The novel benzimidazole derivative BRP-7 inhibits leukotriene biosynthesis in vitro and in vivo by targeting 5-lipoxygenase-activating protein (FLAP)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Leukotrienes (LTs) are inflammatory mediators produced via the 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) pathway and are linked to diverse disorders, including asthma, allergic rhinitis and cardiovascular diseases. We recently identified the benzimidazole derivative BRP-7 as chemotype for anti-LT agents by virtual screening targeting 5-LOX-activating protein (FLAP). Here, we aimed to reveal the in vitro and in vivo pharmacology of BRP-7 as an inhibitor of LT biosynthesis.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

We analysed LT formation and performed mechanistic studies in human neutrophils and monocytes, in human whole blood (HWB) and in cell-free assays. The effectiveness of BRP-7 in vivo was evaluated in rat carrageenan-induced pleurisy and mouse zymosan-induced peritonitis.

KEY RESULTS

BRP-7 potently suppressed LT formation in neutrophils and monocytes and this was accompanied by impaired 5-LOX co-localization with FLAP. Neither the cellular viability nor the activity of 5-LOX in cell-free assays was affected by BRP-7, indicating that a functional FLAP is needed for BRP-7 to inhibit LTs, and FLAP bound to BRP-7 linked to a solid matrix. Compared with the FLAP inhibitor MK-886, BRP-7 did not significantly inhibit COX-1 or microsomal prostaglandin E2 synthase-1, implying the selectivity of BRP-7 for FLAP. Finally, BRP-7 was effective in HWB and impaired inflammation in vivo, in rat pleurisy and mouse peritonitis, along with reducing LT levels.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

BRP-7 potently suppresses LT biosynthesis by interacting with FLAP and exhibits anti-inflammatory effectiveness in vivo, with promising potential for further development.

Elucidation of the molecular mechanism and the efficacy in vivo of a novel 1,4-benzoquinone that inhibits 5-lipoxygenase

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

1,4-Benzoquinones are well-known inhibitors of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX, the key enzyme in leukotriene biosynthesis), but the molecular mechanisms of 5-LOX inhibition are not completely understood. Here we investigated the molecular mode of action and the pharmacological profile of the novel 1,4-benzoquinone derivative 3-((decahydronaphthalen-6-yl)methyl)-2,5-dihydroxycyclohexa-2,5-diene-1,4-dione (RF-Id) in vitro and its effectiveness in vivo.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Mechanistic investigations in cell-free assays using 5-LOX and other enzymes associated with eicosanoid biosynthesis were conducted, along with cell-based studies in human leukocytes and whole blood. Molecular docking of RF-Id into the 5-LOX structure was performed to illustrate molecular interference with 5-LOX. The effectiveness of RF-Id in vivo was also evaluated in two murine models of inflammation.

KEY RESULTS

RF-Id consistently suppressed 5-LOX product synthesis in human leukocytes and human whole blood. RF-Id also blocked COX-2 activity but did not significantly inhibit COX-1, microsomal PGE2 synthase-1, cytosolic PLA2 or 12- and 15-LOX. Although RF-Id lacked radical scavenging activity, reducing conditions facilitated its inhibitory effect on 5-LOX whereas cell stress impaired its efficacy. The reduced hydroquinone form of RF-Id (RED-RF-Id) was a more potent inhibitor of 5-LOX as it had more bidirectional hydrogen bonds within the 5-LOX substrate binding site. Finally, RF-Id had marked anti-inflammatory effects in mice in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

RF-Id represents a novel anti-inflammatory 1,4-benzoquinone that potently suppresses LT biosynthesis by direct inhibition of 5-LOX with effectiveness in vivo. Mechanistically, RF-Id inhibits 5-LOX in a non-redox manner by forming discrete molecular interactions within the active site of 5-LOX.

High capacity for leukotriene biosynthesis in peripheral blood during pregnancy

Pregnancy is accompanied by major immunological changes to maintain both tolerance for the fetus and immune competence. Leukotrienes are powerful 5-lipoxygenase-derived inflammatory mediators and the characteristics of leukotriene-related diseases (e.g., asthma, allergic rhinitis) change during pregnancy. Here, we show that pregnancy affects leukotriene synthesis in human blood and leukocytes. 5-Lipoxygenase product formation in stimulated blood of pregnant women was significantly higher than in non-pregnant females. Although a pregnancy-related increase in neutrophil and monocyte counts may explain these observations, granulocytes of pregnant donors have lower leukotriene-synthetic capacities. On the other hand, granulocytes from non-pregnant woman produced more leukotrienes when resuspended in plasma of pregnant women than of non-pregnant females. Together, we show that leukotriene biosynthesis in maternal blood is increased by the interrelations of higher leukocyte numbers, lower cellular capacity for leukotriene synthesis and stimulatory effects of plasma. This bias may affect leukotriene-related diseases during pregnancy and their pharmacological treatment.

