline hexose monophosphate pathway (HMP) flux, the sole pathway responsible for the regeneration of the essential reducing equivalent NADPH; with (2) diminished stress-based dynamic range in both overall glycolytic as well as proportional HMP flux. In addition, progressive with storage duration, RBCs showed (3) constraint in reducing equivalent (NADPH) recycling capacity, (4) loss of thiol based (GSH) recycling capacity, and (5) dysregulation of metabolon assembly at the cytoplasmic domain of Band 3 membrane protein (cdB3).

CONCLUSION

Blood storage disturbs normal RBC metabolic control, depowering antioxidant capacity and enhancing vulnerability to oxidative injury.

Are mitochondria the main contributor of reactive oxygen species in cells?

Physiologists often assume that mitochondria are the main producers of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells. Consequently, in biomedicine, mitochondria are considered as important targets for therapeutic treatments, and in evolutionary biology, they are considered as mediators of life-history tradeoffs. Surprisingly, data supporting such an assumption are lacking, at least partially due to the technical difficulties in accurately measuring the level of ROS produced by different subcellular compartments in intact cells. In this Commentary, we first review three potential reasons underlying the misassumption of mitochondrial dominance in the production of cellular ROS. We then introduce some other major sites/enzymes responsible for cellular ROS production. With the use of a recently developed cell-based assay, we further discuss the contribution of mitochondria to the total rate of ROS release in cell lines and primary cells of different species. In these cells, the contribution of mitochondria varies between cell types but mitochondria are never the main source of cellular ROS. This indicates that although mitochondria are one of the significant sources of cellular ROS, they are not necessarily the main contributor under normal conditions. Intriguingly, similar findings were also observed in cells under a variety of stressors, life-history strategies and pathological stages, in which the rates of cellular ROS production were significantly enhanced. Finally, we make recommendations for designing future studies. We hope this paper will encourage investigators to carefully consider non-mitochondrial sources of cellular ROS in their study systems or models.

Zinc in the Brain: Friend or Foe?

Zinc is a trace metal ion in the central nervous system that plays important biological roles, such as in catalysis, structure, and regulation. It contributes to antioxidant function and the proper functioning of the immune system. In view of these characteristics of zinc, it plays an important role in neurophysiology, which leads to cell growth and cell proliferation. However, after brain disease, excessively released and accumulated zinc ions cause neurotoxic damage to postsynaptic neurons. On the other hand, zinc deficiency induces degeneration and cognitive decline disorders, such as increased neuronal death and decreased learning and memory. Given the importance of balance in this context, zinc is a biological component that plays an important physiological role in the central nervous system, but a pathophysiological role in major neurological disorders. In this review, we focus on the multiple roles of zinc in the brain.

Red blood cell phenotype fidelity following glycerol cryopreservation optimized for research purposes

Intact red blood cells (RBCs) are required for phenotypic analyses. In order to allow separation (time and location) between subject encounter and sample analysis, we developed a research-specific RBC cryopreservation protocol and assessed its impact on data fidelity for key biochemical and physiological assays. RBCs drawn from healthy volunteers were aliquotted for immediate analysis or following glycerol-based cryopreservation, thawing, and deglycerolization. RBC phenotype was assessed by (1) scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging and standard morphometric RBC indices, (2) osmotic fragility, (3) deformability, (4) endothelial adhesion, (5) oxygen (O2) affinity, (6) ability to regulate hypoxic vasodilation, (7) nitric oxide (NO) content, (8) metabolomic phenotyping (at steady state, tracing with [1,2,3-13C3]glucose ± oxidative challenge with superoxide thermal source; SOTS-1), as well as in vivo quantification (following human to mouse RBC xenotransfusion) of (9) blood oxygenation content mapping and flow dynamics (velocity and adhesion). Our revised glycerolization protocol (40% v/v final) resulted in >98.5% RBC recovery following freezing (-80°C) and thawing (37°C), with no difference compared to the standard reported method (40% w/v final). Full deglycerolization (>99.9% glycerol removal) of 40% v/v final samples resulted in total cumulative lysis of ~8%, compared to ~12-15% with the standard method. The post cryopreservation/deglycerolization RBC phenotype was indistinguishable from that for fresh RBCs with regard to physical RBC parameters (morphology, volume, and density), osmotic fragility, deformability, endothelial adhesivity, O2 affinity, vasoregulation, metabolomics, and flow dynamics. These results indicate that RBC cryopreservation/deglycerolization in 40% v/v glycerol final does not significantly impact RBC phenotype (compared to fresh cells).

Redox Signaling and Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are redox-signaling molecules that are critically involved in regulating endothelial cell functions, host defense, aging, and cellular adaptation. Mitochondria are the major sources of ROS and important sources of redox signaling in pulmonary circulation. It is becoming increasingly evident that increased mitochondrial oxidative stress and aberrant signaling through redox-sensitive pathways play a direct causative role in the pathogenesis of many cardiopulmonary disorders including persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). This chapter highlights redox signaling in endothelial cells, antioxidant defense mechanism, cell responses to oxidative stress, and their contributions to disease pathogenesis.

Activation of the molecular and functional effects of Nrf2 against chronic iron oxide nanorod overload-induced cardiotoxicity

Reactive oxygen species have a significant role in the pathogenesis of iron oxide nanorod (IONR) overload-induced organ toxicity in some organs such as the lungs. Green tea induces upregulation of phase II antioxidant enzymes that are transcriptionally organized by the nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) that when activated antagonize the oxidative stress induced by IONR overload that causes cardiotoxicity. The aim of the present study was to determine whether treatment of cardiotoxicity with iron chelators (deferiprone (DFP) or deferoxamine (DFO)) alone or in combination with phytochemical activation of Nrf2 (green tea) can protect cardiomyocytes from IONR overload-induced cardiotoxicity. One hundred five rats were distributed into seven groups: two control groups (non-IONR-overloaded and IONR-overloaded) and five IONR-overloaded groups such as a green tea group, DFP group, DFP combined with green tea group, DFO group, and DFO combined with green tea. Blood samples and cardiac tissues were obtained for estimation of total iron-binding capacity, ratio of myocardial 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine/myocardial 2-deoxyguanosine, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, glutathione (GSH) contents, and histopathological examination. The results showed mild histopathological changes in the heart and a significant decrease in all biochemical parameters, except for myocardial GSH, in the DFP group. The addition of green tea improved the biochemical and histopathological results compared with chelators alone.

