Tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency increases neuronal vulnerability to hypoxia

Tetrahydrobiopterin: Beyond Its Traditional Role as a Cofactor

Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an endogenous cofactor for some enzymatic conversions of essential biomolecules, including nitric oxide, and monoamine neurotransmitters, and for the metabolism of phenylalanine and lipid esters. Over the last decade, BH4 metabolism has emerged as a promising metabolic target for negatively modulating toxic pathways that may result in cell death. Strong preclinical evidence has shown that BH4 metabolism has multiple biological roles beyond its traditional cofactor activity. We have shown that BH4 supports essential pathways, e.g., to generate energy, to enhance the antioxidant resistance of cells against stressful conditions, and to protect from sustained inflammation, among others. Therefore, BH4 should not be understood solely as an enzyme cofactor, but should instead be depicted as a cytoprotective pathway that is finely regulated by the interaction of three different metabolic pathways, thus assuring specific intracellular concentrations. Here, we bring state-of-the-art information about the dependency of mitochondrial activity upon the availability of BH4, as well as the cytoprotective pathways that are enhanced after BH4 exposure. We also bring evidence about the potential use of BH4 as a new pharmacological option for diseases in which mitochondrial disfunction has been implicated, including chronic metabolic disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and primary mitochondriopathies.

Acute Hypobaric Hypoxia Exposure Causes Neurobehavioral Impairments in Rats: Role of Brain Catecholamines and Tetrahydrobiopterin Alterations

Hypoxia is a state in which the body or a specific part of the body is deprived of adequate oxygen supply at the tissue level. Sojourners involved in different activities at high altitudes (> 2500 m) face hypobaric hypoxia (HH) due to low oxygen in the atmosphere. HH is an example of generalized hypoxia, where the homeostasis of the entire body of an organism is affected and results in neurochemical changes. It is known that lower O₂ levels affect catecholamines (CA), severely impairing cognitive and locomotor behavior. However, there is less evidence on the effect of HH-mediated alteration in brain Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) levels and its role in neurobehavioral impairments. Hence, this study aimed to shed light on the effect of acute HH on CA and BH4 levels with its neurobehavioral impact on Wistar rat models. After HH exposure, significant alteration of the CA levels in the discrete brain regions, viz., frontal cortex, hippocampus, midbrain, and cerebellum was observed. HH exposure significantly reduced spontaneous motor activity, motor coordination, and spatial memory. The present study suggests that the HH-induced behavioral changes might be related to the alteration of the expression pattern of CA and BH4-related genes and proteins in different rat brain regions. Overall, this study provides novel insights into the role of BH4 and CA in HH-induced neurobehavioral impairments.

The Roles of FHL3 in Cancer

The four and a half LIM domain protein 3, also named the LIM-protein FHL3, belongs to the LIM-only family. Based on the special structure of LIM-only proteins, FHL3 can perform significant functions in muscle proliferation and cardiovascular diseases by regulating cell growth and signal transduction. In recent years, there has been increasing evidence of a relation between FHLs and tumor biology, since FHL3 is often overexpressed or downregulated in different cancers. On the one hand, FHL3 can function as a tumor suppressor and influence the expression of downstream genes. On the other hand, FHL3 can also play a role as an oncoprotein in some cancers to promote tumor progression via phosphorylation. Thus, FHL3 is proposed to have a dual effect on cancer progression, reflecting its complex roles in cancer. This review focuses on the roles of FHL3 in cancer progression and discusses the interaction of FHL3 with other proteins and transcription factors. Finally, the clinical significance of FHL3 for the treatment of cancers is discussed.

Tetrahydrobioterin (BH4) Pathway: From Metabolism to Neuropsychiatry

Tetrahydrobipterin (BH4) is a pivotal enzymatic cofactor required for the synthesis of serotonin, dopamine and nitric oxide. BH4 is essential for numerous physiological processes at periphery and central levels, such as vascularization, inflammation, glucose homeostasis, regulation of oxidative stress and neurotransmission. BH4 de novo synthesis involves the sequential activation of three enzymes, the major controlling point being GTP cyclohydrolase I (GCH1). Complementary salvage and recycling pathways ensure that BH4 levels are tightly kept within a physiological range in the body. Even if the way of transport of BH4 and its ability to enter the brain after peripheral administration is still controversial, data showed increased levels in the brain after BH4 treatment. Available evidence shows that GCH1 expression and BH4 synthesis are stimulated by immunological factors, notably pro-inflammatory cytokines. Once produced, BH4 can act as an anti- inflammatory molecule and scavenger of free radicals protecting against oxidative stress. At the same time, BH4 is prone to autoxidation, leading to the release of superoxide radicals contributing to inflammatory processes, and to the production of BH2, an inactive form of BH4, reducing its bioavailability. Alterations in BH4 levels have been documented in many pathological situations, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and depression, in which increased oxidative stress, inflammation and alterations in monoaminergic function are described. This review aims at providing an update of the knowledge about metabolism and the role of BH4 in brain function, from preclinical to clinical studies, addressing some therapeutic implications.

Tetrahydrobiopterin in energy metabolism and metabolic diseases

Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an endogenous cofactor for various enzymatic conversions of essential biomolecules including nitric oxide, tyrosine, dopamine, serotonin and phenylalanine. Depending on the physiological functions of these molecules, BH4 plays multiple roles in the cardiovascular, immune, nervous and endocrine systems. A deficiency of BH4 or an imbalance of the redox state of biopterin has been implicated in various cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Therefore, supplementation with BH4 is considered as a therapeutic option for these diseases. In addition to the classical nitric oxide synthase (NOS)-dependent role of BH4, recent studies proposed novel NOS-independent roles of BH4 in health and disease conditions. This article reviews the updated role of BH4 in mitochondrial regulation, energy metabolism and cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

Excess melanin precursors rescue defective cuticular traits in stony mutant silkworms probably by upregulating four genes encoding RR1-type larval cuticular proteins

Melanin and cuticular proteins are vital cuticle components in insects. Cuticular defects caused by mutations in cuticular protein-encoding genes can obstruct melanin deposition. The effects of changes in melanin on the expression of cuticular protein-encoding genes, the cuticular and morphological traits, and the origins of these effects are unknown. We found that the cuticular physical characteristics and the expression patterns of larval cuticular protein-encoding genes markedly differed between the melanic and non-melanic integument regions. By using four p multiple-allele color pattern mutants with increasing degrees of melanism (+^p, p^M, p^S, and p^B), we found that the degree of melanism and the expression of four RR1-type larval cuticular protein-encoding genes (BmCPR2, BmLcp18, BmLcp22, and BmLcp30) were positively correlated. By modulating the content of melanin precursors and the expression of cuticular protein-encoding genes in cells in tissues and in vivo, we showed that this positive correlation was due to the induction of melanin precursors. More importantly, the melanism trait introduced into the BmCPR2 deletion strain Dazao-stony induced up-regulation of three other similar chitin-binding characteristic larval cuticular protein-encoding genes, thus rescuing the cuticular, morphological and adaptability defects of the Dazao-stony strain. This rescue ability increased with increasing melanism levels. This is the first study reporting the induction of cuticular protein-encoding genes by melanin and the biological importance of this induction in affecting the physiological characteristics of the cuticle.

