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Doxorubicin (DOX) is a widely used antitumor drug that causes severe neurotoxicity in patients. Diallyl trisulfide (DATS) is an organosulfur compound with established potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Herein, we investigated the neuroprotective efficacy of DATS in preventing DOX-induced neurotoxicity in a rat model. Specifically, DATS (40 mg/kg) was administered to rats 24 h after DOX treatment, once a week for 8 weeks. Our results showed that DATS treatment led to a decrease in plasma levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) induced by DOX. DATS restored cerebral cortex and hippocampus histopathological architecture and neuronal loss. Immunohistochemical staining indicated that DATS decreased the expression of glial fibrillar acidic protein (GFAP) in DOX treated rats. Components of stress-related inflammatory proteins (TNF-α, phospho nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), inducible nitricoxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)) were all significantly increased in the DOX group, in comparison with the control group, whereas they were decreased after DATS treatment. In addition, the mRNA of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), catalase, glutathione peroxidase 1, 4 (GPx1 and GPx4)) and antioxidant proteins (heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), superoxide dismutase 1, 2 (SOD1 and SOD2), Γ-glutamylcysteine synthase (Γ-GCSc)) were markedly increased in DOX group compared with the control group, which were significantly attenuated by DATS treatment. The upregulation of antioxidants enzymes in DOX group was probably a compensatory effect against elevated oxidative stress induced by DOX. DATS treatment could ameliorate this oxidative stress in brain. Our results suggested that DATS has potential clinical applications in the prevention of DOX-induced neurotoxicity by ameliorating inflammatory insults and oxidative stress.

Tumor associated macrophages (TAM) enhance the aggressiveness of breast cancer via promoting cancer cell growth, metastasis, and suppression of the patient’s immune system. These TAMs are polarized in breast cancer with features more closely resembling the pro-tumorigenic and immunosuppressive M2 type rather than the anti-tumor and pro-inflammatory M1 type. The goal of our study was to examine primary human monocyte-derived M1 and M2 macrophages for key redox differences and determine sensitivities of these macrophages to the redox-active drug, MnTE-2-PyP(5+). This compound reduced levels of M2 markers and inhibited their ability to promote cancer cell growth and suppress T cell activation. The surface levels of the T cell suppressing molecule, PD-L2, were reduced by MnTE-2-PyP(5+) in a dose-dependent manner. This study also examined key differences in ROS generation and scavenging between M1 and M2 macrophages. Our results indicate that M2 macrophages have lower levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lower production of extracellular hydrogen peroxide compared to the M1 macrophages. These differences are due in part to reduced expression levels of pro-oxidants, Nox2, Nox5, and the non-enzymatic members of the Nox complex, p22phox and p47phox, as well as higher levels of antioxidant enzymes, Cu/ZnSOD, Gpx1, and catalase. More importantly, we found that despite having lower ROS levels, M2 macrophages require ROS for proper polarization, as addition of hydrogen peroxide increased M2 markers. These TAM-like macrophages are also more sensitive to the ROS modulator and a pan-Nox inhibitor. Both MnTE-2-PyP(5+) and DPI inhibited expression levels of M2 marker genes. We have further shown that this inhibition was partly mediated through a decrease in Stat3 activation during IL4-induced M2 polarization. Overall, this study reveals key redox differences between M1 and M2 primary human macrophages and that redox-active drugs can be used to inhibit the pro-tumor and immunosuppressive phenotype of TAM-like M2 macrophages. This study also provides rationale for combining MnTE-2-PyP(5+) with immunotherapies.

Compelling evidence indicates that oxidative stress contributes to cocaine neurotoxicity. The present study was performed to elucidate the role of the glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPx-1) in cocaine-induced kindling (convulsive) behaviors in mice. Cocaine-induced convulsive behaviors significantly increased GPx-1 , p-IkB, and p-JAK2/STAT3 expression, and oxidative burdens in the hippocampus of mice. There was no significant difference in cocaine-induced p-IkB expression between non-transgenic (non-TG) and GPx-1 overexpressing transgenic (GPx-1 TG) mice, but significant differences were observed in cocaine-induced p-JAK2/STAT3 expression and oxidative stress between non-TG and GPx-1 TG mice. Cocaine-induced glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-labeled astrocytic level was significantly higher in the hippocampus of GPx-1 TG mice. Triple-labeling immunocytochemistry indicated that GPx-1-, p-STAT3-, and GFAP-immunoreactivities were co-localized in the same cells. AG490, a JAK2/STAT3 inhibitor, but not pyrrolidone dithiocarbamate, an NFκB inhibitor, significantly counteracted GPx-1-mediated protective potentials (i.e., anticonvulsant-, antioxidant-, antiapoptotic-effects). Genetic overexpression of GPx-1 significantly attenuated proliferation of Iba-1-labeled microglia induced by cocaine in mice. However, AG490 or astrocytic inhibition (by GFAP antisense oligonucleotide and α-aminoadipate) significantly increased Iba-1-labeled microglial activity and M1 phenotype microglial mRNA levels, reflecting that proinflammatory potentials were mediated by AG490 or astrocytic inhibition. This microglial activation was less pronounced in GPx-1 TG than in non-TG mice. Furthermore, either AG490 or astrocytic inhibition significantly counteracted GPx-1-mediated protective potentials. Therefore, our results suggest that astrocytic modulation between GPx-1 and JAK2/STAT3 might be one of the underlying mechanisms for protecting against convulsive neurotoxicity induced by cocaine.

Glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) is a selenium-dependent enzyme that reduces intracellular hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxides. While past research explored regulations of gene expression and biochemical function of this selenoperoxidase, GPX1 has recently been implicated in the onset and development of chronic diseases. Clinical data have shown associations of human GPX1 gene variants with elevated risks of diabetes. Knockout and overexpression of Gpx1 in mice may induce types 1 and 2 diabetes-like phenotypes, respectively. This review assembles the latest advances in this new field of selenium biology, and attempts to postulate signal and molecular mechanisms mediating the role of GPX1 in glucose and lipid metabolism-related diseases. Potential therapies by harnessing the beneficial effects of this ubiquitous redox-modulating enzyme are briefly discussed.

It has not been systematically analyzed whether the NADPH supply is a limiting factor for oxidative stress management in cancer cells. In the present work, it was determined in non-cancer and cancer cells the protein contents and kinetomics of (i) the cytosolic enzymes responsible for the NADPH production (i.e., Glc6PDH, 6PGDH, ME, IDH-1); and (ii) the two main enzymes responsible for NADPH/NADP+ and GSH/GSSG recycling (GR, GPx-1) associated to oxidative stress management. With these data, kinetic models were built and further validated. Rat liver and hepatoma AS-30D cytosolic fractions exhibited greater Vmax for IDH-1 than for Glc6PDH and 6PGDH whereas human cancer cells and platelets showed greater Vmax for Glc6PDH than for 6PGDH and IDH-1. The ME activity was comparatively low in all cell types tested. The Km values for the respective specific substrates were all similar among the different cell types. Most activities were lower in AS-30D cells than in liver. In contrast, IDH-1, Glc6PDH and GR activities in human cancer cells were similar or greater to those of platelets, but GPx-1 activity was severely suppressed, despite showing similar GPx-1 protein content vs. platelets. Kinetic analysis and pathway modeling revealed a previously unveiled feedback IDH-1 regulation by GSH. The oxidative stress management in cancer cells (i) was mainly controlled by GPx-1 and the main NADPH provider was Glc6PDH; and (ii) modeling indicated that NADPH supply was not a controlling step. These data suggested that Glc6PDH and GPx-1 are adequate and promising targets for anti-cancer therapeutic intervention.

