Glutathione promotes prostaglandin H synthase (cyclooxygenase)-dependent formation of malondialdehyde and 15(S)-8-iso-prostaglandin F2α

Glutathione metabolism in ferroptosis and cancer therapy

Glutathione (GSH), a non-enzymatic antioxidant in mammalian cells, plays an essential role in maintaining redox balance, mitigating oxidative stress, and preserving cellular homeostasis. Beyond its well-established function in detoxifying reactive oxygen species (ROS), GSH serves as a critical regulator of ferroptosis-an iron-dependent form of cell death marked by excessive lipid peroxidation. Serving as a cofactor for glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), GSH catalyzes the conversion of lipid peroxides into non-toxic lipid alcohols, thereby preventing the accumulation of deleterious lipid oxidation products and halting the spread of oxidative damage. In cancer cells, upregulated GSH synthesis and GPX4 activity contribute to an enhanced antioxidant defense, countering oxidative stress provoked by increased metabolic demands and exposure to therapeutic agents such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. This ability of cancer cells to modulate their ferroptosis susceptibility through GSH metabolism underscores its potential as a therapeutic target. Additionally, GSH influences several key oncogenic and tumor-suppressive signaling pathways, including NFE2L2/NRF2, TP53/p53, NF-κB, Hippo, and mTOR, which collectively regulate responses to oxidative stress, affect metabolic processes, and modulate sensitivity to ferroptosis in cancer cells. This review explores recent advancements in understanding GSH's multifaceted role in ferroptosis, emphasizing its implications for cancer biology and therapeutic interventions.

Cord blood metabolomic profiling in high risk newborns born to diabetic, obese, and overweight mothers: preliminary report

OBJECTIVES

Newborns of diabetic and obese/overweight mothers face long-term metabolic risks. Untargeted cord blood metabolomic analysis using quadrupole time-of-flight liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (Q-TOF LC/MS) was performed to explore metabolic alterations and pathways in these high-risk infants.

METHODS

Cord blood samples were collected from 46 newborns born to mothers with gestational diabetes (10), obesity (14), overweight (18), type 2 diabetes mellitus (3), type 1 diabetes mellitus (1), and 20 newborns born to healthy mothers. Q-TOF LC/MS was used to investigate the alterations in cord blood metabolomic profiles. Data processing was conducted using MZmine 2.53. Putative metabolites were idendtified using MetaboAnalyst 6.0.

RESULTS

Distinct metabolite profiles were observed between diabetes and control groups. Significant identical trend in 19 metabolites were determined in both diabetes and obesity + overweight group vs. control group. Key pathways included steroid and bile acid biosynthesis. Upregulated oxidative stress, clues to sphingophospholipid metabolism, high levels of dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), pantothenic acid, and TRH were detected. The kynurenine pathway was prominent in the diabetes group.

CONCLUSIONS

Estrogen metabolites from the 16- and 2-pathways may indicate metabolic risk, with increased downstream flux under diabetic conditions. Accelerated bile acid synthesis may alter fetal metabolic programming, since bile acids play crucial roles in cellular energy regulation and signaling. Elevated pantothenic acid, essential for the production of coenzyme-A, suggests significant alterations in carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism. High serum DGLA levels emerge as a potential biomarker for metabolic abnormalities. Increased plasma kynurenines could predict cardiovascular risks. Larger targeted studies are required to validate these metabolic profiles and pathways.

Advance in aldehydes derived from lipid oxidation: A review of the formation mechanism, attributable food thermal processing technology, analytical method and toxicological effect

The aldehydes derived from lipid oxidation are highly active electrophilic compounds including saturated aldehydes, dialdehydes, olefin aldehydes and hydroxyl aldehydes. The active groups like carbonyls, C=C bond, and hydroxyl groups make them prone to participate in chemical reactions with protein, phospholipids, which can further affect food properties. In addition, aldehydes can attack the nucleic acids and thiol group of endogenous antioxidants, result in oxidative stress and biological damage of cells, which usually serve as the direct trigger of various diseases. However, their structure-activity relationship has not received enough attention. Therefore, to provide a comprehensive understanding of reactive aldehydes on food safety and human health, the formation mechanism of aldehydes, attributable fundamental thermal processing, analytical methods, and toxicological effects based on the structure-activity relationship, have been reviewed and discussed. It was indicated that aldehydes generation exerted significant specificity of fatty acids substrate. Significant structure-activity relationships for the toxicological effects of aldehydes could be observed. Effective, accurate and eco-friendly detection techniques should be established based on the inherent advantages and limitations for food quality preservation and safety assurance.

Anti-inflammatory effect of Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil (Griseb.) Altschul in experimental elastase-induced pulmonary emphysema in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Medicinal plants have shown promise in the search for new treatments of pulmonary emphysema. Anadenanthera colubrina, a species native to the Caatinga biome in northeastern Brazil, is widely recognized and traditionally employed in the treatment of pulmonary diseases. Many studies corroborate popular knowledge about the medicinal applications of A. colubrina, which has demonstrated a remarkable variety of pharmacological properties, however, its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are highlighted.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objective of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory potential of the crude hydroethanolic extract of A. colubrina var. cebil (Griseb.) Altschul on pulmonary emphysema in rats as well as to determine its potential genotoxic and cytotoxic effects using the micronucleus assay.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The stem bark of the plant was collected in Pimenteiras-PI and sample was extracted by maceration using 70% ethanol. A portion of the extract underwent phytochemical analyses using TLC and HPLC. In this study, 8-week-old, male Wistar rats weighing approximately ±200 g was utilized following approval by local ethics committee for animal experimentation (No. 718/2022). Pulmonary emphysema was induced through orotracheal instillation of elastase, and treatment with A. colubrina extract or dexamethasone (positive control) concomitantly during induction. Twenty-eight days after the initiation of the protocol, plasma was used for cytokine measurement. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was used for leukocyte count. After euthanasia, lung samples were processed for histological analysis and quantification of oxidative stress markers. The micronucleus test was performed by evaluating the number of polychromatic erythrocytes (PCE) with micronuclei (MNPCE) to verify potential genotoxic effects of A. colubrina. A differential count of PCE and normochromatic erythrocytes (NCE) was performed to verify the potential cytotoxicity of the extract. Parametric data were subjected to normality analysis and subsequently to analysis of variance and Tukey or Dunnett post-test, non-parametric data were treated using the Kruskal-Wallis test with Dunn's post-test for unpaired samples. P value < 0.05 were considered significant.

RESULTS

The A. colubrina extract did not show a significant increase in the number of MNPCE (p > 0.05), demonstrating low genotoxicity. No changes were observed in the PCE/NCE ratio of treated animals, compared with the vehicle, suggesting low cytotoxic potential of the extract. A significant reduction (p < 0.05) in neutrophilic inflammation was observed in the lungs of rats treated with the extract, evidenced by presence of these cells in both the tissue and BAL. The extract also demonstrated pulmonary antioxidant activity, with a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in myeloperoxidase, malondialdehyde, and nitrite levels. TNFα, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels, as well as alveolar damage, were significantly reduced in animals treated with A. colubrina extract. Phytochemical analyses identified the presence of phenolic compounds and hydrolysable tannins in the A. colubrina extract.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study highlights the safety of the hydroethanolic extract of Anadenanthera colubrina, and demonstrates its potential as a therapeutic approach in the treatment of emphysema. The observed properties of this medicinal plant provide an optimistic outlook in the development of therapies for the treatment of pulmonary emphysema.

