Redox Activation of Nox1 (NADPH Oxidase 1) Involves an Intermolecular Disulfide Bond Between Protein Disulfide Isomerase and p47phox in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

Protein disulfide isomerase-mediated transcriptional upregulation of Nox1 contributes to vascular dysfunction in hypertension

Nox1 signaling is a causal key element in arterial hypertension. Recently, we identified protein disulfide isomerase A1 (PDI) as a novel regulatory protein that regulates Nox1 signaling in VSMCs. Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) have increased levels of PDI in mesenteric resistance arteries compared with Wistar controls; however, its consequences remain unclear. Herein, we investigated the role of PDI in mediating Nox1 transcriptional upregulation and its effects on vascular dysfunction in hypertension. We demonstrate that PDI contributes to the development of hypertension via enhanced transcriptional upregulation of Nox1 in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). We show for the first time that PDI sulfenylation by hydrogen peroxide contributes to EGFR activation in hypertension via increased shedding of epidermal growth factor-like ligands. PDI also increases intracellular calcium levels, and contractile responses induced by ANG II. PDI silencing or pharmacological inhibition in VSMCs significantly decreases EGFR activation and Nox1 transcription. Overexpression of PDI in VSMCs enhances ANG II-induced EGFR activation and ATF1 translocation to the nucleus. Mechanistically, PDI increases ATF1-induced Nox1 transcription and enhances the contractile responses to ANG II. Herein we show that ATF1 binding to Nox1 transcription putative regulatory regions is augmented by PDI. Altogether, we provide evidence that HB-EGF in SHR resistance vessels promotes the nuclear translocation of ATF1, under the control of PDI, and thereby induces Nox1 gene expression and increases vascular reactivity. Thus, PDI acts as a thiol redox-dependent enhancer of vascular dysfunction in hypertension and could represent a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of this disease.

Vascular protein disulfide isomerase A1 mediates endothelial dysfunction induced by angiotensin II in mice

AIM

Protein disulfide isomerases (PDIs) are involved in platelet aggregation and intravascular thrombosis, but their role in regulating endothelial function is unclear. Here, we characterized the involvement of vascular PDIA1 in angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced endothelial dysfunction in mice.

METHODS

Endothelial dysfunction was induced in C57BL/6JCmd male mice via Ang II subcutaneous infusion, and PDIA1 was inhibited with bepristat. Endothelial function was assessed in vivo with magnetic resonance imaging and ex vivo with a myography, while arterial stiffness was measured as pulse wave velocity. Nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability was measured in the aorta (spin-trapping electron paramagnetic resonance) and plasma (NO2 - and NO3 - levels). Oxidative stress, eNOS uncoupling (DHE-based aorta staining), and thrombin activity (thrombin-antithrombin complex; calibrated automated thrombography) were evaluated.

RESULTS

The inhibition of PDIA1 by bepristat in Ang II-treated mice prevented the impairment of NO-dependent vasodilation in the aorta as evidenced by the response to acetylcholine in vivo, increased systemic NO bioavailability and the aortic NO production, and decreased vascular stiffness. Bepristat's effect on NO-dependent function was recapitulated ex vivo in Ang II-induced endothelial dysfunction in isolated aorta. Furthermore, bepristat diminished the Ang II-induced eNOS uncoupling and overproduction of ROS without affecting thrombin activity.

CONCLUSION

In Ang II-treated mice, the inhibition of PDIA1 normalized the NO-ROS balance, prevented endothelial eNOS uncoupling, and, thereby, improved vascular function. These results indicate the importance of vascular PDIA1 in regulating endothelial function, but further studies are needed to elucidate the details of the mechanisms involved.

Vascular Inflammation and Smooth Muscle Contractility: The Role of Nox1-Derived Superoxide and LRRC8 Anion Channels

Vascular inflammation underlies the development of hypertension, and the mechanisms by which it increases blood pressure remain the topic of intense investigation. Proinflammatory factors including glucose, salt, vasoconstrictors, cytokines, wall stress, and growth factors enhance contractility and impair relaxation of vascular smooth muscle cells. These pathways share a dependence upon redox signaling, and excessive activation promotes oxidative stress that promotes vascular aging. Vascular smooth muscle cell phenotypic switching and migration into the intima contribute to atherosclerosis, while hypercontractility increases systemic vascular resistance and vasospasm that can trigger ischemia. Here, we review factors that drive the initiation and progression of this vasculopathy in vascular smooth muscle cells. Emphasis is placed on the contribution of reactive oxygen species generated by the Nox1 NADPH oxidase which produces extracellular superoxide (O2•-). The mechanisms of O2•- signaling remain poorly defined, but recent evidence demonstrates physical association of Nox1 with leucine-rich repeat containing 8 family volume-sensitive anion channels. These may provide a pathway for influx of O2•- to the cytoplasm, creating an oxidized cytoplasmic nanodomain where redox-based signals can affect both cytoskeletal structure and vasomotor function. Understanding the mechanistic links between inflammation, O2•- and vascular smooth muscle cell contractility may facilitate targeting of anti-inflammatory therapy in hypertension.

