Association between sinusitis and relapse and changes in the myeloperoxidase-antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody in microscopic polyangiitis

Previous studies have evaluated the risk factors for relapse of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) and the biomarkers of AAV for predicting relapse. However, little is known about the association between the presence of sinusitis and relapse and changes in the ANCA levels in AAV. This single-center, retrospective cohort study included 104 consecutive patients who were newly diagnosed with myeloperoxidase (MPO)-ANCA-positive microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) between 2006 and 2018 and were treated at the Aichi Medical University Hospital in Japan. The relationships between sinusitis and relapse of vasculitis and elevated MPO-ANCA levels were assessed using multivariate Cox proportional hazards models that were adjusted for clinically relevant factors. During the entire follow-up period (median, 24 months; interquartile range, 7-54 months), 93 (89.4%) patients achieved remission. After achieving remission, 38 (40.9%) patients experienced at least one relapse (13 [65.0%] in the sinusitis group; 25 [34.3%] in the non-sinusitis group). Sinusitis was identified as a significant predictor of relapse (adjusted hazard ratio: 2.41, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.19-4.88; P = 0.015). Furthermore, sinusitis was more likely to be associated with elevated MPO-ANCA levels (adjusted hazard ratio: 2.59, 95% CI: 1.14-5.92; P = 0.024). In conclusion, sinusitis was associated with a higher risk of relapse and elevated MPO-ANCA levels in MPA patients, suggesting that careful management may be required to reduce the risk of relapse in patients with sinusitis. Further studies are needed to elucidate the optimal treatment strategy for these patients.

Characterization of a class III peroxidase from Artemisia annua: relevance to artemisinin metabolism and beyond

A class III peroxidase from Artemisia annua has been shown to indicate the possibility of cellular localization-based role diversity, which may have implications in artemisinin catabolism as well as lignification. Artemisia annua derives its importance from the antimalarial artemisinin. The -O-O- linkage in artemisinin makes peroxidases relevant to its metabolism. Earlier, we identified three peroxidase-coding genes from A. annua, whereby Aa547 showed higher expression in the low-artemisinin plant stage whereas Aa528 and Aa540 showed higher expression in the artemisinin-rich plant stage. Here we carried out tertiary structure homology modelling of the peroxidases for docking studies. Maximum binding affinity for artemisinin was shown by Aa547. Further, Aa547 showed greater binding affinity for post-artemisinin metabolite, deoxyartemisinin, as compared to pre-artemisinin metabolites (dihydroartemisinic hydroperoxide, artemisinic acid, dihydroartemisinic acid). It also showed significant binding affinity for the monolignol, coniferyl alcohol. Moreover, Aa547 expression was related inversely to artemisinin content and directly to total lignin content as indicated by its transient silencing and overexpression in A. annua. Artemisinin reduction assay also indicated inverse relationship between Aa547 expression and artemisinin content. Subcellular localization using GFP fusion suggested that Aa547 is peroxisomal. Nevertheless, dual localization (intracellular/extracellular) of Aa547 could not be ruled out due to its effect on both, artemisinin and lignin. Taken together, this indicates possibility of localization-based role diversity for Aa547, which may have implications in artemisinin catabolism as well as lignification in A. annua.

ERF109 of trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf.) contributes to cold tolerance by directly regulating expression of Prx1 involved in antioxidative process

Ethylene-responsive factors (ERFs) have been revealed to play essential roles in a variety of physiological and biological processes in higher plants. However, functions and regulatory pathways of most ERFs in cold stress remain largely unclear. Here, we identified PtrERF109 of trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf.) and deciphered its role in cold tolerance. PtrERF109 was drastically up-regulated by cold, ethylene and dehydration, but repressed by salt. PtrERF109 was localized in the nucleus and displayed transcriptional activity, and the C terminus is required for the activation. Overexpression of PtrERF109 conferred enhanced cold tolerance in transgenic tobacco and lemon plants, whereas VIGS (virus-induced gene silencing)-mediated suppression of PtrERF109 in trifoliate orange led to increased cold susceptibility. PtrERF109 overexpression caused extensive transcriptional reprogramming of several suites of stress-responsive genes. Prx1 encoding class III peroxidase (POD) was one of the antioxidant genes exhibiting the greatest induction. PtrERF109 was shown to directly bind to the promoter of PtrPrx1 (trifoliate orange Prx1 homologue) and positively activated its expression. In addition, the PtrERF109-overexpressing plants exhibited significantly higher POD activity and accumulated dramatically less H₂ O₂ and were more tolerant to oxidative stress, whereas the VIGS plants exhibited opposite trends, in comparison with wild type. Taken together, these results indicate that PtrERF109 as a positive regulator contributes to imparting cold tolerance by, at least partly, directly regulating the POD-encoding gene to maintain a robust antioxidant capacity for effectively scavenging the reactive oxygen species. Our findings gain insight into better understanding of transcriptional regulation of antioxidant genes in response to cold stress.

Cloning, characterization and paper pulp applications of a newly isolated DyP type peroxidase from Rhodococcus sp. T1

A newly identified ligninolytic Rhodococcus strain (Rhodococcus sp. T1) was isolated from forestry wastes (Trabzon/Turkey). The DyP type peroxidase of Rhodococcus sp. T1 (DyPT1) was cloned, characterized and paper treated for industrial applications. Molecular weight of the protein was about 38 kDa. The kinetic parameters were 0.94 mM and 1417.53 µmol/min/mg for Km and Vmax, respectively. The enzyme was active at the temperature range of 25-65 °C and optimum temperature was 35 °C, enzyme was stable up to 6 days at room temperature. Optimum pH of the DyPT1 was 4.0 and it was stable between pH 4.0-6.0 up to 8 days at room temperature. Effects of some metal ions, Hemin, and some chemical agents on DyPT1 were determined. Hemin has implemented protective effects on the stability and the activity of the enzyme in long time periods when added into growing medium. DyPT1 was applied to eucalyptus kraft pulp for analyzing the bleaching efficiency, physical and optical tests of the manufuctared paper were carried out. Application of lignin peroxidase to kraft pulp caused a decrease of 5.2 units for kappa number and an increase from 52.05 to 64.18% in the delignification rate.

Age-determined severity of anti-myeloperoxidase autoantibody-mediated glomerulonephritis in mice

Background

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody associated vasculitis (AAV) is a typical disease of the elderly. In AAV, there is an age-specific increase in disease incidence with age being a predictor of disease outcome. In this study, we aimed to determine the contribution of age to the development of AAV employing a mouse model of anti-myeloperoxidase (MPO) antibody-mediated glomerulonephritis.

Methods

Anti-MPO IgG and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated glomerulonephritis was induced in 3- and 18-month-old C57Bl6 mice. Clinical and pathological parameters of disease severity, alterations in the immune system and kidney specific changes in these mice were evaluated.

Results

Eighteen-month-old mice developed increased disease severity upon injection of anti-MPO IgG/LPS compared with 3-month-old mice. This was evidenced by increased albuminuria, more extensive glomerular capillary necrosis and increased glomerular neutrophil accumulation. Glomerular crescent formation was mild in both young and old mice. Old mice displayed higher plasma interleukin-6 levels as well as higher proportions of circulating neutrophils and activated monocytes compared with young mice. In addition, renal mRNA levels of inflammatory genes and endothelial adhesion molecules were higher in 18-month-old mice compared with 3-month-old mice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our results indicate that aged mice develop more severe clinical and pathological disease upon induction of anti-MPO IgG/LPS-mediated glomerulonephritis. These findings may be attributed to age-related changes in the immune system as well as in the kidney itself.