Upregulation of the 5-lipoxygenase pathway in human monocytes by growth and differentiation factors

5-Lipoxygenase (5-LO) is the key enzyme in leukotriene biosynthesis. Leukotrienes are key mediators of inflammation, allergic and innate immune reactions. 5-LO expression is mainly restricted to a variety of immune competent cells including B-lymphocytes, granulocytes and monocytes/macrophages. Here, we studied the effects of the growth or differentiation factors TGFbeta, 1,25(OH)2D3, GM-CSF and TNFalpha on 5-LO mRNA and protein expression and on 5-LO activity in human monocytes. We found that cultivation of monocytes under standard culture conditions downregulates 5-LO mRNA expression which could be prevented by addition of the four factors. Monocyte 5-LO activity was serum-dependent and cultivation of the cells in serum-free medium strongly downregulated cellular 5-LO activity which could be prevented by TGFbeta, 1,25(OH)2D3, GM-CSF and TNFalpha to different extents. The protein kinase A activator dibutyryl-cAMP blocked the effects of the four factors. The data suggest that 5-LO expression and activity in monocytes is strongly regulated by pro- and anti-inflammatory growth or differentiation factors.

On the inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase product formation by tryptanthrin: mechanistic studies and efficacy in vivo

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Leukotrienes (LTs) are pro-inflammatory mediators produced by 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO). Currently available 5-LO inhibitors either lack efficacy or are toxic and novel approaches are required to establish a successful anti-LT therapy. Here we provide a detailed evaluation of the effectiveness of the plant-derived alkaloid tryptanthrin as an inhibitor of LT biosynthesis.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

We analysed LT formation and performed mechanistic studies in human neutrophils stimulated with pathophysiologically relevant stimuli (LPS and formyl peptide), as well as in cell-free assays (neutrophil homogenates or recombinant human 5-LO) and in human whole blood. The in vivo effectiveness of tryptanthrin was evaluated in the rat model of carrageenan-induced pleurisy.

KEY RESULTS

Tryptanthrin potently reduced LT-formation in human neutrophils (IC(50) = 0.6µM). However, tryptanthrin is not a redox-active compound and did not directly interfere with 5-LO activity in cell-free assays. Similarly, tryptanthrin did not inhibit the release of arachidonic acid, the activation of MAPKs, or the increase in [Ca(2+) ](i) , but it modified the subcellular localization of 5-LO. Moreover, tryptanthrin potently suppressed LT formation in human whole blood (IC(50) = 10µM) and reduced LTB(4) levels in the rat pleurisy model after a single oral dose of 10mg·kg(-1) .

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Our data reveal that tryptanthrin is a potent natural inhibitor of cellular LT biosynthesis with proven efficacy in whole blood and is effective in vivo after oral administration. Its unique pharmacological profile supports further analysis to exploit its pharmacological potential.

2-(4-(Biphenyl-4-ylamino)-6-chloropyrimidin-2-ylthio)octanoic acid (HZ52)--a novel type of 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor with favourable molecular pharmacology and efficacy in vivo

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

5-Lipoxygenase (5-LO) is the key enzyme in the biosynthesis of pro-inflammatory leukotrienes (LTs) representing a potential target for pharmacological intervention with inflammation and allergic disorders. Although many LT synthesis inhibitors are effective in simple in vitro test systems, they frequently fail in vivo due to lack of efficacy. Here, we attempted to assess the pharmacological potential of the previously identified 5-LO inhibitor 2-(4-(biphenyl-4-ylamino)-6-chloropyrimidin-2-ylthio)octanoic acid (HZ52).

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

We evaluated the efficacy of HZ52 in vivo using carrageenan-induced pleurisy in rats and platelet-activating factor (PAF)-induced lethal shock in mice. We also characterized 5-LO inhibition by HZ52 at the cellular and molecular level in comparison with other types of 5-LO inhibitor, that is, BWA4C, ZM230487 and hyperforin.

KEY RESULTS

HZ52, 1.5 mg·kg⁻¹ i.p., prevented carrageenan-induced pleurisy accompanied by reduced LTB(4) levels and protected mice (10 mg·kg⁻¹, i.p.) against PAF-induced shock. Detailed analysis in cell-based and cell-free assays revealed that inhibition of 5-LO by HZ52 (i) does not depend on radical scavenging properties and is reversible; (ii) is not impaired by an increased peroxide tone or by elevated substrate concentrations; and (iii) is little affected by the cell stimulus or by phospholipids, glycerides, membranes or Ca²⁺.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

HZ52 is a promising new type of 5-LO inhibitor with efficacy in vivo and with a favourable pharmacological profile. It possesses a unique 5-LO inhibitory mechanism different from classical 5-LO inhibitors and seemingly lacks the typical disadvantages of former classes of LT synthesis blockers.