GC-MS and GC-MS/MS measurement of malondialdehyde (MDA) in clinical studies: Pre-analytical and clinical considerations

Malondialdehyde (MDA; 1,3-propanedial, OHC-CH2-CHO) is one of the most frequently measured biomarkers of oxidative stress in plasma and serum. L-Arginine (Arg) is the substrate of nitric oxide synthases (NOS), which convert L-arginine to nitric oxide (NO) and L-citrulline. The Arg/NO pathway comprises several members, including the endogenous NOS-activity inhibitor asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and its major metabolite dimethyl amine (DMA), and nitrite and nitrate, the major NO metabolites. Reliable measurement of MDA and members of the Arg/NO pathway in plasma, serum, urine and in other biological samples, such as saliva and cerebrospinal fluid, is highly challenging both for analytical and pre-analytical reasons. In our group, we use validated gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) methods for the quantitative determination in clinical studies of MDA as a biomarker of oxidative stress, and various Arg/NO metabolites that describe the status of this pathway. Here, the importance of pre-analytical issues, which has emerged from the use of GC-MS and GC-MS/MS in clinico-pharmacological studies, is discussed. Paradigmatically, two studies on the long-term oral administration of L-arginine dihydrochloride to patients suffering from peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) or coronary artery disease (CAD) were considered. Pre-analytical issues that were addressed include blood sampling, plasma or serum storage, study design (notably in long-term studies), and the alternative of measuring MDA in human urine.

Circulating and Urinary Concentrations of Malondialdehyde in Aging Humans in Health and Disease: Review and Discussion

(1) Background: Malondialdehyde (MDA) is a major and stable product of oxidative stress. MDA circulates in the blood and is excreted in the urine in its free and conjugated forms, notably with L-lysine and L-serine. MDA is the most frequently measured biomarker of oxidative stress, namely lipid peroxidation. Oxidative stress is generally assumed to be associated with disease and to increase with age. Here, we review and discuss the literature concerning circulating and excretory MDA as a biomarker of lipid peroxidation in aging subjects with regard to health and disease, such as kidney disease, erectile dysfunction, and COVID-19. (2) Methods: Scientific articles, notably those reporting on circulating (plasma, serum) and urinary MDA, which concern health and disease, and which appeared in PubMed were considered; they formed the basis for evaluating the potential increase in oxidative stress, particularly lipid peroxidation, as humans age. (3) Results and Conclusions: The results reported in the literature thus far are contradictory. The articles considered in the present study are not supportive of the general view that oxidative stress increases with aging. Many functions of several organs, including the filtration efficiency of the kidneys, are physiologically reduced in men and women as they age. This effect is likely to result in the apparent "accumulation" of biomarkers of oxidative stress, concomitantly with the "accumulation" of biomarkers of an organ's function, such as creatinine. How free and conjugated MDA forms are transported in various organs (including the brain) and how they are excreted in the urine via the kidney is not known, and investigating these questions should be the objective of forthcoming studies. The age- and gender-related increase in circulating creatinine might be a useful factor to be taken into consideration when investigating oxidative stress and aging.

Role of Oxidative Stress in the Pathogenesis of Atherothrombotic Diseases

Oxidative stress is generated by the imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and antioxidant scavenger system’s activity. Increased ROS, such as superoxide anion, hydrogen peroxide, hydroxyl radical and peroxynitrite, likely contribute to the development and complications of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD). In genetically modified mouse models of atherosclerosis, the overexpression of ROS-generating enzymes and uncontrolled ROS formation appear to be associated with accelerated atherosclerosis. Conversely, the overexpression of ROS scavenger systems reduces or stabilizes atherosclerotic lesions, depending on the genetic background of the mouse model. In humans, higher levels of circulating biomarkers derived from the oxidation of lipids (8-epi-prostaglandin F_2α, and malondialdehyde), as well as proteins (oxidized low-density lipoprotein, nitrotyrosine, protein carbonyls, advanced glycation end-products), are increased in conditions of high cardiovascular risk or overt ASCVD, and some oxidation biomarkers have been reported as independent predictors of ASCVD in large observational cohorts. In animal models, antioxidant supplementation with melatonin, resveratrol, Vitamin E, stevioside, acacetin and n-polyunsaturated fatty acids reduced ROS and attenuated atherosclerotic lesions. However, in humans, evidence from large, placebo-controlled, randomized trials or prospective studies failed to show any athero-protective effect of antioxidant supplementation with different compounds in different CV settings. However, the chronic consumption of diets known to be rich in antioxidant compounds (e.g., Mediterranean and high-fish diet), has shown to reduce ASCVD over decades. Future studies are needed to fill the gap between the data and targets derived from studies in animals and their pathogenetic and therapeutic significance in human ASCVD.

N-Acetyl-L-cysteine in human rheumatoid arthritis and its effects on nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA): analytical and clinical considerations

N-Acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) is an endogenous cysteine metabolite. The drug is widely used in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and as antidote in acetaminophen (paracetamol) intoxication. Currently, the utility of NAC is investigated in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which is generally considered associated with inflammation and oxidative stress. Besides clinical laboratory parameters, the effects of NAC are evaluated by measuring in plasma or serum nitrite, nitrate or their sum (NOx) as measures of nitric oxide (NO) synthesis. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and relatives such as 4-hydroxy-nonenal and 15(S)-8-iso-prostaglandin F_2α serve as measures of oxidative stress, notably lipid peroxidation. In this work, we review recent clinico-pharmacological studies on NAC in rheumatoid arthritis. We discuss analytical, pre-analytical and clinical issues and their potential impact on the studies outcome. Major issues include analytical inaccuracy due to interfering endogenous substances and artefactual formation of MDA and relatives during storage in long-term studies. Differences in the placebo and NAC groups at baseline with respect to these biomarkers are also a serious concern. Modern applied sciences are based on data generated using commercially available instrumental physico-chemical and immunological technologies and assays. The publication process of scientific work rarely undergoes rigorous peer review of the analytical approaches used in the study in terms of accuracy/trueness. There is pressing need of considering previously reported reference concentration ranges and intervals as well as specific critical issues such as artefactual formation of particular biomarkers during sample storage. The latter especially applies to surrogate biomarkers of oxidative stress, notably MDA and relatives. Reported data on NO, MDA and clinical parameters, including C-reactive protein, interleukins and tumour necrosis factor α, are contradictory in the literature. Furthermore, reported studies do not allow any valid conclusion about utility of NAC in RA. Administration of NAC patients with rheumatoid arthritis is not recommended in current European and American guidelines.