Caveolae-mediated endocytosis of extracellular QSOX1b modulates the migration of fibroblasts

Quiescin/sulfhydryl oxidase (QSOX1) is a secreted flavoprotein that modulates cellular proliferation, migration and adhesion, roles attributed to its ability to organize the extracellular matrix. We previously showed that exogenously added QSOX1b induces smooth muscle cells migration in a process that depends on its enzymatic activity and that is mediated by hydrogen peroxide derived from Nox1, a catalytic subunit of NAD(P)H oxidases. Here, we report that exogenous QSOX1b also stimulates the migration of L929 fibroblasts and that this effect is regulated by its endocytosis. The use of endocytosis inhibitors and caveolin 1-knockdown demonstrated that this endocytic pathway is caveola-mediated. QSOX1b colocalized with Nox1 in intracellular vesicles, as detected by confocal fluorescence, suggesting that extracellular QSOX1b is endocytosed with the transmembrane Nox1. These results reveal that endosomal QSOX1b is a novel intracellular redox regulator of cell migration.

An Overview of Two Old Friends Associated with Platelet Redox Signaling, the Protein Disulfide Isomerase and NADPH Oxidase

Oxidative stress participates at the baseline of different non-communicable pathologies such as cardiovascular diseases. Excessive formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), above the signaling levels necessary for the correct function of organelles and cells, may contribute to the non-desired effects of oxidative stress. Platelets play a relevant role in arterial thrombosis, by aggregation triggered by different agonists, where excessive ROS formation induces mitochondrial dysfunction and stimulate platelet activation and aggregation. Platelet is both a source and a target of ROS, thus we aim to analyze both the platelet enzymes responsible for ROS generation and their involvement in intracellular signal transduction pathways. Among the proteins involved in these processes are Protein Disulphide Isomerase (PDI) and NADPH oxidase (NOX) isoforms. By using bioinformatic tools and information from available databases, a complete bioinformatic analysis of the role and interactions of PDI and NOX in platelets, as well as the signal transduction pathways involved in their effects was performed. We focused the study on analyzing whether these proteins collaborate to control platelet function. The data presented in the current manuscript support the role that PDI and NOX play on activation pathways necessary for platelet activation and aggregation, as well as on the platelet signaling imbalance produced by ROS production. Our data could be used to design specific enzyme inhibitors or a dual inhibition for these enzymes with an antiplatelet effect to design promising treatments for diseases involving platelet dysfunction.

A predicted structure of NADPH Oxidase 1 identifies key components of ROS generation and strategies for inhibition

NADPH oxidase 1 (NOX1) is primarily expressed in epithelial cells and responsible for local generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). By specifically manipulating the local redox microenvironment, NOX1 actively engages in epithelial immunity, especially in colorectal and pulmonary epithelia. To unravel the structural basis of NOX1 engaged epithelial immune processes, a predicted structure model was established using RaptorX deep learning models. The predicted structure model illustrates a 6-transmembrane domain structure, a FAD binding domain, and an NADPH binding/NOXO1 interacting region. The substrate/cofactor binding scheme with respect to this proposed model highly correlates with published reports and is verified in our site-directed mutagenesis assays. An electron transport chain, from NADPH to FAD and the two heme groups, was well supported by the predicted model. Through molecular docking analysis of various small molecule NOX1 inhibitors and subsequent experimental validation, we identified pronounced active sites for potent NOX1 inhibition. Specifically, LEU60, VAL71, MET181, LEU185, HIS208, PHE211, TYR214, and TYR280 in the transmembrane domain form an active pocket for insertion of the small molecule inhibitors to inhibit electron transfer between the heme groups, thus affecting extracellular ROS generation. Altogether, our study provides structural information to help elucidate the role of NOX1 in epithelial generation of ROS and sheds light on the development of therapeutics for NOX1 related illnesses.