Inhibition of microsomal prostaglandin E2 synthase-1 as a molecular basis for the anti-inflammatory actions of boswellic acids from frankincense

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Frankincense, the gum resin derived from Boswellia species, showed anti-inflammatory efficacy in animal models and in pilot clinical studies. Boswellic acids (BAs) are assumed to be responsible for these effects but their anti-inflammatory efficacy in vivo and their molecular modes of action are incompletely understood.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

A protein fishing approach using immobilized BA and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectroscopy were used to reveal microsomal prostaglandin E(2) synthase-1 (mPGES1) as a BA-interacting protein. Cell-free and cell-based assays were applied to confirm the functional interference of BAs with mPGES1. Carrageenan-induced mouse paw oedema and rat pleurisy models were utilized to demonstrate the efficacy of defined BAs in vivo.

KEY RESULTS

Human mPGES1 from A549 cells or in vitro-translated human enzyme selectively bound to BA affinity matrices and SPR spectroscopy confirmed these interactions. BAs reversibly suppressed the transformation of prostaglandin (PG)H(2) to PGE(2) mediated by mPGES1 (IC(50) = 3-10 µM). Also, in intact A549 cells, BAs selectively inhibited PGE(2) generation and, in human whole blood, β-BA reduced lipopolysaccharide-induced PGE(2) biosynthesis without affecting formation of the COX-derived metabolites 6-keto PGF(1α) and thromboxane B(2) . Intraperitoneal or oral administration of β-BA (1 mg·kg(-1) ) suppressed rat pleurisy, accompanied by impaired levels of PGE(2) and β-BA (1 mg·kg(-1) , given i.p.) also reduced mouse paw oedema, both induced by carrageenan.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Suppression of PGE(2) formation by BAs via interference with mPGES1 contribute to the anti-inflammatory effectiveness of BAs and of frankincense, and may constitute a biochemical basis for their anti-inflammatory properties.

The 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor, zileuton, suppresses prostaglandin biosynthesis by inhibition of arachidonic acid release in macrophages

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Zileuton is the only 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) inhibitor marketed as a treatment for asthma, and is often utilized as a selective tool to evaluate the role of 5-LOX and leukotrienes. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of zileuton on prostaglandin (PG) production in vitro and in vivo.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Peritoneal macrophages activated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/interferon γ (LPS/IFNγ), J774 macrophages and human whole blood stimulated with LPS were used as in vitro models and rat carrageenan-induced pleurisy as an in vivo model.

KEY RESULTS

Zileuton suppressed PG biosynthesis by interference with arachidonic acid (AA) release in macrophages. We found that zileuton significantly reduced PGE2 and 6-keto prostaglandin F1α (PGF1α) levels in activated mouse peritoneal macrophages and in J774 macrophages. This effect was not related to 5-LOX inhibition, because it was also observed in macrophages from 5-LOX knockout mice. Notably, zileuton inhibited PGE2 production in LPS-stimulated human whole blood and suppressed PGE2 and 6-keto PGF1α pleural levels in rat carrageenan-induced pleurisy. Interestingly, zileuton failed to inhibit the activity of microsomal PGE2 synthase1 and of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 and did not affect COX-2 expression. However, zileuton significantly decreased AA release in macrophages accompanied by inhibition of phospholipase A2 translocation to cellular membranes.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATION

Zileuton inhibited PG production by interfering at the level of AA release. Its mechanism of action, as well as its use as a pharmacological tool, in experimental models of inflammation should be reassessed.

Identification of rosmarinic acid as the major active constituent in Cordia americana

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Preparation from leaves of Cordia americana have been widely used in traditional medicine in South Brazil to treat wounds and various inflammations.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objective of this work was to identify the effective compounds in the ethanolic extract prepared from the leaves of Cordia americana, which is used in traditional South Brazilian medicine as anti-inflammatory and wound healing remedy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Isolation and structure elucidation techniques were performed in order to identify the compounds of Cordia americana and HPLC analysis was used for the quantification. The major constituent and the ethanolic extract were investigated for inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase, p38alpha MAPK, TNFalpha release and NF-kappaB as well as in the fibroblast scratch assay.

RESULTS

Rosmarinic acid (1) was identified as the major compound with an amount of 8.44% in the ethanolic extract of the leaves of Cordia americana. The ethanolic extract as well as (1) exhibited the highest inhibitory effects on 5-lipoxygenase (IC(50)=0.69 and 0.97microg/mL, resp., IC50 of BWA4C as reference: 0.3microM) and p38alpha (IC50=3.25 and 1.16microg/mL, resp., IC50 of SB203580 as reference: 0.046microM) and moderate inhibitory effects on TNFalpha release. Slight effects were observed in the fibroblast scratch assay.

CONCLUSIONS

This study increases our knowledge on the effective compound in Cordia americana and supports its use in traditional medicine. We demonstrated for the first time pharmacological effects of Cordia americana and we provide evidences for a crucial role of rosmarinic acid as the major key player.