Influencing factors of carbonyl compounds and other VOCs in commercial airliner cabins: On-board investigation of 56 flights

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as a non-negligible aircraft cabin air quality (CAQ) factor influence the health and comfort of passengers and crew members. On-board measurements of carbonyls (short-chain (C₁ -C₆ )) and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs, long-chain (C₆ -C₁₆ )) with a total of 350 samples were conducted in 56 commercial airliner cabins covering 8 aircraft models in this study. The mean concentration for each individual carbonyl compound was between 0.3 and 8.3 μg/m³ (except for acrolein & acetone, average = 20.7 μg/m³ ) similar to the mean concentrations of other highly detected VOCs (long-chain (C₆ -C₁₆ ), 97% of which ranged in 0-10 μg/m³ ) in aircraft cabins. Formaldehyde concentrations in flights were significantly lower than in residential buildings, where construction materials are known formaldehyde sources. Acetone is a VOC emitted by humans, and its concentration in flights was similar to that in other high-occupant density transportation vehicles. The variation of VOC concentrations in different flight phases of long-haul flights was the same as that of CO₂ concentration except for the meal phase, which indicates the importance of cabin ventilation in diluting the gaseous contaminants, while the sustained and slow growth of the VOC concentrations during the cruising phase in short-haul flights indicated that the ventilation could not adequately dilute the emission of VOCs. For the different categories of VOCs, the mean concentration during the cruising phase of benzene series, aldehydes, alkanes, other VOCs (detection rate > 50%), and carbonyls in long-haul flights was 44.2 µg/m³ , 17.9 µg/m³ , 18.6 µg/m³ , 31.5 µg/m³ , and 20.4 µg/m³  lower than those in short-haul flights, respectively. Carbonyls and d-limonene showed a significant correlation with meal service (p < 0.05). Unlike the newly decorated rooms or new vehicles, the inner materials were not the major emission sources in aircraft cabins. Practical Implications. The on-board measurements of 56 flights enrich the VOC database of cabin environment, especially for carbonyls. The literature review of carbonyls in the past 20 years contributes to the understanding the current status of cabin air quality (CAQ). The analysis of VOC concentration variation for different flight phases, flight duration, and aircraft age lays a foundation for exploring effective control methods, including ventilation and purification for cabin VOC pollution. The enriched VOC data is helpful to explore the key VOCs of aircraft cabin environment and to evaluate the acute/chronic health exposure risk of pollutants for passengers and crew members.

Lipid Peroxidation and Antioxidant Supplementation in Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Review of Human Studies

Being characterized by progressive and severe damage in neuronal cells, neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are the major cause of disability and morbidity in the elderly, imposing a significant economic and social burden. As major components of the central nervous system, lipids play important roles in neural health and pathology. Disturbed lipid metabolism, particularly lipid peroxidation (LPO), is associated with the development of many NDDs, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), all of which show elevated levels of LPO products and LPO-modified proteins. Thus, the inhibition of neuronal oxidation might slow the progression and reduce the severity of NDD; natural antioxidants, such as polyphenols and antioxidant vitamins, seem to be the most promising agents. Here, we summarize current literature data that were derived from human studies on the effect of natural polyphenols and vitamins A, C, and E supplementation in patients with AD, PD, and ALS. Although these compounds may reduce the severity and slow the progression of NDD, research gaps remain in antioxidants supplementation in AD, PD, and ALS patients, which indicates that further human studies applying antioxidant supplementation in different forms of NDDs are urgently needed.

Determination of levels of oxidative stress and nitrosative stress in patients with epilepsy

BACKGROUND

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological diseases. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms in epilepsy are still unknown. Oxidative stress is believed to be one of the factors involved in the pathogenesis of epileptogenesis. In various pathophysiological conditions, reactive nitrogen species (RNS) such as nitrogen and peroxynitrite are produced and these RNSs can bind to free nucleosides and nucleotides or to nucleosides and nucleotides existing in the DNA/RNA structure. 8-Nitroguanine (8-NG) is a typical DNA nucleobase product of nitrosative damage generated by RNS. It has been proposed that F2-isoprostanes, in particular 8-iso-Prostaglandin F2α (8-isoPGF2α), are specific, reliable and non-invasive biomarkers of lipid peroxidation in vivo. In the present study, we compared the levels of lipid oxidative stress biomarker 8-isoPGF2α and nitrosative stress DNA biomarker 8-NG in patients with epilepsy undergoing antiepileptic drug (AEDs) treatment and with those in healthy participants.

METHODS

The present study comprised 90 patients aged between 17 and 53 who were admitted to the Neurology Clinic of Cumhuriyet University and diagnosed with epilepsy. The patients were assigned into the intervention (n = 45) and control (n = 45) groups. Of the participants in the intervention group, 37.7% (n = 17) were treated with levetiracetam (LEV), 33.3% (n = 15) with valproic acid (VA) and 29% (n = 13) with carbamazepine. Serum 8-iso-PGF2α and 8-NG levels of the participants in the intervention and control groups were determined by ELISA.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between the medication (LEV, VA, Carbamazepine) used by the participants and their 8-iso-PGF2α and 8-NG levels (p > 0.05). However, 8-iso-PGF2α and 8-NG were significantly higher in the participants in the intervention than in the participants in the control group (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated that there was an increase in oxidative and nitrosative stres markers in patients with epilepsy. There was no significant difference between the 8-iso-PGF2α and 8-NG levels of the participants taking three different AEDs.

Conventional and innovative methods to assess oxidative stress biomarkers in the clinical cardiovascular setting

Oxidative stress has a pivotal and widely described role in the onset and progression of atherosclerotic plaque and cardiovascular disease. Many oxidative stress-related biomarkers can be measured in biological samples; however, there are still many aspects that limit the adoption of oxidative stress assessment in clinical laboratory practice. Here, we report an overview of the different sources and main common oxidative stress biomarkers relevant for cardiovascular physiopathology, describing in detail a recently proposed lipidomic assay for ceramide assessment, as a promising future development in oxidative stress evaluation among the many available redox-related tests.

An Activity-Based Sensing Approach for the Detection of Cyclooxygenase-2 in Live Cells

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) overexpression is prominent in inflammatory diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. Directly monitoring COX-2 activity within its native environment poses an exciting approach to account for and illuminate the effect of the local environments on protein activity. Herein, we report the development of CoxFluor, the first activity-based sensing approach for monitoring COX-2 within live cells with confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. CoxFluor strategically links a natural substrate with a dye precursor to engage both the cyclooxygenase and peroxidase activities of COX-2. This catalyzes the release of resorufin and the natural product, as supported by molecular dynamics and ensemble docking. CoxFluor enabled the detection of oxygen-dependent changes in COX-2 activity that are independent of protein expression within live macrophage cells.