Mechano-Redox Control of Integrins in Thromboinflammation

Significance: How mechanical forces and biochemical cues are coupled remains a miracle for many biological processes. Integrins, well-known adhesion receptors, sense changes in mechanical forces and reduction-oxidation reactions (redox) in their environment to mediate their adhesive function. The coupling of mechanical and redox function is a new area of investigation. Disturbance of normal mechanical forces and the redox balance occurs in thromboinflammatory conditions; atherosclerotic plaques create changes to the mechanical forces in the circulation. Diabetes induces redox changes in the circulation by the production of reactive oxygen species and vascular inflammation. Recent Advances: Integrins sense changes in the blood flow shear stress at the level of focal adhesions and respond to flow and traction forces by increased signaling. Talin, the integrin-actin linker, is a traction force sensor and adaptor. Oxidation and reduction of integrin disulfide bonds regulate their adhesion. A conserved disulfide bond in integrin αlpha IIb beta 3 (αIIbβ3) is directly reduced by the thiol oxidoreductase endoplasmic reticulum protein 5 (ERp5) under shear stress. Critical Issues: The coordination of mechano-redox events between the extracellular and intracellular compartments is an active area of investigation. Another fundamental issue is to determine the spatiotemporal arrangement of key regulators of integrins' mechanical and redox interactions. How thromboinflammatory conditions lead to mechanoredox uncoupling is relatively unexplored. Future Directions: Integrated approaches, involving disulfide bond biochemistry, microfluidic assays, and dynamic force spectroscopy, will aid in showing that cell adhesion constitutes a crossroad of mechano- and redox biology, within the same molecule, the integrin. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 37, 1072-1093.

Regulation of Derlin-1-mediated degradation of NADPH oxidase partner p22phox by thiol modification

The transmembrane protein p22^phox heterodimerizes with NADPH oxidase (Nox) 1–4 and is essential for the reactive oxygen species-producing capacity of oxidases. Missense mutations in the p22^phox gene prevent the formation of phagocytic Nox2-based oxidase, which contributes to host defense. This results in chronic granulomatous disease (CGD), a severe primary immunodeficiency syndrome. In this study, we characterized missense mutations in p22^phox (L51Q, L52P, E53V, and P55R) in the A22° type (wherein the p22^phox protein is undetectable) of CGD. We demonstrated that these substitutions enhanced the degradation of the p22^phox protein in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the binding of p22^phox to Derlin-1, a key component of ER-associated degradation (ERAD). Therefore, the L⁵¹-L⁵²-E⁵³-P⁵⁵ sequence is responsible for protein stability in the ER. We observed that the oxidation of the thiol group of Cys-50, which is adjacent to the L⁵¹-L⁵²-E⁵³-P⁵⁵ sequence, suppressed p22^phox degradation. However, the suppression effect was markedly attenuated by the serine substitution of Cys-50. Blocking the free thiol of Cys-50 by alkylation or C50S substitution promoted the association of p22^phox with Derlin-1. Derlin-1 depletion partially suppressed the degradation of p22^phox mutant proteins. Furthermore, heterodimerization with p22^phox (C50S) induced rapid degradation of not only Nox2 but also nonphagocytic Nox4 protein, which is responsible for redox signaling. Thus, the redox-sensitive Cys-50 appears to determine whether p22^phox becomes a target for degradation by the ERAD system through its interaction with Derlin-1.

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Missense mutations in exon 3 of p22^phox enhance the binding of p22^phox to Derlin-1.

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Oxidation of the thiol group of p22^phox Cys50 suppresses p22^phox degradation.

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Serine substitution of Cys-50 increases the affinity of p22^phox for Derlin-1.

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Stability of the p22^phox protein is regulated by redox-sensitive Cys-50.

The extracellular Ero1α/PDI electron transport system regulates platelet function by increasing glutathione reduction potential

Protein disulfide isomerase (PDI), an oxidoreductase, possesses two vicinal cysteines in the -Cys-Gly-His-Cys-motif that either form a disulfide bridge (S–S) or exist in a sulfhydryl form (-SH), forming oxidized or reduced PDI, respectively. PDI has been proven to be critical for platelet aggregation, thrombosis, and hemostasis, and PDI inhibition is being evaluated as a novel antithrombotic strategy. The redox states of functional PDI during the regulation of platelet aggregation, however, remain to be elucidated. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) oxidoreductin-1α (Ero1α) and PDI constitute the pivotal oxidative folding pathway in the ER and play an important role in ER redox homeostasis. Whether Ero1α and PDI constitute an extracellular electron transport pathway to mediate platelet aggregation is an open question. Here, we found that oxidized but not reduced PDI promotes platelet aggregation. On the platelet surface, Ero1α constitutively oxidizes PDI and further regulates platelet aggregation in a glutathione-dependent manner. The Ero1α/PDI system oxidizes reduced glutathione (GSH) and establishes a reduction potential optimal for platelet aggregation. Therefore, platelet aggregation is mediated by the Ero1α-PDI-GSH electron transport system on the platelet surface. We further showed that targeting the functional interplay between PDI and Ero1α by small molecule inhibitors may be a novel strategy for antithrombotic therapy.