The impact of myeloperoxidase on HDL function in myocardial infarction

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The focus in cardiovascular research is shifting from determining mass HDL cholesterol levels toward investigating HDL functionalities as biomarker for cardiovascular disease. Myeloperoxidase (MPO), a main effector enzyme of the innate immune system, is increasingly implicated to negatively impact HDL function by various chemical modifications of HDL-associated proteins. This review summarizes recent insights how MPO affects HDL function in the setting of acute myocardial infarction (MI), mainly focusing on human data.

RECENT FINDINGS

First the mechanisms how MPO renders HDL particles dysfunctional and the usefulness of MPO as prospective biomarker for MI incidence and outcomes are described. Then the evidence for MPO causing specific HDL function impairments in MI and the clinical value of these observations is discussed in the context of the different HDL function assays employed.

SUMMARY

MPO modification of HDL in acute MI generates dysfunctional HDL. Features of HDL dysfunction can be used to stratify MI patients and seem associated with outcomes. More prospective studies are warranted to explore, if MPO-modified HDL is causally linked to severity and outcomes of MI. If this could be established, MPO would represent an attractive target to improve HDL dysfunction in MI and provide clinical benefit for patients.

Iron incorporation into MnSOD A (bacterial Mn-dependent superoxide dismutase) leads to the formation of a peroxidase/catalase implicated in oxidative damage to bacteria

BACKGROUND

Mn/Fe-superoxide dismutase (SOD) is a family of enzymes essential for organisms to be able to cope with oxygen. These enzymes bound to their classical metals catalyze the dismutation of the free radical superoxide anion (O2(-)) to H2O2 and molecular oxygen. E. coli has the manganese-dependent SOD A and the iron-dependent SOD B.

METHODS

Strains of E. coli overexpressing SOD A or SOD B were grown in media with different metal compositions. SODs were purified and their metal content and SOD activity were determined. Those proteins were incubated with H2O2 and assayed for oxidation of Amplex red or o-phenylenediamine, consumption of H2O2, release of iron and protein radical formation. Cell survival was determined in bacteria with MnSOD A or FeSOD A after being challenged with H2O2.

RESULTS

We show for the first time that the bacterial manganese-dependent SOD A when bound to iron (FeSOD A) has peroxidase activity. The in vivo formation of the peroxidase FeSOD A was increased when media had higher levels of iron because of a decreased manganese metal incorporation. In comparison to bacteria with MnSOD A, cells with FeSOD A had a higher loss of viability when exposed to H2O2.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

The biological occurrence of this fundamental antioxidant enzyme in an alternative iron-dependent state represents an important source of free radical formation.

Bilirubin scavenges chloramines and inhibits myeloperoxidase-induced protein/lipid oxidation in physiologically relevant hyperbilirubinemic serum

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl), an oxidant produced by myeloperoxidase (MPO), induces protein and lipid oxidation, which is implicated in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Individuals with mildly elevated bilirubin concentrations (i.e., Gilbert syndrome; GS) are protected from atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, and related mortality. We aimed to investigate whether exogenous/endogenous unconjugated bilirubin (UCB), at physiological concentrations, can protect proteins/lipids from oxidation induced by reagent and enzymatically generated HOCl. Serum/plasma samples supplemented with exogenous UCB (≤250µM) were assessed for their susceptibility to HOCl and MPO/H2O2/Cl(-) oxidation, by measuring chloramine, protein carbonyl, and malondialdehyde (MDA) formation. Serum/plasma samples from hyperbilirubinemic Gunn rats and humans with GS were also exposed to MPO/H2O2/Cl(-) to: (1) validate in vitro data and (2) determine the relevance of endogenously elevated UCB in preventing protein and lipid oxidation. Exogenous UCB dose-dependently (P<0.05) inhibited HOCl and MPO/H2O2/Cl(-)-induced chloramine formation. Albumin-bound UCB efficiently and specifically (3.9-125µM; P<0.05) scavenged taurine, glycine, and N-α-acetyllysine chloramines. These results were translated into Gunn rat and GS serum/plasma, which showed significantly (P<0.01) reduced chloramine formation after MPO-induced oxidation. Protein carbonyl and MDA formation was also reduced after MPO oxidation in plasma supplemented with UCB (P<0.05; 25 and 50µM, respectively). Significant inhibition of protein and lipid oxidation was demonstrated within the physiological range of UCB, providing a hypothetical link to protection from atherosclerosis in hyperbilirubinemic individuals. These data demonstrate a novel and physiologically relevant mechanism whereby UCB could inhibit protein and lipid modification by quenching chloramines induced by MPO-induced HOCl.

Thrombin inhibits the anti-myeloperoxidase and ferroxidase functions of ceruloplasmin: relevance in rheumatoid arthritis

Human ceruloplasmin (CP) is a multifunctional copper-binding protein produced in the liver. CP oxidizes Fe(2+) to Fe(3+), decreasing the concentration of Fe(2+) available for generating harmful oxidant species. CP is also a potent inhibitor of leukocyte myeloperoxidase (MPO) (Kd=130nM), a major source of oxidants in vivo. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease affecting flexible joints and characterized by activation of both inflammatory and coagulation processes. Indeed, the levels of CP, MPO, and thrombin are markedly increased in the synovial fluid of RA patients. Here we show that thrombin cleaves CP in vitro at (481)Arg-Ser(482) and (887)Lys-Val(888) bonds, generating a nicked species that retains the native-like fold and the ferroxidase activity of the intact protein, whereas the MPO inhibitory function of CP is abrogated. Analysis of the synovial fluid of 24 RA patients reveals that CP is proteolytically degraded to a variable extent, with a fragmentation pattern similar to that observed with thrombin in vitro, and that proteolysis is blocked by hirudin, a highly potent and specific thrombin inhibitor. Using independent biophysical techniques, we show that thrombin has intrinsic affinity for CP (Kd=60-270nM), independent of proteolysis, and inhibits CP ferroxidase activity (KI=220±20nM). Mapping of thrombin binding sites with specific exosite-directed ligands (i.e., hirugen, fibrinogen γ'-peptide) and thrombin analogues having the exosites variably compromised (i.e., prothrombin, prethrombin-2, βT-thrombin) reveals that the positively charged exosite-II of thrombin binds to the negatively charged upper region of CP, while the protease active site and exosite-I remain accessible. These results suggest that thrombin can exacerbate inflammation in RA by impairing the MPO inhibitory function of CP via proteolysis and by competitively inhibiting CP ferroxidase activity. Notably, local administration of hirudin, a highly potent and specifc thrombin inhibitor, reduces the concentration of active MPO in the synovial fluid of RA patients and has a beneficial effect on the clinical symptoms of the disease.

Myeloperoxidase impairs the contractile function in isolated human cardiomyocytes

We set out to characterize the mechanical effects of myeloperoxidase (MPO) in isolated left-ventricular human cardiomyocytes. Oxidative myofilament protein modifications (sulfhydryl (SH)-group oxidation and carbonylation) induced by the peroxidase and chlorinating activities of MPO were additionally identified. The specificity of the MPO-evoked functional alterations was tested with an MPO inhibitor (MPO-I) and the antioxidant amino acid Met. The combined application of MPO and its substrate, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), largely reduced the active force (Factive), increased the passive force (Fpassive), and decreased the Ca(2+) sensitivity of force production (pCa50) in permeabilized cardiomyocytes. H2O2 alone had significantly smaller effects on Factive and Fpassive and did not alter pCa50. The MPO-I blocked both the peroxidase and the chlorinating activities, whereas Met selectively inhibited the chlorinating activity of MPO. All of the MPO-induced functional effects could be prevented by the MPO-I and Met. Both H2O2 alone and MPO + H2O2 reduced the SH content of actin and increased the carbonylation of actin and myosin-binding protein C to the same extent. Neither the SH oxidation nor the carbonylation of the giant sarcomeric protein titin was affected by these treatments. MPO activation induces a cardiomyocyte dysfunction by affecting Ca(2+)-regulated active and Ca(2+)-independent passive force production and myofilament Ca(2+) sensitivity, independent of protein SH oxidation and carbonylation. The MPO-induced deleterious functional alterations can be prevented by the MPO-I and Met. Inhibition of MPO may be a promising therapeutic target to limit myocardial contractile dysfunction during inflammation.