Carotenoids and Markers of Oxidative Stress in Human Observational Studies and Intervention Trials: Implications for Chronic Diseases

Carotenoids include C30, C40 and C50 terpenoid-based molecules, many of which constitute coloured pigments. However, >1100 of these are known to occur in nature and only about a dozen are known to play a role in our daily diet. Carotenoids have received much attention due to their proposed health benefits, including reducing the incidence of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Many of these diseases are characterized by chronic inflammation co-occurring with oxidative stress, characterized by, for example, enhanced plasma F2-isoprostane concentrations, malondialdehyde, and 8-hydroxyguanosine. Though carotenoids can act as direct antioxidants, quenching, for example, singlet oxygen and peroxide radicals, an important biological function appears to rest also in the activation of the body's own antioxidant defence system, related to superoxide-dismutase, catalase, and glutathione-peroxidase expression, likely due to the interaction with transcription factors, such as nuclear-factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2). Though mostly based on small-scale and observational studies which do not allow for drawing conclusions regarding causality, several supplementation trials with isolated carotenoids or food items suggest positive health effects. However, negative effects have also been reported, especially regarding beta-carotene for smokers. This review is aimed at summarizing the results from human observational studies/intervention trials targeting carotenoids in relation to chronic diseases characterized by oxidative stress and markers thereof.

Measurement and Clinical Significance of Lipid Peroxidation as a Biomarker of Oxidative Stress: Oxidative Stress in Diabetes, Atherosclerosis, and Chronic Inflammation

Endothelial dysfunction is one of the initial steps in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and development of cardiovascular disease in patients with diabetes mellitus. Several risk factors are associated with endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis, such as hypertension, dyslipidaemia, inflammation, oxidative stress, and advanced glycation-end products. Among these risk factors, oxidative stress is the largest contributor to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. Measurement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is still difficult, and assays for the measurement of ROS have failed to show a consistent correlation between pathological states and oxidative stress. To solve this problem, this review summarizes the current knowledge on biomarkers of oxidative stress, especially lipid peroxidation, and discusses the roles of oxidative stress, as measured by indices of lipid peroxidation, in diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, and chronic inflammation.

Kolaviron attenuates diclofenac-induced nephrotoxicity in male Wistar rats

The beneficial effects of kolaviron, a natural biflavonoid from the seeds of Garcinia kola, have been attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. This study was designed to investigate the renoprotective effect of kolaviron in rat model of diclofenac (DFC)-induced acute renal failure. Thirty-five male Wistar rats were divided into 7 groups of 5 rats each as follows: a control group that received propylene glycol orally and treatment groups that received DFC, DFC recovery, DFC followed by kolaviron at 3 different doses, and kolaviron only. DFC-treated rats showed sluggishness, illness, and anorexia. Their urine contained appreciable protein, glucose, and ketone bodies. Histopathological examination of their kidneys revealed profound acute tubular necrosis. DFC treatment significantly increased levels of plasma creatinine, urea, sodium, chloride, potassium ions, and increased renal tissue activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, levels of malondialdehyde, and hydrogen peroxide. Fractional excretion of sodium and potassium and renal tissue levels of reduced glutathione and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) decreased significantly in DFC-treated groups. However, kolaviron administration significantly reduced the toxic effect of DFC on PGE2 release; plasma levels of creatinine, urea, glucose, and electrolytes; and significantly attenuated renal tubular and oxidative damages. Furthermore, the effects of DFC administration on food consumption, water intake, urine output and urine protein, glucose, ketone bodies, and electrolytes were significantly attenuated in animals treated with kolaviron. The results suggested that kolaviron ameliorated DFC-induced kidney injury in Wistar rats by decreasing renal oxidative damage and restoration of renal PGE2 release back to the basal levels.

Strategies to decrease oxidative stress biomarker levels in human medical conditions: A meta-analysis on 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α

The widespread detection of elevated oxidative stress levels in many medical conditions has led to numerous efforts to design interventions to reduce its effects. Efforts have been wide-ranging, from dietary changes to administration of antioxidants, supplements, e.g., omega-3-fatty acids, and many medications. However, there is still no systemic assessment of the efficacy of treatments for oxidative stress reduction across a variety of medical conditions. The goal of this meta-analysis is, by combining multiple studies, to quantitate the change in the levels of the popular oxidative stress biomarker 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α (8-iso-PGF2α) after a variety of treatment strategies in human populations. Nearly 350 unique publications with 180 distinct strategies were included in the analysis. For each strategy, the difference between pre- or placebo and post-treatment levels calculated using Hedges' g value of effect. In general, administration of antibiotics, antihyperlipidemic agents, or changes in lifestyle (g = - 0.63, - 0.54, and 0.56) had the largest effect. Administration of supplements, antioxidants, or changes in diet (g = - 0.09, - 0.28, - 0.12) had small quantitative effects. To fully interpret the effectiveness of these treatments, comparisons to the increase in g value for each medical condition is required. For example, antioxidants in populations with coronary artery disease (CAD) reduce the 8-iso-PGF2α levels by g = - 0.34 ± 0.1, which is quantitatively considered a small effect. However, CAD populations, in comparison to healthy populations, have an increase in 8-iso-PGF2α levels by g = 0.38 ± 0.04; therefore, the overall reduction of 8-iso-PGF2α levels is ≈ 90% by this treatment in this specific medical condition. In conclusion, 8-iso-PGF2α levels can be reduced not only by antioxidants but by many other strategies. Not all strategies are equally effective at reducing 8-iso-PGF2α levels. In addition, the effectiveness of any strategy can be assessed only in relation to the medical condition investigated.

Elevated plasma 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α levels in human smokers originate primarily from enzymatic instead of non-enzymatic lipid peroxidation

It is widely accepted that free radicals in tobacco smoke lead to oxidative stress and generate the popular lipid peroxidation biomarker 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α (8-iso-PGF2α). However, 8-iso-PGF2α can simultaneously be produced in vivo by the prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthases (PGHS) induced by inflammation. This inflammation-dependent mechanism has never been considered as a source of elevated 8-iso-PGF2α in tobacco smokers. The goal of this study is to quantify the distribution of chemical- and PGHS-dependent 8-iso-PGF2α formation in the plasma of tobacco smokers and non-smokers. The influences of gender and hormonal contraceptive use were accounted for. The distribution was determined by measuring the 8-iso-PGF2α/prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) ratio. When comparing smokers (n = 28) against non-smokers (n = 30), there was a statistically significant increase in the 8-iso-PGF2α concentration. The source of this increased 8-iso-PGF2α was primarily from PGHS. When stratifying for gender, the increase in 8-iso-PGF2α in male smokers (n = 9) was primarily from PGHS. Interestingly, female smokers on hormonal contraceptives had increased 8-iso-PGF2α in both pathways, whereas those not on hormonal contraceptives did not have increased 8-iso-PGF2α. In conclusion, increased plasma 8-iso-PGF2α in tobacco smokers has complex origins, with PGHS-dependent formation as the primary source. Accounting for both pathways provides a definitive measurement of both oxidative stress and inflammation.

Isoprostanes as markers for muscle aging in older athletes

Introduction

Production of isoprostanes (IsoPs) is enhanced after acute, intense, and prolonged exercise, in untrained subjects. This effect is greater in older subjects. The present study aims to delineate the profile of acute-exercise-induced IsoPs levels in young and older endurance-trained subjects.

