The isoprostanes. Current knowledge and directions for future research

Isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha, a product of oxidative stress, is synthesized in the bladder and causes detrusor smooth muscle contraction

Isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha is a product of oxidative stress that causes potent smooth muscle contraction. Its production increases in conditions associated with oxidative stress such as in diabetes, smoking, and aging. The aim was to study whether the urinary bladder synthesizes isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha and releases to the urine and whether isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha causes bladder smooth muscle contraction. Urine samples were obtained transurethrally from 12 male New Zealand white rabbits for measurement of isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha levels. To examine whether bladder synthesizes isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha, both ureters were ligated, then the bladder was washed 5 times by filling and emptying with normal saline. Bladder was refilled with normal saline, and at 5 minutes a bladder washout sample was taken. After this, the bladder was contracted by nerve stimulation periodically for 30 minutes, and then another washout sample was taken. Strips of bladder tissues were processed for study of isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha production in tissue culture chambers and for isometric tension measurements in the organ bath. Enzyme immunoassay (EIA) revealed a remarkable amount of isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha in the rabbit urine. EIA of washout samples showed that the bladder synthesizes isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha and its production increases with nerve stimulation-induced contractions. EIA of samples from the tissue culture media showed that bladder strips synthesize isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha in vitro. Electrical field stimulation (EFS) significantly increased the synthesis and release of isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha by the bladder strips. In the organ bath, isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha caused concentration-dependent contraction of bladder tissue. While the threshold contraction required smaller concentration of isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha (3 nmol) than carbachol (10 nmol), the amplitude of contraction to carbachol was greater than isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha. Our studies show that the rabbit bladder synthesizes isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha and releases it to the urine. Production of isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha in the bladder increases with nerve stimulation-induced contraction. Exogenous isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha causes significant bladder smooth muscle contraction. Our findings necessitate further studies to evaluate the possible role of oxidative stress and increased isoprostane 8-epi PGF2alpha production in bladder dysfunction. Neurourol. Urodynam. 19:43-51, 2000.

Quantitative high performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometric analysis of the four classes of F(2)-isoprostanes in human urine

Isoprostanes (iPs) are free radical catalyzed prostaglandin isomers. Analysis of individual isomers of PGF(2alpha)-F(2)-iPs-in urine has reflected lipid peroxidation in humans. However, up to 64 F(2)-iPs may be formed, and it is unknown whether coordinate generation, disposition, and excretion of F(2)-iPs occurs in humans. To address this issue, we developed methods to measure individual members of the four structural classes of F(2)-iPs, using liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS), in which sample preparation is minimized. Authentic standards of F(2)-iPs of classes III, IV, V, and VI were used to identify class-specific ions for multiple reaction monitoring. Using iPF(2alpha)-VI as a model compound, we demonstrated the reproducibility of the assay in human urine. Urinary levels of all F(2)-iPs measured were elevated in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia. However, only three of eight F(2)-iPs were elevated in patients with congestive heart failure, compared with controls. Paired analyses by GC/MS and LC/MS/MS of iPF(2alpha)-VI in hypercholesterolemia and of 8, 12-iso-iPF(2alpha)-VI in congestive heart failure were highly correlated. This approach will permit high throughput analysis of multiple iPs in human disease.

Reactive oxygen species are involved in the apoptosis induced by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in cultured gastric cells

We previously reported the induction of apoptotic DNA fragmentation by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in cultured rat gastric cells, and indicated that prostaglandin-synthesis is only marginally involved in the apoptotic process. In the present study, we examined whether the generation of reactive oxygen species is critically involved in NSAID-induced apoptosis. Indomethacin, sodium diclofenac, flurbiprofen, zaltoprofen, etodolac, but not mofezolac, enhanced apoptotic DNA fragmentation and mRNA expression for cyclooxygenase-2 in AGS cells, a cell line derived from human gastric epithelium. The apoptotic effect of indomethacin was then confirmed by fluorescent staining of the cells with annexin V. Apoptotic DNA fragmentation induced by indomethacin and flurbiprofen was suppressed by incubation of the cells with the anti-oxidants pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate, diphenyleneiodonium chloride, and N-acetyl-L-cysteine. These two NSAIDs also enhanced release from the cells of 8-isoprostane, a nonenzymatic product by free-radical-mediated peroxidation of arachidonic acid. Further, lucigenin chemiluminescence showed that the intracellular production of reactive oxygen species increased in cells treated with indomethacin. The present data thus indicate a crucial association between the generation of reactive oxygen species and NSAID-induced apoptosis in gastric epithelial cells.

High levels of dietary vitamin E do not replace cellular glutathione peroxidase in protecting mice from acute oxidative stress

Our objective was to determine whether high levels of dietary vitamin E replaced the protection of the Se-dependent cellular glutathione peroxidase (GPX1) against paraquat- or diquat-induced acute oxidative stress in mice. Two experiments were conducted using GPX1 knockout [GPX1(-/-)] mice and wild-type (WT) mice (n = 78/group). In Experiment 1, mice were fed torula yeast-based, Se-adequate (0.4 mg/kg as sodium selenite) diets + 0, 75, 750 or 7,500 mg all-rac-alpha-tocopheryl acetate for 5 wk before an intraperitoneal injection of 50 mg paraquat/kg body weight. In Experiment 2, mice were fed the diet + 0 or 750 mg all-rac-alpha-tocopheryl acetate for 5 wk and were killed 1 or 3 h after an injection of diquat at 12, 24 or 48 mg/kg. In Experiment 1, all mice died of the injection and there were 8- to 15-fold differences (P < 0.001) in survival times between the GPX1(-/-) and the WT mice. Although increasing tocopheryl acetate from 0 to 750 mg/kg extended the survival time of the GPX1(-/-) mice for 2 h (P = 0.06), the highest tocopheryl acetate level resulted in a decrease (P < 0.05) in survival time in the WT mice. The vitamin E-deficient GPX1(-/-) mice had the highest concentration of hepatic thiobarbituric acid reacting substances. In Experiment 2, the diquat-induced formation of hepatic F(2)-isoprostanes was accelerated (P < 0.05) by vitamin E deficiency and was also affected by the GPX1 knockout. Diquat produced much greater (P < 0.01) dose-dependent increases in plasma alanine transaminase (ALT) activities in the GPX1(-/-) than in the WT mice. Hepatic phospholipid hydroperoxide GPX activities were decreased (P < 0.05) by the diquat injection only in the vitamin E-deficient GPX1(-/-) mice. Despite a potent inhibition of hepatic lipid peroxidation, high levels of dietary vitamin E do not replace the protection of GPX1 against the paraquat-induced lethality or the diquat-induced plasma ALT activity increase in mice.

Periodontitis-atherosclerosis syndrome: an expanded model of pathogenesis

The early reports of a linkage between periodontitis and atherosclerosis have garnered further support by additional data generated by several investigative teams in many different countries. The evidence continues to suggest that periodontitis may be an important risk factor or risk indicator for cardiovascular pathology for some individuals. The term periodontitis-atherosclerosis syndrome (PAS) is proposed as a new diagnostic term to describe this condition in these individuals. Current evidence, albeit preliminary in nature, which describes a cluster of clinical signs and symptoms that are associated with this condition, is presented. It is clear that this syndrome will require considerable study and refinement before a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan can be formulated. Potential mechanisms by which systemic inflammation and infectious challenge of periodontal origin may serve as a potential modifier of cardiovascular disease are discussed in the context of a detailed working model of pathogenesis. This hypothetical model embraces many cellular and molecular components of atherogenesis and thromboembolic diseases from the perspective of periodontitis pathogenesis. Many aspects of the hypothetical model remain unproved; however, it is our opinion that only through the clarification of the mechanisms of pathogenesis can we ultimately construct a knowledge framework for accurate diagnoses and successful therapies. The concept of diagnosing and treating a periodontal patient to minimize the deleterious effects of this chronic infectious and inflammatory condition on the cardiovascular system represents an unprecedented challenge to our profession.