Structure-function analysis of peroxidasin provides insight into the mechanism of collagen IV crosslinking

Basement membranes provide structural support and convey regulatory signals to cells in diverse tissues. Assembly of collagen IV into a sheet-like network is a fundamental mechanism during the formation of basement membranes. Peroxidasin (PXDN) was recently described to catalyze crosslinking of collagen IV through the formation of sulfilimine bonds. Despite the significance of this pathway in tissue genesis, our understanding of PXDN function is far from complete. In this work we demonstrate that collagen IV crosslinking is a physiological function of mammalian PXDN. Moreover, we carried out structure-function analysis of PXDN to gain a better insight into its role in collagen IV synthesis. We identify conserved cysteines in PXDN that mediate the oligomerization of the protein into a trimeric complex. We also demonstrate that oligomerization is not an absolute requirement for enzymatic activity, but optimal collagen IV coupling is only catalyzed by the PXDN trimers. Localization experiments of different PXDN mutants in two different cell models revealed that PXDN oligomers, but not monomers, adhere on the cell surface in "hot spots," which represent previously unknown locations of collagen IV crosslinking.

Hypochlorous acid via peroxynitrite activates protein kinase Cθ and insulin resistance in adipocytes

We recently reported that genetic deletion of myeloperoxidase (MPO) alleviates obesity-related insulin resistance in mice in vivo. How MPO impairs insulin sensitivity in adipocytes is poorly characterized. As hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a principal oxidant product generated by MPO, we evaluated the effects of HOCl on insulin signaling in adipocytes differentiated from 3T3-L1 cells. Exposure of 3T3-L1 adipocytes to exogenous HOCl (200 μmol/l) attenuated insulin-stimulated 2-deoxyglucose uptake, GLUT4 translocation, and insulin signals, including tyrosine phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1) and phosphorylation of Akt. Furthermore, treatment with HOCl induced phosphorylation of IRS1 at serine 307, inhibitor κB kinase (IKK), c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK), and phosphorylation of PKCθ (PKCθ). In addition, genetic and pharmacological inhibition of IKK and JNK abolished serine phosphorylation of IRS1 and impairment of insulin signaling by HOCl. Furthermore, knockdown of PKCθ using siRNA transfection suppressed phosphorylation of IKK and JNK and consequently attenuated the HOCl-impaired insulin signaling pathway. Moreover, activation of PKCθ by peroxynitrite was accompanied by increased phosphorylation of IKK, JNK, and IRS1-serine 307. In contrast, ONOO(-) inhibitors abolished HOCl-induced phosphorylation of PKCθ, IKK, JNK, and IRS1-serine 307, as well as insulin resistance. Finally, high-fat diet (HFD)-induced insulin resistance was associated with enhanced phosphorylation of PKCθ, IKK, JNK, and IRS1 at serine 307 in white adipose tissues from WT mice, all of which were not found in Mpo knockout mice fed HFDs. We conclude that HOCl impairs insulin signaling pathway by increasing ONOO(-) mediated phosphorylation of PKCθ, resulting in phosphorylation of IKK/JNK and consequent serine phosphorylation of IRS1 in adipocytes.

Metabolic interaction between anthocyanin and lignin biosynthesis is associated with peroxidase FaPRX27 in strawberry fruit

Plant phenolics have drawn increasing attention due to their potential nutritional benefits. Although the basic reactions of the phenolics biosynthetic pathways in plants have been intensively analyzed, the regulation of their accumulation and flux through the pathway is not that well established. The aim of this study was to use a strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) microarray to investigate gene expression patterns associated with the accumulation of phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, and anthocyanins in strawberry fruit. An examination of the transcriptome, coupled with metabolite profiling data from different commercial varieties, was undertaken to identify genes whose expression correlated with altered phenolics composition. Seventeen comparative microarray analyses revealed 15 genes that were differentially (more than 200-fold) expressed in phenolics-rich versus phenolics-poor varieties. The results were validated by heterologous expression of the peroxidase FaPRX27 gene, which showed the highest altered expression level (more than 900-fold). The encoded protein was functionally characterized and is assumed to be involved in lignin formation during strawberry fruit ripening. Quantitative trait locus analysis indicated that the genomic region of FaPRX27 is associated with the fruit color trait. Down-regulation of the CHALCONE SYNTHASE gene and concomitant induction of FaPRX27 expression diverted the flux from anthocyanins to lignin. The results highlight the competition of the different phenolics pathways for their common precursors. The list of the 15 candidates provides new genes that are likely to impact polyphenol accumulation in strawberry fruit and could be used to develop molecular markers to select phenolics-rich germplasm.

Myeloperoxidase may help to differentiate coronary plaque erosion from plaque rupture in patients with acute coronary syndromes

Coronary thrombosis is the most frequent final event leading to an acute coronary syndrome. In approximately two-thirds of cases, the thrombus overlies a ruptured plaque, whereas in one-third of cases it overlies an intact plaque with superficial endothelial erosion, a finding showed initially by histopathological postmortem studies and more recently confirmed by in vivo optical coherence tomography imaging. Interestingly, recent observations suggest that mechanisms leading to plaque rupture or erosion are different. In fact, in a recent study, we showed that myeloperoxidase levels in peripheral blood and expression within thrombi overlying the culprit plaque are much higher in patients with plaque erosion than in those with plaque rupture. These observations suggest that innate immunity activation is likely to play a key role, in particular, in plaque erosion and might become a therapeutic target in this subset of patients.

The C. elegans peroxidasin PXN-2 is essential for embryonic morphogenesis and inhibits adult axon regeneration

Peroxidasins form a highly conserved family of extracellular peroxidases of unknown cellular function. We identified the C. elegans peroxidasin PXN-2 in screens for mutants defective in embryonic morphogenesis. We find that PXN-2 is essential for specific stages of embryonic morphogenesis and muscle-epidermal attachment, and is also required postembryonically for basement membrane integrity. The peroxidase catalytic activity of PXN-2 is necessary for these developmental roles. pxn-2 mutants display aberrant ultrastructure of the extracellular matrix, suggesting a role in basement membrane consolidation. PXN-2 affects specific axon guidance choice points in the developing nervous system but is dispensable for maintenance of process positions. In adults, loss of pxn-2 function promotes regrowth of axons after injury, providing the first evidence that C. elegans extracellular matrix can play an inhibitory role in axon regeneration. Loss of function in the closely related C. elegans peroxidasin pxn-1 does not cause overt developmental defects. Unexpectedly, pxn-2 mutant phenotypes are suppressed by loss of function in pxn-1 and exacerbated by overexpression of wild-type pxn-1, indicating that PXN-1 and PXN-2 have antagonistic functions. These results demonstrate that peroxidasins play crucial roles in development and reveal a new role for peroxidasins as extracellular inhibitors of axonal regeneration.