Inhibitors of the microsomal prostaglandin E(2) synthase-1 as alternative to non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)--a critical review

Pharmacological suppression of cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and -2-mediated prostanoid biosynthesis by non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is used in the therapy of inflammation, fever, and pain. However, long-term application of these drugs is associated with severe side effects, mainly gastrointestinal injury and renal irritations, apparently due to impaired biosynthesis of physiologically relevant prostanoids. Although COX-2 selective drugs (coxibs) show reduced gastrointestinal complications, recent clinical trials indicated a significantly increased cardiovascular risk. In order to minimize these side-effects, selective suppression of microsomal prostaglandin E(2) synthase (mPGES)-1 derived prostaglandin (PG)E(2) formation has been considered as alternative to general inhibition of prostanoid biosynthesis. mPGES-1 is functionally coupled to COX-2 being responsible for excessive PGE(2) generation connected to pathologies and current knowledge suggests key roles of mPGES-1 in inflammation, pain, fever, atherosclerosis, and tumorigenesis. However, mPGES-1 as promising therapeutic target was questioned because blockade of mPGES-1 allows redirection of the substrate PGH(2) to other PG synthases, and the consequences are still elusive. This review summarizes current knowledge about synthetic and natural mPGES-1 inhibitors focusing on structural and mechanistic investigations. Further, the therapeutic efficiency and safety is critically discussed on the basis of cellular and animal studies in which mPGES-1 activity was pharmacologically or genetically (knockout, knockdown) modulated.

Myrtucommulone, a natural acylphloroglucinol, inhibits microsomal prostaglandin E(2) synthase-1

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The selective inhibition of prostaglandin (PG)E(2) formation via interference with microsomal PGE(2) synthase (mPGES)-1 could have advantages in the treatment of PGE(2)-associated diseases, such as inflammation, fever and pain, compared with a general suppression of all PG biosynthesis, provided by inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and 2. Here, we addressed whether the naturally occurring acylphloroglucinol myrtucommulone (MC) from Myrtus communis L. (myrtle) affected mPGES-1.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

The effect of MC on PGE(2) formation was investigated in a cell-free assay by using microsomal preparations of interleukin-1beta-stimulated A549 cells as the source of mPGES-1, in intact A549 cells, and in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated human whole blood. Inhibition of COX-1 and COX-2 activity in cellular and cell-free assays was assessed by measuring 12(S)-hydroxy-5-cis-8,10-trans-heptadecatrienoic acid and 6-oxo PGF(1alpha) formation.

KEY RESULTS

MC concentration-dependently inhibited cell-free mPGES-1-mediated conversion of PGH(2) to PGE(2) (IC(50) = 1 micromol x L(-1)). PGE(2) formation was also diminished in intact A549 cells as well as in human whole blood at low micromolar concentrations. Neither COX-2 activity in A549 cells nor isolated human recombinant COX-2 was significantly affected by MC up to 30 micromol x L(-1), and only moderate inhibition of cellular or cell-free COX-1 was evident (IC(50) > 15 micromol x L(-1)).

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

MC is the first natural product to inhibit mPGES-1 that efficiently suppresses PGE(2) formation without significant inhibition of the COX enzymes. This provides an interesting pharmacological profile suitable for interventions in inflammatory disorders, without the typical side effects of coxibs and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

The molecular mechanism of the inhibition by licofelone of the biosynthesis of 5-lipoxygenase products

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Licofelone is a dual inhibitor of the cyclooxygenase and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) pathway, and has been developed for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the inhibition by licofelone of the formation of 5-LO products.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

The efficacy of licofelone to inhibit the formation of 5-LO products was analysed in human isolated polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) or transfected HeLa cells, as well as in cell-free assays using respective cell homogenates or purified recombinant 5-LO. Moreover, the effects of licofelone on the subcellular redistribution of 5-LO were studied.

KEY RESULTS

Licofelone potently blocked synthesis of 5-LO products in Ca(2+)-ionophore-activated PMNL (IC(50)=1.7 microM) but was a weak inhibitor of 5-LO activity in cell-free assays (IC(50)>>10 microM). The structures of licofelone and MK-886, an inhibitor of the 5-LO-activating protein (FLAP), were superimposable. The potencies of both licofelone and MK-886 in ionophore-activated PMNL were impaired upon increasing the concentration of arachidonic acid, or under conditions where 5-LO product formation was evoked by genotoxic, oxidative or hyperosmotic stress. Furthermore, licofelone prevented nuclear redistribution of 5-LO in ionophore-activated PMNL, as had been observed for FLAP inhibitors. Finally, licofelone as well as MK-886 caused only moderate inhibition of the synthesis of 5-LO products in HeLa cells, unless FLAP was co-transfected.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Our data suggest that the potent inhibition of the biosynthesis of 5-LO products by licofelone requires an intact cellular environment and appears to be due to interference with FLAP.