Methods

All included subjects were male, young (n = 6; 29 yrs ± 5.7) or older (n = 6; 63.7 yrs ± 2.3), and competitors. The kinetics of F₂-IsoPs in blood-sera was assessed at rest, for the maximal aerobic exercise power (MAP) corresponding to the cardio-respiratory fitness index and after a 30-min recovery period.

Results

No significant time effect on F₂-IsoPs kinetics was identified in young subjects. However, in older athletes, F₂-IsoPs blood-concentrations at the MAP were higher than at rest, whereas these blood-concentrations did not differ between rest and after the 30-min recovery period.

Conclusion

Because plasma glutathione (GSH) promotes the formation of some F₂-IsoPs, we suggest that the surprising decrease in F₂-IsoPs levels in older subjects would be caused by decreased GSH under major ROS production in older subjects. We argue that the assessment F₂-IsoPs in plasma as biomarkers of the aging process should be challenged by exercise to improve the assessment of the functional response against reactive oxygen species in older subjects.

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Acute exercise promotes an increase in F₂-IsoPs plasma level in older athletes.

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The F₂-IsoPs plasma level significantly decreased after recovery in older athletes.

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This kinetic of F₂-IsoPs could reflect a decrease of glutathione (GSH).

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Oxidative stress status determination should be challenged by exercise.

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Assessment of F₂-IsoPs plasma level should be paired to GSH assessment.

Cross-validated stable-isotope dilution GC-MS and LC-MS/MS assays for monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) activity by measuring arachidonic acid released from the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoyl glycerol

2-Arachidonoyl glycerol (2AG) is an endocannabinoid that activates cannabinoid (CB) receptors CB1 and CB2. Monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) inactivates 2AG through hydrolysis to arachidonic acid (AA) and glycerol, thus modulating the activity at CB receptors. In the brain, AA released from 2AG by the action of MAGL serves as a substrate for cyclooxygenases which produce pro-inflammatory prostaglandins. Here we report stable-isotope GC-MS and LC-MS/MS assays for the reliable measurement of MAGL activity. The assays utilize deuterium-labeled 2AG (d₈-2AG; 10μM) as the MAGL substrate and measure deuterium-labeled AA (d₈-AA; range 0-1μM) as the MAGL product. Unlabelled AA (d₀-AA, 1μM) serves as the internal standard. d₈-AA and d₀-AA are extracted from the aqueous buffered incubation mixtures by ethyl acetate. Upon solvent evaporation the residue is reconstituted in the mobile phase prior to LC-MS/MS analysis or in anhydrous acetonitrile for GC-MS analysis. LC-MS/MS analysis is performed in the negative electrospray ionization mode by selected-reaction monitoring the mass transitions [M-H]^-→[M-H - CO₂]^-, i.e., m/z 311→m/z 267 for d₈-AA and m/z 303→m/z 259 for d₀-AA. Prior to GC-MS analysis d₈-AA and d₀-AA were converted to their pentafluorobenzyl (PFB) esters by means of PFB-Br. GC-MS analysis is performed in the electron-capture negative-ion chemical ionization mode by selected-ion monitoring the ions [M-PFB]^-, i.e., m/z 311 for d₈-AA and m/z 303 for d₀-AA. The GC-MS and LC-MS/MS assays were cross-validated. Linear regression analysis between the concentration (range, 0-1μM) of d₈-AA measured by LC-MS/MS (y) and that by GC-MS (x) revealed a straight line (r²=0.9848) with the regression equation y=0.003+0.898x, indicating a good agreement. In dog liver, we detected MAGL activity that was inhibitable by the MAGL inhibitor JZL-184. Exogenous eicosatetraynoic acid is suitable as internal standard for the quantitative determination of d₈-AA produced from d₈-2AG by hepatic MAGL activity. The formation of d₈-prostaglandin E₂ by the consecutive catalytic action of recombinant MAGL on d₈-2AG and recombinant cyclooxygenase-2 (COX) on d₈-AA was demonstrated by GC-MS/MS.

Protein lipid modifications--More than just a greasy ballast

Covalent lipid modifications of proteins are crucial for regulation of cellular plasticity, since they affect the chemical and physical properties and therefore protein activity, localization, and stability. Most recently, lipid modifications on proteins are increasingly attracting important regulatory entities in diverse signaling events and diseases. In all cases, the lipid moiety of modified proteins is essential to allow water-soluble proteins to strongly interact with membranes or to induce structural changes in proteins that are critical for elemental processes such as respiration, transport, signal transduction, and motility. Until now, roughly about ten lipid modifications on different amino acid residues are described at the UniProtKB database and even well-known modifications are underrepresented. Thus, it is of fundamental importance to develop a better understanding of this emerging and so far under-investigated type of protein modification. Therefore, this review aims to give a comprehensive and detailed overview about enzymatic and nonenzymatic lipidation events, will report their role in cellular biology, discuss their relevancy for diseases, and describe so far available bioanalytical strategies to analyze this highly challenging type of modification.

Assessment of lipid peroxidation by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA) and relatives in biological samples: Analytical and biological challenges

Malondialdehyde (MDA), 4-hydroxy-nonenal (HNE) and the F₂-isoprostane 15(S)-8-iso-prostaglandin F_2α (15(S)-8-iso-PGF_2α) are the best investigated products of lipid peroxidation. MDA, HNE and 15(S)-8-iso-PGF_2α are produced from polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) both by chemical reactions and by reactions catalyzed by enzymes. 15(S)-8-iso-PGF_2α and other F₂-isoprostanes are derived exclusively from arachidonic acid (AA). The number of PUFAs that may contribute to MDA and HNE is much higher. MDA is the prototype of the so called thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). MDA, HNE and 15(S)-8-iso-PGF_2α are the most frequently measured biomarkers of oxidative stress, namely of lipid peroxidation. In many diseases, higher concentrations of MDA, HNE and 15(S)-8-iso-PGF_2α are measured in biological samples as compared to health. Therefore, elevated oxidative stress is generally regarded as a pathological condition. Decreasing the concentration of biomarkers of oxidative stress by changing life style, by nutritional intake of antioxidants or by means of drugs is generally believed to be beneficial to health. Reliable assessment of oxidative stress by measuring MDA, HNE and 15(S)-8-iso-PGF_2α in biological fluids is highly challenging for two important reasons: Because of the duality of oxidative stress, i.e., its origin from chemical and enzymatic reactions, and because of pre-analytical and analytical issues. This article focuses on these key issues. It reviews reported analytical methods and their principles for the quantitative measurement of MDA, HNE and 15(S)-8-iso-PGF_2α in biological samples including plasma and urine, and critically discusses their biological and biomedical outcome which is rarely crystal clear and free of artefacts.