Accumulation of toxic metabolites has been described to inhibit mitochondrial enzymes, thereby inducing oxidative stress in propionic acidemia (PA), an autosomal recessive metabolic disorder caused by the deficiency of mitochondrial propionyl-CoA carboxylase. PA patients exhibit neurological deficits and multiorgan complications including cardiomyopathy. To investigate the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the development of these alterations we have used a hypomorphic mouse model of PA that mimics the biochemical and clinical hallmarks of the disease. We have studied the tissue-specific bioenergetic signature by Reverse Phase Protein Microarrays and analysed OXPHOS complex activities, mtDNA copy number, oxidative damage, superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide levels. The results show decreased levels and/or activity of several OXPHOS complexes in different tissues of PA mice. An increase in mitochondrial mass and OXPHOS complexes was observed in brain, possibly reflecting a compensatory mechanism including metabolic reprogramming. mtDNA depletion was present in most tissues analysed. Antioxidant enzymes were also found altered. Lipid peroxidation was present along with an increase in hydrogen peroxide and superoxide anion production. These data support the hypothesis that oxidative damage may contribute to the pathophysiology of PA, opening new avenues in the identification of therapeutic targets and paving the way for in vivo evaluation of compounds targeting mitochondrial biogenesis or reactive oxygen species production.

In this review article we examine the role of glutathione reductase in the regulation, modulation and maintenance of cellular redox homoeostasis. Glutathione reductase is responsible for maintaining the supply of reduced glutathione; one of the most abundant reducing thiols in the majority of cells. In its reduced form, glutathione plays key roles in the cellular control of reactive oxygen species. Reactive oxygen species act as intracellular and extracellular signalling molecules and complex cross talk between levels of reactive oxygen species, levels of oxidised and reduced glutathione and other thiols, and antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione reductase determine the most suitable conditions for redox control within a cell or for activation of programmed cell death. Additionally, we discuss the translation and expression of glutathione reductase in a number of organisms including yeast and humans. In yeast and human cells, a single gene expresses more than one form of glutathione reductase, destined for residence in the cytoplasm or for translocation to different organelles; in plants, however, two genes encoding this protein have been described. In general, insects and kinetoplastids (a group of protozoa, including Plasmodia and Trypanosoma) do not express glutathione reductase or glutathione biosynthetic enzymes. Instead, they express either the thioredoxin system or the trypanothione system. The thioredoxin system is also present in organisms that have the glutathione system and there may be overlapping functions with cross-talk between the two systems. Finally we evaluate therapeutic targets to overcome oxidative stress associated cellular disorders.

Oxidative stress figures prominently in retinal diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. Ligands for σ1R, a unique transmembrane protein localized to the endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, and nuclear and plasma membranes, have profound retinal neuroprotective properties in vitro and in vivo. Studies to determine the mechanism of σ1R-mediated retinal neuroprotection have focused mainly on neurons. Little is known about the effects of σ1R on Müller cell function, yet these radial glial cells are essential for homeostatic support of the retina. Here we investigated whether σ1R mediates the oxidative stress response of Müller cells using wild-type (WT) and σ1R-knockout (σ1RKO) mice. We observed increased endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in σ1RKO Müller cells compared to WT, which was accompanied by decreased expression of Sod1, catalase, Nqo1, Hmox1, Gstm6, and Gpx1. The protein levels of SOD1, CAT, NQO1, and GPX1 were also significantly decreased. The genes encoding these antioxidants contain an antioxidant response element (ARE), which under stress is activated by NRF2, a transcription factor that typically resides in the cytoplasm bound by KEAP1. In the σ1RKO Müller cells Nrf2 expression was decreased significantly at the gene (and protein) level, whereas Keap1 gene (and protein) levels were markedly increased. NRF2-ARE binding affinity was decreased markedly in σ1RKO Müller cells. We investigated system xc(-), the cystine-glutamate exchanger important for synthesis of glutathione (GSH), and observed decreased function in σ1RKO Müller cells compared to WT as well as decreased GSH and GSH/GSSG ratios. This was accompanied by decreased gene and protein levels of xCT, the unique component of system xc(-). We conclude that Müller glial cells lacking σ1R manifest elevated ROS, perturbation of antioxidant balance, suppression of NRF2 signaling, and impaired function of system xc(-). The data suggest that the oxidative stress-mediating function of retinal Müller glial cells may be compromised in the absence of σ1R. The neuroprotective role of σ1R may be linked directly to the oxidative stress-mediating properties of supportive glial cells.

Nutritional muscular dystrophy (NMD) of chicks is induced by dietary selenium (Se)/vitamin E (Vit. E) deficiencies and may be associated with oxidative cell damage. To reveal the underlying mechanisms related to the presumed oxidative cell damage, we fed four groups of 1-day-old broiler chicks (n = 40/group) with a basal diet (BD; 10 μg Se/kg; no Vit. E added, -Se -Vit. E) or the BD plus all-rac-α-tocopheryl acetate at 50mg/kg (-Se +Vit. E), Se (as sodium selenite) at 0.3mg/kg (+Se -Vit. E), or both of these nutrients (+Se +Vit. E) for 6 weeks. High incidences of NMD (93%) and mortality (36%) of the chicks were induced by the BD, starting at week 3. Dietary Se deficiency alone also induced muscle fiber rupture and coagulation necrosis in the pectoral muscle of chicks at week 3 and thereafter, with increased (P < 0.05) malondialdehyde, decreased (P < 0.05) total antioxidant capacity, and diminished (P < 0.05) glutathione peroxidase activities in the muscle. To link these oxidative damages of the muscle cells to the Se-deficiency-induced NMD, we first determined gene expression of the potential 26 selenoproteins in the muscle of the chicks at week 2 before the onset of symptoms. Compared with the +Se chicks, the -Se chicks had lower (P < 0.05) muscle mRNA levels of Gpx1, Gpx3, Gpx4, Sepp1, Selo, Selk, Selu, Selh, Selm, Sepw1, and Sep15. The -Se chicks also had decreased (P < 0.05) production of 6 selenoproteins (long-form selenoprotein P (SelP-L), GPx1, GPx4, Sep15, SelW, and SelN), but increased levels (P < 0.05) of the short-form selenoprotein P in muscle at weeks 2 and 4. Dietary Se deficiency elevated (P < 0.05) muscle p53, cleaved caspase 3, cleaved caspase 9, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), focal adhesion kinase (FAK), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), phospho-Akt, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), phospho-p38 MAPK, phospho-JNK, and phospho-ERK and decreased (P < 0.05) muscle procaspase 3, procaspase 9, and NF-κB inhibitor α. In conclusion, the downregulation of SelP-L, GPx1, GPx4, Sep15, SelW, and SelN by dietary Se deficiency might account for induced oxidative stress and the subsequent peroxidative damage of chick muscle cells via the activation of the p53/caspase 9/caspase 3, COX2/FAK/PI3K/Akt/NF-κB, and p38 MAPK/JNK/ERK signaling pathways. Metabolism of peroxides and redox regulation are likely to be the mechanisms whereby these selenoproteins prevented the onset of NMD in chicks.