Neutrophil-mediated oxidation of enkephalins via myeloperoxidase-dependent addition of superoxide

Neutrophils play a major role in acute inflammation in part by generating superoxide and an array of other reactive species. These white blood cells also contribute to protection against inflammatory pain by releasing opioid peptides. The biochemical interactions of enkephalins with neutrophil-derived oxidants are not well understood. In this investigation we reveal that neutrophils use myeloperoxidase to oxidize enkephalins to their corresponding tyrosyl free radicals, which react preferentially with the superoxide to form a hydroperoxide. In methionine enkephalin, rapid intramolecular oxygen transfer from the hydroperoxide to the Met sulfur results in the formation of a sulfoxide derivative. This reaction may occur at sites of inflammation where enkephalins are released and neutrophils generate large amounts of superoxide. Hydroperoxide formation destroys the aromatic character of the Tyr residue by forming a bicyclic structure via conjugate addition of the terminal amine to the phenol ring. As the N-terminal Tyr and its amino group are essential for their opiate activity, we hypothesize that oxidative modification of this residue should affect the analgesic activity of enkephalins.

Medium salt strength induced changes in growth, physiology and secondary metabolite content in adventitious roots of Morinda citrifolia: the role of antioxidant enzymes and phenylalanine ammonia lyase

In an attempt to improve growth and secondary metabolite production, and to understand the possible mechanism involved in relation to the changes in physiology and activities of antioxidant enzymes, we cultured Morinda citrifolia adventitious roots in different strength (0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0) of Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 5 mg l(-1) indole butyric acid and 30 g l(-1) sucrose. Quarter-strength MS medium was proven suitable for the production of both root biomass and secondary metabolites [anthraquinone (AQ), phenolics and flavonoids]. With the increasing salt strength, root growth and AQ accumulation decreased significantly. Higher (1.5 and 2 MS) salt strength provoked osmotic stress resulted in more than twofold free proline accumulation than lower salt strength treated roots and induced free radical scavenging activity. Phenylalanine ammonia lyase activity showed a positive correlation in relation to salt strength that leads to an increase in phenol biosynthesis in expense of AQ formation. The elevated catalase (CAT), guaiacol peroxidase (G-POD) and superoxide dismutase activities and decreased ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activities were observed in roots treated with 2.0 MS. On the other hand, APX activity was strongly activated along with considerable increase in CAT activity at 0.25 MS treated culture. However, the joint functions of CAT, G-POD and APX at 0.25 MS treated cultures were efficient to eliminate the potential danger of hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) as evidenced from low H(2)O(2) accumulation and low level of lipid peroxidation.

The co-catalytic effect of chlorpromazine on peroxidase-mediated oxidation of melatonin: enhanced production of N1-acetyl-N2-formyl-5-methoxykynuramine

Accumulating evidence points to relationships between increased production of reactive oxygen or decreased antioxidant protection in schizophrenic patients. Chlorpromazine (CPZ), which remains a benchmark treatment for people with schizophrenia, has been described as a pro-oxidant compound. Because the antioxidant compound melatonin exerts protective effects against CPZ-induced liver disease in rats, in this investigation, our main objective was to study the effect of CPZ as a co-catalyst of peroxidase-mediated oxidation of melatonin. We found that melatonin was an excellent reductor agent of preformed CPZ cation radical (CPZ(*+)). The addition of CPZ during the horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-catalyzed oxidation of melatonin provoked a significant increase in the rate of oxidation and production of N(1)-acetyl-N(2)-formyl-5-methoxykynuramine (AFMK). Similar results were obtained using myeloperoxidase. The effect of CPZ on melatonin oxidation was rather higher at alkaline pH. At pH 9.0, the efficiency of oxidation of melatonin was 15 times higher and the production of AFMK was 30 times higher as compared with the assays in the absence of CPZ. We suggest that CPZ is able to exacerbate the rate of oxidation of melatonin by an electron transfer mechanism where CPZ(*+), generated during the peroxidase-catalyzed oxidation, is able to efficiently oxidize melatonin.

Oxidative stress in hemodialysis

Patients with advanced chronic kidney disease are at a greatly increased cardiovascular risk that cannot be explained entirely by traditional cardiovascular risk factors. An increase in oxidative stress is proposed as a non-traditional cardiovascular risk factor in this patient population. Many laboratories have now unequivocally demonstrated that uremia is an increased oxidative stress state. Uremic oxidative stress is characterized biologically by an increase in lipid peroxidation products and reactive aldehyde groups as well as by increased retention of oxidized thiols. The pathophysiology of increased oxidative stress in uremia is multifactorial, but the retention of oxidized solute by the loss of kidney function is probably a major contributor.

A novel late embryogenesis abundant protein and peroxidase associated with black point in barley grains

Black point of barley grain is a disorder characterised by a brown-black discolouration at the embryo end of the grain. Black point is undesirable to the malting industry and results in significant economic loss annually. To identify proteins associated with barley black point we utilised a proteomic approach with 2-DE to compare proteins from whole grain samples of black pointed and healthy grain. From this comparison two condition-specific proteins were identified: a novel 75 kDa late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) protein and a barley grain peroxidase 1 (BP1) that were specifically more abundant in healthy grain and black pointed grain, respectively. Although LEA protein was less abundant in black pointed grain, LEA gene expression was greater suggesting protein degradation had possibly occurred in black pointed grain. Similarly, the increase in BP1 in black pointed grain could not be explained by gene expression. Western blot analysis also revealed that the identified LEA protein is biotinylated in vivo. The role that each of these proteins might have in black point development is discussed.

Myeloperoxidase interacts with endothelial cell-surface cytokeratin 1 and modulates bradykinin production by the plasma Kallikrein-Kinin system

During an inflammatory state, functional myeloperoxidase (MPO) is released into the vessel as a result of intravascular neutrophil degradation. One mechanism of resulting cellular injury involves endothelial internalization of MPO, which causes oxidative damage and impairs endothelial signaling. We report the discovery of a protein that facilitates MPO internalization, cytokeratin 1 (CK1), identified using affinity chromatography and mass spectrometry. CK1 interacts with MPO in vitro, even in the presence of 100% human plasma, thus substantiating biological relevance. Immunofluorescent microscopy confirmed that MPO added to endothelial cells can co-localize with endogenously expressed CK1. CK1 acts as a scaffolding protein for the assembly of the vasoregulatory plasma kallikrein-kinin system; thus we explored whether MPO and high molecular weight kininogen (HK) reside on CK1 together or whether they compete for binding. The data support cooperative binding of MPO and HK on cells such that MPO masked the plasma kallikrein cleavage site on HK, and MPO-generated oxidants caused inactivation of both HK and kallikrein. Collectively, interactions between MPO and the components of the plasma kallikrein-kinin system resulted in decreased bradykinin production. This study identifies CK1 as a facilitator of MPO-mediated vascular responses and thus provides a new paradigm by which MPO affects vasoregulatory systems.

Myeloperoxidase: a target for new drug development?