Low-dose angiotensin II increases free isoprostane levels in plasma

Chronic intravenous infusion of subpressor doses of angiotensin II causes blood pressure to increase progressively over the course of several days. The mechanisms underlying this response, however, are poorly understood. Because high-dose angiotensin II increases oxidative stress, and some compounds that result from the increased oxidative stress (eg, isoprostanes) produce vasoconstriction and antinatriuresis, we tested the hypothesis that a subpressor dose of angiotensin II also increases oxidative stress, as measured by 8-epi-prostaglandin F(2alpha) (isoprostanes), which may contribute to the slow pressor response to angiotensin II. To test this hypothesis, we infused angiotensin II (10 ng/kg per minute for 28 days via an osmotic pump) into 6 conscious normotensive female pigs (30 to 35 kg). We recorded mean arterial pressure continuously with a telemetry system and measured plasma isoprostanes before starting the angiotensin II infusion (baseline) and again after 28 days with an enzyme immunoassay. Angiotensin II infusion significantly increased mean arterial pressure from 121+/-4 to 153+/-7 mm Hg (P<0. 05) without altering total plasma isoprostane levels (180.0+/-24.3 versus 147.0+/-29.2 pg/mL; P=NS). However, the plasma concentrations of free isoprostanes increased significantly, from 38.3+/-5.8 to 54.7+/-10.4 pg/mL (P<0.05). These results suggest that subpressor doses of angiotensin II increase oxidative stress, as implied by the increased concentration of free isoprostanes, which accompany the elevation in mean arterial pressure elevation. Thus, isoprostane-induced vasoconstriction and antinatriuresis may contribute to the hypertension induced by the slow pressor responses of angiotensin II.

Mediation and modulation by eicosanoids of responses of spinal dorsal horn neurons to glutamate and substance P receptor agonists: results with indomethacin in the rat in vivo

In view of the widespread use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for treatment of inflammatory pain, we determined the effects of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, indomethacin, on dorsal horn neurons in the rat spinal cord in vivo. At 2.0-12.0 mg/kg (i.v.), indomethacin depressed the responses of spinal dorsal horn neurons to the effects of iontophoretic application of substance P, N-methyl-D-aspartate, quisqualate and alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionate. As indomethacin inhibits cyclo-oxygenase, these are the first data linking prostanoids and possibly arachidonic acid and other eicosanoids to the effects of substance P and glutamate in the spinal dorsal horn. As responses to iontophoretic application can be assumed to have been postsynaptic and as indomethacin had an effect generalized to all excitatory responses, we suggest a postsynaptic site for cyclo-oxygenase. We also suggest that elements in the cyclo-oxygenase signal transduction pathway may thus mediate at least some of the effects of substance P and glutamate receptor activation. Activation of the cyclo-oxygenase pathway in CNS neurons is Ca2- dependent, and activation of both N-methyl-D-aspartate and substance P receptors increases intracellular Ca2+. This led to the expectation that indomethacin would have a greater effect on responses to N-methyl-D-aspartate than to alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionate, but the reverse was observed. Thus, in addition to a mediator role, we hypothesize that an element(s) of the cyclo-oxygenase pathway may regulate the efficacy of excitation of alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionate receptors and perhaps other membrane-bound receptors. The cyclo-oxygenase signal transduction pathway thus appears to play at least two major roles in regulation of sensory processing in the spinal cord. Therefore, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, via cyclo-oxygenase inhibition, may have multiple actions in control of spinal sensory mechanisms.

Methods for assessing the biological effects of specific plant components

Until very recently, phytonutrient research was the province of natural product chemists and consisted of primarily anecdotal clinical references. In recent years, an extensive set of qualitative and semi-quantitative dietary epidemiologic data has been developed. This developing base of epidemiologic data is now being supplemented by biochemical, mechanistic, and genetic epidemiology of a more quantitative nature. As we seek to understand the mechanisms that explain a large body of epidemiologic evidence, newer laboratory methods continue to be developed. Though there is a continuing need for even more discriminating nutrition epidemiology to drive the basic research in this area forward, the focus of in vitro, animal and clinical (human) studies must continue to be refined, and appropriate biomarkers for chronic and acute (death) disease end-points must be developed.

Brains of aged apolipoprotein E-deficient mice have increased levels of F2-isoprostanes, in vivo markers of lipid peroxidation

Apolipoprotein E (apoE) is the major apolipoprotein of the CNS. Differential expression of apoE isoforms has been linked to longevity and to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Several studies have demonstrated that this glycoprotein is important in mature as well as in aging CNS, where it may serve neurotrophic and/or neuroprotective functions. Some reports have shown that apoE-deficient mice have age-dependent neurodegeneration and cognitive impairment; others have not confirmed these observations. ApoE-deficient mice also develop hypercholesterolemia on a chow diet and have in vivo increased plasma lipid peroxidation products. F2-isoprostanes are prostaglandin F2alpha isomers and chemically stable peroxidation products of arachidonic acid. Both isoprostane F2alpha-III and isoprostane F2alpha-VI were markedly elevated in the brains of aged apoE-deficient mice compared with either wild-type C57 Bl/6 mice or a distinct mouse model of hypercholesterolemia, the low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient mouse. By contrast, no difference in isoprostane levels was observed in young apoE-deficient mice compared with age-matched wild-type control mice. Our findings indicate that disorder of lipid metabolism in the absence of apoE can induce an age-dependent increase in brain lipid peroxidation products.

Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm, a "two-hit" ischemia/reperfusion injury: evidence from an analysis of oxidative products

PURPOSE

Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (RAAA) remains a lethal condition despite improvements in perioperative care. The consequences of RAAA are hypothesized to result from a combination of two ischemia/reperfusion events: hemorrhagic shock and lower torso ischemia. Ischemia/reperfusion results in tissue injury by diverse mechanisms, which include oxygen free radical-mediated injury produced from activated neutrophils, xanthine oxidase, and mitochondria. Oxygen-free radicals attack membrane lipids, resulting in membrane and subsequently cellular dysfunction that contributes to postoperative organ injury/failure. The purpose of this investigation was to quantify the oxidative injury that occurs as a result of the ischemia/reperfusion events in RAAAs and elective AAAs.

METHODS

Blood samples were taken from 22 patients for elective AAA repair and from 14 patients for RAAA repair during the perioperative period. Plasma F(2)-isoprostanes were extracted, purified, and measured with an enzyme immunoassay. Aldehydes and acyloins were purified and quantified. Neutrophil oxidative burst was measured in response to a receptor independent stimulus (phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate) with luminol-based chemiluminescence.

RESULTS

Plasma from patients with RAAAs showed significantly elevated F(2)-isoprostane levels on arrival at hospital and were significantly elevated as compared with the levels of patients for elective repair throughout the perioperative period (two-way analysis of variance, P <.0001). Multiple regression showed a significant relationship between the phagocyte oxidative activity and F(2)-isoprostane levels (P <.013). Total acyloin levels were significantly higher in patients with RAAAs as compared with the levels in elective cases.