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Oxidized but not reduced PDI promotes platelet aggregation.

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Ero1α and PDI constitute an electron transport pathway on platelet surface.

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Ero1α and PDI provide a redox environment optimal for platelet aggregation.

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The functional interplay between Ero1α and PDI can be a new target for antiplatelet therapy.

Protein disulfide isomerase-A1 regulates intraplatelet reactive oxygen species-thromboxane A2 -dependent pathway in human platelets

BACKGROUND

Platelet-derived protein disulfide isomerase 1 (PDIA1) regulates thrombus formation, but its role in the regulation of platelet function is not fully understood.

AIMS

The aim of this study was to characterize the role of PDIA1 in human platelets.

METHODS

Proteomic analysis of PDI isoforms in platelets was performed using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectometry, and the expression of PDIs on platelets in response to collagen, TRAP-14, or ADP was measured with flow cytometry. The effects of bepristat, a selective PDIA1 inhibitor, on platelet aggregation, expression of platelet surface activation markers, thromboxane A2 (TxA2 ), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation were evaluated by optical aggregometry, flow cytometry, ELISA, and dihydrodichlorofluorescein diacetate-based fluorescent assay, respectively.

RESULTS

PDIA1 was less abundant compared with PDIA3 in resting platelets and platelets stimulated with TRAP-14, collagen, or ADP. Collagen, but not ADP, induced a significant increase in PDIA1 expression. Bepristat potently inhibited the aggregation of washed platelets induced by collagen or convulxin, but only weakly inhibited platelet aggregation induced by TRAP-14 or thrombin, and had the negligible effect on platelet aggregation induced by arachidonic acid. Inhibition of PDIA1 by bepristat resulted in the reduction of TxA2 and ROS production in collagen- or thrombin-stimulated platelets. Furthermore, bepristat reduced the activation of αIIbβ3 integrin and expression of P-selectin.

CONCLUSIONS

PDIA1 acts as an intraplatelet regulator of the ROS-TxA2 pathway in collagen-GP VI receptor-mediated platelet activation that is a mechanistically distinct pathway from extracellular regulation of αIIbβ3 integrin by PDIA3.

Oxidative Cysteine Modification of Thiol Isomerases in Thrombotic Disease: A Hypothesis

Significance: Oxidative stress is a characteristic of many systemic diseases associated with thrombosis. Thiol isomerases are a family of oxidoreductases important in protein folding and are exquisitely sensitive to the redox environment. They are essential for thrombus formation and represent a previously unrecognized layer of control of the thrombotic process. Yet, the mechanisms by which thiol isomerases function in thrombus formation are unknown. Recent Advances: The oxidoreductase activity of thiol isomerases in thrombus formation is controlled by the redox environment via oxidative changes to active site cysteines. Specific alterations can now be detected owing to advances in the chemical biology of oxidative cysteine modifications. Critical Issues: Understanding of the role of thiol isomerases in thrombus formation has focused largely on identifying single disulfide bond modifications in isolated proteins (e.g., α_IIbβ₃, tissue factor, vitronectin, or glycoprotein Ibα [GPIbα]). An alternative approach is to conceptualize thiol isomerases as effectors in redox signaling pathways that control thrombotic potential by modifying substrate networks. Future Directions: Cysteine-based chemical biology will be employed to study thiol-dependent dynamics mediated by the redox state of thiol isomerases at the systems level. This approach could identify thiol isomerase-dependent modifications of the disulfide landscape that are prothrombotic.