Myeloperoxidase (MPO), a member of the haem peroxidase-cyclooxygenase superfamily, is abundantly expressed in neutrophils and to a lesser extent in monocytes and certain type of macrophages. MPO participates in innate immune defence mechanism through formation of microbicidal reactive oxidants and diffusible radical species. A unique activity of MPO is its ability to use chloride as a cosubstrate with hydrogen peroxide to generate chlorinating oxidants such as hypochlorous acid, a potent antimicrobial agent. However, evidence has emerged that MPO-derived oxidants contribute to tissue damage and the initiation and propagation of acute and chronic vascular inflammatory disease. The fact that circulating levels of MPO have been shown to predict risks for major adverse cardiac events and that levels of MPO-derived chlorinated compounds are specific biomarkers for disease progression, has attracted considerable interest in the development of therapeutically useful MPO inhibitors. Today, detailed information on the structure of ferric MPO and its complexes with low- and high-spin ligands is available. This, together with a thorough understanding of reaction mechanisms including redox properties of intermediates, enables a rationale attempt in developing specific MPO inhibitors that still maintain MPO activity during host defence and bacterial killing but interfere with pathophysiologically persistent activation of MPO. The various approaches to inhibit enzyme activity of MPO and to ameliorate adverse effects of MPO-derived oxidants will be discussed. Emphasis will be put on mechanism-based inhibitors and high-throughput screening of compounds as well as the discussion of physiologically useful HOCl scavengers.

Remote reperfusion lung injury is associated with AMP deaminase 3 activation and attenuated by inosine monophosphate

BACKGROUND

Remote reperfusion lung injury occurs in patients with vascular occlusion and surgical procedures. Inosine monophosphate (IMP) produced by adenosine monophosphate deaminase (AMPD) 3 is involved in the remote reperfusion injury. The purpose of the present study was to identify whether IMP administration attenuated the remote reperfusion lung injury in a skeletal muscle ischemia-reperfusion model.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A remote reperfusion lung injury was created using reperfusion after the bilateral ligation of the hind-limb. AMPD activity, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, IMP, AMPD3 mRNA and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha in the lungs before and after reperfusion were analyzed. Furthermore, the effects of IMP on these parameters were examined. AMPD3 mRNA, AMPD activity and IMP production in the lungs significantly increased after ischemia-reperfusion with increases in MPO activity, TNF-alpha level and decreased oxygen saturation (SpO(2)). Histological examination of the lungs demonstrated significant neutrophil infiltration and accumulation. IMP administration significantly reduced MPO activity, TNF-alpha and neutrophil infiltration, with ameliorated SpO(2).

CONCLUSIONS

Along with the activation of AMPD3, ischemia-reperfusion-induced lung inflammation is associated with increased MPO activity and TNF-alpha level. IMP significantly decreased the lung injury, MPO activity, TNF-alpha and increased SpO(2). These findings may lead to the development of a new therapeutic strategy for remote reperfusion lung injury.

Triggering of inflammatory response by myeloperoxidase-oxidized LDL

The oxidation theory proposes that LDL oxidation is an early event in atherosclerosis and that oxidized LDL contributes to atherogenesis in triggering inflammation. In contrast to the copper-modified LDL, there are few studies using myeloperoxidase-modified LDL (Mox-LDL) as an inflammation inducer. Our aim is to test whether Mox-LDL could constitute a specific inducer of the inflammatory response. Albumin, which is the most abundant protein in plasma and which is present to an identical concentration of LDL in the intima, was used for comparison. The secretion of IL-8 by endothelial cells (Ea.hy926) and TNF-alpha by monocytes (THP-1) was measured in the cell medium after exposure of these cells to native LDL, native albumin, Mox-LDL, or Mox-albumin. We observed that Mox-LDL induced a 1.5- and 2-fold increase (ANOVA; P < 0.001) in IL-8 production at 100 microg/mL and 200 microg/mL, respectively. The incubation of THP-1 cells with Mox-LDL (100 microg/mL) increased the production of TNF-alpha 2-fold over the control. Native LDL, albumin, and Mox-albumin showed no effect in either cellular types. The myeloperoxidase-modified LDL increase in cytokine release by endothelial and monocyte cells and by firing both local and systemic inflammation could induce atherogenesis and its development.

Metabolism of Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs by Peroxidase: Implication for Gastrointestinal Mucosal Lesions

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used to treat inflammatory diseases including rheumatoid arthritis and gout. The anti-inflammatory action of NSAIDs is due to the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by preventing cyclooxygenase (COX) activity of prostaglandin H synthase (PGS). However, administration of NSAIDs causes gastrointestinal mucosal lesions and a decrease of granulocytes as side effects. PGS catalyzes two distinct enzyme reactions: (1) bis-dioxygenation of arachidonic acid catalyzed by COX activity of PGS to form PGG(2); and (2) reduction of the hydroperoxide group in PGG(2) by PGS hydroperoxidase. Most NSAID are oxidized by peroxidases to produce NSAID radicals that damage biological components such as lipids and enzymes. Indomethacin, phenylbutazone, and piroxicam are more toxic under aerobic conditions than anaerobic conditions during the interaction with peroxidase. We discuss the contribution of peroxidases in the formation of gastrointestinal mucosal lesions induced by NSAIDs.

Changes of some anti-oxidative physiological indices under soil water deficits among 10 wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes at tillering stage

Drought is one of the major ecological factors limiting crop production and food quality globally, especially in the arid and semi-arid areas of the world. Wheat is the staple food for more than 35% of world population and wheat cultivation is mainly restricted to such zones with scarcity of water, so wheat anti-drought physiology study is of importance to wheat production, food safety and quality and biotechnological breeding for the sake of coping with abiotic and biotic conditions. The current study is to investigate changes of anti-oxidative physiological indices of 10 wheat genotypes at tillering stage. The main results and conclusion of tillering stage in terms of activities of POD, SOD, CAT and MDA content as followed: (1) 10 wheat genotypes can be generally grouped into three kinds (A-C, respectively) according to their changing trend of the measured indices; (2) A group performed better drought resistance under the condition of treatment level 1 (appropriate level), whose activities of anti-oxidative enzymes (POD, SOD, CAT) were higher and MDA lower; (3) B group exhibited stronger anti-drought under treatment level 2 (light-stress level), whose activities of anti-oxidative enzymes were higher and MDA lower; (4) C group expressed anti-drought to some extent under treatment level 3 (serious-stress), whose activities of anti-oxidative enzymes were stronger, MDA lower; (5) these results demonstrated that different wheat genotypes have different physiological mechanisms to adapt themselves to changing drought stress, whose molecular basis is discrete gene expression profiling (transcriptom). The study in this respect is the key to wheat anti-drought and biological-saving water in worldwide arid and semi-arid areas; (6) POD, SOD, and CAT activities and MDA content of different wheat genotypes had quite different changing trend at different stages and under different soil water stress conditions, which was linked with their origin of cultivation and individual soil water threshold, which will provide better reference to selecting proper plant species for eco-environmental construction and crops for sustainable agriculture in arid and semi-arid areas.

[Saliva as a main component of oral cavity ecosystem. Part II. Defense mechanisms]

Human saliva not only lubricates the oral cavity, making possible functions such as swallowing and speaking, but it also helps to maintain integrity of the hard tissues of the teeth. In addition to secretory immunoglobulins saliva contains several less specific antibacterial systems. This innate defense system includes: lysozyme, lactoferrin, peroxidase system, histatins, mucins, and other polypeptides with basic side chains. Some proteins of innate defense system have bactericidal or bacteriostatic effects; some can cause aggregation of oral bacteria resulting in their increased clearance from oral cavity.