Valproic acid induces extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 activation and inhibits apoptosis in endothelial cells

The histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor valproic acid (VPA) was recently shown to inhibit angiogenesis, but displays no toxicity in endothelial cells. Here, we demonstrate that VPA increases extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK 1/2) phosphorylation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). The investigation of structurally modified VPA derivatives revealed that the induction of ERK 1/2 phosphorylation is not correlated to HDAC inhibition. PD98059, a pharmacological inhibitor of the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1/2, prevented the VPA-induced ERK 1/2 phosphorylation. In endothelial cells, ERK 1/2 phosphorylation is known to promote cell survival and angiogenesis. Our results showed that VPA-induced ERK 1/2 phosphorylation in turn causes phosphorylation of the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 and inhibits serum starvation-induced HUVEC apoptosis and cytochrome c release from the mitochondria. Moreover, the combination of VPA with PD98059 synergistically inhibited angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo.

Butyrate-induced differentiation of Caco-2 cells is mediated by vitamin D receptor

Butyrate in combination with 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25-(OH)2D3] produces a synergistic effect on cell differentiation of human colon cancer cells (Caco-2). The objective of this study was to confirm the role of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) in butyrate-induced cell differentiation of Caco-2. We studied the effects of the novel VDR antagonist ZK 191732 on butyrate-induced cell differentiation and on p21Waf1/Cip1 expression. Butyrate induced cell differentiation which was further enhanced after addition of 1,25-(OH)2D3. Experiments using ZK 191732 indicate that the synergistic effect of butyrate and 1,25-(OH)2D3 was due to butyrate-induced upregulation of VDR. While butyrate alone increased expression of p21Waf1/Cip1 and combined exposure of butyrate and 1,25-(OH)2D3 resulted in a synergistic amplification, p21Waf1/Cip1 expression did not change from the control level after treatment with butyrate plus ZK 191732. These data further imply that butyrate-induced differentiation and p21Waf1/Cip1 expression of Caco-2 cells occur via upregulation of VDR.

p38 MAP kinase mediates stress-induced leukotriene synthesis in a human B-lymphocyte cell line

5-Lipoxygenase (5-LO), which catalyzes the first two steps in leukotriene biosynthesis, is a target for pharmacological treatment of inflammatory disorders. Previous studies have shown that B-lymphocytes express 5-LO. Here we demonstrate that several stimuli of cell stress such as osmotic shock (sorbitol, NaCl), oxidative stress (hydrogen peroxide, diamide), chemical stress sodium arsenite, and inflammatory cytokines enhanced cellular 5-LO activity in a B cell line (BL41-E95-A), when added simultaneously with ionophore plus arachidonate. It is interesting that sorbitol alone was sufficient for 5-LO product formation in the presence of exogenous arachidonic acid. These stimuli also activated p38 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase and downstream MAP kinase-activated protein kinases in BL41-E95-A cells, which could phosphorylate 5-LO or heat shock protein 27 in vitro. The p38 MAP kinase inhibitor SB203580 abolished stress-induced leukotriene synthesis in B cells, without inhibition of 5-LO catalytic activity in cell-free systems. Our results indicate that p38 MAP kinase activation by cell stress is required for efficient leukotriene synthesis in B-lymphocytes.

Phorbol ester up-regulates capacities for nuclear translocation and phosphorylation of 5-lipoxygenase in Mono Mac 6 cells and human polymorphonuclear leukocytes

The leukotrienes are inflammatory mediators derived from arachidonic acid. It was demonstrated that the priming of leukocytes with phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) leads to the increased formation of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) products in parallel with the increased association of 5-LO with the nucleus and the activation of kinases that can phosphorylate 5-LO in vitro. Stimulation of the monocytic cell line Mono Mac 6 with calcium ionophore gave low 5-LO product formation and no detectable redistribution of 5-LO. However, after priming of Mono Mac 6 cells with phorbol esters, ionophore led to the association of 45% to 75% of cellular 5-LO with the nuclear membrane, to 5-LO kinase activation, to enhanced release of arachidonate, and to substantial leukotriene synthesis. Similar results were obtained for human polymorphonuclear leukocytes stimulated with low-dose ionophore. In addition, for each cell type, PMA priming up-regulated leukotriene biosynthesis in the presence of exogenous arachidonic acid. A protein kinase inhibitor, calphostin C, reduced the association of 5-LO with the nucleus and 5-LO kinase activity, and the formation of 5-LO products was inhibited. These results suggest that PMA up-regulates leukotriene biosynthesis not only by increasing the release of endogenous arachidonate, but also by increasing the capacity for 5-LO phosphorylation and for the translocation of 5-LO to the nucleus in leukocytes.