Thiol Isomerases Orchestrate Thrombosis and Hemostasis

Significance: Since protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) was first described in 1963, researchers have shown conclusively that PDI and sibling proteins are quintessential for thrombus formation. PDI, endoplasmic reticulum protein (ERp)5, ERp57, and ERp72 are released from platelets and vascular cells and interact with integrin αIIbβ3 on the outer surface of platelets. Recent Advances: At the cell surface they influence protein folding and function, propagating thrombosis and maintaining hemostasis. TMX1, which is a transmembrane thiol isomerase, is the first family member shown to negatively regulate platelets. Targets of thiol isomerases have been identified, including integrin α2β1, Von Willebrand Factor, GpIbα, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase (Nox)-1, Nox-2, and tissue factor, all of which are pro-thrombotic, and several of which are on the cell surface. In spite of this, PDI can paradoxically catalyze the delivery of nitric oxide to platelets, which decrease thrombus formation. Critical Issues: Although the overall effect of PDI is to positively regulate platelet activation, it is still unclear how thiol isomerases function in pro-thrombotic states, such as obesity, diabetes, and cancer. In parallel, there has been a surge in the development of novel thiol isomerase inhibitors, which display selectivity, potency and modulate thrombosis and hemostasis. The availability of selective thiol isomerase inhibitors has culminated in clinical trials, with promising outcomes for the prevention of cancer-associated thrombosis. Future Directions: Altogether, thiol isomerases are perceived as an orchestrating force that regulates thrombus development. In the current review, we will explore the history of PDI in cardiovascular biology, detail known mechanisms of action, and summarize known thiol isomerase inhibitors.

ERO1-PDI Redox Signaling in Health and Disease

Significance: Protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) and endoplasmic reticulum oxidoreductase 1 (ERO1) are crucial for oxidative protein folding in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). These enzymes are frequently overexpressed and secreted, and they contribute to the pathology of neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases. Recent Advances: Tissue-specific knockout mouse models and pharmacologic inhibitors have been developed to advance our understanding of the cell-specific functions of PDI and ERO1. In addition to their roles in protecting cells from the unfolded protein response and oxidative stress, recent studies have revealed that PDI and ERO1 also function outside of the cells. Critical Issues: Despite the well-known contributions of PDI and ERO1 to specific disease pathology, the detailed molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying these activities remain to be elucidated. Further, although PDI and ERO1 inhibitors have been identified, the results from previous studies require careful evaluation, as many of these agents are not selective and may have significant cytotoxicity. Future Directions: The functions of PDI and ERO1 in the ER have been extensively studied. Additional studies will be required to define their functions outside the ER.

Mechanisms underlying unidirectional laminar shear stress-mediated Nrf2 activation in endothelial cells: Amplification of low shear stress signaling by primary cilia

Endothelial cells are sensitive to mechanical stress and respond differently to oscillatory flow versus unidirectional flow. This review highlights the mechanisms by which a wide range of unidirectional laminar shear stress induces activation of the redox sensitive antioxidant transcription factor nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in cultured endothelial cells. We propose that fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and 15-Deoxy-Δ12,14-prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2) are potential Nrf2 activators induced by laminar shear stress. Shear stress-dependent secretion of FGF-2 and its receptor-mediated signaling is tightly controlled, requiring neutrophil elastase released by shear stress, αvβ3 integrin and the cell surface glycocalyx. We speculate that primary cilia respond to low laminar shear stress (<10 dyn/cm2), resulting in secretion of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which facilitates αvβ3 integrin-dependent FGF-2 secretion. Shear stress induces generation of heparan-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HB-EGF), which contributes to FGF-2 secretion and gene expression. Furthermore, HB-EGF signaling modulates FGF-2-mediated NADPH oxidase 1 activation that favors casein kinase 2 (CK2)-mediated phosphorylation/activation of Nrf2 associated with caveolin 1 in caveolae. Higher shear stress (>15 dyn/cm2) induces vesicular exocytosis of BDNF from endothelial cells, and we propose that BDNF via the p75NTR receptor could induce CK2-mediated Nrf2 activation. Unidirectional laminar shear stress upregulates gene expression of FGF-2 and BDNF and generation of 15d-PGJ2, which cooperate in sustaining Nrf2 activation to protect endothelial cells against oxidative damage.

The protein disulphide isomerase inhibitor CxxCpep modulates oxidative burst and mitochondrial function in platelets

BACKGROUND

We have previously described CxxCpep, a peptide with anti-platelet properties that inhibits peri/epicellular protein disulphide isomerase (pecPDI) by forming a mixed disulfide bond with Cys400 within the pecPDI active site.