On the vasoprotective mechanisms underlying novel β-phosphorylated nitrones: Focus on free radical characterization, scavenging and NO-donation in a biological model of oxidative stress

A series of new hybrid 2-(diethoxyphosphoryl)-N-(benzylidene)propan-2-amine oxide derivatives with different aromatic substitution (PPNs) were synthesized. These molecules were evaluated for their EPR spin trapping potential on eleven different radicals and NO-donation properties in vitro, cytotoxicity and vasoprotective effect on precontracted rat aortic rings. A subfamily of the new PPNs featured an antioxidant moiety occurring in natural phenolic acids. From the experimental screening of these hydroxyphenyl- and methoxyphenyl-substituted PPNs, biocompatible nitrones 4d, and 4g-4i deriving from caffeic, gallic, ferulic and sinapic acids, which combined improved EPR probing of ROS formation, vasorelaxant action and antioxidant potency, might be potential drug candidate alternatives to PBN and its analogues.

Iron Deprivation May Enhance Insulin Receptor and Glut4 Transcription in Skeletal Muscle of Adult Rats

OBJECTIVES

Considering that phenotype related to iron overload associated with pathological conditions differs from that caused by dietary iron excess, our study set out to evaluate the impact of dietary iron restriction and dietary iron supplementation on oxidative stress and functional outcome in adult, healthy rats.

METHODS

adult rats were divided into the three groups and fed diets containing 10, 35 or 350 mg/kg iron (restricted-diet, control-diet and supplemented- diet groups, respectively) for 78 days. Hematological variables, fasting blood glucose, hepatic enzyme activity and C-reactive protein levels were analyzed. Iron and glycogen concentrations in liver and skeletal muscle were determined. The extent of tissue damage caused by either dietary iron restriction or iron supplementation was accessed by measuring malondialdehyde, carbonyl, NADPH oxidase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and glutathione-s-transferase in various tissues. The mRNA expression levels of insulin receptor, glucose transporter 4 and p53 were also determined.

RESULTS

Fasting blood glucose values trended toward a decrease by dietary iron restriction, moreover, hepatic glycogen content decreased with concomitant increases in skeletal muscle. In addition, dietary iron restriction resulted in a twofold increase in mRNA expression of Insr and fourfold increase in Glut4 expression in skeletal muscle. Although the dietary iron restriction did not affect body iron status, it caused hepatic low oxidative damages. However, high liver NADPH oxidase activity and increased levels of protein oxidation in muscle were observed. Chronic feeding of high iron diet induces iron overload and resulted in elevated levels of stress markers in tissues.

CONCLUSION

Dietary iron deprivation may improve insulin receptor and glucose transporter transcription in muscle; however, our results show that dietary iron restriction can prevent and/or promote oxidative damage in a tissue-specific manner, emphasizing the importance of maintaining optimal iron intake.

Antioxidative and Antihypertensive Effects of Welsh Onion on Rats Fed with a High-Fat High-Sucrose Diet

The effects of Welsh onion on the development of hypertension and autoxidation were studied in 6-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats. The rats were fed with a control diet or a high-fat high-sucrose (HFS) diet with or without 5% Welsh onion (green-leafy type or white-sheath type) for 4 weeks. The systolic blood pressure was elevated and the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in plasma were increased in the rats fed with the HFS diet without Welsh onion. The rats fed with the HFS diet containing Welsh onion, especially the green-leafy type, had lower blood pressure. They also had a higher level of nitric oxide (NO) metabolites in both the urine and plasma, lower activity of NADH/NADPH oxidase in the aorta, and suppressed angiotensin II production. The effect of white Welsh onion on decreasing the blood pressure was not significant, although the effects on increasing NO metabolites in the urine and decreasing NADH oxidase activity in the aorta were significant. The TBARS value in the plasma was lowered in the rats fed with either green or white Welsh onion, but the in vitro radical scavenging and ferric reducing antioxidative activities were much higher with green Welsh onion than with the white type. These results suggest that the green-leafy Welsh onion, but not the white type, reduced superoxide generation by suppressing the angiotensine II production and then the NADH/NADPH oxidase activity, increasing the NO availability in the aorta, and consequently lowering the blood pressure in the rats fed with the HFS diet. The radical scavenging and reducing antioxidative activities of green Welsh onion may also be effective in decreasing superoxide.

Dietary iron concentration may influence aging process by altering oxidative stress in tissues of adult rats

Iron is an essential element. However, in its free form, iron participates in redox-reactions, leading to the production of free radicals that increase oxidative stress and the risk of damaging processes. Living organisms have an efficient mechanism that regulates iron absorption according to their iron content to protect against oxidative damage. The effects of restricted and enriched-iron diets on oxidative stress and aging biomarkers were investigated. Adult Wistar rats were fed diets containing 10, 35 or 350 mg/kg iron (adult restricted-iron, adult control-iron and adult enriched-iron groups, respectively) for 78 days. Rats aged two months were included as a young control group. Young control group showed higher hemoglobin and hematocrit values, lower levels of iron and lower levels of MDA or carbonyl in the major studied tissues than the adult control group. Restricted-iron diet reduced iron concentrations in skeletal muscle and oxidative damage in the majority of tissues and also increased weight loss. Enriched-iron diet increased hematocrit values, serum iron, gamma-glutamyl transferase, iron concentrations and oxidative stress in the majority of tissues. As expected, young rats showed higher mRNA levels of heart and hepatic L-Ferritin (Ftl) and kidneys SMP30 as well as lower mRNA levels of hepatic Hamp and interleukin-1 beta (Il1b) and also lower levels of liver protein ferritin. Restricted-iron adult rats showed an increase in heart Ftl mRNA and the enriched-iron adult rats showed an increase in liver nuclear factor erythroid derived 2 like 2 (Nfe2l2) and Il1b mRNAs and in gut divalent metal transporter-1 mRNA (Slc11a2) relative to the control adult group. These results suggest that iron supplementation in adult rats may accelerate aging process by increasing oxidative stress while iron restriction may retards it. However, iron restriction may also impair other physiological processes that are not associated with aging.