Selenenic acids are highly reactive intermediates of selenoproteins’ enzymatic reactions. Knowledge of how the protein environment protects and stabilizes them is fundamental not only to descriptions of selenoproteins’ reactivity but also potentially for proteomics and therapeutics. However, selenenic acids are considered particularly short-lived and were not yet identified in wild-type selenoproteins. Here, we report trapping the selenenic acid in glutathione peroxidase, an anti-oxidant enzyme that efficiently eliminates hydroperoxides. It has long been thought that selenium-containing glutathione peroxidases form a selenenic acid intermediate. However, this putative species has eluded detection. Here, we report its identification. The selenenic acid in bovine glutathione peroxidase 1 was chemically trapped using dimedone, an alkylating agent specific to sulfenic and selenenic acids. The alkylation of the catalytic selenocysteine was verified by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. In the presence of glutathione, the selenocysteine was not alkylated because the selenenic acid condenses faster with glutathione than the alkylation reaction. In the absence of thiols, the selenenic acid was surprisingly long-lived with 95% of the protein still able to react with dimedone 10 min after hydrogen peroxide was removed, indicating that the protein environment stabilizes the selenenic acid by shielding it from reactive groups in the protein. After 30 min, the selenocysteine was no longer modified but became accessible once the protein was exposed to reducing agents. This suggests that the selenenic acid reacted with a protein’s amide or amine to form a selenylamide bond. Such a modification may play a role in protecting glutathione peroxidase’s reactivity.

A wide range of anti-cancer therapies have been shown to induce resistance upon repetitive treatment and such adapted resistance may also cause cross-resistance to other treatment modalities. We here show that MES-SA/Dx5 cells with adapted resistance to doxorubicin (DOX) are cross-resistant to photodynamic therapy (PDT). A DOX-induced increased expression of the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-scavenging proteins glutathione peroxidase (GPx) 1 and GPx4 in MES-SA/Dx5 cells was indicated as the mechanism of resistance to PDT in line with the reduction in PDT-generated ROS observed in this cell line. ROS-induced p38 activation was, in addition, shown to be reduced to one-third of the signal of the parental MES-SA cells 2h after PDT, and addition of the p38 inhibitor SB203580 confirmed p38 activation as a death signal after PDT in the MES-SA cells. The MES-SA/Dx5 cells were also cross-resistant to ionizing radiation in agreement with the increased GPx1 and GPx4 expression. Surprisingly, PDT-induced endo/lysosomal release of the ribosome-inactivating protein gelonin (photochemical internalization (PCI)) was more effective in the PDT-resistant MES-SA/Dx5 cells, as measured by synergy calculations in both cell lines. Analysis of death-inducing signaling indicated a low activation of caspase-3 and a strong PARP I cleavage after PDT and PCI in both cell lines. The PARP I activation was, however, stronger after PCI than after PDT in the MES-SA cells, but not in the MES-SA/Dx5 cells, and therefore cannot explain the strong PCI effect in the MES-SA/Dx5 cells. In conclusion PCI of recombinant gelonin circumvents ROS resistance in an apoptosis-independent manner.

Introduction Genetic and environmental risk factors are involved with adverse obstetric outcomes. Maternal folate and homocysteine metabolism, mainly influenced by methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) activity, play a key role in pregnancy risk. Oxidative stress and exposure to cigarette smoke are also well known factors amply associated with obstetric complications. Objective To study the association of cigarette smoke exposure and the influence of MTHFR C677T, superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) A16V and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) P197L gene variants in women with obstetric risk of Risaralda, Colombia. Methods The study population was composed of 237 pregnant women, including 152 subjects with obstetric risk and 89 healthy controls. Data of cigarette smoke exposure were extracted from standardized questionnaires. Genotypes were determined by real-time PCR using TaqMan probes. Results There was no between-group difference in genotype distribution of any of the polymorphisms analyzed. We found neither an association of the MTHFR or the oxidative stress-related genotype frequencies with an obstetric risk. Pregnant women with previous cigarette smoke use (OR=2.47, 95% CI, 1.16-5.24) or exposure to second hand smoke (OR=2.14, 95% CI 1.15-3.99) were significantly associated to gynecological risk. Conclusions Our preliminary results did not show a direct genetic association of the MTHFR or H2O2-related gene variants with an obstetrical risk in the Colombian population under study. Former active and passive cigarette smoke exposure remained as a considerable health problem to pregnant women. These data highlight the importance to health care providers to reinforce programs to reduce cigarette smoke exposure in pregnancy.

Transient cerebral ischemia often results in secondary ischemic/reperfusion injury, the pathogenesis of which remains unclear. This study provides a comprehensive, temporal description of the molecular events contributing to neuronal injury after transient cerebral ischemia. Intraluminal middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was performed to induce a 2-h ischemia with reperfusion. Microarray analysis was then performed on the infarct cortex of wild-type (WT) and glutathione peroxidase-1 (a major antioxidant enzyme) knockout (Gpx1(-/-)) mice at 8 and 24h postreperfusion to identify differential gene expression profile patterns and potential alternative injury cascades in the absence of Gpx1, a crucial antioxidant enzyme, in cerebral ischemia. Genes with at least ±1.5-fold change in expression at either time point were considered significant. Global transcriptomic analyses demonstrated that 70% of the WT-MCAO profile overlapped with that of Gpx1(-/-)-MCAO, and 28% vice versa. Critical analysis of the 1034 gene probes specific to the Gpx1(-/-)-MCAO profile revealed regulation of additional novel pathways, including the p53-mediated proapoptotic pathway and Fas ligand (CD95/Apo1)-mediated pathways; downplay of the Nrf2 antioxidative cascade; and ubiquitin-proteasome system dysfunction. Therefore, this comparative study forms the foundation for the establishment of screening platforms for target definition in acute cerebral ischemia intervention.