OBJECTIVES

Here we sought to determine if pecPDI targeted by CxxCpep is relevant to redox mechanisms downstream of the collagen receptor GPVI in platelets.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Restriction of effects of CxxCpep to the platelet surface was confirmed by LC-MS/MS following cell fractionation. Platelet aggregation was measured in platelet-rich plasma (PRP) incubated with 30 μM CxxCpep or vehicle. CxxCpep inhibited collagen-induced platelet aggregation but exerted no effect in TRAP-6-stimulated platelets. PRP was incubated with DCFDA to measure oxidative burst upon platelet adhesion to collagen. Results showed that CxxCpep decreased oxidative burst in platelets adhered to immobilized collagen while the number of adherent cells was unaffected. Furthermore, flow cytometry studies using a FITC-maleimide showed that the GPVI agonist CRP stimulated an increase in free thiols on the platelet outer membrane, which was inhibited by CxxCpep. Finally, CxxCpep inhibited platelet mitochondrial respiration upon activation with collagen, but not with thrombin.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that pecPDI is a potential modulator of GPVI-mediated redox regulation mechanisms and that CxxCpep can be further exploited as a template for new antiplatelet compounds.

Oxidant-resistant LRRC8A/C anion channels support superoxide production by NADPH oxidase 1

KEY POINTS

LRRC8A-containing anion channels associate with NADPH oxidase 1 (Nox1) and regulate superoxide production and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNFα) signalling. Here we show that LRRC8C and 8D also co-immunoprecipitate with Nox1 in vascular smooth muscle cells. LRRC8C knockdown inhibited TNFα-induced O₂ ^•- production, receptor endocytosis, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation and proliferation while LRRC8D knockdown enhanced NF-κB activation. Significant changes in LRRC8 isoform expression in human atherosclerosis and psoriasis suggest compensation for increased inflammation. The oxidant chloramine-T (ChlorT, 1 mM) weakly (∼25%) inhibited LRRC8C currents but potently (∼80%) inhibited LRRC8D currents. Substitution of the extracellular loop (EL1, EL2) domains of 8D into 8C conferred significantly stronger (69%) ChlorT-dependent inhibition. ChlorT exposure impaired subsequent current block by DCPIB, which occurs through interaction with EL1, further implicating external oxidation sites. LRRC8A/C channels most effectively sustain Nox1 activity at the plasma membrane. This may result from their ability to remain active in an oxidized microenvironment.

ABSTRACT

Tumour necrosis factor-α (TNFα) activates NADPH oxidase 1 (Nox1) in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), producing superoxide (O₂ ^•- ) required for subsequent signalling. LRRC8 family proteins A-E comprise volume-regulated anion channels (VRACs). The required subunit LRRC8A physically associates with Nox1, and VRAC activity is required for Nox activity and the inflammatory response to TNFα. VRAC currents are modulated by oxidants, suggesting that channel oxidant sensitivity and proximity to Nox1 may play a physiologically relevant role. In VSMCs, LRRC8C knockdown (siRNA) recapitulated the effects of siLRRC8A, inhibiting TNFα-induced extracellular and endosomal O₂ ^•- production, receptor endocytosis, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation and proliferation. In contrast, siLRRC8D potentiated NF-κB activation. Nox1 co-immunoprecipitated with 8C and 8D, and colocalized with 8D at the plasma membrane and in vesicles. We compared VRAC currents mediated by homomeric and heteromeric LRRC8C and LRRC8D channels expressed in HEK293 cells. The oxidant chloramine T (ChlorT, 1 mM) weakly inhibited 8C, but potently inhibited 8D currents. ChlorT exposure also impaired subsequent current block by the VRAC blocker DCPIB, implicating external sites of oxidation. Substitution of the 8D extracellular loop domains (EL1, EL2) into 8C conferred significantly stronger ChlorT-mediated inhibition of 8C currents. Our results suggest that LRRC8A/C channel activity can be effectively maintained in the oxidized microenvironment expected to result from Nox1 activation at the plasma membrane. Increased ratios of 8D:8C expression may potentially depress inflammatory responses to TNFα. LRRC8A/C channel downregulation represents a novel strategy to reduce TNFα-induced inflammation.