Neuronal vulnerability to fetal hypoxia-reoxygenation injury and motor deficit development relies on regional brain tetrahydrobiopterin levels

Hypertonia is pathognomonic of cerebral palsy (CP), often caused by brain injury before birth. To understand the early driving events of hypertonia, we utilized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assessment of early critical brain injury in rabbit fetuses (79% term) that will predict hypertonia after birth following antenatal hypoxia-ischemia. We examined if individual variations in the tetrahydrobiopterin cofactor in the parts of the brain controlling motor function could indicate a role in specific damage to motor regions and disruption of circuit integration as an underlying mechanism for acquiring motor disorders, which has not been considered before. The rabbit model mimicked acute placental insufficiency and used uterine ischemia at a premature gestation. MRI during the time of hypoxia-ischemia was used to differentiate which individual fetal brains would become hypertonic. Four brain regions collected immediately after hypoxia-ischemia or 48 h later were analyzed in a blinded fashion. Age-matched sham-operated animals were used as controls. Changes in the reactive nitrogen species and gene expression of the tetrahydrobiopterin biosynthetic enzymes in brain regions were also studied. We found that a combination of low tetrahydrobiopterin content in the cortex, basal ganglia, cerebellum, and thalamus brain regions, but not a unique low threshold of tetrahydrobiopterin, contributed etiologically to hypertonia. The biggest contribution was from the thalamus. Evidence for increased reactive nitrogen species was found in the cortex. By 48 h, tetrahydrobiopterin and gene expression levels in the different parts of the brain were not different between MRI stratified hypertonia and non-hypertonia groups. Sepiapterin treatment given to pregnant dams immediately after hypoxia-ischemia ameliorated hypertonia and death. We conclude that a developmental tetrahydrobiopterin variation is necessary with fetal hypoxia-ischemia and is critical for disrupting normal motor circuits that develop into hypertonia. The possible mechanistic pathway involves reactive nitrogen species.

Pharmacological inhibition of guanosine triphosphate cyclohydrolase1 elevates tyrosine phosphorylation of caveolin1 and cellular senescence

The role of 2,4-diamino-6-hydroxypyrimidine (DAHP), on cellular-senescence remains unclear as differential effects of DAHP have been reported in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular systems. We investigated the effect of pharmacologically-induced guanosine-triphosphate-cyclohydrolase1 (GTPCH1)-inhibition, through DAHP, on cellular-senescence in experimentally-induced diabetic and non-diabetic Wistar rats. Cellular-senescence was evaluated through senescence-associated events, namely, cell-cycle-arrest of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNCs); myocardial DNA fragmentation, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), telomerase-activity, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺)-content and tyrosine14-phosphorylation of caveolin1 (pY14) in similarly-aged, pubertal Wistar rats with streptozotocin (STZ) and/or DAHP. Oxidative stress (OS) indices such as myocardial biopterin concentrations (tetrahydrobiopterin-BH₄ and dihydrobiopterin-BH₂) and plasma total nitrite and nitrate (NOx) were determined. DAHP, per se, exhibited distinct senescence; in addition, in STZ+DAHP (the cardiomyopathy model), there was a marked accumulation of cells in G0G1 phase, as evidenced through flow-cytometry analysis, as-well-as fragmented DNA, than the respective controls suggesting the DAHP-mediated onset of senescence in circulating cells and the myocardium, with or without STZ. Concentrations of BH4 and BH2, and NOx were impaired in STZ and/or DAHP, indicating elevated OS in the treatment groups. In the independent treatment groups or the combination treatment, typical senescence indicators including myocardial telomerase-activity, NAD⁺-content and TAC were significantly reduced, while there was a marked elevation in the concentrations of pY14 as compared to the respective controls, reinforcing the occurrence of senescence in PBMNCs and the myocardium. We postulate that DAHP promotes early onset of cellular-senescence, potentially through OS-mediated cellular events in diabetic or non-diabetic models.

How chronic administration of benzodiazepines leads to unexplained chronic illnesses: A hypothesis

It is thought that an ill defined biochemical cascade may lead to protracted withdrawal symptoms subsequent to discontinuance of routine use of benzodiazepine class drugs and establish chronic illness in some patients. In this review, published findings are presented that support the novel concept that withdrawal from benzodiazepine class drugs can trigger elevated and sustained levels of a potent oxidant called peroxynitrite via potentiation of the L-type voltage-gated calcium channels, and in the later stages of withdrawal, via excessive N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor activity, as well. Potentiation of L-type voltage-gated calcium channels and excessive N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor activity both result in calcium influx into the cell that triggers nitric oxide synthesis. In pathophysiological conditions, such increased nitric oxide synthesis leads to peroxynitrite formation. The downstream effects of peroxynitrite formation that may occur during withdrawal ultimately lead to further peroxynitrite production in a system of overlapping vicious cycles collectively referred to as the NO/ONOO(-) cycle. Once triggered, the elements of the NO/ONOO(-) cycle perpetuate pathophysiology, perhaps including reduced GABA_A receptor functioning, that may explain protracted withdrawal associated symptoms while the vicious cycle nature of the NO/ONOO(-) cycle may explain how withdrawal becomes a chronic state. Suboptimal levels of tetrahydrobiopterin may be one risk factor for the development of the protracted withdrawal syndrome as this will lead to partial nitric oxide uncoupling and resultant peroxynitrite formation. Nitric oxide uncoupling results in superoxide production as calcium-dependent nitric oxide synthases attempt to produce nitric oxide in response to L-type voltage-gated calcium channel-mediated calcium influx that is known to occur during withdrawal. The combination of nitric oxide and superoxide produced, as when partial uncoupling occurs, react together in a very rapid, diffusion limited reaction to form peroxynitrite and thereby trigger the NO/ONOO(-) cycle. The NO/ONOO(-) cycle may explain the nature of the protracted withdrawal syndrome and the related constellation of symptoms that are also common in other illnesses characterized as NO/ONOO(-) disorders such as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.

Possible involvement of tetrahydrobiopterin in the disturbance of redox homeostasis in sepsis - Induced brain dysfunction

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an essential co-factor that regulates nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by nitric oxide synthases (NOS). In this study, we evaluated the effects of sepsis on BH4 level and redox status in the brain by using the rat model of sepsis-induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) and examined whether BH4 and/or acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) could prevent the neuronal apoptosis and neurological changes induced by sepsis.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Male albino rats were randomly and blindly divided into 8 groups: sham, sham + BH4, sham + ALC, sham +BH4+ ALC, CLP, CLP + BH4, CLP + ALC, and CLP+BH4+ ALC. We measured neurological indicators, brain levels of BH4, guanosine triphosphate cyclohydrolase (GTPCH), sepiapterin reductase (SR) and dihydropteridine reductase (DHPR) genes expression (Essential enzymes in BH4 biosynthesis and recycling pathways). We investigated also brain redox status and both endothelial and inducible NOS expressions.