Simultaneous pentafluorobenzyl derivatization and GC-ECNICI-MS measurement of nitrite and malondialdehyde in human urine: Close positive correlation between these disparate oxidative stress biomarkers

Urinary nitrite and malondialdehyde (MDA) are biomarkers of nitrosative and oxidative stress, respectively. At physiological pH values of urine and plasma, nitrite and MDA exist almost entirely in their dissociated forms, i.e., as ONO^- (ONOH, pK_a=3.4) and ^-CH(CHO)₂ (CH₂(CHO)₂, pK_a=4.5). Previously, we reported that nitrite and MDA react with pentafluorobenzyl (PFB) bromide (PFB-Br) in aqueous acetone. Here, we report on the simultaneous derivatization of nitrite and MDA and their stable-isotope labeled analogs O¹⁵NO^- (4μM) and CH₂(CDO)₂ (1μM or 10μM) with PFB-Br (10μL) to PFBNO₂, PFB¹⁵NO₂, C(PFB)₂(CHO)₂), C(PFB)₂(CDO)₂ by heating acetonic urine (urine-acetone, 100:400μL) for 60min at 50°C. After acetone evaporation under a stream of nitrogen, derivatives were extracted with ethyl acetate (1mL). A 1-μL aliquot of the ethyl acetate phase dried over anhydrous Na₂SO₄ was injected in the splitless mode for simultaneous GC-MS analysis in the electron capture negative-ion chemical ionization mode. Quantification was performed by selected-ion monitoring (SIM) the anions [M-PFB]^-m/z 46 for ONO^-, m/z 47 for O¹⁵NO^-, m/z 251 for ^-C(PFB)(CHO)₂, and m/z 253 for ^-C(PFB)(CDO)₂. The retention times were 3.18min for PFB-ONO₂/PFB-O¹⁵NO₂, and 7.13min for ^-C(PFB)(CHO)₂/^-C(PFB)(CDO)₂. Use of CH₂(CDO)₂ at 1μM but not at 10μM was associated with an unknown interference with the C(PFB)₂(CDO)₂ peak. Endogenous MDA can be quantified using O¹⁵NO^- (4μM) and CH₂(CDO)₂ (10μM) as the internal standards. The method is also useful for the measurement of nitrate and creatinine in addition to nitrite and MDA. Nitrite and MDA were measured by this method in urine of elderly healthy subjects (10 females, 9 males; age, 60-70 years; BMI, 25-30kg/m²). Creatinine-corrected excretion rates did not differ between males and females for MDA (62.6 [24-137] vs 80.2 [52-118]nmol/mmol, P=0.448) and for nitrite (102 [71-174] vs. 278 [110-721]nmol/mmol P=0.053). We report for the first time a close correlation (r=0.819, P<0.0001) between MDA and nitrite in human urine. This correlation is assumed to be due to involvement of myeloperoxidase which catalyzes the formation of hypochlorite (^-OCl) from chloride and hydrogen peroxide. In turn, hypochlorite reacts both with nitrite and with polyunsaturated fatty acids such as arachidonic acid, with the later reaction generating MDA. The proposed mechanisms are supported by the literature but remain to be fully explored.

Effects of vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc gluconate, and selenomethionine supplementation on muscle function and oxidative stress biomarkers in patients with facioscapulohumeral dystrophy: a double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial

Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) is an autosomal dominant disease characterized by progressive weakness and atrophy of specific skeletal muscles. As growing evidence suggests that oxidative stress may contribute to FSHD pathology, antioxidants that might modulate or delay oxidative insults could help in maintaining FSHD muscle function. Our primary objective was to test whether oral administration of vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc gluconate, and selenomethionine could improve the physical performance of patients with FSHD. Adult patients with FSHD (n=53) were enrolled at Montpellier University Hospital (France) in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot clinical trial. Patients were randomly assigned to receive 500 mg vitamin C, 400mg vitamin E, 25mg zinc gluconate and 200 μg selenomethionine (n=26), or matching placebo (n=27) once a day for 17 weeks. Primary outcomes were changes in the two-minute walking test (2-MWT), maximal voluntary contraction, and endurance limit time of the dominant and nondominant quadriceps (MVCQD, MVCQND, TlimQD, and TlimQND, respectively) after 17 weeks of treatment. Secondary outcomes were changes in the antioxidant status and oxidative stress markers. Although 2-MWT, MVCQ, and TlimQ were all significantly improved in the supplemented group at the end of the treatment compared to baseline, only MVCQ and TlimQ variations were significantly different between groups (MVCQD: P=0.011; MVCQND: P=0.004; TlimQD: P=0.028; TlimQND: P=0.011). Similarly, the vitamin C (P<0.001), vitamin E as α-tocopherol (P<0.001), vitamin C/vitamin E ratio (P=0.017), vitamin E γ/α ratio (P=0.022) and lipid peroxides (P<0.001) variations were significantly different between groups. In conclusion, vitamin E, vitamin C, zinc, and selenium supplementation has no significant effect on the 2-MWT, but improves MVCQ and TlimQ of both quadriceps by enhancing the antioxidant defenses and reducing oxidative stress. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov (number: NCT01596803).

Pathophysiology of isoprostanes in the cardiovascular system: implications of isoprostane-mediated thromboxane A2 receptor activation

Isoprostanes are free radical-catalysed PG-like products of unsaturated fatty acids, such as arachidonic acid, which are widely recognized as reliable markers of systemic lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress in vivo. Moreover, activation of enzymes, such as COX-2, may contribute to isoprostane formation. Indeed, formation of isoprostanes is considerably increased in various diseases which have been linked to oxidative stress, such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), and may predict the atherosclerotic burden and the risk of cardiovascular complications in the latter patients. In addition, several isoprostanes may directly contribute to the functional consequences of oxidant stress via activation of the TxA2 prostanoid receptor (TP), for example, by affecting endothelial cell function and regeneration, vascular tone, haemostasis and ischaemia/reperfusion injury. In this context, experimental and clinical data suggest that selected isoprostanes may represent important alternative activators of the TP receptor when endogenous TxA2 levels are low, for example, in aspirin-treated individuals with CVD. In this review, we will summarize the current understanding of isoprostane formation, biochemistry and (patho) physiology in the cardiovascular context.

Protocols for the measurement of the F2-isoprostane, 15(S)-8-iso-prostaglandin F2α, in biological samples by GC-MS or GC-MS/MS coupled with immunoaffinity column chromatography