[Role of myeloperoxidase in the host defense against fungal infection]

Neutrophils are believed to be the first line of defense against invading microorganisms, but in vivo roles of reactive oxygens produced by neutrophils are not well known. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) catalyzes reaction of hydrogen peroxide with chloride ion to produce hypochlorous acid that is used for microbial killing by phagocytic cells. To define the in vivo role of MPO, we generated mice having no peroxidase activity in their neutrophils or monocytes. MPO-deficient (MPO-KO) mice showed severely reduced cytotoxicity to Candida albicans, Aspergillus fumigatus, Cryptococcus neoformans, and other microorganisms, demonstrating that an MPO-dependent oxidative system is important for host defense against fungi. However, the significance of MPO compared to the NADPH-oxidase is still unclear because individuals with MPO deficiency are usually healthy in contrast to patients with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) who present clinical symptoms early in life. To better understand the contributions of MPO and NADPH-oxidase to antifungal defense mechanisms, we compared the susceptibility of MPO-KO mice and CGD mice to infections by C. albicans. Interestingly, at the highest dose, the mortality of MPO-KO mice was comparable to CGD mice, but was the same as normal mice at the lowest dose. These results suggest that MPO and NADPH-oxidase are equally important for early host defense against a large inocula of Candida. Our present results suggest that MPO-deficient individuals could exhibit similar problems as CGD patients if exposed to a large number of microorganisms.

Dietary chelators as antioxidant enzyme mimetics: implications for dietary intervention in neurodegenerative diseases

Following recent reviews on the role of metal ions in oxidative stress and neurodegenerative diseases, this article reports advances in the study of dietary components for the control of these conditions. Poor metal ion homeostasis is credited with pathological roles in the progression of a number of disorders including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis. Synthetic metal ion chelators continue to show promise as a new therapeutic approach for neurodegenerative disorders. Dietary chelators, unlike most vitamins, are, however, capable of negating or even reversing the roles of metal ions by: (i) decorporation of metal ions, (ii) redox silencing, (iii) dissolution of deposits, and (iv) generation of an antioxidant enzyme mimetic. This review gives a critical evaluation of recent progress in, and potential for, dietary control of neurodegeneration on the basis of the formation of antioxidant enzyme mimetics.

Multivesicular bodies participate in a cell wall-associated defence response in barley leaves attacked by the pathogenic powdery mildew fungus

Localized cell wall modification and accumulation of antimicrobial compounds beneath sites of fungal attack are common mechanisms for plant resistance to fungal penetration. In barley (Hordeum vulgare) leaves, light-microscopically visible vesicle-like bodies (VLBs) containing H(2)O(2) or phenolics frequently accumulate around cell wall appositions (syn. papillae), in which the penetration attempt of the biotrophic powdery mildew fungus Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei (Bgh) is halted. By ultrastructural analyses, we demonstrated that the Bgh-induced VLBs represent different structures. VLBs intensively stained by H(2)O(2)-reactive dyes were actually small papillae instead of cytoplasmic vesicles. Other VLBs were identified as osmiophilic bodies or multivesicular compartments, designated paramural bodies (PMBs) and multivesicular bodies (MVBs). MVBs seemingly followed two distinct pathways: either they were engulfed by the tonoplast for degradation in the vacuole or they fused with the plasma membrane to release their internal vesicles into the paramural space and hence could be the origin of PMBs. MVBs and PMBs appeared to be multicomponent kits possibly containing building blocks to be readily assembled into papilla and antimicrobial compounds to be discharged against fungal penetration. Finally, we propose that released paramural vesicles might be similar to exosomes in animal cells.

Enzyme-mediated protein haptenation of dapsone and sulfamethoxazole in human keratinocytes: II. Expression and role of flavin-containing monooxygenases and peroxidases

Arylamine compounds, such as sulfamethoxazole (SMX) and dapsone (DDS), are metabolized in epidermal keratinocytes to arylhydroxylamine metabolites that auto-oxidize to arylnitroso derivatives, which in turn bind to cellular proteins and can act as antigens/immunogens. Previous studies have demonstrated that neither cytochromes P450 nor cyclooxygenases mediate this bioactivation in normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs). In this investigation, we demonstrated that methimazole (MMZ), a prototypical substrate of the flavin-containing monooxygenases (FMOs), attenuated the protein haptenation observed in NHEKs exposed to SMX or DDS. In addition, recombinant FMO1 and FMO3 were able to bioactivate both SMX and DDS, resulting in covalent adduct formation. Western blot analysis confirmed the presence of FMO3 in NHEKs, whereas FMO1 was not detectable. In addition to MMZ, 4-aminobenzoic acid hydrazide (ABH) also attenuated SMX- and DDS-dependent protein haptenation in NHEKs. ABH did not alter the bioactivation of these drugs by recombinant FMO3, suggesting its inhibitory effect in NHEKs was due to its known ability to inhibit peroxidases. Studies confirmed the presence of peroxidase activity in NHEKs; however, immunoblot analysis and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction indicated that myeloperoxidase, lactoperoxidase, and thyroid peroxidase were absent. Thus, our results suggest an important role for FMO3 and yet-to-be identified peroxidases in the bioactivation of sulfonamides in NHEKs.

Multivesicular bodies participate in a cell wall-associated defence response in barley leaves attacked by the pathogenic powdery mildew fungus

Localized cell wall modification and accumulation of antimicrobial compounds beneath sites of fungal attack are common mechanisms for plant resistance to fungal penetration. In barley (Hordeum vulgare) leaves, light-microscopically visible vesicle-like bodies (VLBs) containing H(2)O(2) or phenolics frequently accumulate around cell wall appositions (syn. papillae), in which the penetration attempt of the biotrophic powdery mildew fungus Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei (Bgh) is halted. By ultrastructural analyses, we demonstrated that the Bgh-induced VLBs represent different structures. VLBs intensively stained by H(2)O(2)-reactive dyes were actually small papillae instead of cytoplasmic vesicles. Other VLBs were identified as osmiophilic bodies or multivesicular compartments, designated paramural bodies (PMBs) and multivesicular bodies (MVBs). MVBs seemingly followed two distinct pathways: either they were engulfed by the tonoplast for degradation in the vacuole or they fused with the plasma membrane to release their internal vesicles into the paramural space and hence could be the origin of PMBs. MVBs and PMBs appeared to be multicomponent kits possibly containing building blocks to be readily assembled into papilla and antimicrobial compounds to be discharged against fungal penetration. Finally, we propose that released paramural vesicles might be similar to exosomes in animal cells.

Differential response of heat shock proteins to hindlimb unloading and reloading in the soleus

Hindlimb unloading (HU) results in oxidative stress, skeletal muscle atrophy, and increased damage upon reloading. Heat shock proteins (HSPs) protect against oxidative stress. However, it is unknown whether HSPs are depressed with long-term unloading (28 days) or reloading. We tested the hypotheses that long-term HU would depress Hsp70 and Hsp25 pathways, whereas reloading would allow recovery in the soleus. Adult Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups: controls; HU for 28 days; and HU + 7 days of reloading (HU-R). Soleus mass decreased with HU, and did not recover to control values with reloading. Hsp70 decreased with HU (-78.5%) and did not recover with HU-R (-81.4%). Upstream heat shock factor-1 was depressed with HU and HU-R. Hsp25 was reduced with HU, but recovered with reloading. Downstream of Hsp25, NADP-specific isocitrate dehydrogenase and glutathione peroxidase decreased with unloading, but only NADP-specific isocitrate dehydrogenase recovered with HU-R. Lipid peroxidation increased in both HU and HU-R. These data indicate that prolonged unloading and subsequent reloading results in complex, differential regulation of Hsp70 and Hsp25 pathways in the rat soleus muscle. Thus dysregulation and uncoupling of the Hsp70 and Hsp25 pathways may lead not only to muscle atrophy with prolonged unloading, but also impaired recovery of muscle mass during early reloading.