CONCLUSION

The F(2)-isoprostane levels, specific markers of lipid peroxidation, showed that patients with RAAAs had two phases of oxidative injury: before arrival at hospital and after surgery. The significant relationship between the postoperative increases in F(2)-isoprostane levels and the neutrophil oxidant production implicates neutrophils in the oxidative injury that occurs after RAAA. New therapeutic interventions that attenuate neutrophil-mediated oxidant injury during reperfusion may decrease organ failure and ultimately mortality in patients with RAAAs.

Selenium-dependent cellular glutathione peroxidase protects mice against a pro-oxidant-induced oxidation of NADPH, NADH, lipids, and protein

Since our prior work indicated that Se-dependent cellular glutathione peroxidase (GPX1) was necessary for protection against paraquat lethality, the present studies were to elucidate the biochemical mechanisms related to that protection. Four groups of mice [Se-deficient or -adequate GPX1 knockout and wild-type (WT)] were injected (i.p.) with 50 mg paraquat/kg body weight and tissues were collected 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, or 4 h after the injection. Whereas the ratios of NADPH/NADP and NADH/NAD in lung were reduced by 50-70% only 0.5 h after the injection in all groups, these two ratios in liver of the Se-adequate WT were significantly higher than those of the three GPX1 knockout or deficient groups 2-4 h after the injection. The paraquat-induced pulmonary lipid peroxidation and hepatic protein oxidation, measured as F(2)-isoprostanes and carbonyl contents, respectively, peaked at 1 h in these three groups. No such oxidative events were shown in any tissue of the Se-adequate WT throughout the time course. Whereas the F(2)-isoprostane formation was accelerated by both GPX1 knockout and Se deficiency in liver, it was not significantly elevated by the paraquat treatment in brain of any group. The paraquat injection also resulted in temporal changes in lung GPX activity and GPX1 protein in the Se-adequate WT, and significant reductions in lung total SOD activity in the GPX1 knockout or deficient groups. In conclusion, GPX1 plays a critical role in maintaining the redox status of mice under acute oxidative stress, and protects against paraquat-induced oxidative destruction of lipids and protein in vivo. These protections of GPX1 seem to be inducible and coordinated with those of other antioxidant enzymes.

Increased 8-isoprostane, a marker of oxidative stress, in exhaled condensate of asthma patients

Oxidative stress has an important role in the pathogenesis of asthma. 8-Isoprostane is a prostaglandin (PG)-F2-like compound belonging to the F2 isoprostane class that is produced in vivo by the free radical-catalyzed peroxidation of arachidonic acid. 8-Isoprostane is a biomarker of oxidative stress, and its concentration is increased in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of patients with interstitial lung diseases. We measured 8-isoprostane concentrations in exhaled breath condensate in healthy subjects and in patients with mild (steroid naive, n = 12), moderate (inhaled steroid treatment, n = 17), and severe asthma (oral steroid treatment, n = 15). We also measured exhaled carbon monoxide (CO) and nitric oxide (NO), which may also reflect oxidative stress in the airways. 8-Isoprostane was detectable in breath condensate of normal subjects (15.8 +/- 1.6 pg/ml), and was increased in the breath condensate of patients with mild (33.7 +/- 2.8, p < 0.001), moderate (38.3 +/- 3.7 pg/ml, p < 0. 001), and severe asthma (48.9 +/- 5.0 pg/ml, p < 0.001). There was a positive correlation (r = 0.68, p < 0.05) of 8-isoprostane with NO, but not with CO, in the exhaled air of patients with mild asthma, but not in that of patients with moderate or severe asthma. There was no correlation between 8-isoprostane and lung function tests in any group of patients. Our study shows that oxidative stress is increased in asthmatic subjects as reflected by 8-isoprostane concentrations in breath condensate.

Mass spectrometric quantification of amino acid oxidation products in proteins: insights into pathways that promote LDL oxidation in the human artery wall

Oxidatively damaged low density lipoprotein (LDL) may play an important role in atherogenesis, but the physiologically relevant pathways have proved difficult to identify. Mass spectrometric quantification of stable compounds that result from specific oxidation reactions represents a powerful approach for investigating such mechanisms. Analysis of protein oxidation products isolated from atherosclerotic lesions implicates tyrosyl radical, reactive nitrogen species, and hypochlorous acid in LDL oxidation in the human artery wall. These observations provide chemical evidence for the reaction pathways that promote LDL oxidation and lesion formation in vivo.--Heinecke, J. W. Mass spectrometric quantification of amino acid oxidation products in proteins: insights into pathways that promote LDL oxidation in the human artery wall.

Isoflavonoids do not inhibit in vivo lipid peroxidation in subjects with high-normal blood pressure

The isoflavonoids genistein and daidzein have been shown to have antioxidant activity in vitro, but their effects on in vivo oxidation have not been assessed. The newly described F2-isoprostanes are believed to currently represent the best available marker of in vivo lipid peroxidation. Therefore we have assessed the effects of a 55 mg daily isoflavonoid supplement on urinary F2-isoprostane concentrations in subjects with high-normal blood pressure (BP). A total of 59 subjects completed an 8-week parallel design, randomized, double blind, and placebo-controlled study. F2-isoprostanes, isoflavonoids and creatinine were measured in 24-h urine samples taken at baseline and at the end of the intervention. There were significant increases in urinary excretion of genistein (5.22+/-0.75 mg/day, P < 0.0001) and daidzein (2.53+/-0.43 mg/day, P < 0.0001) in the group taking the isoflavonoid supplement. Creatinine excretion was significantly correlated with F2-isoprostanes at baseline (r = 0.45, P < 0.01). After adjustment for baseline values, there was no significant difference between groups in creatinine adjusted post-intervention F2-isoprostane concentrations (P = 0.74). In addition, changes in genistein and daidzein excretion were not significantly correlated with changes in F2-isoprostanes in the isoflavonoid treatment group. These results are not consistent with the suggestion that the two soy derived isoflavonoids have in vivo antioxidant activity at a level of intake achievable by dietary means and in subjects with high-normal BP.

Effect of exercise and COPD crisis on isoprostane concentration in plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in horses

To test whether isoprostanes could be used as markers of oxidative stress in horses, their concentration was determined in plasma and in pulmonary epithelial lining fluid (PELF) in 3 models of oxidative stress: (1) strenuous exercise, (2) acute COPD crisis and (3) exercise combined with COPD crisis. Four horses were investigated twice, once in crisis and once in remission. The animals underwent a standardised treadmill exercise test. Isoprostane assessment was performed in plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid 24 h before and 1 h after exercise and in plasma also immediately after exercise. Exercise in remission induced a significant increase of isoprostanes in plasma and in PELF. In horses in crisis, the isoprostane concentrations did not increase in plasma, while they did increase in PELF. Lastly, exercise in crisis increased plasma levels of isoprostanes, but did not change PELF isoprostanes. In conclusion, 1) isoprostanes are increased by systemic oxidative stress induced by strenuous exercise in COPD horses in remission either in PELF or in plasma; 2) only PELF and not plasma isoprostanes are increased by pulmonary oxidative stress induced by COPD crisis and 3) unexpectedly, exercise in crisis increased plasma but not PELF isoprostanes.