Protein Disulphide Isomerase and NADPH Oxidase 1 Cooperate to Control Platelet Function and Are Associated with Cardiometabolic Disease Risk Factors

Background: Protein disulphide isomerase (PDI) and NADPH oxidase 1 (Nox-1) regulate platelet function and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, suggesting potentially interdependent roles. Increased platelet reactivity and ROS production have been correlated with cardiometabolic disease risk factors. Objectives: To establish whether PDI and Nox-1 cooperate to control platelet function. Methods: Immunofluorescence microscopy was utilised to determine expression and localisation of PDI and Nox-1. Platelet aggregation, fibrinogen binding, P-selectin exposure, spreading and calcium mobilization were measured as markers of platelet function. A cross-sectional population study (n = 136) was conducted to assess the relationship between platelet PDI and Nox-1 levels and cardiometabolic risk factors. Results: PDI and Nox-1 co-localized upon activation induced by the collagen receptor GPVI. Co-inhibition of PDI and Nox-1 led to additive inhibition of GPVI-mediated platelet aggregation, activation and calcium flux. This was confirmed in murine Nox-1^−/− platelets treated with PDI inhibitor bepristat, without affecting bleeding. PDI and Nox-1 together contributed to GPVI signalling that involved the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, p47phox, PKC and Akt. Platelet PDI and Nox-1 levels were upregulated in obesity, with platelet Nox-1 also elevated in hypertensive individuals. Conclusions: We show that PDI and Nox-1 cooperate to control platelet function and are associated with cardiometabolic risk factors.

Crosstalk between endoplasmic reticulum stress and oxidative stress: Focus on protein disulfide isomerase and endoplasmic reticulum oxidase 1

Cellular stress and inflammation, establishing as disease pathology, have reached great heights in the last few decades. Stress conditions such as hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia and lipoproteins are known to disturb proteostasis resulting in the accumulation of unfolded or misfolded proteins, alteration in calcium homeostasis culminating in unfolded protein response. Protein disulfide isomerase and endoplasmic reticulum oxidase-1 are the key players in protein folding. The protein folding process assisted by endoplasmic reticulum oxidase-1 results in the production of reactive oxygen species in the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum. Production of reactive oxygen species beyond the quenching capacity of the antioxidant systems perturbs ER homeostasis. Endoplasmic reticulum stress also induces the production of cytokines leading to inflammatory responses. This has been proven to be the major causative factor for various pathophysiological states compared to other cellular triggers in diseases, which further manifests to increased oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and altered inflammatory responses, deleterious to cellular physiology and homeostasis. Numerous studies have drawn correlations between the progression of several diseases in association with endoplasmic reticulum stress, redox protein folding, oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. This review aims to provide an insight into the role of protein disulfide isomerase and endoplasmic reticulum oxidase-1 in endoplasmic reticulum stress, unfolded protein response, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammatory responses, which exacerbate the progression of various diseases.

Cytoskeleton-disrupting agent cytochalasin B reduces oxidative stress caused by high glucose in the human arterial smooth muscle

The role of cytoskeleton dynamics in the oxidative stress toward human vasculature has been unclear. The current study examined whether the cytoskeleton-disrupting agent cytochalasin B reduces oxidative stress caused by high glucose in the human arterial smooth muscle. All experiments in the human omental arteries without endothelium or the cultured human coronary artery smooth muscle cells were performed in d-glucose (5.5 mmol/L). The exposure toward d-glucose (20 mmol/L) for 60 min reduced the relaxation or hyperpolarization to an ATP sensitive K⁺ channel (KATP) opener levcromakalim (10^-8 to 3 × 10^-6 mol/L and 3 × 10^-6 mol/L, respectively). Cytochalasin B and a superoxide inhibitor Tiron, restored them similarly. Cytochalasin B reduced the NADPH oxidase activity, leading to a decrease in superoxide levels of the arteries treated with high d-glucose. Also, cytochalasin B impaired the F-actin constitution and the membrane translocation of an NADPH oxidase subunit p47phox in artery smooth muscle cells treated with high d-glucose. A clinical concentration of cytochalasin B prevented human vascular smooth muscle malfunction via the oxidative stress caused by high glucose. Regulation of the cytoskeleton may be essential to keep the normal vascular function in patients with hyperglycemia.

Role of the ERO1-PDI interaction in oxidative protein folding and disease

Protein folding in the endoplasmic reticulum is an oxidative process that relies on protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) and endoplasmic reticulum oxidase 1 (ERO1). Over 30% of proteins require the chaperone PDI to promote disulfide bond formation. PDI oxidizes cysteines in nascent polypeptides to form disulfide bonds and can also reduce and isomerize disulfide bonds. ERO1 recycles reduced PDI family member PDIA1 using a FAD cofactor to transfer electrons to oxygen. ERO1 dysfunction critically affects several diseases states. Both ERO1 and PDIA1 are overexpressed in cancers and implicated in diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases. Cancer-associated ERO1 promotes cell migration and invasion. Furthermore, the ERO1-PDIA1 interaction is critical for epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Co-expression analysis of ERO1A gene expression in cancer patients demonstrated that ERO1A is significantly upregulated in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), glioblastoma and low-grade glioma (GBMLGG), pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PAAD), and kidney renal papillary cell carcinoma (KIRP) cancers. ERO1Α knockdown gene signature correlates with knockdown of cancer signaling proteins including IGF1R, supporting the search for novel, selective ERO1 inhibitors for the treatment of cancer. In this review, we explore the functions of ERO1 and PDI to support inhibition of this interaction in cancer and other diseases.