Localization of glutathione peroxidase 2 (GPx2), the gastrointestinal form of GPx's, in the intestinal crypt epithelium points to a specific but so-far unknown function of this particular GPx. Therefore, the consequences of a GPx2 knockout were tested in mice fed a selenium-restricted, Se-adequate, or Se-supplemented diet. An unexpected increase in total GPx activity was found throughout the intestine in selenium-fed GPx2 knockout (KO) animals. Immunohistochemistry revealed a strong increase in GPx1 in the colon and ileum, especially in crypt bases where typically GPx2 is localized. GPx1 mRNA was not enhanced in GPx2 KO, indicating that up-regulation most probably occurs at the translational level. Loss of GPx2 was accompanied by an increase in apoptotic cells at colonic crypt bases, an area essential for the self-renewal of the intestinal epithelium, particularly under selenium restriction. Additionally, mitotic cells increased in the middle parts of the crypts, indicating an extension of the proliferative area. These findings corroborate a role for GPx2 in regulating mucosal homeostasis. In GPx2 KO mice, an increase in GPx1 can only partially compensate for GPx2, even under selenium supplementation, indicating that GPx2 is the major antiapoptotic GPx in the colon. These data explain why spontaneous ileocolitis becomes manifested only if both Gpx2 and Gpx1 are deleted.

Selenium plays an essential role in redox biology and redox toxicology. It is found at the active site of redox enzymes such as, glutathione peroxidases (GPx) and thioredoxin reductases (TrxR). Cell culture media is typically deficient in selenium; this deficiency could limit seleno-enzyme expression and activity, compromising the translation of data from in vitro experiments to in vivo settings. The level of selenium in cell culture media should always be a consideration. However, any supplementation must be within a range to overcome deficiency and yet not induce toxicity. The optimal level of supplementation has not been well characterized. To determine optimal levels of Se-supplementation of cell culture media we introduced varying levels of sodium selenite (Na2SeO3) or seleno-L-methionine (SLM). We established, that the window to avoid potential toxicity can be widened by using SLM instead of selenite. We assessed the expression and activity of GPx1 and GPx4 to determine the level of optimal selenium supplementation for a variety of cells. Supplementing cell culture media containing 10% FBS with 100 – 300 nM SLM, we were able to maximize GPx1 and GPx4 enzyme expression and activity. Interestingly, data from a clinical trial at The University of Iowa indicates that supplementing Se in humans does not increase GPx1 activity in blood. Subjects received ~30x the RDA (55 mg d-1) of Se as SLM daily for more than 7 mo. The level of total Se in blood increased about 50-fold. However, the activity of GPx1 in blood remained constant. Our cell culture data show the importance of supplementing cell culture media with Se to insure full activity of these enzymes. This simple maneuver will increase the rigor and reproducibility of cell culture experiments and may lead to better translation of data addressing basic redox biology.

Peroxiredoxin 6 (Prdx6) and cytosolic GSH peroxidase (GPx1), both GSH-dependent peroxidases, were compared for the effects of their knockout on injury and lipid peroxidation in: (a) lungs of mice exposed to 0.85 or 1.0atm O(2), (b) isolated perfused mouse lungs exposed to 5mM tert-butylhydroperoxide (t-BOOH) or 1mM paraquat, and (c) primary mouse pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells exposed to 50muM t-BOOH. Derangements in GPx1 null were similar or slightly greater than in wild type for all parameters in the various models of oxidant stress, whereas Prdx6 null showed markedly increased effects. GSH peroxidase activity with phosphatidylcholine hydroperoxide as substrate in GPx1-null lung homogenate was decreased only slightly vs wild type, whereas activity in Prdx6-null lungs was decreased by ~95%, indicating that Prdx6 is the major enzyme for reduction of oxidized lung phospholipids. Expression levels of oxidant-related genes measured with a PCR-based gene array indicated no significant differences between the Prdx6 and the GPx1 null except for the target genes and IL-19. Thus, Prdx6-null mice are significantly more sensitive to oxidant stress compared to GPx1 null, suggesting that scavenging of phospholipid hydroperoxides by Prdx6 plays a major role in lung antioxidant defense.

Neonates are exposed to elevated levels of reactive oxygen species as they transition from a hypoxic intrauterine to a normoxic extrauterine environment at birth. This increased oxidative stress is associated with neonatal morbidity. Current antioxidant supplementation treatment strategies have yet to translate into improved neonatal outcomes. Our understanding of a newborn's intricate redox balance, particularly at the genomic level, remains limited. Here, we performed genomic microarray analyses (approximately 14,500 genes) on extracted mRNA from umbilical cord whole blood at term gestation (n=10). Bioinformatic analyses identified 282 genes (2.0%) that were consistently present within the highest quintile of expressed genes. These genes were highly associated with oxidant stress and included superoxide dismutase 1, catalase, peroxiredoxins, and uncoupling proteins. Pathway analyses identified statistically significantly overrepresented functional pathways including "oxidative stress," "oxidative stress response mediated by nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor," "hypoxia-inducible factor signaling," and "mitochondrial dysfunction" (p

Cancer cells have higher basal levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and altered expression of antioxidant enzymes, when compared to normal cells. At high levels, ROS can cause substantial cellular damage, often leading to cell death, and many cancer therapeutics function through targeting these imbalanced redox systems. Glutathione peroxidases (GPx) protect cells from increased levels of ROS and oxidative stress by coupling the reduction of hydrogen and organic peroxides with the oxidization of glutathione (GSH) to glutathione disulfide (GSSG) [1]. Because of the role of glutathione peroxidases in controlling ROS levels, reducing oxidative stress, and regulating cell death pathways, we are interested in identifying inhibitors of GPx1 and GPx4. Moreover, GPx4 has recently been identified as a unique and important regulator of non-apoptotic cell death pathway, ferroptosis [2]. Using a novel method of recombinant GPx expression [3] we are developing an assay amenable to high-throughput screening of small molecules targeting GPx, and will characterize the identified inhibitors as potential chemotherapeutics for treating Glioblastoma Multiforme.

The important role in the maintenance of redox homeostasis is played by the ratio of ROS generation and catabolism catalyzed by enzymes whose imbalance can lead to an increase in the intracellular level of ROS and the development of some pathologies including cancer. Here we studied expression of genes, which involve in the control of the cellular redox state, under the development of resistance of human ovarian carcinoma SKOV-3 cell to cisplatin; its cytostatic effect is associated in a great part with prooxidant effect. It was found that the formation of cancer cell resistance was accompanied by an increase in the expression of genes encoding key antioxidant enzymes (SOD2, CAT, GPX1, HO-1) in parallel with a significant decrease in expression of the NOX5 gene, which controls one of major sources of ROS. The coordinated character of changes in the expression of genes can be promoted by enhanced expression of transcription factor Nrf2 in addition with the growth of GSH/GSSG ratio. The obtained results testify to the redox-dependent development of the adaptive antioxidant response as an important process in the mechanism of formation of cancer cell resistance to cisplatin. Acknowledgements: The publication was prepared with the support of the “RUDN University Program 5–100”.