Maternal cigarette smoking increases F2-isoprostanes and reduces prostacyclin and nitric oxide in umbilical vessels

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of smoking on F2-isoprostanes, prostacylin and nitric oxide in human umbilical vessels. Umbilical cords from 13 babies of smoking mothers and from 28 babies of non-smoking mothers were examined for levels of F2-isoprostanes, prostacyclin, L-arginine, and L-citrulline. Forty-one umbilical arteries and eleven umbilical veins were analyzed. Statistical analysis of data was done using modified t-test. Cigarette smoking increased F2-isoprostane levels and reduced the generation of prostacyclin, L-arginine and L-citrulline comparably in umbilical arteries and veins. Notably, in umbilical cords of babies of non-smoking mothers the F2-isoprostane level was significantly higher in arteries. Cigarette smoking correlates with a direct vasoconstrictive effect. We suggest that smoking might enhance the vasoconstrictory capacity in umbilical arteries by increased F2-isoprostanes and by a simultaneous decrease in the production of the vasodilatory compounds, prostacyclin, and nitric oxide.

Elevated plasma levels of F2 alpha isoprostane in cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is associated with chronic lung infection, inflammation, and elevated indices of oxidative stress. Recently, isoprostanes were shown to be a reliable in vivo marker of oxidant injury with 8-iso-PGF2 alpha, shown to cause airflow obstruction and plasma exudation in guinea pig lung. The present study was designed to examine the relationship between 8-iso-PGF2 alpha levels, plasma antioxidants, and clinical status in CF. We hypothesized that plasma 8-iso-PGF2 alpha levels would be higher in subjects with CF compared to healthy controls. Plasma 8-iso-PGF2 alpha levels were prospectively measured in 22 subjects with CF and nine healthy controls using an 8-isoprostane enzyme immunoassay kit along with plasma vitamins A, E, and beta-carotene. Plasma 8-iso-PGF2 alpha levels were shown to be significantly elevated in the CF subjects compared to controls (319.6 +/- 52.6 vs. 145.0 +/- 21.0 pg/mL, P = 0.005). Plasma levels of antioxidants were significantly lower for the CF subjects compared to the controls (vitamin A, P < 0.003; vitamin E, P < 0.001; and beta-carotene, P < 0.01). This study confirms significantly elevated lipid peroxidation in CF using 8-iso-PGF2 alpha levels.

Cholesterol-independent endothelial dysfunction in virgin and pregnant rats fed a diet high in saturated fat

1. Western diets high in saturated fat are associated with an increased incidence of cardiovascular diseases. In this study we have evaluated vascular endothelial function and oxidative stress in virgin rats fed a normal (VC) or high in saturated fat diet (VHF) (20 % lard and corn oil w/w) from weaning until adulthood, and throughout subsequent pregnancy (PC and PHF, respectively). 2. The saturated fat diet was associated with enhanced noradrenaline sensitivity in small mesenteric arteries from VHF rats (VHF vs. VC, P < 0.05) and blunted endothelium-dependent relaxation in VHF and PHF rats (VHF vs. VC, P < 0.001; PHF vs. PC, P < 0.05). Endothelial dysfunction was attributable to a reduced nitric oxide component of relaxation in VHF rats, and blunted prostacyclin and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor components in PHF rats. 3. Other than plasma cholesterol, which was reduced in VHF and PHF rats, plasma lipids were normal. Fasting plasma insulin and glucose concentrations were raised in VHF rats (P < 0.05) and the plasma marker of oxidative stress, 8-iso PGF2alpha, was increased in PHF animals (P < 0.01). 4. These findings suggest that endothelial dysfunction induced by a saturated fat diet is cholesterol independent and likely to be of different mechanistic origin in virgin and pregnant rats.

Carbocations in the synthesis of prostaglandins by the cyclooxygenase of PGH synthase? A radical departure!

Evidence already available is used to demonstrate that although prostaglandin G/H synthase hydroxylates arachidonic acid through radical intermediates, it effects cyclizations through a carbocation center at C-10. This is produced following migration of H to the initial radical at C-13 and a 1epsilon oxidation. Under orbital symmetry control, the cyclizations can give only the ring size and trans stereochemistry actually observed. After cyclization, the H-shift reverses to take the sequence back into current radical theory for hydroxylation at C-15. Thus 10,10-difluoroarachidonic acid cannot be cyclized, although it can be hydroxylated. Acetylation of Ser516 in the isoform synthase-2 is considered to oppose carbocation formation and/or H-migration and so prevent cyclizations while permitting hydroxylations; the associated inversion of chirality at C-15 can then readily be accommodated without the change in conformation required by other schemes. Suicide inhibition occurs when carbocations form stable bonds upon (thermal) contact with adjacent heteroatoms, etc. Because the cyclooxygenase and peroxidase functions operate simultaneously through the same heme, phenol acts as reducing cosubstrate for the cyclooxygenase, thus enabling it to promote PGG2 production and protect the enzyme from oxidative destruction.

Lipid peroxidation-DNA damage by malondialdehyde

Malondialdehyde is a naturally occurring product of lipid peroxidation and prostaglandin biosynthesis that is mutagenic and carcinogenic. It reacts with DNA to form adducts to deoxyguanosine and deoxyadenosine. The major adduct to DNA is a pyrimidopurinone called M1G. Site-specific mutagenesis experiments indicate that M1G is mutagenic in bacteria and is repaired by the nucleotide excision repair pathway. M1G has been detected in liver, white blood cells, pancreas, and breast from healthy human beings at levels ranging from 1-120 per 108 nucleotides. Several different assays for M1G have been described that are based on mass spectrometry, 32P-postlabeling, or immunochemical techniques. Each technique offers advantages and disadvantages based on a combination of sensitivity and specificity. Application of each of these techniques to the analysis of M1G is reviewed and future needs for improvements are identified. M1G appears to be a major endogenous DNA adduct in human beings that may contribute significantly to cancer linked to lifestyle and dietary factors. High throughput methods for its detection and quantitation will be extremely useful for screening large populations.

Characterization of LY231617 protection against hydrogen peroxide toxicity

The compound LY231617 [2,6-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)-4-[[(1-ethyl)amino]methyl]phenol hydrochloride] has been reported to afford significant neuroprotection against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced toxicity in vitro and global ischemia in vivo. We now report on further mechanistic studies of H2O2 toxicity and protection by LY231617. Brief exposure to H2O2 (15 min) elicited an oxidative insult comparable with that generated by overnight treatment. H2O2-mediated cellular degeneration was characterized using lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, changes in total glutathione, and a new marker of oxidative stress, 8-epiprostaglandin F2alpha (8-isoprostane). LY231617 attenuated H2O2-mediated degeneration under a variety of exposure conditions, including a more clinically relevant posttreatment paradigm. Levels of 8-isoprostane paralleled LDH release under various treatment paradigms of 100 microM H2O2 +/- 5 microM drug. In contrast, despite affording significant protection, LY231617 had modest to no effects on cellular levels of glutathione. Taken together, these results are consistent with a membrane site of action for LY231617 and suggest that the compound affords cytoprotection via its antioxidant properties.