Isolation and characterization of a novel peroxidase gene ZPO-C whose expression and function are closely associated with lignification during tracheary element differentiation

In an attempt to elucidate the regulatory mechanism of vessel lignification, we isolated ZPO-C, a novel peroxidase gene of Zinnia elegans that is expressed specifically in differentiating tracheary elements (TEs). The ZPO-C transcript was shown to accumulate transiently at the time of secondary wall thickening of TEs in xylogenic culture of Zinnia cells. In situ hybridization indicated specific accumulation of the ZPO-C transcript in immature vessels in Zinnia seedlings. Immunohistochemical analysis using anti-ZPO-C antibody showed that the ZPO-C protein is abundant in TEs, especially at their secondary walls. For enzymatic characterization of ZPO-C, 6 x His-tagged ZPO-C was produced in tobacco cultured cells and purified. The ZPO-C:6 x His protein had a peroxidase activity preferring sinapyl alcohol as well as coniferyl alcohol as a substrate, with a narrow pH optimum around 5.25. The peroxidase activity required calcium ion and was elevated by increasing Ca2+ concentration in the range of 0-10 mM. An Arabidopsis homolog of ZPO-C, At5g51890, was examined for expression patterns with transgenic plants carrying a yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) gene under the control of the At5g51890 promoter. The YFP fluorescence localization demonstrated vessel-specific expression of At5g51890 in the Arabidopsis roots. Taken collectively, our results strongly suggest that ZPO-C and its homologs play an important role in lignification of secondary cell walls in differentiating TEs.

Neutrophils and immunity: challenges and opportunities

Scientists who study neutrophils often have backgrounds in cell biology, biochemistry, haematology, rheumatology or infectious disease. Paradoxically, immunologists seem to have a harder time incorporating these host-defence cells into the framework of their discipline. The recent literature discussed here indicates that it is appropriate for immunologists to take as much interest in neutrophils as in their lymphohaematopoietic cousins with smooth nuclei. Neutrophils inform and shape immune responses, contribute to the repair of tissue as well as its breakdown, use killing mechanisms that enrich our concepts of specificity, and offer exciting opportunities for the treatment of neoplastic, autoinflammatory and autoimmune disorders.

Ablation of the inflammatory enzyme myeloperoxidase mitigates features of Parkinson's disease in mice

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by a loss of ventral midbrain dopaminergic neurons, which can be modeled by the neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). Inflammatory oxidants have emerged as key contributors to PD- and MPTP-related neurodegeneration. Here, we show that myeloperoxidase (MPO), a key oxidant-producing enzyme during inflammation, is upregulated in the ventral midbrain of human PD and MPTP mice. We also show that ventral midbrain dopaminergic neurons of mutant mice deficient in MPO are more resistant to MPTP-induced cytotoxicity than their wild-type littermates. Supporting the oxidative damaging role of MPO in this PD model are the demonstrations that MPO-specific biomarkers 3-chlorotyrosine and hypochlorous acid-modified proteins increase in the brains of MPTP-injected mice. This study demonstrates that MPO participates in the MPTP neurotoxic process and suggests that inhibitors of MPO may provide a protective benefit in PD.

Respective role of uraemic toxins and myeloperoxidase in the uraemic state

BACKGROUND

In haemodialysis (HD) patients, advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) were previously ascribed to oxidized plasma proteins, resulting mainly from increased myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. The aim of the present study was to assess the mechanisms leading to the generation of AOPP during the course of chronic kidney disease including end-stage renal disease, with particular focus on AOPP and MPO characterization in the plasma at decreasing levels of kidney function.

METHODS

Phagocyte activation was evaluated by whole blood NADPH oxidase and MPO activities. In plasma, MPO protein concentration was quantified by ELISA and catalytic activity assayed by the spectrophotometric detection of phenol and 4-aminoantipyrine (AAP) co-oxidation in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)).

RESULTS

In HD patients, plasma AOPP concentration was linked to neutrophil oxidative activity. Such an association was not found in control subjects or predialysis patients, suggesting that in the latter, AOPP generation did not mainly result from MPO released by activated neutrophils. Similarly, plasma AOPP correlated with plasma MPO protein concentration in HD patients, but not in control subjects or predialysis patients, suggesting that in the latter AOPP did not predominantly result from MPO activity. This interpretation was supported by the observation of a greater degree of co-oxidation of phenol and AAP in the absence of H(2)O(2) in predialysis patients than in HD patients or control subjects. The contribution of MPO dramatically differed between predialysis and HD patients (2+/-5 vs 46+/-6%; P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our observations suggest that AOPP generation in predialysis patients mainly results from MPO-independent oxidation mechanisms.

Myeloperoxidase and its contributory role in inflammatory vascular disease

Myeloperoxidase (MPO), a heme protein abundantly expressed in polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN), has long been viewed to function primarily as a bactericidal enzyme centrally linked to innate host defense. Recent observations now extend this perspective and suggest that MPO is profoundly involved in the regulation of cellular homeostasis and may play a central role in initiation and propagation of acute and chronic vascular inflammatory disease. For example, low levels of MPO-derived hypochlorous acid (HOCl) interfere with intracellular signaling events, MPO-dependent oxidation of lipoproteins modulates their affinity to macrophages and the vessel wall, MPO-mediated depletion of endothelial-derived nitric oxide (NO) impairs endothelium-dependent vasodilatation, and nitrotyrosine (NO(2)Tyr) formation by MPO sequestered into the vessel wall may affect matrix protein structure and function. Future studies are needed to further elucidate the significance of MPO in the development of acute and chronic vascular disease and to evaluate MPO as a potential target for treatment.

Synergy between extracellular group IIA phospholipase A2 and phagocyte NADPH oxidase in digestion of phospholipids of Staphylococcus aureus ingested by human neutrophils

Acute inflammatory responses to invading bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus include mobilization of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) and extracellular group IIA phospholipase A2 (gIIA-PLA2). Although accumulating coincidentally, the in vitro anti-staphylococcal activities of PMN and gIIA-PLA2 have thus far been studied separately. We now show that degradation of S. aureus phospholipids during and after phagocytosis by human PMN requires the presence of extracellular gIIA-PLA2. The concentration of extracellular gIIA-PLA2 required to produce bacterial digestion was reduced 10-fold by PMN. The effects of added gIIA-PLA2 were greater when present before phagocytosis but even apparent when added after S. aureus were ingested by PMN. Related group V and X PLA2, which are present within PMN granules, do not contribute to bacterial phospholipid degradation during and after phagocytosis even when added at concentrations 30-fold higher than that needed for action of the gIIA-PLA2. The action of added gIIA-PLA2 required catalytically active gIIA-PLA2 and, in PMN, a functional NADPH oxidase but not myeloperoxidase. These findings reveal a novel collaboration between cellular oxygen-dependent and extracellular oxygen-independent host defense systems that may be important in the ultimate resolution of S. aureus infections.