Nuclear factor-erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is the primary transcription factor protecting cells from oxidative stress by regulating cytoprotective genes, including the antioxidant glutathione (GSH) pathway. GSH maintains cellular redox status and affects redox signaling, cell proliferation, and death. GSH homeostasis is regulated by de novo synthesis as well as GSH redox state; previous studies have demonstrated that Nrf2 regulates GSH homeostasis by affecting de novo synthesis. We report that Nrf2 modulates the GSH redox state by regulating glutathione reductase (GSR). In response to oxidants, lungs and embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) from Nrf2-deficient (Nrf2(-/-)) mice showed lower levels of GSR mRNA, protein, and enzyme activity relative to wild type (Nrf2(+/+)). Nrf2(-/-) MEFs exhibited greater accumulation of glutathione disulfide and cytotoxicity compared to Nrf2(+/+) MEFs in response to t-butylhydroquinone, which was rescued by restoring GSR. Microinjection of glutathione disulfide induced greater apoptosis in Nrf2(-/-) MEFs compared to Nrf2(+/+) MEFs. In silico promoter analysis of the GSR gene revealed three putative antioxidant-response elements (ARE1, -44; ARE2, -813; ARE3, -1041). Reporter analysis, site-directed mutagenesis, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays demonstrated binding of Nrf2 to two AREs distal to the transcription start site. Overall, Nrf2 is critical for maintaining the GSH redox state via transcriptional regulation of GSR and protecting cells against oxidative stress.

A novel approach for selecting high expressing cells out of a general population that had been transfected with a construct encoding cytosolic type 4 glutathione peroxidase (GPx4) is reported. The approach is described for GPx4-null COH-BR1 breast tumor cells and is based on use of a highly specific GPx4 substrate, 7alpha-hydroperoxycholesterol (7alpha-OOH), as a selection agent. Cells recovering from a highly toxic dose of liposomal 7alpha-OOH were found to be substantially more resistant to a second 7alpha-OOH challenge than cells recovering from a less toxic dose, but were much less resistant to t-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BuOOH) or H2O2. Several clones isolated from the general transfectant population exhibited variable, relatively low GPx4 activities. However, clones from the 7alpha-OOH-selected population exhibited uniformly high GPx4 activities (each approximately 3-fold higher than that of the starting transfectant population) and elevated steady-state mRNA levels. t-BuOOH could also be used for selecting high GPx4-expressing cells, but consistent recovery from toxic doses was more difficult than with 7alpha-OOH. Compared with conventional "hit or miss" cloning procedures, the 7alpha-OOH approach we describe affords a uniform population of high GPx4-activity cells in a relatively rapid manner. This approach should prove valuable for investigators interested in the peroxide regulatory properties of GPx4, in the context of both cytoprotection and redox signaling.

Increased amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated by skeletal muscle during contractile activity, but their intracellular source is unclear. The oxidation of 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein (DCFH) was examined as an intracellular probe for reactive oxygen species in skeletal muscle myotubes derived from muscles of wild-type mice and mice that were heterozygous knockout for manganese superoxide dismutase (Sod2+/−), homozygous knockout for glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx1−/−), or MnSOD transgenic overexpressors (Sod2-Tg). Myoblasts were stimulated to fuse and loaded with DCFH 5–7 days later. Intracellular DCF epifluorescence was measured and myotubes were electrically stimulated to contract for 15 min. Quiescent myotubes with decreased MnSOD or GPx1 showed a significant increase in the rate of DCFH oxidation whereas those with increased MnSOD did not differ from wild type. Following contractions, myotubes from all groups showed an equivalent increase in DCF fluorescence. Thus the oxidation of DCFH in quiescent skeletal muscle myotubes is influenced by the content of enzymes that regulate mitochondrial superoxide and hydrogen peroxide content. In contrast, the increase in DCFH oxidation following contractions was unaffected by reduced or enhanced MnSOD or absent GPx1, indicating that reactive oxygen species produced by contractions were predominantly generated by nonmitochondrial sources.

Tricyclodecan-9-yl-xanthogenate (D609) has in vivo and in vitro antioxidant properties. D609 mimics glutathione (GSH), has a free thiol group, which upon oxidation forms a disulfide. The resulting dixanthate is a substrate for glutathione reductase, regenerating D609. Recent studies have also shown that D609 protects brain in vivo and neuronal cultures in vitro against the potential Alzheimer’s disease (AD) causative factor, Aβ (1-42)-induced oxidative stress and cytotoxicity. Mitochondria are important organelles with both pro- and anti-apoptotic factor proteins. The present study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that i.p. injection of D609 would provide neuroprotection against free radical-induced, mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in vitro. Brain mitochondria were isolated from gerbils 1 h post injection intraperitonially (i.p.) with D609 and subsequently treated in vitro with the oxidants Fe2+/H2O2 (hydroxyl free radicals), 2,2-azobis-(2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH, alkoxyl and peroxyl free radicals) and AD-relevant amyloid β-peptide 1-42 [Aβ (1-42)]. Brain mitochondria isolated from the gerbils previously injected i.p. with D609 and subjected to these oxidative stress inducers, in vitro, showed significant reduction in levels of protein carbonyls, protein-bound hydroxynonenal (HNE) [a lipid peroxidation product], 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT), and cytochrome-c release compared to oxidant-treated brain mitochondria isolated from saline-injected gerbils. D609 treatment significantly maintains the GSH/GSSG ratio in oxidant-treated mitochondria. Increased activity of glutathione-S-transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione reductase (GR) in brain isolated from D609-injected gerbils is consistent with the notion that D609 acts like GSH. These anti-apoptotic findings are discussed with reference to the potential use of this brain-accessible glutathione mimetic in the treatment of oxidative stress-related neurodegenerative disorders, including AD.

Mice lacking glutathione peroxidase-1 (Gpx1) have decreased resistance to systemically administered oxidants as well as infections, and sustain increased damage after ischemia–reperfusion injuries. However, stem or progenitor cell function in these animals has not been studied. We characterized patterns of proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation of primary muscle progenitor cells (myoblasts) from Gpx1−/− mice. Myoblasts are the transit amplifying compartment of skeletal muscle. All aspects of myoblast biology are negatively affected by deletion of Gpx1. In particular, passaged, proliferating Gpx1−/− myoblasts, when induced to differentiate into fused multinucleated myotubes, show significant impairment, and form only a few immature myotubes. This defect occurs despite increased expression of the core regulators of muscle differentiation, the myogenic basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factors, in the Gpx1−/− myoblasts. Furthermore, Gpx1−/− myoblasts exhibited decreased proliferation and increased apoptosis compared to wild-type cells. In vivo, muscle fiber areas are decreased in Gpx1−/− vs wild-type mice. These data suggest that Gpx1 is important for adult muscle progenitor cell function at many levels, is necessary for integrity of muscle differentiation, and that quiescent resident stem cell populations may be particularly vulnerable to peroxide-mediated damage.