An improved method for the measurement of urinary and plasma F2-isoprostanes using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry

We have developed an improved method for the measurement of F2-isoprostanes using stable isotope dilution capillary gas chromatography/electron capture negative ionization mass spectrometry (GC-ECNI-MS). The F2-isoprostane family consists of a series of chemically stable prostaglandin F2 (PGF2)-like compounds generated during peroxidation of arachidonic acid in phospholipids. There is evidence that measurement of F2-isoprostanes represents a reliable and useful index of lipid peroxidation and oxidant stress in vivo. Furthermore, 8-epi-PGF2alpha, which is one of the more abundant F2-isoprostanes, is biologically active, being a potent mitogen and vasoconstrictor of rat and rabbit lung and kidney, as well as a partial agonist of platelet aggregation. Measurement of F2-isoprostanes in biological samples is complex and has involved methods which utilize multiple chromatographic steps, including separation by thin-layer chromatography, leading to poor sample recovery. We now present an improved method for the measurement of plasma and urinary F2-isoprostanes using a combination of silica and reverse-phase extraction cartridges, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and GC-ECNI-MS. Different approaches to the derivatization of the F2-isoprostanes prior to GC-ECNI-MS are also addressed. The overall recovery of F2-isoprostanes is improved (approx 70% for urine) and the within and between assay reproducibility is 6.7% (n = 23) and 3.7% (n = 3), respectively. The mean urinary excretion of F2-isoprostanes in eight healthy males was 365 +/- 5 pmol/mmol creatinine and in three smokers 981 +/- 138 pmol/mmol creatinine. The mean total (free + esterified) plasma F2-isoprostane concentration was 952 +/- 38 pmol/liter, with a within and between assay reproducibility of 8% (n = 13) and 5.6% (n = 3), respectively. This improved method for the measurement of F2-isoprostanes represents a significant advance in terms of the rapidity and yield in the purification of biological samples. The inclusion of HPLC separation enables improved analysis of F2-isoprostanes by GC-MS. This methodology will assist in defining the role of F2-isoprostanes as in vivo markers of oxidant stress in clinical and experimental settings.

Characterization of 8-epiprostaglandin F2alpha as a marker of amyloid beta-peptide-induced oxidative damage

The amyloid beta-peptide (A beta) is a major component of the neuritic plaques that are a defining histological characteristic of Alzheimer's disease. A beta can be directly toxic and pro-inflammatory to cells in vitro. Numerous reports have shown that oxidative damage and reactive oxygen species play a role in A beta-mediated neurotoxicity. 8-Epiprostaglandin F2alpha (8-isoprostane) is a well characterized product of lipid peroxidation that is formed nonenzymatically in cell membranes following an oxidative insult. We report a time- and concentration-dependent increase in 8-isoprostane levels in rat hippocampal cultures treated with A beta(1-40) or hydrogen peroxide. As evidence that 8-isoprostane production is part of an A beta toxic pathway, alkaline-treated peptide, which shows minimal toxic activity, resulted in greatly attenuated 8-isoprostane production. Although the increase in 8-isoprostane levels preceded cell death, exogenously added 8-isoprostane had no cytotoxic effects. The antioxidants vitamin E and propyl gallate attenuated A beta-induced 8-isoprostane formation yet had no effect on A beta-induced lactate dehydrogenase release. Neither vitamin E nor propyl gallate had any effect on A beta's ability to adopt a beta-pleated sheet structure and deposit on cells as determined by thioflavine S fluorescence. We conclude that 8-isoprostane is an indicator of A beta-induced damage but not necessarily a mediator of A beta-induced neurotoxicity. Also, 8-isoprostane could be a useful marker for assessing oxidative damage in the CNS.

Increased urinary F2-isoprostane excretion in alcoholic liver disease

Free radical-induced lipid peroxidation (LP) is thought to be important in alcoholic liver disease (ALD), however, direct demonstration of increased LP in patients with ALD has been difficult. Quantification of F2-isoprostanes (F2-isoP), prostanoids produced by peroxidation of arachidonic acid, in plasma and urine are sensitive and specific indices of LP in vivo. To determine if LP is increased in ALD, 24-h urinary excretion of F2-isoPs were measured in 10 patients hospitalized because of ALD. The mean urinary excretion of the F2-isoP in the ALD patients' urine was 9.6+/-3.5 ng/mg creatinine, which was significantly elevated compared to controls' urinary excretion, which was 1.7+/-0.2 ng/mg creatinine (p<.01). The urinary excretion of F2-isoP decreased to 3.6+/-1.1 ng/mg creatinine as the patients improved clinically with abstinence over the 1-month period. These data suggest that lipid peroxidation, as assessed by this noninvasive method, is increased in patients with acute ALD and decreases with time as the patients improve clinically with abstinence.

GM-CSF-deficient mice are susceptible to pulmonary group B streptococcal infection

Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) gene-targeted mice (GM-/-) cleared group B streptococcus (GBS) from the lungs more slowly than wild-type mice. Expression of GM-CSF in the respiratory epithelium of GM-/- mice improved bacterial clearance to levels greater than that in wild-type GM+/+ mice. Acute aerosolization of GM-CSF to GM+/+ mice significantly enhanced clearance of GBS at 24 hours. GBS infection was associated with increased neutrophilic infiltration in lungs of GM-/- mice, while macrophage infiltrates predominated in wild-type mice, suggesting an abnormality in macrophage clearance of bacteria in the absence of GM-CSF. While phagocytosis of GBS was unaltered, production of superoxide radicals and hydrogen peroxide was markedly deficient in macrophages from GM-/- mice. Lipid peroxidation, assessed by measuring the isoprostane 8-iso-PGF2alpha, was decreased in the lungs of GM-/- mice. GM-CSF plays an important role in GBS clearance in vivo, mediated in part by its role in enhancing superoxide and hydrogen peroxide production and bacterial killing by alveolar macrophages.

The relationship of hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids and F2-isoprostanes to plaque instability in human carotid atherosclerosis

Evidence for increased oxidant stress has been reported in human atherosclerosis. However, no information is available about the importance of in situ oxidant stress in relation to plaque stability. This information is relevant because the morbidity and mortality of atherosclerosis are essentially the consequences of acute ischemic syndromes due to unstable plaques. We studied 30 carotid atherosclerotic plaques retrieved by endarterectomy from 18 asymptomatic (stable plaques) and 12 symptomatic patients (unstable plaques). Four normal arteries served as controls. After lipid extraction and ester hydrolysis, quantitation of different indices of oxidant stress were analyzed, including hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids (HETEs), epoxyeicosatetraenoic acids (EETs), ketoeicosatetraenoic acids (oxo-ETEs), and F2-isoprostanes using online reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). All measurements were carried out in a strictly double-blind procedure. We found elevated levels of the different compounds in atherosclerotic plaques. Levels of HETEs were 24 times higher than EETs, oxo-ETEs, or F2-isoprostanes. Levels of HETEs, but not those of EETs, oxo-ETEs or F2-isoprostanes, were significantly elevated in plaques retrieved from symptomatic patients compared with those retrieved from asymptomatic patients (1, 738 +/- 274 vs. 1,002 +/- 107 pmol/ micromol lipid phosphorous, respectively; P < 0.01). One monooxygenated arachidonate species, 9-HETE, which cannot be derived from known enzymatic reactions, was the most abundant and significant compound observed in plaques, suggesting that nonenzymatic lipid peroxidation predominates in advanced atherosclerosis and may promote plaque instability.