RESULTS

Brain of septic rats demonstrated a reduced BH4 bioavailability, downregulation of BH4 synthetic enzymes, increased production of hydrogen peroxide and impaired antioxidant enzymes activities. Treatments with BH4 and/or ALC increased BH4 level, upregulated BH4 synthetic enzymes expressions, and attenuated oxidative-induced neuronal apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that BH4 and/or ALC might protect the brain against oxidative stress induced neuronal apoptosis by restoring bioavailability of BH4 and upregulating of BH4 synthetic enzymes in the brain during sepsis.

Disruption of PTPS Gene Causing Pale Body Color and Lethal Phenotype in the Silkworm, Bombyx mori

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an inborn error of metabolism caused by mutations in the phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) gene or by defects in the tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) synthesis pathway. Here, by positional cloning, we report that the 6-pyruvoyl-tetrahydropterin synthase (PTPS) gene, encoding a key enzyme of BH4 biosynthesis, is responsible for the al^c (albino C) mutation that displays pale body color, head shaking, and eventually lethality after the first molting in silkworm. Compared to wild type, the al^c mutant produced more substrates (phenylalanine (Phe) and tyrosine (Tyr)) and generated less DOPA and dopamine. Application of 2,4-diamino-6-hydroxypyrimidine (DAHP) to block BH4 synthesis in the wild type effectively produced the al^c-like phenotype, while BH4 supplementation rescued the defective body color and lethal phenotype in both al^c and DAHP-treated individuals. The detection of gene expressions and metabolic substances after drugs treatments in al^c and normal individuals imply that silkworms and humans have a high similarity in the drugs metabolic features and the gene pathway related to BH4 and the dopamine biosynthesis. We propose that the al^c mutant could be used as an animal model for drug evaluation for BH4-deficient PKU.

The MDM2-p53 pathway is involved in preconditioning-induced neuronal tolerance to ischemia

Brain preconditioning (PC) refers to a state of transient tolerance against a lethal insult that can be evoked by a prior mild event. It is thought that PC may induce different pathways responsible for neuroprotection, which may involve the attenuation of cell damage pathways, including the apoptotic cell death. In this context, p53 is a stress sensor that accumulates during brain ischemia leading to neuronal death. The murine double minute 2 gene (MDM2), a p53-specific E3 ubiquitin ligase, is the main cellular antagonist of p53, mediating its degradation by the proteasome. Here, we study the role of MDM2-p53 pathway on PC-induced neuroprotection both in cultured neurons (in vitro) and rat brain (in vivo). Our results show that PC increased neuronal MDM2 protein levels, which prevented ischemia-induced p53 stabilization and neuronal death. Indeed, PC attenuated ischemia-induced activation of the p53/PUMA/caspase-3 signaling pathway. Pharmacological inhibition of MDM2-p53 interaction in neurons abrogated PC-induced neuroprotection against ischemia. Finally, the relevance of the MDM2-p53 pathway was confirmed in rat brain using a PC model in vivo. These findings demonstrate the key role of the MDM2-p53 pathway in PC-induced neuroprotection against a subsequent ischemic insult and poses MDM2 as an essential target in ischemic tolerance.

Hippocampal asymmetry: differences in the left and right hippocampus proteome in the rat model of temporal lobe epilepsy

The hippocampus is a complex brain structure and undergoes severe sclerosis and gliosis in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) as the most common type of epilepsy. The key features of the TLE may be reported in chronic animal models of epilepsy, such as pilocarpine model. Therefore, the current study was conducted in a rat pilocarpine model of acquired epilepsy. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis based proteomic technique was used to compare the proteome map of the left and right hippocampus in both control and epileptic rats. Generally, 95 differentially expressed spots out of 1300 spots were identified in the hippocampus proteome using MALDI-TOF-TOF/MS. Within identified proteins, some showed asymmetric expression related to the mechanisms underlying TLE imposed by pilocarpine. Assessment of lateralization at the molecular level demonstrated that expression of proteins involved in dopamine synthesis was significantly more in the right hippocampus than the left one. In the epileptic model, reduction in dopamine pathway proteins was accompanied by an increase in the expression of proteins involved in polyamine synthesis, referring to a new regulating mechanism. Our results revealed changes in the laterality of protein expression due to pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus that could present some new proteins as potential candidates for antiepileptic drug design.

BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE

In the current study, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) based proteomic technique was used to profile changes in the left and right hippocampus proteome after pilocarpine induced status epilepticus. Spots of proteome maps for two hemispheres were excised and identified with MALDI-TOF-TOF/MS. Analysis of proteome map of the left and right hippocampus revealed a lateralization at the molecular level, in which the expression of proteins involved in dopamine synthesis and release were significantly more in right hippocampi than the left ones in the normal rats. Also, the expression of proteins involved in polyamine synthesis significantly increased in epileptic hippocampus (considerably higher in right hippocampi), whilst the proteins which included in dopamine pathways were decreased. Our results revealed changes in the laterality of protein expression due to pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus that could present some new proteins as potential candidates for antiepileptic drug design.

The basis for folinic acid treatment in neuro-psychiatric disorders

Multiple factors such as genetic and extraneous causes (drugs, toxins, adverse psychological events) contribute to neuro-psychiatric conditions. In a subgroup of these disorders, systemic folate deficiency has been associated with macrocytic anemia and neuropsychiatric phenotypes. In some of these, despite normal systemic levels, folate transport to the brain is impaired in the so-called cerebral folate deficiency (CFD) syndromes presenting as developmental and psychiatric disorders. These include infantile-onset CFD syndrome, infantile autism with or without neurologic deficits, a spastic-ataxic syndrome and intractable epilepsy in young children expanding to refractory schizophrenia in adolescents, and finally treatment-resistant major depression in adults. Folate receptor alpha (FRα) autoimmunity with low CSF N(5)-methyl-tetrahydrofolate (MTHF) underlies most CFD syndromes, whereas FRα gene abnormalities and mitochondrial gene defects are rarely found. The age at which FRα antibodies of the blocking type emerge, determines the clinical phenotype. Infantile CFD syndrome and autism with neurological deficits tend to be characterized by elevated FRα antibody titers and low CSF MTHF. In contrast, in infantile autism and intractable schizophrenia, abnormal behavioral signs and symptoms may wax and wane with fluctuating FRα antibody titers over time accompanied by cycling changes in CSF folate, tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) and neurotransmitter metabolites ranging between low and normal levels. We propose a hypothetical model explaining the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. Based on findings from clinical, genetic, spinal fluid and MRI spectroscopic studies, we discuss the neurochemical changes associated with these disorders, metabolic and regulatory pathways, synthesis and catabolism of neurotransmitters, and the impact of oxidative stress on the pathogenesis of these conditions. A diagnostic algorithm and therapeutic regimens using high dose folinic acid, corticosteroids and milk-free diet is presented which has proven to be beneficial in providing adequate folate to the brain and decreasing the FRα autoantibody titer in those positive for the antibody.