Glutathione peroxidase-1 but not -4 is involved in the regulation of cellular 5-lipoxygenase activity in monocytic cells

In contrast to neutrophils or B-lymphocytes, cells of the monocytic lineage like rat macrophages, human peripheral blood monocytes and Mono Mac 6 cells contain a strong inhibitor of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) activity, which scavenges hydroperoxides and inhibits 5-LO activity in broken-cell preparations in the absence of exogenously added thiols. Chromatographic purification of the inhibitor from the human monocytic cell line Mono Mac 6 and amino acid sequence analysis revealed that the inhibitory factor is glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPx-1). In contrast to the peroxidase activity of GPx-1, 5-LO inhibition by GPx-1 was supported by beta-mercaptoethanol and there was no absolute requirement for millimolar concentrations of glutathione or dithiothreitol. These cofactor characteristics suggest that both activities address distinct catalytic properties of GPx-1. 5-LO inhibition by GPx-1 was not due to direct GPx-5-LO protein-protein interactions, since GPx-1 did not bind to immobilized 5-LO. Interestingly, 5-LO derived from granulocytes was significantly more resistant against GPx-1 inhibition than B-lymphocytic 5-LO, which correlates with the respective cellular 5-LO activities. In summary, the data suggest that, in addition to previously reported phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase (GPx-4), GPx-1 is an efficient inhibitor of 5-LO even at low thiol concentrations, and is involved in the regulation of cellular 5-LO activity in various cell types.

New vitamin D receptor agonists with decreased metabolic stability

The aim of the study was the development of vitamin D receptor agonists with decreased metabolic stability for the topical treatment of psoriasis and related hyperproliferative skin diseases. Calcitriol analogues 1, 2, 3, all of which contain modifications in the side chain, were synthesized. The obtained analogues were full agonists when the induction of CD14 expression in HL-60 cells, the induction of 5-lipoxygenase activity in Mono Mac 6 cells, and the inhibition of phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-stimulated lymphocyte proliferation were studied. The EC(50) value of the most active compound 1 was 1.2 nM in the CD14 assay and 1 nM in the 5-lipoxygenase assay, whereas calcitriol gave EC(50) values in these assays of 3.7 and 9 nM, respectively. In the lymphocyte proliferation assay, compound 1 and calcitriol had IC(50) values of 0.3 and 2.8 nM, respectively. All three compounds had receptor binding affinities similar to that of calcitriol. The compounds showed a decreased metabolic stability in rat liver homogenates and had a 50-fold lower affinity for the vitamin D-binding protein than calcitriol, which suggests that calcitriol analogues are metabolized more rapidly after systemic uptake or application. When injected into rats, the analogues displayed an approximately 100-fold lower hypercalcemic effect than calcitriol. In summary, our study presents three new and potent vitamin D receptor agonists with interesting profiles for development as antipsoriatic drugs.

5-lipoxygenase is phosphorylated by p38 kinase-dependent MAPKAP kinases

5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) catalyzes the initial steps in the formation of leukotrienes, a group of inflammatory mediators derived from arachidonic acid (AA). Here we describe that activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes and in Mono Mac 6 cells leads to activation of downstream kinases, which can subsequently phosphorylate 5-LO in vitro. Different agents activated the 5-LO kinase activities, including stimuli for cellular leukotriene biosynthesis (A23187, thapsigargin, N-formyl-leucyl-phenylalanine), compounds that up-regulate the capacity for leukotriene biosynthesis (phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, tumor necrosis factor alpha, granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor), and well known p38 stimuli as sodium arsenite and sorbitol. For all stimuli, 5-LO kinase activation was counteracted by SB203580 (3 microM or less), an inhibitor of p38 kinase. At least two p38-dependent 5-LO kinase activities were found. Based on migration properties in in-gel kinase assays and immunoreactivity, one of these was identified as mitogen-activated protein kinase-activated protein kinase 2 (MAPKAP kinase 2). The other appeared to be MAPKAP kinase 3; however, it could not be excluded that also other p38-dependent kinases contributed. When polymorphonuclear leukocytes were incubated with sodium arsenite (strong activator of 5-LO kinases), platelet-activating factor and exogenous AA, there was a 4-fold increase in 5-LO activity as compared with incubations with only platelet-activating factor and AA. This indicates that 5-LO phosphorylation can be one factor determining cellular 5-LO activity.

Reactive oxygen species released from granulocytes stimulate 5-lipoxygenase activity in a B-lymphocytic cell line

B-lymphocytes express 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) protein but cellular leukotriene production is suppressed by selenium-dependent peroxidases. Thus it was of interest to check whether reactive oxygen species (ROS) which are released under inflammatory conditions can stimulate B-lymphocyte 5-LO and counteract peroxidase-mediated suppression of cellular 5-LO activity. It was found that 5-LO in the Epstein-Barr virus-transformed B-lymphocytic cell line BL41-E95-A is activated by addition of hydrogen peroxide or xanthine/xanthine oxidase and after increasing the oxidative state of the cell by azodicarboxylic acid bis(dimethylamide). Generation of endogenous ROS from mitochondria by antimycin A also lead to a threefold upregulation of 5-LO activity in B-cells. There was almost no detectable endogenous superoxide formation in BL41-E95-A cells after stimulation with 4beta-phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate. Co-incubation experiments with BL41-E95-A cells and granulocytes demonstrated that granulocyte-derived ROS can activate B-lymphocyte 5-LO. Addition of superoxide dismutase and/or catalase to the B-lymphocyte/granulocyte co-incubations and to B-lymphocyte homogenates revealed that the 5-LO activation is due to the superoxide-derived release of hydroperoxides or hydrogen peroxide from granulocytes. The data suggest that ROS formation plays an important role in the regulation of cellular 5-LO activity in B-lymphocytes. As leukotrienes affect B-cell functions like cell proliferation, activation and maturation, this finding provides a new link between the formation of ROS and the regulation of immune responses.