Oxidative injury induced cyclooxygenase activation in experimental hepatotoxicity

This report investigates the plasma and/or urinary levels of 8-iso-PGF2alpha, a nonenzymatic, and 15-keto-dihydro-PGF2alpha, a cyclooxygenase catalyzed oxidation product of arachidonic acid in experimental hepatotoxicity in rats. The study was undertaken to evaluate oxidative injury-induced inflammation as a consequence of cyclooxygenase induction. A significant and immediate increase of 8-iso-PGF2alpha in both plasma and urine after CCl4 administration indicates an oxidative injury during acute hepatotoxicity in rats. The inflammatory response index was determined by measuring 15-keto-dihydro-PGF2alpha levels in plasma which increased significantly 9-fold at 4 h after the administration of CCl4. The oxidative injury index, 8-iso-PGF2alpha, in both plasma and urine increased 17- and 53-fold, respectively. Six hours later the levels of 15-keto-dihydro-PGF2alpha in plasma remained high (5-fold increase) when 8-iso-PGF2alpha levels in plasma and urine elevated to 7- and 87-fold, respectively. Thus, cyclooxygenase and free radical-catalyzed oxidation of arachidonic acid are well involved during CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity. Cyclooxygenase-dependent inflammatory response through PGF2alpha formation in CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity may possibly be a secondary effect to oxidative injury and a conceivable link between inflammatory response and oxidative injury.

Identification and measurement of endogenous beta-oxidation metabolites of 8-epi-Prostaglandin F2alpha

F2-isoprostanes are prostaglandin-like compounds derived from nonenzymatic free radical-catalyzed peroxidation of arachidonic acid. 8-epi-Prostaglandin (PG) F2alpha, a major component of the F2-isoprostane family, can be conveniently measured in urine to assess noninvasively lipid peroxidation in vivo. Measurement of major metabolites of endogenous 8-epi-PGF2alpha, in addition to the parent compound, may be useful to better define its formation in vivo. 2,3-Dinor-5,6-dihydro-8-epi-PGF2alpha is the only identified metabolite of 8-epi-PGF2alpha in man, but its endogenous levels are unknown. In addition to this metabolite, we have identified another major endogenous metabolite, 2,3-dinor-8-epi-PGF2alpha, in human and rat urine. The identity of these compounds, present at the pg/ml level in urine, was proven by a number of complementary approaches, based on: (a) immunoaffinity chromatography for selective extraction; (b) gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for structural analysis; (c) in vitro metabolism in isolated rat hepatocytes; and (d) chemical synthesis of the enantiomer of 2,3-dinor-5, 6-dihydro-8-epi-PGF2alpha as a reference standard. In humans, the urinary excretion rate of both dinor metabolites is comparable with that of 8-epi-PGF2alpha. Both metabolites increase in parallel with the parent compound in cigarette smokers, and they are not reduced during cyclooxygenase inhibition. Another beta-oxidation product, 2, 3,4,5-tetranor-8-epi-PGF2alpha, was identified as a major product of rat hepatocyte metabolism. In conclusion, at least two major beta-oxidation products of 8-epi-PGF2alpha are present in urine, which may be considered as additional analytical targets to evaluate 8-epi-PGF2alpha formation and degradation in vivo.

Oxidized amino acids in the urine of aging rats: potential markers for assessing oxidative stress in vivo

Oxidative damage of proteins has been implicated in disease and aging. In vitro studies demonstrate that two unnatural amino acids, o,o'-dityrosine and o-tyrosine, are stable markers of protein oxidation. We have investigated the possibility that assaying these compounds in urine could provide a noninvasive way to determine levels of protein oxidation in vivo. Isotope dilution gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to quantify levels of o,o'-dityrosine and o-tyrosine in skeletal muscle and urine of aging rats subjected to two interventions: 1) dietary antioxidant supplementation and 2) exercise training. In both sedentary rats and exercise-trained rats, antioxidant therapy reduced levels of protein-bound o,o'-dityrosine in skeletal muscle. In contrast, antioxidant therapy or exercise training minimally affected o-tyrosine levels in this tissue. Levels of the oxidized amino acids in urine samples mirrored those of skeletal muscle proteins. Quantification of the levels of oxidized amino acids in urine may thus serve as a noninvasive measure of oxidative stress in vivo because they change in parallel with levels of protein-bound oxidized amino acids in skeletal muscle.

Inhibition of the synthesis of eicosanoid-like substances in a human oral cancer cell line by interferon-gamma and eicosapentaenoic acid

The objectives were to examine the production of eicosanoids in a Chinese human oral cancer cell line (OEC-M1) and to test the effects of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and enzyme inhibitors on this biosynthesis. The eicosanoids were identified by reverse phase-high performance liquid chromatography. Two predominant peaks appeared in the chromatograms. One compound (P-1) was identified by ultraviolet absorption at a lambda(max) of 278nm with shoulders at 272 and 284nm. The other compound (P-2) was identified by ultraviolet absorption at a lambda(max) of 284 nm with shoulders at 278 and 290 nm. The production of P- was significantly inhibited by the addition of IFN-gamma (200 and 400 U/ml), and EPA (10 to 40 microM). It was only partially inhibited (p < 0.05) by indomethacin (INDO) (0.5 and 1 microM), nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) (30 and 60 microM/ml), and eicosa-5,8,11,14-tetraynoic acid (ETYA) (20-60 microM). It was almost completely inhibited by indomethacin (2 and 3 microM), and dexamethasone (0.6 and 6 microM). The production of P-2 was almost completely inhibited by IFN-gamma (200 and 400 U/ml), and partially inhibited (p < 0.05) by EPA (10 and 20 microM), NDGA (30 and 60 microM), ETYA (20 and 40 microM), dexamethasone (0.6 and 6 microM). The production of both peaks was significantly reduced by excluding arachidonic acid (AA), and almost completely inhibited by heating at 100 degrees C for 10 min during incubation. These results demonstrate that two eicosanoid-like compounds are synthesized by the OEC-M cell line and that their production can be modulated by IFN-gamma, EPA, indomethacin, NDGA, ETYA, and dexamethasone.

Radically novel prostaglandins in animals and plants: the isoprostanes

Animal prostaglandins and plant jasmonates are well-known enzymatically formed cyclopentanoic lipids that have regulatory functions and serve as inducible mediators of host defense reactions. A novel group of prostaglandin-like compounds, the isoprostanes, generated in animals and plants by a nonenzymatic, free radical-catalyzed process, are now suspected to be mediators of oxidant injury in vivo.

Identification of free radical formation and F2-isoprostanes in vivo by acute Cr(VI) poisoning

We previously reported the detection of a carbon-centered radical adduct of alpha-(4-pyridyl 1-oxide)-N-tert-butylnitrone (POBN) in the bile of rats acutely poisoned with Cr(VI) utilizing an electron spin resonance spin-trapping technique. These former studies suggested that the free radical metabolite was derived from a polyunsaturated fatty acid. The present studies were undertaken to further characterize this radical adduct and to determine whether its formation is associated with enhanced lipid peroxidation in vivo. This report demonstrates that electron spin resonance (ESR) spectra with hyperfine coupling constants aN of 15.71 G and of 2.90 G were present in bile from Cr(VI)-poisoned rats. We found out that virtually identical ESR spectra were obtained when authentic POBN-pentyl radical adducts generated from the reaction of POBN with either pentylhydrazine or linoleic or arachidonic acid with lipoxygenase were added to bile. The hyperfine coupling constants for the POBN-pentyl radical adducts added to bile were as follows: aN = 15.85 G and = 2.60 G for the reaction between pentylhydrazine and POBN; aN = 15.72 G and = 2.61 G for the reaction between arachidonic acid, lipoxygenase, and POBN; and aN = 15.85 G and = 2. 85 G for the reaction between linoleic acid, lipoxygenase, and POBN. In addition, the formation of this radical adduct was associated with lipid peroxidation as quantified by increases in F2-isoprostane levels in bile. These studies, therefore, provide additional evidence that acute Cr(VI) poisoning is associated with enhanced generation of F2-isoprostanes in vivo and tentatively identify the radical species that is produced as the POBN-pentyl radical adduct.