Ion channel clustering enhances weak electric field detection by neutrophils: apparent roles of SKF96365-sensitive cation channels and myeloperoxidase trafficking in cellular responses

We have tested Galvanovskis and Sandblom's prediction that ion channel clustering enhances weak electric field detection by cells as well as how the elicited signals couple to metabolic alterations. Electric field application was timed to coincide with certain known intracellular chemical oscillators (phase-matched conditions). Polarized, but not spherical, neutrophils labeled with anti-K(v)1.3, FL-DHP, and anti-TRP1, but not anti-T-type Ca(2+) channels, displayed clusters at the lamellipodium. Resonance energy transfer experiments showed that these channel pairs were in close proximity. Dose-field sensitivity studies of channel blockers suggested that K(+) and Ca(2+) channels participate in field detection, as judged by enhanced oscillatory NAD(P)H amplitudes. Further studies suggested that K(+) channel blockers act by reducing the neutrophil's membrane potential. Mibefradil and SKF93635, which block T-type Ca(2+) channels and SOCs, respectively, affected field detection at appropriate doses. Microfluorometry and high-speed imaging of indo-1-labeled neutrophils was used to examine Ca(2+) signaling. Electric fields enhanced Ca(2+) spike amplitude and triggered formation of a second traveling Ca(2+) wave. Mibefradil blocked Ca(2+) spikes and waves. Although 10 microM SKF96365 mimicked mibefradil, 7 microM SKF96365 specifically inhibited electric field-induced Ca(2+) signals, suggesting that one SKF96365-senstive site is influenced by electric fields. Although cells remained morphologically polarized, ion channel clusters at the lamellipodium and electric field sensitivity were inhibited by methyl-beta-cyclodextrin. As a result of phase-matched electric field application in the presence of ion channel clusters, myeloperoxidase (MPO) was found to traffic to the cell surface. As MPO participates in high amplitude metabolic oscillations, this suggests a link between the signaling apparatus and metabolic changes. Furthermore, electric field effects could be blocked by MPO inhibition or removal while certain electric field effects were mimicked by the addition of MPO to untreated cells. Therefore, channel clustering plays an important role in electric field detection and downstream responses of morphologically polarized neutrophils. In addition to providing new mechanistic insights concerning electric field interactions with cells, our work suggests novel methods to remotely manipulate physiological pathways.

Role of the covalent glutamic acid 242-heme linkage in the formation and reactivity of redox intermediates of human myeloperoxidase

In human myeloperoxidase the heme is covalently attached to the protein via two ester linkages between the carboxyl groups of Glu242 and Asp94 and modified methyl groups on pyrrole rings A and C of the heme as well as a sulfonium ion linkage between the sulfur atom of Met243 and the beta-carbon of the vinyl group on pyrrole ring A. In the present study, wild-type recombinant myeloperoxidase (recMPO) and the variant Glu242Gln were produced in Chinese hamster ovary cells and investigated in a comparative sequential-mixing stopped-flow study in order to elucidate the role of the Glu242-heme ester linkage in the individual reaction steps of both the halogenation and peroxidase cycle. Disruption of the ester bond increased heme flexibility, blue shifted the UV-vis spectrum, and, compared with recMPO, decelerated cyanide binding (1.25 x 10(4) versus 1.6 x 10(6) M(-)(1) s(-)(1) at pH 7 and 25 degrees C) as well as compound I formation mediated by either hydrogen peroxide (7.8 x 10(5) versus 1.9 x 10(7) M(-)(1) s(-)(1)) or hypochlorous acid (7.5 x 10(5) versus 2.3 x 10(7) M(-)(1) s(-)(1)). The overall chlorination and bromination activity of Glu242Gln was 2.0% and 24% of recMPO. The apparent bimolecular rate constants of compound I reduction by chloride (65 M(-)(1) s(-)(1)), bromide (5.4 x 10(4) M(-)(1) s(-)(1)), iodide (6.4 x 10(5) M(-)(1) s(-)(1)), and thiocyanate (2.2 x10(5) M(-)(1) s(-)(1)) were 500, 25, 21, and 63 times decreased compared with recMPO. By contrast, Glu242Gln compound I reduction by tyrosine was only 5.4 times decreased, whereas tyrosine-mediated compound II reduction was 60 times slower compared with recMPO. The effects of exchange of Glu242 on electron transfer reactions are discussed.

Myeloperoxidase plays critical roles in killing Klebsiella pneumoniae and inactivating neutrophil elastase: effects on host defense

Activated neutrophils use myeloperoxidase (MPO) to generate an array of potent toxic oxidants. In the current studies we used genetically altered mice deficient in MPO to investigate the role of the enzyme in host defense against the Gram-negative bacterium Klebsiella pneumoniae, an important human pathogen. For comparison, we used mice deficient in the antimicrobial molecule, neutrophil elastase (NE). When challenged i.p., mice deficient in either MPO or NE were markedly more susceptible to bacterial infection and death. In vitro studies suggested that MPO impairs the morphology of bacteria in a distinctive way. Of importance, our in vitro studies found that MPO mediated oxidative inactivation of NE, an enzyme that has been widely implicated in the pathogenesis of various tissue-destructive diseases. This pathway of oxidative inactivation may be physiologically relevant, because activated neutrophils isolated from MPO-deficient mice exhibited increased elastase activity. Our observations provide strong evidence that MPO, like NE, is a key player in the killing of K. pneumoniae bacteria. They also suggest that MPO may modulate NE to protect the host from the tissue-degrading activity of this proteinase.

Myeloperoxidase: friend and foe

Neutrophilic polymorphonuclear leukocytes (neutrophils) are highly specialized for their primary function, the phagocytosis and destruction of microorganisms. When coated with opsonins (generally complement and/or antibody), microorganisms bind to specific receptors on the surface of the phagocyte and invagination of the cell membrane occurs with the incorporation of the microorganism into an intracellular phagosome. There follows a burst of oxygen consumption, and much, if not all, of the extra oxygen consumed is converted to highly reactive oxygen species. In addition, the cytoplasmic granules discharge their contents into the phagosome, and death of the ingested microorganism soon follows. Among the antimicrobial systems formed in the phagosome is one consisting of myeloperoxidase (MPO), released into the phagosome during the degranulation process, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), formed by the respiratory burst and a halide, particularly chloride. The initial product of the MPO-H2O2-chloride system is hypochlorous acid, and subsequent formation of chlorine, chloramines, hydroxyl radicals, singlet oxygen, and ozone has been proposed. These same toxic agents can be released to the outside of the cell, where they may attack normal tissue and thus contribute to the pathogenesis of disease. This review will consider the potential sources of H2O2 for the MPO-H2O2-halide system; the toxic products of the MPO system; the evidence for MPO involvement in the microbicidal activity of neutrophils; the involvement of MPO-independent antimicrobial systems; and the role of the MPO system in tissue injury. It is concluded that the MPO system plays an important role in the microbicidal activity of phagocytes.

Opposite effects of peroxidase in the initial stages of tyrosinase-catalysed melanin biosynthesis

The tyrosinase/oxygen enzymatic system catalyses the orthohydroxylation of L-tyrosine to L-dopa and the oxidation of this to dopaquinone, which evolves non-enzymatically towards to form melanins. The literature has demonstrated and revised the existence of peroxidase/hydrogen peroxide in the melanosomas of skin melanocytes, but points to controversy concerning the effects on melanogenesis. Some authors have recently proposed a new physiological function for tyrosinase, namely the direct scavenging of tyrosyl radicals, which are toxic oxidants of melanocytes. In this contribution, we describe and interpret four effects of peroxidase/hydrogen peroxide on melanogenesis. Two of these effects are its antagonism and synergy as regards the monophenolase and diphenolase activities, respectively, of tyrosinase/oxygen in the initial steps that trigger melanogenesis. Another effect concerns the increase in the oxidant character of the medium in the melanosome by increasing the synthesis of oxidising quinones (o-dopaquinone, p-topaquinone, dopachrome) and the consumption of antioxidant diphenols (L-dopa), which are intermediate biomolecules in melanogenesis. Lastly, we demonstrate that the tyrosyl radicals generated by light or by the peroxidase/hydrogen peroxide system are not directly trapped by the tyrosinase but by the antioxidant orthodiphenol, L-dopa, accumulated in the steady-state of melanogenesis. In conclusion, peroxidase/hydrogen peroxide may help regulate the development of melanogenesis and the oxidant environment within the melanosome. This enzyme deserves further study for its possible antitumoral and depigmentation capacities in skin cancer and hyperpigmentation.