Tetrahydrobiopterin has a glucose-lowering effect by suppressing hepatic gluconeogenesis in an endothelial nitric oxide synthase-dependent manner in diabetic mice

Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) dysfunction induces insulin resistance and glucose intolerance. Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an essential cofactor of eNOS that regulates eNOS activity. In the diabetic state, BH4 is oxidized to 7,8-dihydrobiopterin, which leads to eNOS dysfunction owing to eNOS uncoupling. The current study investigates the effects of BH4 on glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity in diabetic mice. Single administration of BH4 lowered fasting blood glucose levels in wild-type mice with streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes and alleviated eNOS dysfunction by increasing eNOS dimerization in the liver of these mice. Liver has a critical role in glucose-lowering effects of BH4 through suppression of hepatic gluconeogenesis. BH4 activated AMP kinase (AMPK), and the suppressing effect of BH4 on gluconeogenesis was AMPK-dependent. In addition, the glucose-lowering effect and activation of AMPK by BH4 did not appear in mice with STZ-induced diabetes lacking eNOS. Consecutive administration of BH4 in ob/ob mice ameliorated glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. Taken together, BH4 suppresses hepatic gluconeogenesis in an eNOS-dependent manner, and BH4 has a glucose-lowering effect as well as an insulin-sensitizing effect in diabetic mice. BH4 has potential in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Regulation of transforming growth factor beta 1 gene expression by dihydropteridine reductase in kidney 293T cells

Quinoid dihydropteridine reductase (QDPR) is an enzyme involved in the metabolic pathway of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4). BH4 is an essential cofactor of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and can catalyze arginine to citrulline to release nitric oxide. Point mutations of QDPR have been found in the renal cortex of spontaneous Otsuka Long Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) diabetic rats. However, the role of QDPR in DN is not clear. This study investigates the effects of QDPR overexpression and knockdown on gene expression in the kidney. Rat QDPR cDNA was cloned into pcDNA3.1 vector and transfected in human kidney cells (293T). The expression of NOS, transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), Smad3, and NADPH oxidase were examined by RT-PCR and Western blot analyses. BH4 was assayed by using ELISA. Expression of QDPR was significantly decreased and TGF-β1 and Smad3 were increased in the renal cortex of diabetic rats. Transfection of QDPR into 293T cells increased the abundance of QDPR in cytoplasm and significantly reduced the expression of TGF-β1, Smad3, and the NADPH oxidases NOX1 and NOX4. Moreover, abundance of neuronal NOS (nNOS) mRNA and BH4 content were significantly increased. Furthermore, inhibition of QDPR resulted in a significant increase in TGF-β1 expression. In conclusion, QDPR might be an important factor mediating diabetic nephropathy through its regulation of TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling and NADPH oxidase.

Effects of temperature on the nitric oxide-dependent modulation of the Frank-Starling mechanism: the fish heart as a case study

The Frank-Starling law is a fundamental property of the vertebrate myocardium which allows, when the end-diastolic volume increases, that the consequent stretch of the myocardial fibers generates a more forceful contraction. It has been shown that in the eel (Anguilla anguilla) heart, nitric oxide (NO) exerts a direct myocardial relaxant effect, increasing the sensitivity of the Frank-Starling response (Garofalo et al., 2009). With the use of isolated working heart preparations, this study investigated the relationship between NO modulation of Frank-Starling response and temperature challenges in the eel. The results showed that while, in long-term acclimated fish (spring animals perfused at 20 °C and winter animals perfused at 10 °C) the inhibition of NO production by L-N5 (1-iminoethyl)ornithine (L-NIO) significantly reduced the Frank-Starling response, under thermal shock conditions (spring animals perfused at 10 or 15 °C and winter animals perfused at 15 or 20 °C) L-NIO treatment resulted without effect. Western blotting analysis revealed a decrease of peNOS and pAkt expressions in samples subjected to thermal shock. Moreover, an increase in Hsp90 protein levels was observed under heat thermal stress. Together, these data suggest that the NO synthase/NO-dependent modulation of the Frank-Starling mechanism in fish is sensitive to thermal stress.

Tetrahydrobiopterin ameliorates hepatic ischemia-reperfusion Injury by coupling with eNOS in mice

BACKGROUND

In the liver, eNOS appears to have a central role in protecting against ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. We hypothesized that tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) would protect livers subjected to I/R injury by coupling with eNOS.

METHODS

Chinese Kun Ming (KM) mice were subjected to 60 min of 70% hepatic ischemia 30 min after the administration of BH4 or saline. After reperfusion, survival was evaluated. The histologic appearance and ALT, BH4, nitrite/nitrate, 8-isoprostane, and eNOS protein expression levels were measured.

RESULTS

The 1-wk survival rate was 66.67% in the BH4 group and 33.33% in the saline group. The serum ALT values in the BH4 group 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 h after reperfusion were significantly lower than those of the saline group. A histologic examination of the liver revealed only a small necrotic area in the BH4 group as opposed to massive necrosis in the saline group. The percentage values of the hepatic necrotic area 24 h after reperfusion were significantly less for the BH4 group than for the saline group. The nitrite/nitrate levels in the liver tissue were significantly increased by ~2-fold in the BH4 group compared with the saline group. The free radical indicator 8-isoprostane was reduced approximately 50% in the BH4 group compared with the saline group. Western blotting showed that the level of eNOS protein between the groups was not significantly different.

CONCLUSIONS

BH4 significantly improved the survival rate by reducing liver failure. This was supported by the histologic findings, and the mechanism was explored. According to the results, we suggest that BH4 prevents liver damage from I/R injury by attenuating reactive oxygen species and increasing NO synthesis, and might provide a novel and promising therapeutic option for preventing I/R injury.

The protein partners of GTP cyclohydrolase I in rat organs

Objective

GTP cyclohydrolase I (GCH1) is the rate-limiting enzyme for tetrahydrobiopterin biosynthesis and has been shown to be a promising therapeutic target in ischemic heart disease, hypertension, atherosclerosis and diabetes. The endogenous GCH1-interacting partners have not been identified. Here, we determined endogenous GCH1-interacting proteins in rat.