Sickle hemoglobin disturbs normal coupling among erythrocyte O2 content, glycolysis, and antioxidant capacity

Energy metabolism in RBCs is characterized by O2-responsive variations in flux through the Embden Meyerhof pathway (EMP) or the hexose monophosphate pathway (HMP). Therefore, the generation of ATP, NADH, and 2,3-DPG (EMP) or NADPH (HMP) shift with RBC O2 content because of competition between deoxyhemoglobin and key EMP enzymes for binding to the cytoplasmic domain of the Band 3 membrane protein (cdB3). Enzyme inactivation by cdB3 sequestration in oxygenated RBCs favors HMP flux and NADPH generation (maximizing glutathione-based antioxidant systems). We tested the hypothesis that sickle hemoglobin disrupts cdB3-based regulatory protein complex assembly, creating vulnerability to oxidative stress. In RBCs from patients with sickle cell anemia, we demonstrate in the present study constrained HMP flux, NADPH, and glutathione recycling and reduced resilience to oxidative stress manifested by membrane protein oxidation and membrane fragility. Using a novel, inverted membrane-on-bead model, we illustrate abnormal (O2-dependent) association of sickle hemoglobin to RBC membrane that interferes with sequestration/inactivation of the EMP enzyme GAPDH. This finding was confirmed by immunofluorescent imaging during RBC O2 loading/unloading. Moreover, selective inhibition of inappropriately dispersed GAPDH rescues antioxidant capacity. Such disturbance of cdB3-based linkage between O2 gradients and RBC metabolism suggests a novel mechanism by which hypoxia may influence the sickle cell anemia phenotype.

Application of Electrode Methods in Studies of Nitric Oxide Metabolism and Diffusion Kinetics

Nitric oxide (NO) has many important physiological roles in the body. Since NO electrodes can directly measure NO concentration in the nM range and in real time, NO electrode methods have been generally used in laboratories for measuring NO concentration in vivo and in vitro. This review focuses on the application of electrode methods in studies of NO diffusion and metabolic kinetics. We have described the physical and chemical properties that need to be considered in the preparation of NO stock solution, discussed the effect of several interfering factors on the measured curves of NO concentration that need to be eliminated in the experimental setup for NO measurements, and provided an overview of the application of NO electrode methods in measuring NO diffusion and metabolic kinetics in solution and in biological systems. This overview covers NO metabolism by oxygen (O₂), superoxide, heme proteins, cells and tissues. Important conclusions and physiological implication of these studies are discussed.

The NADPH oxidase Nox4 and aging in the heart

Oxidative stress in mitochondria is believed to promote aging. Although passive leakage of electron from the mitochondrial electron transport chain has been considered as a major source of oxidative stress in the heart and the cardiomyocytes therein, enzymes actively producing reactive oxygen species may also exist in mitochondria. We have shown recently that Nox4, a member of the NADPH oxidase family, is localized on intracellular membranes, primarily at mitochondria, in cardiomyocytes. Mitochondrial expression of Nox4 is upregulated by cardiac stress and aging in the heart, where Nox4 could become a major source of oxidative stress. This raises an intriguing possibility that Nox4 may play an important role in mediating aging of the heart. Here we discuss the potential involvement of Nox4 in mitochondrial oxidative stress and aging in the heart.

Membrane raft redox signalosomes in endothelial cells

Membrane rafts (MRs) are specialized microdomains in the cell membrane with an altered lipid composition. Upon various stimulations, MRs can be clustered to aggregate or recruit NADPH oxidase sub-units and related proteins to form MR redox signalosomes in the membrane of cells like vascular endothelial cells (ECs). Multiple protein complexes, like MR redox signalosomes, are now considered to play a crucial role in the regulation of cell function and in the development of different cell dysfunctions. To form such redox signalosomes, ceramide will be generated from the hydrolysis of sphingomyelin by lysosomal acid sphingomyelinase that has been translocated via lysosome fusion to the MR area. In this brief review, current information is provided to help understand the occurrence and function of MR redox signalosomes. This may increase enthusiasm of the scientific community for further studies on the molecular mechanisms and the functional significance of forming such MR redox signalosomes.

Estimation of the number of biophotons involved in the visual perception of a single-object image: biophoton intensity can be considerably higher inside cells than outside

Recently, we have proposed a redox molecular hypothesis about the natural biophysical substrate of visual perception and imagery [1,6]. Namely, the retina transforms external photon signals into electrical signals that are carried to the V1 (striatecortex). Then, V1 retinotopic electrical signals (spike-related electrical signals along classical axonal-dendritic pathways) can be converted into regulated ultraweak bioluminescent photons (biophotons) through redox processes within retinotopic visual neurons that make it possible to create intrinsic biophysical pictures during visual perception and imagery. However, the consensus opinion is to consider biophotons as by-products of cellular metabolism. This paper argues that biophotons are not by-products, other than originating from regulated cellular radical/redox processes. It also shows that the biophoton intensity can be considerably higher inside cells than outside. Our simple calculations, within a level of accuracy, suggest that the real biophoton intensity in retinotopic neurons may be sufficient for creating intrinsic biophysical picture representation of a single-object image during visual perception.

Reactive Oxygen Species–Mediated Signal Transduction in the Endothelium

The endothelium is an important component of vascular homeostasis that is a target for injury in the setting of vascular disease. One means of promoting a maladaptive endothelial cell phenotype such as that seen in atherosclerosis is excess oxidative stress. Although this term once was almost exclusively used to describe low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and lipid oxidation in the vasculature, we now understand that the intracellular oxidant milieu is an important modulator of vascular cell function. Indeed, considerable data indicate that reactive oxygen species (ROS) are an important means of cellular signaling, although the precise mechanisms whereby ROS accomplish this are still under investigation. In this review, the data linking ROS to kinase activation and cell signaling in the endothelium is discussed, with a particular emphasis on the roles of protein thiol modification.

Endosomal Nox2 facilitates redox-dependent induction of NF-kappaB by TNF-alpha

Growing evidence suggests that NADPH oxidase (Nox)-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) play important roles in regulating cytokine signaling. We have explored how TNF-alpha induction of Nox-dependent ROS influences NF-kappaB activation. Cellular stimulation by TNF-alpha induced NADPH-dependent superoxide production in the endosomal compartment, and this ROS was required for IKK-mediated activation of NF-kappaB. Inhibiting endocytosis reduced the ability of TNF-alpha to induce both NADPH-dependent endosomal superoxide and NF-kappaB, supporting the notion that redox-dependent signaling of the receptor occurs in the endosome. Molecular analyses demonstrated that endosomal H(2)O(2) was critical for the recruitment of TRAF2 to the TNFR1/TRADD complex after endocytosis. Studies using both Nox2 siRNA and Nox2-knockout primary fibroblasts indicated that Nox2 was critical for TNF-alpha-mediated induction of endosomal superoxide. Redox-active endosomes that form after TNF-alpha or IL-1 beta induction recruit several common proteins (Rac1, Nox2, p67(phox), SOD1), while also retaining specificity for ligand-activated receptor effectors. Our studies suggest that TNF-alpha and IL-1 beta signaling pathways both can use Nox2 to facilitate redox activation of their respective receptors at the endosomal level by promoting the redox-dependent recruitment of TRAFs. These studies help to explain how cellular compartmentalization of redox signals can be used to direct receptor activation from the plasma membrane.