Protein disulfide isomerase in cardiovascular disease

Protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) participates in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases. Increasing evidence indicates that intravascular cell-derived PDI plays an important role in the initiation and progression of cardiovascular diseases, including thrombosis and vascular inflammation. Recent studies with PDI conditional knockout mice have advanced our understanding of the function of cell-specific PDI in disease processes. Furthermore, the identification and development of novel small-molecule PDI inhibitors has led into a new era of PDI research that transitioned from the bench to bedside. In this review, we will discuss recent findings on the regulatory role of PDI in cardiovascular disease.

Efforts to untangle the functions of a large family of enzymes could lead researchers to new therapies for diverse cardiovascular diseases. Members of the protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) family chemically modify other proteins in ways that can alter both their structure and biological activity. Jaehyung Cho of the University of Illinois at Chicago, USA and coworkers have reviewed numerous studies linking PDI with cardiovascular diseases, including thrombosis, heart attack, vascular inflammation, and stroke. The authors also report progress in developing small-molecule PDI inhibitors that could yield the treatment for these conditions.

Quiescin/sulfhydryl oxidase 1b (QSOX1b) induces migration and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells by distinct redox pathways

Quiescent and contractile VSMC can switch to proliferative and migratory phenotype in response to growth factors and cytokines, an effect underscored by Nox family NADPH oxidases, particularly Nox1. We previously showed that quiescin/sulfhydryl oxidase 1 (QSOX1) has a role in neointima formation in balloon-injured rat carotid. Here, we investigated the intracellular redox mechanisms underlying these effects in primary VSMC. Our results show that exogenous incubation with wild type QSOX1b (wt QSOX), or with secreted QSOX1, but not with the inactive C452S QSOX 1b (C452S QSOX) or secreted inactive C455S QSOX1, induces VSMC migration and chemotaxis. PEG-catalase (PEG-CAT) prevented, while PEG-superoxide dismutase (PEG-SOD) increased migration induced by wt QSOX. Moreover, wt QSOX-induced migration was abrogated in NOX1-null VSMC. In contrast, both wt QSOX and C452S QSOX, and both secreted QSOX1 and C455S QSOX1, induce cell proliferation. Such effect was unaltered by PEG-CAT, while being inhibited by PEG-SOD. However, QSOX1-induced proliferation was not significantly affected in NOX1-null VSMC, compared with WT VSMC. These results indicate that hydrogen peroxide and superoxide mediate, respectively, migration and proliferation. However, Nox1 was required only for QSOX1-induced migration. In parallel, QSOX1-induced proliferation was independent of its redox activity, although mediated by intracellular superoxide.

NADPH oxidase in the vasculature: Expression, regulation and signalling pathways; role in normal cardiovascular physiology and its dysregulation in hypertension

The last 20-25 years have seen an explosion of interest in the role of NADPH oxidase (NOX) in cardiovascular function and disease. In vascular smooth muscle and endothelium, NOX generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) that act as second messengers, contributing to the control of normal vascular function. NOX activity is altered in response to a variety of stimuli, including G-protein coupled receptor agonists, growth-factors, perfusion pressure, flow and hypoxia. NOX-derived ROS are involved in smooth muscle constriction, endothelium-dependent relaxation and smooth muscle growth, proliferation and migration, thus contributing to the fine-tuning of blood flow, arterial wall thickness and vascular resistance. Through reversible oxidative modification of target proteins, ROS regulate the activity of protein tyrosine phosphatases, kinases, G proteins, ion channels, cytoskeletal proteins and transcription factors. There is now considerable, but somewhat contradictory evidence that NOX contributes to the pathogenesis of hypertension through oxidative stress. Specific NOX isoforms have been implicated in endothelial dysfunction, hyper-contractility and vascular remodelling in various animal models of hypertension, pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary arterial hypertension, but also have potential protective effects, particularly NOX4. This review explores the multiplicity of NOX function in the healthy vasculature and the evidence for and against targeting NOX for antihypertensive therapy.