Methods and Results

A pulldown and proteomics approach were used to identify GCH1 interacting proteins in rat liver, brain, heart and kidney. We demonstrated that GCH1 interacts with at least 17 proteins including GTP cyclohydrolase I feedback regulatory protein (GFRP) in rat liver by affinity purification followed by proteomics and validated six protein partners in liver, brain, heart and kidney by immunoblotting. GCH1 interacts with GFRP and very long-chain specific acyl-CoA dehydrogenase in the liver, tubulin beta-2A chain in the liver and brain, DnaJ homolog subfamily A member 1 and fatty aldehyde dehydrogenase in the liver, heart and kidney and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 subunit I (EIF3I) in all organs tested. Furthermore, GCH1 associates with mitochondrial proteins and GCH1 itself locates in mitochondria.

Conclusion

GCH1 interacts with proteins in an organ dependant manner and EIF3I might be a general regulator of GCH1. Our finding indicates GCH1 might have broader functions beyond tetrahydrobiopterin biosynthesis.

Sepiapterin reverses the changes in gastric nNOS dimerization and function in diabetic gastroparesis

BACKGROUND

We have demonstrated previously that in vivo supplementation of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH₄); a co-factor for neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) significantly restored delayed gastric emptying and attenuated nitrergic relaxation in diabetic rat. In this study, we have investigated whether supplementation of sepiapterin (SEP), a precursor for BH₄ biosynthesis via salvage pathway restores gastric emptying and nitrergic system in female diabetic rats.

METHODS

Diabetic rats (streptozotocin-induced) were supplemented with BH₄ or SEP (20 mg kg⁻¹ body weight). Gastric nitrergic relaxation in the presence or absence of high glucose and SEP were measured by electric field stimulation. Gastric muscular strips from healthy or diabetic female rats were incubated in the presence or absence of high glucose, SEP and/or methotrexate (MTX). Nitric oxide release was measured colorimetrically by NO assay kit. The expression of nNOSα and dimerization was detected by Western blot.

KEY RESULTS

In vitro studies on gastric muscular tissues showed that MTX, an inhibitor of BH₄ synthesis via salvage pathway, significantly decreased NO release. In vivo treatment with MTX reduced both gastric nitrergic relaxation and nNOSα dimerization. Supplementation of SEP significantly attenuated delayed gastric emptying in diabetic rats. In addition, SEP supplementation restored impaired nitrergic relaxation, gastric nNOSα protein expression, and dimerization in diabetic rats.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

The above data suggests that supplementation of SEP accelerated gastric emptying and attenuated reduced gastric nNOSα expression, and dimerization. Therefore, SEP supplementation is a potential therapeutic option for female patients of diabetic gastroparesis.

Potential therapeutic applications of tetrahydrobiopterin: from inherited hyperphenylalaninemia to mitochondrial diseases

Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH(4)) is an essential enzymatic cofactor in the formation of key neurotransmitters and nitric oxide (NO). It also has a cellular protective role as an antioxidant and scavenger of reactive nitrogen or oxygen species. Inherited hyperphenylalaninemia, which is caused by mutations in converting enzymes responsible for BH(4) synthesis, was the first reported disease implicating BH(4). Oxidative stress can also cause decreased BH(4) levels, leading to uncoupling of BH(4)-nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and diminished NO, further aggravating numerous pathologies. BH(4) deficiency is found in cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and metabolic diseases and is also involved in aging and mitochondrial dysfunction. BH(4) supplementation successfully prevents the development or progression of these diseases and thus has valuable clinical potential.

Tetrahydrobiopterin protects the kidney from ischemia-reperfusion injury

Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an essential cofactor for the nitric oxide (NO) synthases and represents a critical determinant of NO production. BH4 depletion during ischemia leads to the uncoupling of the synthases, thus contributing to reperfusion injury due to increased superoxide formation. To examine whether BH4 supplementation attenuates ischemia-reperfusion injury, we clamped the left renal arteries of male Lewis rats immediately following right-side nephrectomy. BH4 tissue levels significantly decreased after 45 min of warm ischemia compared with levels in non-ischemic controls. Histopathology demonstrated significant tubular damage and increased peroxynitrite formation. Intravital fluorescent microscopy found perfusion deficits in the microvasculature and leakage of the capillary mesh. Supplemental BH4 treatment before ischemia significantly reduced ischemia-induced renal dysfunction, and decreased tubular histologic injury scores and peroxynitrite generation. BH4 also significantly improved microcirculatory parameters such as functional capillary density and diameter. These protective effects of BH4 on microvasculature were significantly correlated with its ability to abolish peroxynitrite formation. We suggest that BH4 significantly protects against acute renal failure following ischemia reperfusion. Whether BH4 has a therapeutic potential will require more direct testing in humans.

Identification of proteins interacting with GTP cyclohydrolase I

GTP cyclohydrolase I (GCH-1) is the rate-limiting enzyme in the biosynthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin, an essential cofactor for nitric oxide synthase and aromatic amino acid hydroxylase. To explore the interactome of GCH-1, we established a HEK 293 cell line stably expressing tetracycline-inducible FLAG-GCH-1. FLAG-GCH-1 and associated proteins were immunoprecipitated and analyzed by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. Twenty-nine proteins, derived from different subcellular components such as cytosol, membranes, nucleus and mitochondria were identified to interact with GCH-1. Cell fractionation studies also showed that GCH-1 was present in the cytosol, membranes and nucleus. Gene ontology analysis revealed that GCH-1 interactome was involved in a variety of biological processes such as signal transduction, apoptosis, metabolism, transport and cell organization. To our knowledge, this study is the first to provide a comprehensive analysis of the GCH-1 interactome. Findings expand the number and diversity of proteins that are known to associate with GCH-1.

Compromised proteasome degradation elevates neuronal nitric oxide synthase levels and induces apoptotic cell death

The significance of impairment of proteasome activity in PC12 cells was examined in connection with nitrative/nitrosative stress and apoptotic cell death. Treatment of differentiated PC12 cells with MG132, a proteasome inhibitor, elicited a dose- and time-dependent increase in neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) protein levels, decreased cell viability, and increased cytotoxicity. Viability and cytotoxicity were ameliorated by L-NAME (a broad NOS inhibitor). Nitric oxide/peroxynitrite formation was increased upon treatment of PC12 cells with MG132 and decreased upon treatment with the combination of MG132 and 7-NI (a specific inhibitor of nNOS). The decreases in cell viability appeared to be effected by an activation of JNK and its effect on mitochondrial Bcl-x(L) phosphorylation. These effects are strengthened by the activation of caspase-9 along with increased caspase-3 activity upon treatment of PC12 cells with MG132. These results suggest that impairment of proteasome activity and consequent increases in nNOS levels lead to a nitrative stress that involves the coordinated response of JNK cytosolic signaling and mitochondrion-driven apoptotic pathways.