Nonredox 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors require glutathione peroxidase for efficient inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase activity

Nonredox type 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) inhibitors, such as ZM 230487, its methyl analogue ZD 2138, or the Merck compound L-739,010, suppress cellular leukotriene synthesis of ionophore stimulated granulocytes with IC50 values of about 50 nM. However, in cell homogenates or in preparations of purified enzyme, up to 150-fold higher concentrations are required for similar inhibition of 5-LO activity. This loss of 5-LO inhibition in cell homogenates was reversed by addition of glutathione or dithiothreitol, which increased the inhibitory potency of ZM 230487 or L-739,010 by about 100 to 150-fold so that 5-LO inhibition was comparable with that of intact cells. In the presence of thiols, addition of hydroperoxide [13(S)-HpODE], glutathione-peroxidase inhibition by iodacetate or selenium-deficiency lead to impaired 5-LO inhibition by ZM 230487 in cell homogenates. Moreover, addition of glutathione peroxidase was required for efficient inhibition of purified human 5-LO by ZM 230487. The data suggest that low hydroperoxide concentrations are important for efficient 5-LO inhibition by ZM 230487. The kinetic analysis revealed a noncompetitive inhibition of 5-LO by ZM 230487 at low hydroperoxide levels, whereas it acted as a competitive inhibitor with low affinity under nonreducing conditions in granulocyte homogenates. No such redox-dependent effects were observed with the 5-LO inhibitor BWA4C, the 5-LO activating protein-inhibitor MK-886 or the pentacyclic triterpene acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid. These data suggest that physiological conditions associated with oxidative stress and increased peroxide levels lead to impaired efficacy of nonredox type 5-LO inhibitors like ZM 230487 or L-739,010. This could explain the reported lack of activity of this class of 5-LO inhibitors in chronic inflammatory processes.

A test system for leukotriene synthesis inhibitors based on the in-vitro differentiation of the human leukemic cell lines HL-60 and Mono Mac 6

Differentiation of HL-60 cells along the granulocytic lineage by DMSO in the presence of transforming growth factor-beta and low concentrations of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 leads to the upregulation of 5-lipoxygenase activity in 100,000 g supernatants and intact cells to levels which are comparable to normal granulocytes. Similarly, differentiation of the human monocytic cell line Mono Mac 6 by 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and transforming growth factor-beta strongly upregulates the 5-lipoxygenase pathway. Here, we describe an assay system for leukotriene biosynthesis inhibitors which is based on the in-vitro differentiation of HL-60 and Mono Mac 6 cells. Different leukotriene biosynthesis inhibitors like the nonredox type inhibitor ZM 230487, the redox type inhibitor BW A4C and the FLAP inhibitor MK886 were tested and the results were compared with an assay system based on normal human granulocytes. ZM 230487, BWA4C and MK886 showed similar potencies in these cell lines as compared to normal leukocytes. Thus, the in-vitro differentiation of HL-60 and Mono Mac 6 cells provides an excellent model for the screening of drugs affecting the 5-lipoxygenase pathway.

pH-dependent regulation of leukocyte 5-lipoxygenase activity in inflammatory exudates by albumin

OBJECTIVE AND DESIGN

In order to study the regulation of cellular 5-lipoxygenase activity under inflammatory conditions, the effects of inflammatory exudates on rat leukocyte 5 lipoxygenase activity were investigated.

MATERIALS

Peritoneal leukocytes and inflammatory exudates were collected from glycogen treated rats.

TREATMENT

Glycogen (1 g/kg body weight, in a final volume of 3 ml PBS) was injected intraperitoneally into male Wistar rats. After 4 h, the inflammatory exudate was collected.

METHODS

Rat peritoneal leukocytes were isolated and the cellular 5-lipoxygenase activity was determined by HPLC after cell stimulation with calcium ionophore A23187.