Previous research has suggested that repletion of cellular glutathione peroxidase (GPX1) activity by a single injection of Se was dissociated from the Se protection against the pro-oxidant-induced liver necrosis in Se-deficient rodents. Using the GPX1 knockout (GPX1-/-) mice, TUNEL assay, and apoptosis gene expression microarray, we have demonstrated strikingly different impacts of GPX1 knockout on hepatotoxicity and the related signaling induced by an intraperitoneal injection of 12.5 mg paraquat/kg body weight (b.wt.). In both Se-deficient GPX1-/- and wild-type (WT) mice, the paraquat did not induce typical liver necrosis, rather aponecrosis or necrapoptosis, a syncretic process of cell death sharing characteristics of both apoptosis and necrosis. The severity of liver aponecrosis and the associated mortality were reduced to a much greater extent by an injection of Se (ip, 50 microg/kg b.wt. as Na2SeO3) prior to paraquat stress in the WT mice, compared with the GPX1-/- mice. The induced liver aponecrosis seemed to be more apoptotic in the GPX1-/- mice but more necrotic in the WT mice. The paraquat-mediated gene or protein expression of proapoptotic Bax, Bcl-w, and Bcl-X(S), cell survival/death factors GADD45, MDM2, c-Myc, and caspase-3 was upregulated, but that of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 was downregulated in the GPX1-/- mice vs. the WT mice. Overall, these differences between the two groups of mice were related to a low level of liver GPX1 activity in the WT mice that represented < 4% of the normal physiological level. Therefore, the low level of GPX1 activity in the Se-deficient mice can exert a potent role in defending against liver aponecrosis induced by moderate oxidative stress.

2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (dioxin; TCDD) is a pervasive environmental contaminant that induces hepatic and extrahepatic oxidative stress. We have previously shown that dioxin increases mitochondrial respiration-dependent reactive oxygen production. In the present study we examined the dependence of mitochondrial reactive oxygen production on the aromatic hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1), and cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2), proteins believed to be important in dioxin-induced liver toxicity. Congenic Ahr(-/-), Cyp1a1(-/-) and Cyp1a2(-/-) knockout mice, and C57BL/6J inbred mice as their Ahr/Cyp1a1/Cyp1a2(+/+) wild-type (wt) counterparts, were injected intraperitoneally with dioxin (15 microg/kg body weight) or corn-oil vehicle on 3 consecutive days. Liver mitochondria were examined 1 week following the first treatment. The level of mitochondrial H(2)O(2) production in vehicle-treated Ahr(-/-) mice was one fifth that found in vehicle-treated wt mice. Whereas dioxin caused a rise in succinate-stimulated mitochondrial H(2)O(2) production in the wt, Cyp1a1(-/-), and Cyp1a2(-/-) mice, this increase did not occur with the Ahr(-/-) knockout. The lack of H(2)O(2) production in Ahr(-/-) mice was not due to low levels of Mn(2+)-superoxide dismutase (SOD2) as shown by Western immunoblot analysis, nor was it due to high levels of mitochondrial glutathione peroxidase (GPX1) activity. Dioxin decreased mitochondrial aconitase (an enzyme inactivated by superoxide) by 44% in wt mice, by 26% in Cyp1a2(-/-) mice, and by 24% in Cyp1a1(-/-) mice; no change was observed in Ahr(-/-) mice. Dioxin treatment increased mitochondrial glutathione levels in the wt, Cyp1a1(-/-), and Cyp1a2(-/-) mice, but not in Ahr(-/-) mice. These results suggest that both constitutive and dioxin-induced mitochondrial reactive oxygen production is associated with a function of the AHR, and these effects are independent of either CYP1A1 or CYP1A2.

Oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in mediating hearing loss induced by exposure to a number of environmental risk factors. Elevated levels of lead is one of the commonly encountered risk factor in the urban environment. Though lead exposure damages the sensory, vascular, and neuronal components of the cochlea, it is not known whether oxidative stress mediates its ototoxic effects. The aim of this study is to delineate the redox mechanism underlying lead-induced auditory dysfunction. Young-adult C57BL/6 mice were exposed to: 1) control conditions or 2) 2 mM lead acetate in drinking water for 28 days. Blood lead levels were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry analysis (ICP-MS), lead-induced cochlear oxidative stress was assessed using targeted gene arrays, and hearing thresholds were assessed by recording auditory brainstem responses. Lead exposure significantly increased the blood lead levels to 293 ± 67 ppb. However, the body weight, appearance, and behavior of the lead-exposed mice were similar to that of the controls. This suggested that the exposure level was probably moderate for young-adult mice, and was not capable of inducing severe toxic effects. Nevertheless, lead exposure at this level downregulated cochlear Sod1, Gpx1, and Gstk1, which encode critical antioxidant enzymes, and upregulated ApoE, Hspa1a, Ercc2, Prnp, Ccl5, and Sqstm1, which are indicative of cellular apoptosis. In addition, exposure to lead induced 8-12 dB shifts in hearing thresholds. Collectively, these findings suggest that chronic exposure to even moderate levels of lead induces cochlear oxidative stress and causes hearing loss.

Macrophages (Mφ) have high plasticity and can polarize along a spectrum of two extremes, the pro-inflammatory M1 Mφ and the immuno-suppressive M2 Mφ. In highly aggressive triple negative breast cancer, tumor associated Mφ (TAM) have a pro-tumor M2-like phenotype and are associated with disease progression and decreased survival. Thus, it is critical to develop strategies to reprogram TAM away from pro-tumor M2 Mφ toward anti-tumor M1 Mφ. Recently, a lipid peroxide scavenger displayed some efficacy to selectively inhibit M2 Mφ markers and cytokines. Little is known about the redox status of M1 and M2 Mφ, which could shed light on this phenomena. Our hypothesis is pro-tumorigenic M2 Mφ possess a distinct profile of pro- and anti-oxidant enzymes resulting in a different sensitivity to ROS modulation versus the anti-tumor M1 Mφ. Our results show M2 Mφ, derived from primary human monocytes, have a significant 20-30% reduction in intracellular ROS levels versus M1 Mφ by DCFH and DHE staining, as well as dramatically reduced extracellular H2O2 by ~70%. These changes are due in part to a combination of decreased ROS producing enzymes, Nox2, Nox5, and the Nox accessory protein CYBA, and increased ROS scavenging enzymes, catalase, Gpx1/4, and Cu/ZnSOD, in M2 Mφ. These data suggest M2 Mφ have increased ROS metabolism versus M1 Mφ, which may provide an advantage in the oxidative tumor microenvironment. Additionally, increasing ROS with exogenous H2O2, lead to increased M2 markers and decreased M1 markers implicating the oxidative tumor microenvironment in promoting a M2-like TAM phenotype. Similarly, reducing the extracellular oxidation by EcSOD re-expression in MB231, a triple negative breast cancer cell line, inhibited the MB231-mediated increase in M2 Mφ markers and decrease in M1 Mφ markers. Treatment with Mn(III) meso-tetrakis(N-ethylpyridinium-2-yl)porphyrin (MnTE), a small molecule SOD mimetic, shown to have anti-tumor effects, increased M1 Mφ markers, IL-12b and CD86, while decreasing M2 Mφ markers, IL-10, CD163, and CD206. MnTE inhibited the ability of M2 Mφ to inhibit T cell activation and promote cancer cell growth. Activation of Stat6, a key transcriptional regulator of M2 Mφ, is reduced with MnTE treatment providing mechanistic rationale for the inhibitory role of MnTE on M2 Mφ. These studies highlight the pivotal role of ROS during M2 Mφ polarization and provide rationale for antioxidant treatment of breast cancer to reprogram TAM.