Phosphorylation of endothelial nitric-oxide synthase regulates superoxide generation from the enzyme

In the vasculature, nitric oxide (NO) is generated by endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) in a calcium/calmodulin-dependent reaction. With oxidative stress, the critical cofactor BH(4) is depleted, and NADPH oxidation is uncoupled from NO generation, leading to production of (O(2)*). Although phosphorylation of eNOS regulates in vivo NO generation, the effects of phosphorylation on eNOS coupling and O(2)* generation are unknown. Therefore, we phosphorylated recombinant BH(4)-free eNOS in vitro using native kinases and determined O(2)* generation using EPR spin trapping. Phosphorylation of Ser-1177 by Akt led to an increase (>50%) in maximal O(2)* generation from eNOS. Moreover, Ser-1177 phosphorylation greatly altered the Ca(2+) sensitivity of eNOS, such that O(2)* generation became largely Ca(2+)-independent. In contrast, phosphorylation of eNOS at Thr-495 by protein kinase Calpha (PKCalpha) had no effect on maximum activity or calcium sensitivity but decreased calmodulin binding and increased association with caveolin. In endothelial cells, eNOS-dependent O(2)* generation was stimulated by vascular endothelial growth factor that induced phosphorylation of Ser-1177. With PKC activation that led to phosphorylation of Thr-495, no inhibition of O(2)* generation occurred. As such, phosphorylation of eNOS at Ser-1177 is pivotal in the direct regulation of O(2)* and NO generation, altering both the Ca(2+) sensitivity of the enzyme and rate of product formation, whereas phosphorylation of Thr-495 indirectly affects this process through regulation of the calmodulin and caveolin interaction. Thus, Akt-mediated phosphorylation modulates eNOS uncoupling and greatly increases O(2)* generation from the enzyme at low Ca(2+) concentrations, and PKCalpha-mediated phosphorylation alters the sensitivity of the enzyme to other negative regulatory signals.

Nitric oxide synthase partial uncoupling as a key switching mechanism for the NO/ONOO- cycle

Short-term stressors, capable of increasing nitric oxide levels, act to initiate cases of illnesses including chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple chemical sensitivity, fibromyalgia and posttraumatic stress disorder. These stressors, acting primarily through the nitric oxide product, peroxynitrite, are thought to initiate a complex vicious cycle mechanism, known as the NO/ONOO- cycle that is responsible for chronic illness. The complexity of the NO/ONOO- cycle raises the question as to whether the mechanism that switches on this cycle is this complex cycle itself or whether a simpler mechanism is the primary switch. It is proposed here that the switch involves a combination of two variable switches, the increase of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity and the partial uncoupling of the NOS activity, with uncoupling caused by a tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) deficiency. NOS uncoupling causes the NOS enzymes to produce superoxide, the other precursor of peroxynitrite, in place of nitric oxide. Thus partial uncoupling will cause NOS proteins to act like peroxynitrite synthases, leading, in turn to increased NF-kappaB activity. Peroxynitrite is known to oxidize BH4, and consequently partial uncoupling may initiate a vicious cycle, propagating the partial uncoupling over time. The combination of high NOS activity and BH4 depletion will lead to a potential vicious cycle that may be expected to switch on the larger NO/ONOO- cycle, thus producing the symptoms and signs of chronic illness. The role of peroxynitrite in the NO/ONOO- cycle also implies that such uncoupling is part of the chronic phase cycle mechanism such that agents that lower uncoupling will be useful in treatment.

Tetrahydrobiopterin availability in Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease; potential pathogenic mechanisms

Within the central nervous system, tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an essential cofactor for dopamine and serotonin synthesis. In addition, BH4 is now established to be an essential cofactor for all isoforms of nitric oxide synthase (NOS). Inborn errors of metabolism affecting BH4 availability are well documented and the clinical presentation can be attributed to a paucity of dopamine, serotonin, and nitric oxide (NO) generation. In this article, we have focussed upon the sensitivity of BH4 to oxidative catabolism and the observation that when BH4 is limiting some cellular sources of NOS may generate superoxide whilst other BH4 saturated NOS enzymes may be generating NO. Such a scenario could favor peroxynitrite generation. If peroxynitrite is not scavenged, e.g., by antioxidants such as reduced glutathione, irreversible damage to critical cellular enzymes could ensue. Such targets include components of the mitochondrial electron transport chain, alpha ketoglutarate dehydrogenase and possibly pyruvate dehydrogenase. Such a cascade of events is hypothesized, in this article, to occur in neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease.

Tetrahydrobiopterin availability, nitric oxide metabolism and glutathione status in the hph-1 mouse; implications for the pathogenesis and treatment of tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency states

Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is an essential cofactor for all isoforms of nitric oxide synthase. While it is well established that BH4 deficiency states are associated with impairment of dopamine, serotonin and phenylalanine metabolism, less is known with regard to the effects of deficiency of the cofactor upon nitric oxide (NO) metabolism. In this study, we have evaluated the effects of partial BH4 deficiency upon (a) tissue availability of the antioxidant glutathione, (b) basal NO production and (c) NO generation following exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which is known to increase expression of the inducible form of nitric oxide synthase. Using the hph-1 mouse, which displays a partial BH4 deficiency owing to impaired activity of GTP cyclohydrolase, we report decreased levels of glutathione in brain and kidney and evidence for decreased basal generation of nitric oxide in the periphery (as judged by the plasma nitrate plus nitrite concentration). Following LPS administration, peripheral NO generation increases. However, the concentration of plasma nitrate plus nitrite achieved was significantly decreased in the hph-1 mouse. Furthermore, LPS administration caused loss of glutathione in both wild-type and hph-1 liver and kidney. It is concluded that cofactor replacement, sufficient to fully correct a cellular BH4 deficiency, may be of benefit to patients with inborn errors of BH4 metabolism.

Tetrahydrobiopterin attenuates microvascular reperfusion injury following murine pancreas transplantation

In this study we investigated the effect of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), an essential cofactor for nitric oxide synthases, on ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) following murine pancreas transplantation. Pancreatic grafts were exposed to prolonged cold ischemia times (CIT) and different treatment regimens: normal saline (S), S + 16 h CIT, BH4 50 mg/kg + 16 h CIT. Nontransplanted animals served as controls. Graft microcirculation was analyzed by means of functional capillary density (FCD) and capillary diameters (CD) after 2 h reperfusion using intravital microscopy. Quantification of inflammatory responses (mononuclear infiltration) and endothelial disintegration (edema formation) was done by histology (hematoxylin and eosin), and peroxynitrite formation assessed by nitrotyrosine immunostaining. FCD was significantly reduced after prolonged CIT, paralleled by increased peroxynitrite formation as compared with controls (all p < 0.05). Microcirculatory changes correlated significantly with intragraft peroxynitrite generation (Spearman: r = -0.56; p < 0.01). Pancreatic grafts treated with BH4 displayed markedly higher FCD values (p < 0.01) and abrogated nitrotyrosine staining (p = 0.03). CD were not significantly different in any group. Histology showed increased inflammation, interstitial edema, hemorrhage, acinar vacuolization and focal areas of necrosis after 16 h CIT, which was diminished by BH4 administration (p < 0.01). BH4 treatment significantly reduces post-ischemic deterioration of microcirculation as well as histologic damage and might be a promising novel strategy in attenuating IRI following pancreas transplantation.