In vivo effect of 8-epi-PGF2alpha on retinal circulation in diabetic and non-diabetic rats

Retinal hemodynamic responses to a F2-isoprostane, 8-epi-PGF2alpha, were quantitated in vivo in non-diabetic and diabetic rats using a video fluorescein angiography system. Vascular diameters and retinal mean circulation time were determined before and after 5 microl intra-vitreous injection of 8-epi-PGF2alpha (10(-5) to 10(-3) M), 10(-4) M 8-epi-PGF2alpha, + 10(-3) M SQ29,548 or 10(-3) M LCB2853 (two inhibitors of TXA2 receptor), 10(4) M 9beta-PGF2alpha, or the carrier in non-diabetic animals. Diabetic rats received either 8-epi-PGF2alpha 10(-4) M, or the carrier. Compared to control animals, diabetic rats presented in the basal state a venous vasodilation (P<0.01), without modification of retinal mean circulation time or blood flow. After intravitreous injection of 8-epi-PGF2alpha, a significant arterial vasoconstriction was observed in control but not in diabetic animals. This vasoconstriction was concomitant with increased retinal mean circulation time in control but not in diabetic rats, inducing an impaired reduction of blood flow. No vasoconstriction was observed after injection of either the carrier, 9beta-PGF2alpha or the isoprostane associated to the inhibitors of TXA2 receptors. This is the first direct observation that the isoprostane 8-iso-PGF2alpha is a potent vasoconstricting agent in the retina. It occurs at the arterial but not venous level, and is likely mediated through a TXA2-like receptor. Differences observed between control and diabetic animals suggest altered adaptative mechanisms toward vasoconstrictor substances (such as isoprostanes) in diabetic rats.

Purification and characterization of angiotensin I-converting enzymes from mesangial cells in culture

OBJECTIVE

Previous analysis of the angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) gene in this laboratory showed that primary mesangial cells in culture are able to express ACE mRNA. Moreover, ACE is produced as an ectoenzyme and as a secreted form of the enzyme, indicating a potential effect of local angiotensin II production on glomerular microcirculation. The aim of this study was to purify and characterize the secreted and intracellular ACE forms from mesangial cells in culture.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Medium from Wistar rats mesangial cells was collected (third passage), incubated for 20 h with RPMI without fetal bovine serum and concentrated 29 times in an Amicon concentrator. The concentrated medium was submitted to gel filtration on an AcA-34 column and two peaks (ACE1, mol. wt 130 000 and ACE2, 60000) with ACE on activity Hippuryl-His-Leu and Z-Phe-His-Leu were separated. The mesangial cells were collected and ACE enzyme was extracted using Triton X-114, followed by centrifugation and concentration. The supernatant was submitted to the same chromatography as described above and two peaks with ACE activity (ACEInt1, mol. wt 130000 and ACEInt2, 68000) were separated. The purified ACE were inhibited by enalaprilat and captopril, two potent competitive inhibitors of ACE and by EDTA, using Hippuryl-His-Leu as a substrate. The Km values were 2 mM for ACE1 and ACE2 and 3 mM for ACEInt1 and ACEInt2. The enzymes ACE1 and ACE2 presented an optimum pH of 8.0 and ACEInt1 and ACEInt2 an optimum pH of 7.5.

CONCLUSION

The activities of full-length wild-type and N-domain ACE were characterized by the ratio of the hydrolysis of Z-Phe-His-Leu/Hippuryl-His-Leu, which was 1 and 4, respectively. The ratios found for ACE1, ACE2, ACEInt1 and ACEInt2 in the present study were similar to those described above, suggesting that mesangial cells, besides showing the presence of intracellular ACE, are able to secret both full-length wild-type ACE and N-domain ACE. Thus, they may potentially have an effect, not only on bradykinin and angiotensin I (ACE wild-type), but also on substance P, luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone and Met-enkephalin to interfere with glomerular haemodynamics and with the renal microcirculation.

The chemistry and biological effects of flavonoids and phenolic acids

Flavonoids and phenolic acids are widely distributed in higher plants and form part of the human diet. Recent interest in these substances has been stimulated by the potential health benefits arising from the antioxidant activity of these polyphenolic compounds. This review outlines the basic chemistry, biosynthesis, and structure-activity relationships of these compounds with respect to their antioxidant activity. Although there is considerable in vitro evidence establishing antioxidant activity for polyphenolics found in the diet, there are few studies in humans on the absorption and bioavailability of these compounds. The possible in vivo antioxidant effects of the flavonoids is even less well understood. For example, controlled human intervention studies with beverages, such as red wine, that are rich in polyphenolic compounds, have yielded conflicting results. Our own work and that of others suggests that the final effects of such beverages may be a balance between the well-described prooxidant effects of alcohol and its metabolism and the antioxidant effects of the polyphenolic constituents. There is a need for further studies to increase our understanding of the absorption and in vivo biological effects of this family of compounds.

Oxidative injury and survival during endotoxemia

This study investigates the plasma levels of 8-iso-PGF2alpha, a non-enzymatic, and 15-K-DH-PGF2alpha, a cyclooxygenase catalyzed oxidation product of arachidonic acid in an experimental porcine endotoxemic shock model. A significant (P < 0.001) and rapid appearance and disappearance of PGF2alpha metabolite after endotoxin infusion was very similar in both non-survival and survival groups indicating an acute progression and recession of inflammation. When oxidative injury was assessed by measuring free 8-iso-PGF2alpha the levels in plasma increased significantly up to 2 h and remained at this level until death among the non-survivors. This was apparently different from the survivors where the 8-iso-PGF2alpha levels increased to its height at 1 h, then decreased to the basal levels after 5 h. Thus, free radical and cyclooxygenase catalyzed oxidation of arachidonic acid occurs during endotoxemia. Free radical dependent oxidative injury following endotoxin induced inflammation may be the major cause of organ failure and increased mortality.

Pharmacology of airway smooth muscle

Airway smooth muscle contributes to changes in airway caliber not only through the variations in its tone but also through its contribution to thickness of the airway wall. Until recently, most attention was paid to the agents that altered airway smooth muscle tone, their receptors, the signal transduction pathways they activated, and the mechanisms of contraction and relaxation themselves. Lately, the regulation of smooth muscle proliferation has received increasing attention, and, most recently, the possible role of smooth muscle as a source of inflammatory mediators has been recognized. Airway smooth muscle cells are now seen as playing an important interactive role with inflammatory and structural cells in the response to injury and repair of the airways.