Arachidonic acid, the origin of the eicosanoids family, occurs in biological samples as free acid and as ester in lipids. Free arachidonic acid is oxidized to numerous metabolites by means of enzymes including cyclooxygenase (COX). Arachidonic acid esterified to lipids is attacked by reactive oxygen species (ROS) to generate numerous oxidized arachidonic acid derivatives. Generally, it is assumed that ROS-derived arachidonic acid derivatives are distinct from those generated by enzymes such as COX. Therefore, ROS-generated eicosanoids are considered specific biomarkers of oxidative stress. However, there are serious doubts concerning a strict distinction between the enzyme-derived eicosanoids and the ROS-derived iso-eicosanoids. Prominent examples are prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) and 15(S)-8-iso-prostaglandin F2α (15(S)-8-iso-PGF2α) which have been originally considered to exclusively derive from COX and ROS, respectively. There is convincing evidence that both COX and ROS can oxidize arachidonic acid to PGF2α and 15(S)-8-iso-PGF2α. Thus, many results previously reported for 15(S)-8-iso-PGF2α as exclusive ROS-dependent reaction product, and consequently as a specific biomarker of oxidative stress, require a careful re-examination which should also consider the analytical methods used to measure 15(S)-8-iso-PGF2α. This prominent but certainly not the only example underlines more than ever the importance of the analytical chemistry in basic and clinical research areas of oxidative stress. In the present work, we report analytical protocols for the reliable quantitative determination of 15(S)-8-iso-PGF2α in human biological samples including plasma and urine by mass spectrometry coupled to gas chromatography (GC-MS, GC-MS/MS) after specific isolation of endogenous 15(S)-8-iso-PGF2α and the externally added internal standard [3,3',4,4'-(2)H4]-15(S)-8-iso-PGF2α by immunoaffinity column chromatography (IAC). 15(S)-8-iso-PGF2α esterified to plasma lipids is hydrolysed by KOH. 15(S)-8-iso-PGF2α and [3,3',4,4'-(2)H4]-15(S)-8-iso-PGF2α are analyzed as pentafluorobenzyl ester trimethylsilyl ether derivatives in the electron-capture negative-ion chemical ionization mode.

Lipid peroxidation: production, metabolism, and signaling mechanisms of malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal

Lipid peroxidation can be described generally as a process under which oxidants such as free radicals attack lipids containing carbon-carbon double bond(s), especially polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Over the last four decades, an extensive body of literature regarding lipid peroxidation has shown its important role in cell biology and human health. Since the early 1970s, the total published research articles on the topic of lipid peroxidation was 98 (1970-1974) and has been increasing at almost 135-fold, by up to 13165 in last 4 years (2010-2013). New discoveries about the involvement in cellular physiology and pathology, as well as the control of lipid peroxidation, continue to emerge every day. Given the enormity of this field, this review focuses on biochemical concepts of lipid peroxidation, production, metabolism, and signaling mechanisms of two main omega-6 fatty acids lipid peroxidation products: malondialdehyde (MDA) and, in particular, 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), summarizing not only its physiological and protective function as signaling molecule stimulating gene expression and cell survival, but also its cytotoxic role inhibiting gene expression and promoting cell death. Finally, overviews of in vivo mammalian model systems used to study the lipid peroxidation process, and common pathological processes linked to MDA and 4-HNE are shown.

Lipid peroxidation: production, metabolism, and signaling mechanisms of malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal

Lipid peroxidation can be described generally as a process under which oxidants such as free radicals attack lipids containing carbon-carbon double bond(s), especially polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Over the last four decades, an extensive body of literature regarding lipid peroxidation has shown its important role in cell biology and human health. Since the early 1970s, the total published research articles on the topic of lipid peroxidation was 98 (1970-1974) and has been increasing at almost 135-fold, by up to 13165 in last 4 years (2010-2013). New discoveries about the involvement in cellular physiology and pathology, as well as the control of lipid peroxidation, continue to emerge every day. Given the enormity of this field, this review focuses on biochemical concepts of lipid peroxidation, production, metabolism, and signaling mechanisms of two main omega-6 fatty acids lipid peroxidation products: malondialdehyde (MDA) and, in particular, 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), summarizing not only its physiological and protective function as signaling molecule stimulating gene expression and cell survival, but also its cytotoxic role inhibiting gene expression and promoting cell death. Finally, overviews of in vivo mammalian model systems used to study the lipid peroxidation process, and common pathological processes linked to MDA and 4-HNE are shown.

Lipid peroxidation: production, metabolism, and signaling mechanisms of malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal

Lipid peroxidation can be described generally as a process under which oxidants such as free radicals attack lipids containing carbon-carbon double bond(s), especially polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Over the last four decades, an extensive body of literature regarding lipid peroxidation has shown its important role in cell biology and human health. Since the early 1970s, the total published research articles on the topic of lipid peroxidation was 98 (1970-1974) and has been increasing at almost 135-fold, by up to 13165 in last 4 years (2010-2013). New discoveries about the involvement in cellular physiology and pathology, as well as the control of lipid peroxidation, continue to emerge every day. Given the enormity of this field, this review focuses on biochemical concepts of lipid peroxidation, production, metabolism, and signaling mechanisms of two main omega-6 fatty acids lipid peroxidation products: malondialdehyde (MDA) and, in particular, 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), summarizing not only its physiological and protective function as signaling molecule stimulating gene expression and cell survival, but also its cytotoxic role inhibiting gene expression and promoting cell death. Finally, overviews of in vivo mammalian model systems used to study the lipid peroxidation process, and common pathological processes linked to MDA and 4-HNE are shown.

Lipid peroxidation: production, metabolism, and signaling mechanisms of malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal

Lipid peroxidation can be described generally as a process under which oxidants such as free radicals attack lipids containing carbon-carbon double bond(s), especially polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Over the last four decades, an extensive body of literature regarding lipid peroxidation has shown its important role in cell biology and human health. Since the early 1970s, the total published research articles on the topic of lipid peroxidation was 98 (1970-1974) and has been increasing at almost 135-fold, by up to 13165 in last 4 years (2010-2013). New discoveries about the involvement in cellular physiology and pathology, as well as the control of lipid peroxidation, continue to emerge every day. Given the enormity of this field, this review focuses on biochemical concepts of lipid peroxidation, production, metabolism, and signaling mechanisms of two main omega-6 fatty acids lipid peroxidation products: malondialdehyde (MDA) and, in particular, 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), summarizing not only its physiological and protective function as signaling molecule stimulating gene expression and cell survival, but also its cytotoxic role inhibiting gene expression and promoting cell death. Finally, overviews of in vivo mammalian model systems used to study the lipid peroxidation process, and common pathological processes linked to MDA and 4-HNE are shown.

Lipid peroxidation: production, metabolism, and signaling mechanisms of malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal

Lipid peroxidation can be described generally as a process under which oxidants such as free radicals attack lipids containing carbon-carbon double bond(s), especially polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Over the last four decades, an extensive body of literature regarding lipid peroxidation has shown its important role in cell biology and human health. Since the early 1970s, the total published research articles on the topic of lipid peroxidation was 98 (1970-1974) and has been increasing at almost 135-fold, by up to 13165 in last 4 years (2010-2013). New discoveries about the involvement in cellular physiology and pathology, as well as the control of lipid peroxidation, continue to emerge every day. Given the enormity of this field, this review focuses on biochemical concepts of lipid peroxidation, production, metabolism, and signaling mechanisms of two main omega-6 fatty acids lipid peroxidation products: malondialdehyde (MDA) and, in particular, 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), summarizing not only its physiological and protective function as signaling molecule stimulating gene expression and cell survival, but also its cytotoxic role inhibiting gene expression and promoting cell death. Finally, overviews of in vivo mammalian model systems used to study the lipid peroxidation process, and common pathological processes linked to MDA and 4-HNE are shown.