Oxidative stress and atherosclerosis

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the Western world. Its incidence has been increasing lately in developing countries. Several lines of evidence support a role for oxidative stress in atherogenesis. Growing evidence indicates that chronic and acute overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) under pathophysiologic conditions is integral in the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). ROS mediate various signaling pathways that underlie vascular inflammation in atherogenesis from the initiation of fatty streak development through lesion progression to ultimate plaque rupture. Various animal models of oxidative stress support the notion that ROS have a causal role in atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. Human investigations also support the oxidative stress hypothesis of atherosclerosis. Oxidative stress is the unifying mechanism for many CVD risk factors, which additionally supports its central role in CVD. A main source of ROS in vascular cells is the reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide/nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAD(P)H) oxidase system. This is a membrane-associated enzyme, composed of five subunits, catalyzing the one-electron reduction of oxygen, using NADH or NADPH as the electron donor. This system is an important target for genetic investigations. Identification of groups of patients with genetically prone or resistant of oxidative stress is therefore an obvious target of investigation. A better understanding of the complexity of cellular redox reactions, development of a new class of antioxidants targeted to specific subcellular sites, and the phenotype-genotype linkage analysis for oxidative stress will likely be avenues for future research with regards to the broader use of pharmacological therapies in the treatment and prevention of CVD.

Estrogen-triggered activation of GTP cyclohydrolase 1 gene expression: role of estrogen receptor subtypes and interaction with cyclic AMP

Guanosinetriphosphate cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH) catalyzes the initial step in the de novo biosynthesis of (6R)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrobiopterin, an important determinant of the rate of catecholamine and nitric oxide biosynthesis. Administration of estrogen in vivo was found to elevate GTPCH mRNA levels in several catecholaminergic locations. To examine the mechanism, PC12 cells were co-transfected with a reporter construct containing 2988 bp of rat GTPCH promoter fused to luciferase gene, and expression vectors for estrogen receptors. Addition of 2.5-20 nM of 17 beta-estradiol increased GTPCH promoter-driven luciferase activity in the presence of either estrogen receptor alpha or estrogen receptor beta indicating, for the first time, that 17 beta-estradiol can regulate GTPCH gene expression via transcriptional mechanisms. However, there were differences in dose dependence and time course with estrogen receptor alpha or estrogen receptor beta. With estrogen receptor alpha, the effect was greater with lower doses of 17 beta-estradiol. At the same dose, the response with estrogen receptor beta was observed somewhat earlier than with estrogen receptor alpha and with 20 nM 17 beta-estradiol was effective even after 6 h. These responses to 17 beta-estradiol required estrogen receptors and specific agonists for estrogen receptor alpha and estrogen receptor beta, 4,4,4,-(4-propil-[1H-pyrazole-1,3,5-triyl)tris-phenol and 2,3-bis[4-hydroxyphenyl]propionitrile respectively, triggered increased GTPCH promoter activity. In addition, neither estradiol, nor the selective agonists activated GTPCH promoter without transfection of appropriate estrogen receptor expression vectors. Addition of 17 beta-estradiol, or the selective agonists, also elevated endogenous GTPCH mRNA levels. The results demonstrate that estrogen can have a direct effect on GTPCH gene expression. Although estradiol increased GTPCH promoter activity in the presence of estrogen receptors, it attenuated the response of the promoter and endogenous gene to cyclic AMP, suggesting the crosstalk between estrogen and cyclic AMP pathways in the regulation of GTPCH gene expression. These findings reveal the significance of estrogen in modulating regulation of rate limiting enzyme in the (6R)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrobiopterin biosynthesis, which may have implications for sex-related differences in vulnerability in related disorders.

Tetrahydrobiopterin depletion and ubiquitylation of neuronal nitric oxide synthase

Tetrahydrobiopterin is a necessary cofactor for the synthesis of nitric oxide by the hemeprotein enzyme, NO-synthase (NOS). It is widely thought that inadequate levels of tetrahydrobiopterin lead to tissue injury and organ dysfunction due, in part, to formation of superoxide from pterin-deficient NOS. In the course of studies on the ubiquitylation of neuronal NOS (nNOS), we have found that certain substrate analogs, such as N(G)-nitro-L-arginine, stabilize the dimeric form of nNOS and protect the enzyme from ubiquitylation. Since tetrahydrobiopterin is known to bind near heme and confers stability to the active dimeric structure of nNOS, we wondered if the loss of tetrahydrobiopterin could be an endogenous signal for nNOS ubiquitylation and degradation. We show here in HEK293 cells stably transfected with nNOS that depletion of tetrahydrobiopterin by treatment with 2,4-diamino-6-hydroxypyrimidine leads to destabilization of the dimeric form and enhances ubiquitylation of nNOS. Sepiapterin, a precursor to tetrahydrobiopterin in the salvage pathway, completely reverses the effect of 2,4-diamino-6-hydroxypyrimidine on nNOS ubiquitylation. Consistent with that found in cells, the in vitro ubiquitylation of nNOS by reticulocyte proteins decreases when tetrahydrobiopterin is present. Thus, inadequate amounts of tetrahydrobiopterin may lead to a sustained decrease in the steady state level of nNOS that is not readily reversed.

Acrolein-induced cell death in PC12 cells: role of mitochondria-mediated oxidative stress

Oxidative stress has been implicated in acrolein cytotoxicity in various cell types, including mammalian spinal cord tissue. In this study we report that acrolein also decreases PC12 cell viability in a reactive oxygen species (ROS)-dependent manner. Specifically, acrolein-induced cell death, mainly necrosis, is accompanied by the accumulation of cellular ROS. Elevating ROS scavengers can alleviate acrolein-induced cell death. Furthermore, we show that exposure to acrolein leads to mitochondrial dysfunction, denoted by the loss of mitochondrial transmembrane potential, reduction of cellular oxygen consumption, and decrease of ATP level. This raises the possibility that the cellular accumulation of ROS could result from the increased production of ROS in the mitochondria of PC12 cells as a result of exposure to acrolein. The acrolein-induced significant decrease of ATP production in mitochondria may also explain why necrosis, not apoptosis, is the dominant type of cell death. In conclusion, our data suggest that one possible mechanism of acrolein-induced cell death could be through mitochondria as its initial target. The subsequent increase of ROS then inflicts cell death and further worsens mitochondria function. Such mechanism may play an important role in CNS trauma and neurodegenerative diseases.