Normal red blood cells (RBCs) are subject to a high level of oxidative stress as a result of the continuous production of the superoxide anion that accompanies hemoglobin (Hb) autoxidation. The superoxide anion is dismutated to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which is further converted to the hydroxyl radical through the Fenton reaction in the presence of iron. To cope with oxidative stress, RBCs are equipped with Cu and Zn-dependent SOD (SOD1), catalase, glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx1), and three isoforms of peroxiredoxin (Prx I, Prx II, and Prx VI). SOD1 converts the superoxide anion to H2O2, which is then removed by catalase, GPx1 and the Prxs. Prx II, the third most abundant protein in RBCs, is responsible for eliminating low concentrations of H2O2, whereas catalase scavenges H2O2 efficiently at high concentrations of the oxidant. Mice that lack Prx II thus develop hemolytic anemia, whereas RBC-related defects are not apparent in catalase-deficient mice. Deficiency of GPx1 renders human RBCs susceptible to oxidant stress. The primary physiologic substrate of GPx1 in RBCs is lipid hydroperoxide. GPx1 is susceptible to irreversible inactivation by its own substrates, likely as a consequence of the irreversible conversion of the active-site selenocysteine residue to dehydroalanine (DHA). Prx enzymes also are inactivated occasionally during catalysis because the active-site cysteine undergoes oxidation to sulfinic acid (Cys–SO2H). Reactivation of Prx I and Prx II is achieved by reduction of the sulfinic moiety catalyzed by sulfiredoxin. No mechanism has been identified for reactivation of the sulfinic form of Prx VI, however. Catalase is resistant to inactivation by its own substrate. In addition to Hb autoxidation, oxidative stress on RBCs can be derived from superoxide anion–generating enzymes (NADPH oxidase, xanthine oxidase) present in the endothelium and leukocytes. Catalase, glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx1), and Prxs are responsible for the elimination of H2O2 in RBCs. Compared with catalase and GPx, which do not have a specific binding site for H2O2, Prxs function more effectively at low H2O2 concentrations because they do possess a high-affinity binding site for this molecule. Prx II is also much more abundant than the other two enzymes. RBCs express three Prx isoforms: PrxI, PrxII, and PrxVI. During my talk, I will discuss specific roles of PrxII, catalase, and Gpx1 in RBCs, based on the results obtained using RBCs obtained from various KO mice.

Aims Here we studied the expression of isoforms of redox-dependent antioxidant enzymes and a rise of adaptive antioxidant response under development of cancer cells resistance to anticancer agent cisplatin (CDDP) possessed pro-oxidant action. Results Under development of resistance of human erythroleukemia K562 and ovarian carcinoma SKOV-3 cells to CDDP co-ordinative enhanced expression of genes encoding isoforms of superoxide dismutase (SOD1, SOD2), glutathione peroxidase (GPx1, GPx4), glutathione transferase (GSTP1-1, GSTМ1-1), glutaredoxin (GLRX1, GLRX2), thioredoxin (TRX1,TRX2) was found in both types of resistant cells in compare with wild cells. In addition, growth of GSH/GSSG ratio as index of cellular redox state as well as elevated level of transcription factor Nrf2 were observed in resistant K562/DOX and SKVLB cells. Decrease of apoptotic cell death was observed under exposure to hydrogen peroxide in the CDDP-resistant cells possessed elevated antioxidant status, as evidenced by low generation of ROS. It can be concluded that the mechanism of the formation of cancer cells resistance to CDDP involves the development of adaptive antioxidant response as key in stress adaptation.

Peroxynitrite is an oxidant generated under inflammatory conditions, acting in defense against invading microorganisms. There is a need for protection of the organism from damage inflicted by peroxynitrite. Selenium-containing compounds, notably ebselen, have a high second-order reaction rate constant (approx. 2 × 106 M−1 s−1), which makes them candidates for efficient protection. This applies also for selenium in proteins, occurring as selenocysteine or selenomethionine residues. Glutathione peroxidases, thioredoxin reductase, and selenoprotein P have been shown to play a potential role in protection against peroxynitrite. Tellurium-containing compounds also react with peroxynitrite.

Thiol-dependent hydroperoxide metabolism in parasites is reviewed in respect to potential therapeutic strategies. The hydroperoxide metabolism of Crithidia fasciculata has been characterized to comprise a cascade of three enzymes, trypanothione reductase, tryparedoxin, and tryparedoxin peroxidase, plus two supportive enzymes to synthesize the redox mediator trypanothione from glutathione and spermidine. The essentiality of the system in respect to parasite vitality and virulence has been verified by genetic approaches. The system appears to be common to all genera of the Kinetoplastida. The terminal peroxidase of the system belongs to the protein family of peroxiredoxins which is also represented in Entamoeba and a variety of metazoan parasites. Plasmodial hydroperoxide metabolism displays similarities to the mammalian system in comprising glutathione biosynthesis, glutathione reductase, and at least one glutathione peroxidase homolog having the active site selenocysteine replaced by cysteine. Nothing precise is known about the antioxidant defence systems of Giardia, Toxoplasma, and Trichomonas species. Also, the role of ovothiols and mycothiols reportedly present in several parasites remains to be established. Scrutinizing known enzymes of parasitic antioxidant defence for suitability as drug targets leaves only those of the trypanosomatid system as directly or indirectly validated. By generally accepted criteria of target selection and feasibility considerations tryparedoxin and tryparedoxin peroxidase can at present be rated as the most appealing target structures for the development of antiparasitic drugs.

Two experiments were conducted to determine the protection and the underlying mechanisms of cellular glutathione peroxidase (GPX1) against lethal, acute oxidative stress induced by an intraperitoneal injection of 24 mg diquat/kg body weight. In experiment 1, mortality and survival times were compared among selenium (Se)-adequate or deficient GPX1 knockout mice [GPX1(−/−)] and wild-type mice (WT). In experiment 2, mice from these four groups were euthanized at 0, 1, 2, and 3 h after the injection of diquat to elucidate the time course of oxidative events. The stress produced 100% mortality in all of the groups except for the Se-adequate WT, which were euthanized on day 7 for analysis. The Se-deficient WT and the Se-adequate GPX1(−/−) had similar survival times (4.1 and 3.9 h), which were longer (p < .05) than that of the Se-deficient GPX1(−/−) (2.4 h). However, these three GPX1-deficient groups had higher levels (p < .05) of hepatic F2-isoprostanes and carbonyl contents and/or plasma alanine aminotransferase activities than those of the Se-adequate WT. The diquat-induced formations of hepatic F2-isoprostanes in these animals peaked at 1 h and preceded the rise of plasma alanine aminotransferase in the Se-adequate GPX1(−/−). Responses of hepatic superoxide dismutase activities to the diquat treatment were affected by the GPX1 level. In conclusion, GPX1 is the major selenoprotein to protect mice against the lethal oxidative stress induced by diquat.