Hypoxia limits antioxidant capacity in red blood cells by altering glycolytic pathway dominance

The erythrocyte membrane is a newly appreciated platform for thiol-based circulatory signaling, and it requires robust free thiol maintenance. We sought to define physiological constraints on erythrocyte antioxidant defense. Hemoglobin (Hb) conformation gates glycolytic flux through the hexose monophosphate pathway (HMP), the sole source of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) in erythrocytes. We hypothesized elevated intraerythrocytic deoxyHb would limit resilience to oxidative stress. Human erythrocytes were subjected to controlled oxidant (superoxide) loading following independent manipulation of oxygen tension, Hb conformation, and glycolytic pathway dominance. Sufficiency of antioxidant defense was determined by serial quantification of GSH, NADPH, NADH redox couples. Hypoxic erythrocytes demonstrated greater loss of reduction potential [Delta GSH E(hc) (mV): 123.4+/-9.7 vs. 57.2+/-11.1] and reduced membrane thiol (47.7+/-5.7 vs. 20.1+/-4.3%) (hypoxia vs. normoxia, respectively; P<0.01), a finding mimicked in normoxic erythrocytes after HMP blockade. Rebalancing HMP flux during hypoxia restored resilience to oxidative stress at all stages of the system. Cell-free studies assured oxidative loading was not altered by oxygen tension, heme ligation, or the inhibitors employed. These data indicate that Hb conformation controls coupled glucose and thiol metabolism in erythrocytes, and implicate hypoxemia in the pathobiology of erythrocyte-based vascular signaling.

Angiotensin II modulates CD40 expression in vascular smooth muscle cells

The signalling pathway CD40/CD40L (CD40 ligand) plays an important role in atherosclerotic plaque formation and rupture. AngII (angiotensin II), which induces oxidative stress and inflammation, is also implicated in the progression of atherosclerosis. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that AngII increases CD40/CD40L activity in vascular cells and that ROS (reactive oxygen species) are part of the signalling cascade that controls CD40/CD40L expression. Human CASMCs (coronary artery smooth muscle cells) in culture exposed to IL (interleukin)-1β or TNF-α (tumour necrosis factor-α) had increased superoxide generation and enhanced CD40 expression, detected by EPR (electron paramagnetic resonance) and immunoblotting respectively. Both phenomena were abolished by previous incubation with membrane-permeant antioxidants or cell transfection with p22phoxantisense. AngII (50–200 nmol/l) induced an early and sustained increase in CD40 mRNA and protein expression in CASMCs, which was blocked by treatment with antioxidants. Increased CD40 expression led to enhanced activity of the pathway, as AngII-treated cells stimulated with recombinant CD40L released higher amounts of IL-8 and had increased COX-2 (cyclo-oxygenase-2) expression. We conclude that AngII stimulation of vascular cells leads to a ROS-dependent increase in CD40/CD40L signalling pathway activity. This phenomenon may be an important mechanism modulating the arterial injury observed in atherosclerosis-related vasculopathy.

Regulation of eNOS-derived superoxide by endogenous methylarginines

The endogenous methylarginines, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and N (G)-monomethyl- l-arginine (L-NMMA) regulate nitric oxide (NO) production from endothelial NO synthase (eNOS). Under conditions of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH 4) depletion eNOS also generates (*)O 2 (-); however, the effects of methylarginines on eNOS-derived (*)O 2 (-) generation are poorly understood. Therefore, using electron paramagnetic resonance spin trapping techniques we measured the dose-dependent effects of ADMA and L-NMMA on (*)O 2 (-) production from eNOS under conditions of BH 4 depletion. In the absence of BH 4, ADMA dose-dependently increased NOS-derived (*)O 2 (-) generation, with a maximal increase of 151% at 100 microM ADMA. L-NMMA also dose-dependently increased NOS-derived (*)O 2 (-), but to a lesser extent, demonstrating a 102% increase at 100 microM L-NMMA. Moreover, the native substrate l-arginine also increased eNOS-derived (*)O 2 (-), exhibiting a similar degree of enhancement as that observed with ADMA. Measurements of NADPH consumption from eNOS demonstrated that binding of either l-arginine or methylarginines increased the rate of NADPH oxidation. Spectrophotometric studies suggest, just as for l-arginine and L-NMMA, the binding of ADMA shifts the eNOS heme to the high-spin state, indicative of a more positive heme redox potential, enabling enhanced electron transfer from the reductase to the oxygenase site. These results demonstrate that the methylarginines can profoundly shift the balance of NO and (*)O 2 (-) generation from eNOS. These observations have important implications with regard to the therapeutic use of l-arginine and the methylarginine-NOS inhibitors in the treatment of disease.

Assessment of superoxide production and NADPH oxidase activity by HPLC analysis of dihydroethidium oxidation products

Assessment of low-level superoxide in nonphagocytic cells is crucial for assessing redox-dependent signaling pathways and the role of enzymes such as the NADPH oxidase complex. However, most superoxide probes present inherent limitations. Particularly, assessment of dihydroethidium (DHE) fluorescence is limited regarding a lack of possible quantification and simultaneous detection of its two main products: 2-hydroxyethidium, more specific for superoxide, and ethidium, which reflects H2O2-dependent pathways involving metal proteins. HPLC separation and analysis of those two main products have been described. This chapter reports procedures used for the validation of superoxide measurements in vascular system. Superoxide assessment was performed for cultured cells and tissue fragments incubated with DHE, followed by acetonitrile extraction and HPLC run, with simultaneous fluorescence detection of 2-hydroxyethidium and ethidium and ultraviolet detection of remaining DHE. It also describes procedures for DHE-based NADPH oxidase activity assays using HPLC or fluorometry. Such methods can enhance accuracy and allow better quantitation of vascular superoxide measurements.