Lipid peroxidation: production, metabolism, and signaling mechanisms of malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal

Lipid peroxidation can be described generally as a process under which oxidants such as free radicals attack lipids containing carbon-carbon double bond(s), especially polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Over the last four decades, an extensive body of literature regarding lipid peroxidation has shown its important role in cell biology and human health. Since the early 1970s, the total published research articles on the topic of lipid peroxidation was 98 (1970-1974) and has been increasing at almost 135-fold, by up to 13165 in last 4 years (2010-2013). New discoveries about the involvement in cellular physiology and pathology, as well as the control of lipid peroxidation, continue to emerge every day. Given the enormity of this field, this review focuses on biochemical concepts of lipid peroxidation, production, metabolism, and signaling mechanisms of two main omega-6 fatty acids lipid peroxidation products: malondialdehyde (MDA) and, in particular, 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), summarizing not only its physiological and protective function as signaling molecule stimulating gene expression and cell survival, but also its cytotoxic role inhibiting gene expression and promoting cell death. Finally, overviews of in vivo mammalian model systems used to study the lipid peroxidation process, and common pathological processes linked to MDA and 4-HNE are shown.

Storing red blood cells with vitamin C and N-acetylcysteine prevents oxidative stress-related lesions: a metabolomics overview

BACKGROUND

Recent advances in red blood cell metabolomics have paved the way for further improvements of storage solutions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the present study, we exploited a validated high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analytical workflow to determine the effects of vitamin C and N-acetylcysteine supplementation (anti-oxidants) on the metabolome of erythrocytes stored in citrate-phosphate-dextrose saline-adenine-glucose-mannitol medium under blood bank conditions.

RESULTS

We observed decreased energy metabolism fluxes (glycolysis and pentose phosphate pathway). A tentative explanation of this phenomenon could be related to the observed depression of the uptake of glucose, since glucose and ascorbate are known to compete for the same transporter. Anti-oxidant supplementation was effective in modulating the redox poise, through the promotion of glutathione homeostasis, which resulted in decreased haemolysis and less accumulation of malondialdehyde and oxidation by-products (including oxidized glutathione and prostaglandins).

DISCUSSION

Anti-oxidants improved storage quality by coping with oxidative stress at the expense of glycolytic metabolism, although reservoirs of high energy phosphate compounds were preserved by reduced cyclic AMP-mediated release of ATP.

Lipid peroxidation: production, metabolism, and signaling mechanisms of malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal

Lipid peroxidation can be described generally as a process under which oxidants such as free radicals attack lipids containing carbon-carbon double bond(s), especially polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Over the last four decades, an extensive body of literature regarding lipid peroxidation has shown its important role in cell biology and human health. Since the early 1970s, the total published research articles on the topic of lipid peroxidation was 98 (1970-1974) and has been increasing at almost 135-fold, by up to 13165 in last 4 years (2010-2013). New discoveries about the involvement in cellular physiology and pathology, as well as the control of lipid peroxidation, continue to emerge every day. Given the enormity of this field, this review focuses on biochemical concepts of lipid peroxidation, production, metabolism, and signaling mechanisms of two main omega-6 fatty acids lipid peroxidation products: malondialdehyde (MDA) and, in particular, 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), summarizing not only its physiological and protective function as signaling molecule stimulating gene expression and cell survival, but also its cytotoxic role inhibiting gene expression and promoting cell death. Finally, overviews of in vivo mammalian model systems used to study the lipid peroxidation process, and common pathological processes linked to MDA and 4-HNE are shown.

Effects of paracetamol on NOS, COX, and CYP activity and on oxidative stress in healthy male subjects, rat hepatocytes, and recombinant NOS

Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is a widely used analgesic drug. It interacts with various enzyme families including cytochrome P450 (CYP), cyclooxygenase (COX), and nitric oxide synthase (NOS), and this interplay may produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). We investigated the effects of paracetamol on prostacyclin, thromboxane, nitric oxide (NO), and oxidative stress in four male subjects who received a single 3 g oral dose of paracetamol. Thromboxane and prostacyclin synthesis was assessed by measuring their major urinary metabolites 2,3-dinor-thromboxane B₂ and 2,3-dinor-6-ketoprostaglandin F_1α, respectively. Endothelial NO synthesis was assessed by measuring nitrite in plasma. Urinary 15(S)-8-iso-prostaglanding F_2α was measured to assess oxidative stress. Plasma oleic acid oxide (cis-EpOA) was measured as a marker of cytochrome P450 activity. Upon paracetamol administration, prostacyclin synthesis was strongly inhibited, while NO synthesis increased and thromboxane synthesis remained almost unchanged. Paracetamol may shift the COX-dependent vasodilatation/vasoconstriction balance at the cost of vasodilatation. This effect may be antagonized by increasing endothelial NO synthesis. High-dosed paracetamol did not increase oxidative stress. At pharmacologically relevant concentrations, paracetamol did not affect NO synthesis/bioavailability by recombinant human endothelial NOS or inducible NOS in rat hepatocytes. We conclude that paracetamol does not increase oxidative stress in humans.

Analysis of eicosanoids by LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS: a historical retrospect and a discussion

Eicosanoids are a large family that derives from arachidonic acid, i.e., eicosatetraenoic acid. Prominent members include prostaglandins, thromboxane and leukotrienes. They are biologically highly active lipid mediators and play multiple physiological roles. GC-MS/MS has played a pivotal role in the identification and quantification of eicosanoids in biological samples. This technology generated a solid knowledge of their analytical chemistry, biochemistry, physiology and pharmacology. Since about a decade, GC-MS and GC-MS/MS are increasingly displaced by the seemingly more simple, rapid and powerful LC-MS/MS in the area of instrumental analysis of physiological substances, drugs and their metabolites. In this article, we review and discuss LC-MS/MS methods published over the last decade from the perspective of the GC-MS/MS user. Our analysis revealed that the shift from the adult GC-MS/MS to the youthful emerging LC-MS/MS technology in eicosanoid analysis is associated with several important challenges. Known pitfalls and problematic issues discovered by eicosanoid pioneers by using GC-MS/MS are often ignored by LC-MS/MS users. Established reference values and intervals provided by GC-MS-based methods are not considered properly in developing and validating LC-MS/MS methods. Virtually, there is a belief in the unlimited capability of the LC-MS/MS technique in eicosanoid analysis, a thought that simulates analytical certainty. LC-MS/MS users should profit from the plethora of solid knowledge acquired from the use of GC-MS/MS in eicosanoid analysis in basic and clinical research.

Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry for the analysis of eicosanoids and related lipids in human biological matrices: a review

Today, there is an increasing number of liquid chromatography tandem-mass spectrometric (LC-MS/MS) methods for the analysis of eicosanoids and related lipids in biological matrices. An overview of currently applied LC-MS/MS methods is given with attention to sample preparation strategies, chromatographic separation including ultra high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) and chiral separation, as well as to mass spectrometric detection using multiple reacting monitoring (MRM). Further, the application in recent clinical research is reviewed with focus on preanalytical aspects prior to LC-MS/MS analysis as well as applications in major diseases of Western civilization including respiratory diseases, diabetes, cancer, liver diseases, atherosclerosis, and neurovascular diseases.