Nitric oxide (NO.), a radical species produced by many types of cells, is known to play a critical role in both regulatory processes and cell defense, yet it may also participate in collateral reactions, leading to DNA damage and cell death in both NO-generating and neighboring cells. Glutathione has been shown to protect cells from the toxic effects of free radicals and reactive oxygen species. The goal of this study was to investigate whether differences in glutathione metabolism could account for the resistance or sensitivity to cell killing by NO.. The cytotoxic effect of NO. was examined in CHO-AA8 (Chinese Hamster Ovary) cells and TK6 (human lymphoblastoid) cells pretreated with L-buthionine SR-sulfoximine (BSO), a potent inhibitor of gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase, and with 1,3-bis-(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea (BCNU), an irreversible inhibitor of glutathione reductase. The consequences resulting from the depletion of glutathione levels and from the arrest of oxidoreduction allowed us to show the involvement of glutathione in protecting cells from NO. and to investigate the importance of changes in glutathione metabolism on NO-induced toxicity. In CHO-AA8 cells, we found that treatment with NO. resulted in the oxidation of reduced glutathione (GSH) to oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and to mixed glutathione disulfides (GSSR). The resulting depletion of GSH stimulated its de novo synthesis, enabling the cells to resist killing by NO.. A slight difference in GSH metabolism was observed in TK6 cells. NO. led to an increase in GSSG levels similar to that observed in CHO-AA8 cells, however, a decrease in GSH levels, no change in GSSR levels, and higher levels of toxicity were also found, suggesting that NO-treated TK6 cells are not as competent in GSH homeostasis as CHO cells. We conclude that GSH is involved in protecting cells from killing by NO. and that both de novo synthesis of GSH and GSSG reduction are important in maintaining an adequate level of protection for the cells.

Treatment of cultured fibroblasts, designated HA1 cells, with 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4HNE) in doses up to 50 nmol/10(6) cells for 3 h results in dose-dependent cytotoxicity measured by clonogenic cell survival with 50% cytotoxicity achieved at 32 nmol 4HNE/10(6) cells. 4HNE treatment also resulted in dose-dependent reduction of cellular glutathione (GSH) content and loss of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity at 4HNE doses greater than 15 nmol/10(6) cells. By comparison, a 95% oxygen-resistant variant of HA1 cells, designated O2R95 cells, and a hydrogen peroxide-resistant variant of HA1 cells, designated OC14 cells, were found resistant to 4HNE cytotoxicity requiring 54 nmol 4HNE/10(6) cells and 75 nmol 4HNE/10(6) cells, respectively, for 50% cytotoxicity. In O2R95 cells, dose-dependent decreases were seen in GSH levels and GPx activity. In OC14 cells, however, any reduction in cellular GSH levels required doses of 4HNE greater than 30 nmol/10(6) cells, and GPx activity remained unchanged. No changes were seen in glutathione-S-transferase activity in any of the cell lines at any dose tested. These data indicate a correlation between glutathione modification, in a manner that prevents its recycling, the ability to inactivate enzymes with active site selenocysteine residues and the cytotoxicity of alpha, beta-unsaturated aldehydes such as 4HNE.

Strong evidence has implicated infiltrating leukocytes within heart tissue as a major source of oxidants, which contribute to cellular damage in cardiac ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Activated leukocytes release the enzyme myeloperoxidase (MPO), which produces the oxidants hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and hypothiocyanous acid (HOSCN) that have been linked with cellular dysfunction. However, the precise role of these oxidants in the initiation of tissue damage evident within cardiac I/R injury remains unclear. In this study, we assessed the response of myocyte-like H9c2 cells exposed to (patho)-physiological levels of HOCl and HOSCN. We show that both oxidants elicit early necrotic cell death, concomitant with a dose-dependent increase in cytosolic calcium accumulation, loss of mitochondrial inner trans-membrane potential, perturbations in the antioxidant activity of glutathione peroxidase 1 and depletion of the cellular thiol pool. Interestingly, HOCl-induced damage was sustained for up to 24 h post-treatment, whilst cells recovered from HOSCN-induced injury. Both HOCl and HOSCN were shown to increase expression of antioxidant genes, including NAD(P)H:quinoneoxidoreductase, heme oxygenase 1, glutathione reductase 1, thioredoxin 1 and thioredoxin reductase. However, HOCl-induced H9c2 gene upregulation was mediated by the activation of the Nrf2-antioxidant response element signalling pathway, whereas antioxidant gene upregulation by HOSCN was independent of Nrf2 activation. Supplementation of H9c2 cells with the dietary antioxidant selenomethionine (SeMet), which rapidly scavenges MPO oxidants, prior to oxidant insult was effective against HOCl, but not HOSCN, induced cellular dysfunction and damage. These data highlight two very different cellular responses elicited by HOCl and HOSCN in cardiac myocytes that may have implications for treatment options of cardiac I/R injury.

Dietary factors have been identified as important modulators of the risk of developing cancer. The antioxidant defense could be involved in this process. The maternal nutrition epigenetically reprograms gene expression in the mammary gland. Evaluate the effects of consumption of grape juice and/or high fat diet by pregnant and nursing dams on antioxidant profile during the pregnancy and on offspring’s mammary cancer risk. Methods: During the pregnancy, 40 pregnancy female Wistar rats received grape juice or water and control diet or high fat diet. We evaluated the weight gain during the pregnancy and lactating, three times a week. After the lactating, the female offspring were euthanized evaluated on 50th post natal day. The 4th-5th mammary gland was removed and all the analyses were performed in this tissue. SOD2 level was performed by Western Blotting. Gpx1, Gpx2 and Sod2 expression gene were performed by PCR. The epigenetic parameters, Dnmt1, Dnmt3a and Dnmt3b expression gene were performed by PCR assay. Statistically analyses were obtained by ANOVA two ways. We observed that the high fat diet induced an important reduction on Gpx1 expression (Control diet= 0.765± 0.121; High Fat Diet=1.197±0.121). On the Gpx2 expression, we observed that the grape juice increase this enzyme (Water= 5.77± 0.49; Grape juice=7.70 ± 0.51). SOD2 protein level and Sod1 expression gene didn´t change with the diet or the beverage during the pregnancy. High fat diet reduce the DNMT1 and DNMT3b expression gene, and this effect could be reduced the transcription Gpx1 expression. High fat diet reduced the transcription gene, this diet reduced the Dnmt1 (Control diet= 0.516±0.05; High Fat Diet=0.325±0.05) and Dnmt3b expression (Control diet= 0.604±0.05; High Fat Diet=0.325±0.05). Conclusion: The high fat diet increase the GPx1 expression probably by the DNA methylation reduction. However the Gpx2 expression was increased on the grape juice group. We can concluded that the pregnant diet is an important factor to modified the antioxidant defense by epigenetic way, by DNA methylation. This effect could be influence on the breast cancer risk.