Cyclic stretch increases VEGF expression in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells via TGF-1 and reactive oxygen species: a requirement for NAD(P)H oxidase

We have previously shown that TGF-1 and VEGF expression are increased in the smooth muscle cell (SMC) layer of the pulmonary vessels of lambs with pulmonary hypertension secondary to increased pulmonary blood flow. Further we found that TGF-1 expression increased prior to VEGF. Due to the increased blood flow in these lambs the SMC in the pulmonary vessels are exposed to increased levels of cyclic stretch. Thus, using primary cultures of pulmonary arterial SMCs (PASMCs) isolated from 4 week-old lambs, we investigated the role of cyclic stretch in the apparent coordinated regulation of TGF-1 and VEGF. Our results demonstrated that cyclic stretch induced a significant increase in VEGF expression both at the mRNA and protein preceded by an increase in expression and secretion of TGF-1 and an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. In addition, a neutralizing TGF-1 antibody abolished the cyclic stretch-dependent increase in ROS and VEGF expression. Further, we found that cyclic stretch activated an NAD(P)H oxidase in a TGF-1 dependent manner that when inhibited abolished the cyclic stretch-dependent increase in VEGF expression. Our results indicate that cyclic stretch up-regulates VEGF expression via the TGF-1 dependent activation of NAD(P)H oxidase and increased generation of ROS.

Protein kinase A catalytic subunit alters cardiac mitochondrial redox state and membrane potential via the formation of reactive oxygen species

BACKGROUND

The identification of protein kinase A (PKA) anchoring proteins on mitochondria implies a direct effect of PKA on mitochondrial function. However, little is known about the relationship between PKA and mitochondrial metabolism.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The effects of PKA on the mitochondrial redox state (flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD)), mitochondrial membrane potential (DeltaPsi(m)) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were investigated in saponin-permeabilized rat cardiomyocytes. The PKA catalytic subunit (PKAcat; 50 unit/ml) increased FAD intensities by 56.6+/-7.9% (p<0.01), 2'7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCF) intensities by 10.5+/-3.3 fold (p<0.01) and depolarized DeltaPsi(m) to 48.1+/-9.5% of the control (p<0.01). Trolox (a ROS scavenger; 100 micromol/L) inhibited PKAcat-induced DeltaPsi(m), FAD and DCF alteration. PKAcat-induced DeltaPsi(m) depolarization was inhibited by an inhibitor of the inner membrane anion channel (IMAC), 4,4'-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid (DIDS: 1 micromol/L) but not by an inhibitor of mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP), cyclosporine A (100 nmol/L).

CONCLUSIONS

PKAcat alters FAD and DeltaPsi(m) via mitochodrial ROS generation, and PKAcat-induced DeltaPsi(m) depolarization was not caused by mPTP but rather by DIDS-sensitive mechanisms, which could be caused by opening of the IMAC. The effects of PKA on mitochondrial function could be related to myocardial function under the condition of extensive beta-adrenergic stimulation.

Analysis of DHE-derived oxidation products by HPLC in the assessment of superoxide production and NADPH oxidase activity in vascular systems

Dihydroethidium (DHE) is a widely used sensitive superoxide (O2(*-)) probe. However, DHE oxidation yields at least two fluorescent products, 2-hydroxyethidium (EOH), known to be more specific for O2(*-), and the less-specific product ethidium. We validated HPLC methods to allow quantification of DHE products in usual vascular experimental situations. Studies in vitro showed that xanthine/xanthine oxidase, and to a lesser degree peroxynitrite/carbon dioxide system led to EOH and ethidium formation. Peroxidase/H2O2 but not H2O2 alone yielded ethidium as the main product. In vascular smooth muscle cells incubated with ANG II (100 nM, 4 h), we showed a 60% increase in EOH/DHE ratio, prevented by PEG-SOD or SOD1 overexpression. We further validated a novel DHE-based NADPH oxidase assay in vascular smooth muscle cell membrane fractions, showing that EOH was uniquely increased after ANG II. This assay was also adapted to a fluorescence microplate reader, providing results in line with HPLC results. In injured artery slices, shown to exhibit increased DHE-derived fluorescence at microscopy, there was approximately 1.5- to 2-fold increase in EOH/DHE and ethidium/DHE ratios after injury, and PEG-SOD inhibited only EOH formation. We found that the amount of ethidium product and EOH/ethidium ratios are influenced by factors such as cell density and ambient light. In addition, we indirectly disclosed potential roles of heme groups and peroxidase activity in ethidium generation. Thus HPLC analysis of DHE-derived oxidation products can improve assessment of O2(*-) production or NADPH oxidase activity in many vascular experimental studies.

ADOA3R as a therapeutic target in experimental colitis: proof by validated high-density oligonucleotide microarray analysis

Adenosine A3 receptors (ADOA3Rs) are emerging as novel purinergic targets for treatment of inflammatory diseases. Our goal was to assess the protective effect of the ADOA3R agonist N(6)-(3-iodobenzyl)-adenosine-5-N-methyluronamide (IB-MECA) on gene dysregulation and injury in a rat chronic model of 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)--induced colitis. It was necessary to develop and validate a microarray technique for testing the protective effects of purine-based drugs in experimental inflammatory bowel disease. High-density oligonucleotide microarray analysis of gene dysregulation was assessed in colons from normal, TNBS-treated (7 days), and oral IB-MECA-treated rats (1.5 mg/kg b.i.d.) using a rat RNU34 neural GeneChip of 724 genes and SYBR green polymerase chain reaction. Analysis included clinical evaluation, weight loss assessment, and electron paramagnetic resonance imaging/spin-trap monitoring of free radicals. Remarkable colitis-induced gene dysregulation occurs in the most exceptional cluster of 5.4% of the gene pool, revealing 2 modes of colitis-related dysregulation. Downregulation occurs in membrane transporter, mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase, and channel genes. Upregulation occurs in chemokine, cytokine/inflammatory, stress, growth factor, intracellular signaling, receptor, heat shock protein, retinoid metabolism, neural, remodeling, and redox-sensitive genes. Oral IB-MECA prevented dysregulation in 92% of these genes, histopathology, gut injury, and weight loss. IB-MECA or adenosine suppressed elevated free radicals in ex vivo inflamed gut. Oral IB-MECA blocked the colitis-induced upregulation (<or=20-fold) of Bzrp, P2X1R, P2X4R, P2X7R, P2Y2R, P2Y6R, and A2aR/A2bR but not A1R or A3R genes or downregulated P2X2R, P2Y1R, and P2Y4R. Real-time SYBR green polymerase chain reaction validated gene chip data for both induction of colitis and treatment with IB-MECA for >90% of genes tested (33 of 37 genes). We conclude that our validated high-density oligonucleotide microarray analysis is a powerful technique for molecular gene dysregulation studies to assess the beneficial effects of purine-based or other drugs in experimental colitis. ADOA3R is new potential therapeutic target for inflammatory bowel disease.