RESULTS

Inflammatory exudates from glycogen treated animals strongly inhibited cellular 5-lipoxygenase activity of ionophore challenged leukocytes. Albumin was identified as the inhibitor in exudates. Inhibition of cellular 5-lipoxygenase activity by albumin was pH-dependent and was strongly increased by the alkaline pH (7.9-8.0) of the exudate. The albumin effect increased in the range of pH 7.4-8.2 where albumin undergoes a conformational change called neutral to base (N-B) transition. S-Carboxymethyl-albumin had a similar activity to that of albumin, which indicated that the free SH-group at Cys-34 of albumin is not necessary for the effect. The albumin dimer showed a significantly higher inhibition than albumin and it suppressed cellular 5-lipoxygenase activity by 98%. Peptic and tryptic fragments of albumin which comprise domains I, II and II, III, respectively, were less active or inactive. Thus, an intact albumin molecule or the dimer are required for efficient inhibition of cellular 5-lipoxygenase activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that during inflammation, albumin extravasation and changes in pH-value are involved in the regulation of the inflammatory reaction by suppression of leukotriene release.

Selenium-dependent peroxidases suppress 5-lipoxygenase activity in B-lymphocytes and immature myeloid cells. The presence of peroxidase-insensitive 5-lipoxygenase activity in differentiated myeloid cells

Differentiation of HL-60 cells by dimethylsulfoxide induces 5-lipoxygenase protein expression, but only low cellular 5-lipoxygenase activity. Similarly, B-lymphocytes express 5-lipoxygenase protein and show activity in cell homogenates but not in intact cells. Here, we demonstrate that suppression of cellular 5-lipoxygenase activity in these cell lines is serum dependent and that the serum effect can be mimicked by selenium. Selenium-dependent inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase activity was also observed in the corresponding cell homogenates or 100,000 x g supernatants when dithiothreitol or glutathione (GSH) was added. The properties of the endogenous selenium-dependent inhibitor, i.e., molecular mass, utilization of GSH and dithiothreitol as substrates, sensitivity to iodacetate, inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase activity in the presence of the GPx-1 inhibitor mercaptosuccinate, suggest that a selenoenzyme with properties of the phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase (GPx-4) is responsible for the 5-lipoxygenase inhibition in BL41-E95-A and immature HL-60 cells. Differentiation of HL-60 cells in the presence of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF beta) upregulated cellular 5-lipoxygenase activity regardless of whether the cell were grown with or without serum or selenium. Also, 5-lipoxygenase activity in homogenates or 100,000 x g supernatants of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3/TGF beta differentiated HL-60 cells and of human granulocytes was not inhibited by dithiothreitol or GSH. Thus, after 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3/TGF beta differentiation, HL-60 cells resemble normal granulocytes with respect to the high 5-lipoxygenase activity in intact cells and to the dithiothreitol effects in broken cell preparations. Combination experiments with 100000 x g supernatants of BL41-E95-A cells and neutrophils revealed that the high 5-lipoxygenase activity of granulocytes is due to stability of the 5-lipoxygenase catalytic activity against selenium-dependent peroxidases, but not to low peroxidase activity. Our data suggest that the capability of mature myeloid cells to release large amounts of leukotrienes after stimulation is due to a peroxidase-insensitive 5-lipoxygenase catalytic activity.

Purification of transforming growth factor beta 1 from human platelets

Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF beta) is a growth and differentiation factor which can be released from many cell types. In previous studies, platelets were identified as a rich source of TGF beta. Here we present a rapid and convenient method for TGF beta purification from human platelets which includes acid-ethanol extraction and gelfiltration, cation exchange and reversed phase chromatography. All purification steps are performed under acidic conditions to prevent adsorption of TGF beta to the vial walls. In addition, volatile solvents and buffers were used which allowed easy removal of solvent and salt by lyophilization. Using this method pure TGF beta can be easily obtained in high yield (370 micrograms) from 20 units of platelet concentrate.

The nuclear receptor for melatonin represses 5-lipoxygenase gene expression in human B lymphocytes

The two subtypes of retinoid Z receptor (RZR alpha and beta) and the three splicing variants of retinoid orphan receptor (ROR alpha 1, alpha 2, and alpha 3) form a subfamily within the superfamily of nuclear hormone receptors. Very recently we found that the pineal gland hormone melatonin is a natural ligand of RZR alpha and RZR beta. Ligand-induced transcriptional control is therefore proposed to mediate physiological functions of melatonin in the brain where RZR beta is expressed, but also in peripheral tissues, where RZR alpha was found. However, no natural RZR responding genes have been identified yet. Here, we report that a response element in the promoter of 5-lipoxygenase binds specifically RZR alpha and ROR alpha 1, but not ROR alpha 2 and alpha 3. 5-Lipoxygenase is a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of leukotrienes, which are known to be allergic and inflammatory mediators. We could show that the activity of the whole 5-lipoxygenase promoter as well as of the RZR response element fused to the heterologous thymidine kinase promoter could be repressed by melatonin. The hormone down-regulated the expression of 5-lipoxygenase about 5-fold in B lymphocytes, which express RZR alpha. In contrast, 5-lipoxygenase mRNA levels were not affected in differentiated monocytic and granulocytic cell lines, which do not express RZR alpha. This indicates that 5-lipoxygenase is the first natural RZR alpha responding gene. Furthermore, our results open up a new perspective in understanding the involvement of melatonin in inflammatory and immunological reactions.