8-Isoprostane as a biomarker of oxidative stress in interstitial lung diseases

Oxidative stress contributes to the pathophysiology of interstitial lung diseases, such as cryptogenic fibrosing alveolitis (CFA), fibrosing alveolitis associated with systemic sclerosis (FASSc) and sarcoidosis. F2-isoprostanes are a series of prostaglandin (PG) F2-like compounds produced in vivo independent of cyclooxygenase, as products of the radical-catalyzed lipid peroxidation. Measurement of the concentrations of F2-isoprostanes has proved to be valuable in assessing oxidative stress in vivo. The aim of this study was to measure 8-epi-PGF2alpha concentrations, one of the most abundant F2-isoprostane in humans, in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in normal subjects and to compare them to those observed in patients with CFA (n = 9), FASSc (n = 8) and sarcoidosis (n = 10). 8-epi-PGF2alpha was detectable in BAL fluid in normal subjects (9.6 +/- 0.8 pg/ml) and its concentrations were increased approximately 5-fold in patients with CFA (47.4 +/- 7.0, p < 0.001) and FASSc (43.2 +/- 3.3, p < 0. 001). 8-epi-PGF2alpha was also increased in patients with sarcoidosis, although to a lesser extent (12.0 +/- 0.70 pg/ml, p < 0. 01). No correlation between 8-epi-PGF2alpha and either lung function tests or BAL cell types was observed in any group of patients. Our study shows that the level of oxidative stress is enhanced in patients with interstitial lung diseases as reflected by increased concentrations of 8-epi-PGF2alpha in BAL fluid.

Detection of 8-epi prostaglandin F2alpha in an extract of epidermal secretion of the catfish from the Arabian Gulf

We provide herein mass spectrometric evidence for the existence of F2 isoprostanes in an epidermal secretion of the catfish from the Arabian Gulf. The compounds were extracted, purified by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and derivatized into the pentafluorobenzyl trimethylsilyl (PFB-TMSi) derivatives and quantified using SIM-negative ion gas chromatography-mass spectrometry based on the addition of tetradeuterated 8-epi PGF2alpha as internal standard prior to sample workup. Freshly collected secretions from the male catfish contained 5.63 and 4.17 ng/ml (two determinations) and from the female catfish 3.60 and 3.81 ng/ml (two determinations) of free 8-epi PGF2alpha. The level of these compounds increases approximately 8-fold upon storage of the extract at -20 degrees. In view of the potent reported actions of F2 isoprostanes on vasoconstriction and as thromboxane receptor antagonists, the presence of isoprostanes in the catfish secretions may contribute to the reported ulcer healing properties of these secretions.

Oxidants and antioxidants in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis: implications for the oxidized low density lipoprotein hypothesis

The oxidation hypothesis proposes that low density lipoprotein must be oxidatively modified to trigger the pathological events of atherosclerosis. In this article, we evaluate recent studies addressing the pathways that promote low density lipoprotein oxidation in vivo and the impact of antioxidants on atherogenesis in animals, paying particular attention to the clinical implications of these studies for the oxidation hypothesis.

Application of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry to assess in vivo synthesis of prostaglandins, thromboxane, leukotrienes, isoprostanes and related compounds in humans

Prostaglandins, thromboxane, leukotrienes, isoprostanes and other arachidonic acid metabolites are structurally closely related, potent, biologically active compounds. One of the most challenging tasks in eicosanoids research has been to define the role of the various eicosanoids in human health and disease, and to monitor the effects of drugs on the in vivo synthesis of these lipid mediators in man. Great advances in instrumentation and ionization techniques, in particular the development of tandem mass spectrometry and negative-ion chemical ionization (NICI), in gas chromatography and also advances in methodologies for solid-phase extraction and sample purification by thin-layer chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography have been made. Now gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and GC-tandem MS in the NICI mode are currently indispensable analytical tools for reliable routine quantitation of eicosanoid formation in vivo in humans. In this article analytical methods for eicosanoids based on GC-MS and GC-tandem MS are reviewed emphasizing the quantitative measurement of specific index metabolites in human urine and its importance in clinical studies in man. Aspects of method validation and quality control are also discussed.

Increased expression of heat shock protein-70 protects A549 cells against hyperoxia

Acute and chronic lung injury secondary to hyperoxia remains an important complication in critically ill patients, and, consequently, there is interest in developing strategies to protect the lung against hyperoxia. Heat shock proteins (HSPs) confer protection against a broad array of cytotoxic agents. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that increased expression of the 70-kDa HSP (HSP70) would protect cultured human respiratory epithelium against hyperoxia. Recombinant A549 cells were generated in which human HSP70 was increased by stable transfection with a plasmid containing human HSP70 cDNA under control of the cytomegalovirus promoter (A549-HSP70 cells). A549-HSP70 cells exposed to hyperoxia had greater acute survival rates and clonogenic capacity compared with wild-type A549 cells and with control cells stably transfected with the empty expression plasmid. Hyperoxia-mediated lipid peroxidation and ATP depletion were also attenuated in A549-HSP70 cells exposed to hyperoxia. Increased expression of HSP70 did not detectably alter mRNA levels of the intracellular antioxidants manganese superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. Collectively, these data demonstrate a specific in vitro protective role for HSP70 against hyperoxia and suggest that potential mechanisms of protection involve attenuation of hyperoxia-mediated lipid peroxidation and ATP depletion.

Investigation of oxidant stress and vasodepression to glyceryl trinitrate in the obese Zucker rat in vivo

1. We examined the relationship between oxidant stress and the vasodepressor activity of glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) in vivo, including rapid GTN tolerance development, in 13-week old obese and age-matched lean Zucker rats which had been maintained for 4 weeks on either control diet or diets enriched with the lipophilic, chain-breaking antioxidants vitamin E (0.5% w w(-1)) or probucol (0.5% w w(-1)) or the superoxide anion scavenger tiron (1% w v(-1) in drinking water). 2. The basal plasma level of the isoprostane 8-epi-PGF2alpha, an in vivo marker of lipid peroxidation, was elevated by approximately 5 fold in the obese Zucker rat and markedly reduced by dietary lipophilic antioxidants and depressed by dietary tiron. 3. Vasodepression to bolus does GTN (0.1-100 microg kg(-1) i.v.), but not endothelium-dependent vasodepression to bolus dose acetylcholine (ACh, 0.02-2.0 microg kg(-1) i.v.), was impaired in obese animals and completely restored by dietary antioxidants. 4. Nitrate tolerance developed in vivo during a I h infusion of GTN (40 microg kg(-1) min(-1) i.v.) appeared more severe in obese animals. However, rapid nitrate tolerance was not affected by dietary antioxidants in either the obese or lean Zucker rat. 5. We therefore provide evidence that elevated oxidant stress in the obese Zucker rat is associated with an impairment in nitrate vasodepressor activity. However, our data are not consistent with either a role for oxidant stress in rapid nitrate tolerance development in the anaesthetized Zucker rat or the aggravation of this tolerance by pre-existing oxidant stress.

Specific and rapid quantification of 8-iso-prostaglandin F2alpha in urine of healthy humans and patients with Zellweger syndrome by gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

8-iso-Prostaglandin F2alpha (8-iso-PGF2alpha) is currently discussed as a potential index parameter of oxidative stress in vivo. We describe in this article a fully validated gas chromatographic-tandem mass spectrometric method for the quantitative determination of 8-iso-PGF2alpha in human urine. The method is highly specific and requires a single thin-layer chromatographic step for sample purification. Inter- and intraday imprecision were below 8%. Mean inaccuracy was 5.3% for added levels of 8-iso-PGF2alpha up to 2000 pg/ml of urine. We measured highly elevated excretion of 8-iso-PGF2alpha in the urine of children with peroxisomal beta-oxidation deficiency, i.e. Zellweger syndrome, (63.3+/-16.6 ng/mg creatinine) compared to that of healthy children (0.51+/-0.16 ng/mg creatinine) (mean+/-S.D., both n=5). The method could be useful for diagnosing Zellweger syndrome and for investigating the utility of 8-iso-PGF2alpha as a novel marker for oxidative stress in vivo in man.