SMP30 deficiency causes increased oxidative stress in brain

Senescence marker protein 30 (SMP30), an important aging marker molecule, has been identified functionally as a calcium regulatory protein. Recent evidence showed its new assumed role as an effective anti-oxidative property. However, the role of SMP30 in the brain has not been explored. To delineate its role in the brain, we utilized SMP30 knock-out (SMP30 KO) mice in the current study. We focused on the oxidative status of the brain by examining selected oxidative markers in brains of SMP30 KO mice. Results showed that the generation of reactive species (RS) and NADPH oxidase activities were significantly elevated in SMP30 deficient brain. The increased oxidative status in these mice was further confirmed by increased oxidatively modified proteins such as dityrosine formation and carbonylation in the cortex of SMP30 KO mice. Moreover, SMP30 deficient brain showed the increased Mac-1 protein and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in the brain, supporting the putative anti-oxidative action of SMP30. Interestingly, the activities of major antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase, catalase and reduced glutathione peroxidase in the brain were not affected by SMP30 depletion. Our results documented that brain SMP30 has a protective action against oxidative damage, without influencing antioxidant enzyme status.

Reactive Oxygen Species—(ROS) Pathogens or Sources of Vital Energy? Part 1. ROS in Normal and Pathologic Physiology of Living Systems

Free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are considered to be dangerous pathogens as they may damage key molecular constituents of cells. However this concept approach does not take into account vital functions of ROS in normal physiology. Information has emerged that a substantial share of oxygen consumed by aerobic organisms is used for ROS production and that ROS are indispensable for regulation of multiple functions of living cells. Yet, each cell is equipped with powerful means to eliminate ROS immediately. Explanations of the mechanisms of regulatory action of ROS upon a wide spectrum of biochemical and physiologic reactions and of ROS therapeutic efficacy raise serious problems in the framework of the conventional biochemical paradigm. Here data concerning ROS production and utilization are considered with an emphasis on an apparent paradox: Why does the body produce a lot of ROS and then eliminate them as soon as they appear?

Hypoxic reperfusion of the ischemic heart and oxygen radical generation

Postischemic myocardial contractile dysfunction is in part mediated by the burst of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which occurs with the reintroduction of oxygen. We hypothesized that tissue oxygen tension modulates this ROS burst at reperfusion. After 20 min of global ischemia, isolated rat hearts were reperfused with temperature-controlled (37.4 degrees C) Krebs-Henseleit buffer saturated with one of three different O2 concentrations (95, 20, or 2%) for the first 5 min of reperfusion and then changed to 95% O2. Additional hearts were loaded with 1) allopurinol (1 mM), a xanthine oxidase inhibitor, 2) diphenyleneiodonium (DPI; 1 microM), an NAD(P)H oxidase inhibitor, or 3) Tiron (10 mM), a superoxide scavenger, and were then reperfused with either 95 or 2% O2 for the first 5 min. ROS production and tissue oxygen tension were quantitated using electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. Tissue oxygen tension was significantly higher in the 95% O2 group. However, the largest radical burst occurred in the 2% O2 reperfusion group (P < 0.001). Recovery of left ventricular (LV) contractile function and aconitase activity during reperfusion were inversely related to the burst of radical production and were significantly higher in hearts initially reperfused with 95% O2 (P < 0.001). Allopurinol, DPI, and Tiron reduced the burst of radical formation in the 2% O2 reperfusion groups (P < 0.05). Hypoxic reperfusion generates an increased ROS burst originating from multiple pathways. Recovery of LV function during reperfusion is inversely related to this oxygen radical burst, highlighting the importance of myocardial oxygen tension during initial reperfusion.

Cyclic stretch increases VEGF expression in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells via TGF-β1 and reactive oxygen species: a requirement for NAD(P)H oxidase

Our previous studies have indicated that transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and VEGF expression are increased in the smooth muscle cell (SMC) layer of the pulmonary vessels of lambs with pulmonary hypertension secondary to increased pulmonary blood flow. Furthermore, we found that TGF-β1 expression increased before VEGF. Because of the increased blood flow in the shunt lambs, the SMC in the pulmonary vessels are exposed to increased levels of the mechanical force, cyclic stretch. Thus, in this study, using primary cultures of pulmonary arterial SMC isolated from pulmonary arteries of 4-wk-old lambs, we investigated the role of cyclic stretch in the apparent coordinated regulation of TGF-β1 and VEGF. Our results demonstrated that cyclic stretch induced a significant increase in VEGF expression both at the mRNA and protein levels ( P < 0.05). The increased VEGF mRNA was preceded by both an increased expression and secretion of TGF-β1 and an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. In addition, a neutralizing antibody against TGF-β1 abolished the cyclic stretch-dependent increases in both superoxide generation and VEGF expression. Our data also demonstrated that cyclic stretch activated an NAD(P)H oxidase that was TGF-β1 dependent and that NAD(P)H oxidase inhibitors abolished the cyclic stretch-dependent increase in VEGF expression. Therefore, our results indicate that cyclic stretch upregulates VEGF expression via the TGF-β1-dependent activation of NAD(P)H oxidase and increased generation of ROS.

Identification of cytochrome-b5 reductase as the enzyme responsible for NADH-dependent lucigenin chemiluminescence in human spermatozoa

Lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence together with 2-[4-iodophenyl]-3-[4-nitrophenyl]-5-[2,4-disulfophenyl]-2H tetrazolium monosodium salt (WST-1) reduction can be detected following addition of NADH to many cell types, including human sperm suspensions. Although many reports suggest that such a phenomenon is due to reactive oxygen species production, other oxygen detecting metabolite probes, such as MCLA and luminol, do not produce a chemiluminescent signal in this model system. The enzyme responsible for NADH-dependent lucigenin chemiluminescence was purified and identified as cytochrome-b5 reductase. In support of this concept, COS-7 cells overexpressing cytochrome-b5 reductase displayed at least a 3-fold increase in the previously mentioned activity compared with mock-transfected cells. Fractions containing cytochrome-b5 reductase were capable of inducing both lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence and WST-1 reduction. Oxygen radicals clearly did not mediate the cytochrome b5-mediated activation of these probes in vitro since neither luminol nor MCLA gave a chemiluminescence response in the presence of the enzyme and the cofactor NADH. These results emphasize the importance of the direct NADH-dependent reduction of these putative superoxide-sensitive probes by cytochrome-b5 reductase even though this enzyme does not, on its own accord, produce reactive oxygen species.

Kinetic analysis-based quantitation of free radical generation in EPR spin trapping

Because short-lived reactive oxygen radicals such as superoxide have been implicated in a variety of disease processes, methods to measure their production quantitatively in biological systems are critical for understanding disease pathophysiology. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spin trapping is a direct and sensitive technique that has been used to study radical formation in biological systems. Short-lived oxygen free radicals react with the spin trap and produce paramagnetic adducts with much higher stability than that of the free radicals. In many cases, the quantity of the measured adduct is considered to be an adequate measure of the amount of the free radical generated. Although the intensity of the EPR signal reflects the magnitude of free radical generation, the actual quantity of radicals produced may be different due to modulation of the spin adduct kinetics caused by a variety of factors. Because the kinetics of spin trapping in biochemical and cellular systems is a complex process that is altered by the biochemical and cellular environment, it is not always possible to define all of the reactions that occur and the related kinetic parameters of the spin-trapping process. We present a method based on a combination of measured kinetic data for the formation and decay of the spin adduct alone with the parameters that control the kinetics of spin trapping and radical generation. The method is applied to quantitate superoxide trapping with 5-diethoxyphosphoryl-5-methyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide (DEPMPO). In principle, this method is broadly applicable to enable spin trapping-based quantitative determination of free radical generation in complex biological systems.

Endogenous methylarginines modulate superoxide as well as nitric oxide generation from neuronal nitric-oxide synthase: differences in the effects of monomethyl- and dimethylarginines in the presence and absence of tetrahydrobiopterin

The endogenous methylarginines asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA) regulate nitric oxide (NO) production from neuronal NO synthase (nNOS). Under conditions of L-arginine or tetrahydrobiopterin (BH(4)) depletion, nNOS also generates superoxide, O(2)(.); however, the effects of methylarginines on this O(2)(.) generation are poorly understood. Therefore, we measured the dose-dependent effects of ADMA and L-NMMA on the rate and amount of O(2)(.) production from nNOS under conditions of L-arginine and/or BH(4) depletion, using electron paramagnetic resonance spin trapping. In the absence of L-arginine, ADMA (1 microm) inhibited O(2)(.) generation by approximately 60% from a rate of 56 to 23 nmol/mg/min, whereas L-NMMA (0.1-100 microm) had no effect. L-Arginine markedly decreased the observed O(2)(.) adduct formation; however, O(2)(.) generation from the enzyme still occurs at a low rate (12.1 nmol/mg/min). This O(2)(.) leak is NOS-derived as it is not seen in the absence of calcium and calmodulin and demonstrates that O(2)(.) generation from NOS occurs even when normal substrate/ cofactor levels are present. Under conditions of BH(4) depletion, ADMA had no effect on O(2)(.), whereas L-NMMA increased O(2)(.) production almost 3-fold. This O(2)(.) generation was >90% inhibited by imidazole, indicating that it occurred at the heme center. Thus, methylarginines can profoundly shift the balance of NO and O(2)(.) generation from nNOS. These observations have important implications with regard to the therapeutic use of methylarginine-NOS inhibitors in the treatment of disease.

Expression of Nox4 in osteoclasts

A new superoxide-generating enzyme, NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4), contributes to osteoclastic superoxide production. In this study, we demonstrated that Nox4 is expressed at a higher level in osteoclasts than that in precursor cells. This result suggested that Nox4 is upregulated during the differentiation and development of osteoclasts. Cotransfection of Nox4/P22 DNA resulted in enhanced superoxide production in osteoclasts, indicating that P22 may be a necessary factor for the Nox4 activity. In addition, expression of both cathepsin K and TRAP is increased significantly in osteoclasts cotransfected with Nox4/P22. Further study revealed that JNK was activated and that NF-kappa B was inhibited in Nox4/P22 cotransfected osteoclasts. These findings suggest that superoxide and/or superoxide derived molecules may modulate the signal transduction pathways necessary for osteoclasts to function.

Oxygen free radicals and redox biology of organelles

The presence and supposed roles of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were reported in literature in a myriad of instances. However, the breadth and depth of their involvement in cellular physiology and pathology, as well as their relationship to the redox environment can only be guessed from specialized reports. Whatever their circumstances of formation or consequences, ROS seem to be conspicuous components of intracellular milieu. We sought to verify this assertion, by collecting the available evidence derived from the most recent publications in the biomedical field. Unlike other reviews with similar objectives, we centered our analysis on the subcellular compartments, namely on organelles, grouped according to their major functions. Thus, plasma membrane is a major source of ROS through NAD(P)H oxidases located on either side. Enzymes of the same class displaying low activity, as well as their components, are also present free in cytoplasm, regulating the actin cytoskeleton and cell motility. Mitochondria can be a major source of ROS, mainly in processes leading to apoptosis. The protein synthetic pathway (endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus), including the nucleus, as well as protein turnover, are all exquisitely sensitive to ROS-related redox conditions. The same applies to the degradation pathways represented by lysosomes and peroxisomes. Therefore, ROS cannot be perceived anymore as a mere harmful consequence of external factors, or byproducts of altered cellular metabolism. This may explain why the indiscriminate use of anti-oxidants did not produce the expected "beneficial" results in many medical applications attempted so far, underlying the need for a deeper apprehension of the biological roles of ROS, particularly in the context of the higher cellular order of organelles.

Extracellular superoxide enhances 5-HT-induced murine pulmonary artery vasoconstriction

Accumulating evidence suggests that changes in both 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) receptor activity and in the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) play an important role in regulating pulmonary artery (PA) vascular responsiveness, particularly in the setting of pulmonary hypertension. Therefore, we hypothesized that increased levels of superoxide enhance 5-HT-induced PA constriction. With the use of a small-vessel bioassay, 5-HT (0.01–10 μM) induced a concentration-dependent vasoconstriction in isolated wild-type murine intrapulmonary arteries (100–150 μm diameter) that was enhanced by both removal of the endothelium and by treatment with either NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (30 μM) or xanthine (10 μM) + xanthine oxidase (0.005 U/ml). PA isolated from extracellular superoxide dismutase (EC-SOD) knockout mice also showed enhanced constriction. On the other hand, PA constriction to 5-HT was attenuated by either the addition of GR-127935 (0.1 μM, a selective inhibitor of 5-HT1B/1Dreceptor) or copper/zinc-containing superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn SOD, 150 U/ml) and in PA isolated from transgenic mice overexpressing human EC-SOD. With the use of both oxidative fluorescent confocal microscopy and lucigenin-enhanced chemiluminescence, superoxide levels were increased significantly after 5-HT-induced PA vasoconstriction. This increase in superoxide levels could be blocked by the exogenous addition of Cu/Zn SOD (150 U/ml) or by apocynin (30 μM, an inhibitor of NADPH oxidase) but was not affected by gp91phoxknockout mice. Overall, our results are consistent with 5-HT increasing vascular smooth muscle superoxide production via an NADPH oxidase pathway that is independent of gp91phox, which leads to increases in extracellular superoxide levels, which in turn enhances 5-HT-induced murine pulmonary vasoconstriction.

Detection of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species by EPR spin trapping

Electron paramagnetic resonance spin trapping has become an indispensable tool for the specific detection of reactive oxygen free radicals in biological systems. In this review we describe some of the advantages as well as some experimental considerations of this technique and how it can be applied to biological systems to measure oxidative stress.

Identification of cytochrome P450-reductase as the enzyme responsible for NADPH-dependent lucigenin and tetrazolium salt reduction in rat epididymal sperm preparations

Lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence and WST-1 reduction can be detected following addition of NADPH to many cell types, including rat epididymal sperm suspensions. Although many reports suggest that such a phenomenon is due to reactive oxygen species production, other probes-such as MCLA and luminol-that are capable of detecting reactive oxygen metabolites do not produce a chemiluminescent signal in this model system. Our aim was to purify and identify the enzyme catalyzing the NADPH-dependent lucigenin and WST-1 reduction from rat epididymal spermatozoa preparations. Here, we show the identity of this enzyme as cytochrome P450-reductase. In support of this, a homogenous preparation of this protein was capable of reducing lucigenin and WST-1 in the presence of NADPH. Moreover, COS-7 cells overexpressing cytochrome P450-reductase displayed a 3-fold increase in the aforementioned activity compared with mock-transfected cells. Immunolocalization studies and biochemical analysis suggest that the majority of the NADPH-lucigenin activity is localized to the epithelial cells present within the epididymis. These results emphasize the importance of the direct NADPH-dependent reduction of superoxide-sensitive probes by cytochrome P450-reductase even though this enzyme does not, on its own accord, produce reactive oxygen species.

Vascular NAD(P)H oxidases: specific features, expression, and regulation

The importance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in vascular physiology and pathology is becoming increasingly evident. All cell types in the vascular wall produce ROS derived from superoxide-generating protein complexes similar to the leukocyte NADPH oxidase. Specific features of the vascular enzymes include constitutive and inducible activities, substrate specificity, and intracellular superoxide production. Most phagocyte enzyme subunits are found in vascular cells, including the catalytic gp91phox (aka, nox2), which was the earliest member of the newly discovered nox family. However, smooth muscle frequently expresses nox1 rather than gp91phox, and nox4 is additionally present in all cell types. In cell culture, agonists increase ROS production by activating multiple signals, including protein kinase C and Rac, and by upregulating oxidase subunits. The oxidases are also upregulated in vascular disease and are involved in the development of atherosclerosis and a significant part of angiotensin II-induced hypertension, possibly via nox1 and nox4. Likewise, enhanced vascular oxidase activity is associated with diabetes. Therefore, members of this enzyme family appear to be important in vascular biology and disease and constitute promising targets for future therapeutic interventions.

Ceramide-induced activation of NADPH oxidase and endothelial dysfunction in small coronary arteries

We tested the hypothesis that ceramide induces endothelial dysfunction in small coronary arteries via NADPH oxidase-mediated superoxide and resulting peroxynitrite formation. With the use of dihydroethidium as a superoxide indicator, C(2)-ceramide was found to increase superoxide production in the endothelial cells of small coronary arteries, which was inhibited by the NADPH oxidase inhibitors N-vanillylnonanamide, apocynin, and diphenylene iodonium. NADPH oxidase expression was confirmed in endothelial cells, as indicated by the immunoblotting of its subunits gp91(phox) and p47(phox). C(2)-ceramide increased NADPH oxidase activity by 52%, which was blocked by NADPH oxidase inhibitors but not by inhibitors of NO synthase, xanthine oxidase, and mitochondrial electron transport chain enzymes. By Western blot analysis, ceramide-induced NADPH oxidase activation was found to be associated with the translocation of p47(phox) to the membrane. In isolated and pressurized small coronary arteries, N-vanillylnonanamide, apocynin, or uric acid, a peroxynitrite scavenger, largely restored the inhibitory effects of ceramide on bradykinin- and A-23187-induced vasorelaxation. With the use of nitrotyrosine as a marker, C(2)-ceramide was found to increase peroxynitrite in small coronary arteries, which could be blocked by uric acid. We conclude that NADPH oxidase-mediated superoxide production and subsequent peroxynitrite formation mediate ceramide-induced endothelial dysfunction in small coronary arteries.

Overestimation of NADH-driven vascular oxidase activity due to lucigenin artifacts

Several limitations have recently been described for lucigenin, a probe frequently used to assess the activity of vascular NAD(P)H oxidase, a major superoxide source. The preferential reducing substrate of such oxidase remains unclear. We assessed whether lucigenin artifacts could affect detection of NAD(P)H oxidase activity. Initial chemiluminescence assays were performed with vascular rings or homogenates at 5, 50, or 250 microM concentrations. Results showed preferential signals with NADPH (vs. NADH) with 5 and 50 microM lucigenin, which were blocked by diphenylene iodonium (DPI), superoxide dismutase (SOD), or its cell-permeable mimetic MnTBAP. With 250 microM lucigenin, the relative signal with NADH became larger than with NADPH, and was poorly inhibited by all three antagonists above. All SOD/DPI-resistant signals were effectively blocked by the electron acceptor nitrobluetetrazolium. Spin trapping with DMPO showed an approximate doubling of DMPO-OH radical adduct signal upon addition of 5 microM lucigenin to homogenates incubated with either NADPH or NADH. With 50 or 250 microM lucigenin, much larger increases were observed with NADH, as opposed to NADPH. Furthermore, oxygen consumption measurements showed analogous results. In summary, our data suggest that: (i) Lucigenin redox-cycling is detectable in vascular tissue even at 5 microM concentrations, while at 250 microM redox-cycling becomes predominant and is markedly increased when NADH is the assayed substrate; and (ii) With 250 microM lucigenin, preferentially with NADH, signals are further overestimated by direct, oxidase-dependent, superoxide-independent two-electron transfer. Therefore, previous reports of preferential NADH affinity of the vascular oxidase may have been due to these artifacts.