Inhibition of Qi site of mitochondrial complex III with antimycin A decreases persistent and transient sodium currents via reactive oxygen species and protein kinase C in rat hippocampal CA1 cells

Hypoxia-induced inhibition of Qi site of mitochondrial complex III under hypoxia has received attention, but its downstream pathways remain unclear. In this paper, we used Qi site inhibitor antimycin A to mimic the inhibition of the Qi site of mitochondrial complex III and studied the effects of the inhibition of this site on persistent sodium currents, transient sodium currents, and neuronal excitability in rat hippocampal CA1 cells with whole cell patch-clamp methods. The results showed that antimycin A decreased the amplitude of both persistent and transient sodium currents; antioxidant 2-mercaptopropionylglycine or 1,10 phenanthroline abolished the effect of antimycin A; the complex III Qo site inhibitor stigmatellin, the protein kinase C inhibitor chelerythrine, but not the protein kinase A inhibitor H89, canceled the effect of antimycin A; antimycin A decreased the amplitude of both persistent and transient sodium currents only at more depolarized membrane potentials and the decrease percentage of both persistent and transient sodium currents after antimycin A at potentials above -50 mV increased with the change in potentials toward more depolarized direction; exogenous application of H2O2 inhibited the amplitude of both persistent and transient sodium currents; the amount of current required to trigger spikes was increased and the number of spikes produced by varying levels of currents was decreased by antimycin A. These results suggest that the inhibition of Qi site of mitochondrial complex III decreases both persistent and transient sodium currents via reactive oxygen species and protein kinase C in rat hippocampal CA1 cells.

Tetrahydrobiopterin and nitric oxide synthase dimer levels are not changed following hypoxia-ischemia in the newborn rat

The effect of hypoxia-ischemia on the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) and changes in the enzyme dimer state have not previously been studied. Cell-based studies have demonstrated the regulation of nitric oxide (NO) synthesis by intracellular BH4 levels. Activation of NOS requires two NOS polypeptides to form a homodimer. Dimerization results in the creation of high-affinity binding sites for BH4 and L-arginine. Our previous studies have indicated that nNOS activity falls 2 h post-hypoxia-ischemia in the immature rodent model. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine whether changes in nNOS dimeric state could be responsible for the decrease in nNOS activity. Using the immature rat model of HI in conjunction with LT-PAGE and Western blot analysis, we determined the effect of HI on NOS dimer state in hippocampus and cortex and the effects of pharmacologic modulation of NO levels during HI on dimer formation. Using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and electrospray tandem mass spectrometry (MS-MS), we measured BH4 and L-arginine levels respectively after HI under the same conditions. We found minimal or no changes in either BH4 levels or NOS dimer state at 2 h, 24 h and 7 day recovery from HI on postnatal day 7. In contrast, L-arginine levels were transiently increased in the hypoxic ischemic hemisphere. Thus, our data suggest that the previously described decrease in NOS activity after HI is not associated with depletion of the cofactor BH4, L-arginine substrate or changes in the NOS enzyme dimer state.

Nitric oxide and redox signaling in allergic airway inflammation

A number of diseases of the respiratory tract, as exemplified in this review by asthma, are associated with increased amounts of nitric oxide (NO) in the expired breath. Asthma is furthermore characterized by increased production of reactive oxygen species that scavenge NO to form more reactive nitrogen species as demonstrated by the enhanced presence of nitrated proteins in the lungs of these patients. This increased oxidative metabolism leaves less bioavailable NO and coincides with lower amounts of S-nitrosothiols. In this review, we speculate on mechanisms responsible for the increased amounts of NO in inflammatory airway disease and discuss the apparent paradox of higher levels of NO as opposed to decreased amounts of S-nitrosothiols. We will furthermore give an overview of the regulation of NO production and biochemical events by which NO transduces signals into cellular responses, with a particular focus on modulation of inflammation by NO. Lastly, difficulties in studying NO signaling and possible therapeutic uses for NO will be highlighted.

The Mechanism of Potent GTP Cyclohydrolase I Inhibition by 2,4-Diamino-6-hydroxypyrimidine

Inhibition of GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH) has been used as a selective tool to assess the role of de novo synthesis of (6R)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-L-biopterin (BH4) in a biological system. Toward this end, 2,4-diamino-6-hydroxypyrimidine (DAHP) has been used as the prototypical GTPCH inhibitor. Using a novel real-time kinetic microplate assay for GTPCH activity and purified prokaryote-expressed recombinant proteins, we show that potent inhibition by DAHP is not the result of a direct interaction with GTPCH. Rather, inhibition by DAHP in phosphate buffer occurs via an indirect mechanism that requires the presence of GTPCH feedback regulatory protein (GFRP). Notably, GFRP was previously discovered as the essential factor that reconstitutes inhibition of pure recombinant GTPCH by the pathway end product BH4. Thus, DAHP inhibits GTPCH by engaging the endogenous feedback inhibitory system. We further demonstrate that L-Phe fully reverses the inhibition of GTPCH by DAHP/GFRP, which is also a feature in common with inhibition by BH4/GFRP. These findings suggest that DAHP is not an indiscriminate inhibitor of GTPCH in biological systems; instead, it is predicted to preferentially attenuate GTPCH activity in cells that most abundantly express GFRP and/or contain the lowest levels of L-Phe.

1-Methyl-4-phenylpyridinium-induced apoptosis in cerebellar granule neurons is mediated by transferrin receptor iron-dependent depletion of tetrahydrobiopterin and neuronal nitric-oxide synthase-derived superoxide

In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanisms of toxicity of 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP(+)), an ultimate toxic metabolite of a mitochondrial neurotoxin, 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine, that causes Parkinson-like symptoms in experimental animals and humans. We used rat cerebellar granule neurons as a model cell system for investigating MPP(+) toxicity. Results show that MPP(+) treatment resulted in the generation of reactive oxygen species from inhibition of complex I of the mitochondrial respiratory chain, and inactivation of aconitase. This, in turn, stimulated transferrin receptor (TfR)-dependent iron signaling via activation of the iron-regulatory protein/iron-responsive element interaction. MPP(+) caused a time-dependent depletion of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH(4)) that was mediated by H(2)O(2) and transferrin iron. Depletion of BH(4) decreased the active, dimeric form of neuronal nitric-oxide synthase (nNOS). MPP(+)-mediated "uncoupling" of nNOS decreased *NO and increased superoxide formation. Pretreatment of cells with sepiapterin to promote BH(4) biosynthesis or cell-permeable iron chelator and TfR antibody to prevent iron-catalyzed BH(4) decomposition inhibited MPP(+) cytotoxicity. Preincubation of cerebellar granule neurons with nNOS inhibitor exacerbated MPP(+)-induced iron uptake, BH(4) depletion, proteasomal inactivation, and apoptosis. We conclude that MPP(+)-dependent aconitase inactivation, Tf-iron uptake, and oxidant generation result in the depletion of intracellular BH(4), leading to the uncoupling of nNOS activity. This further exacerbates reactive oxygen species-mediated oxidative damage and apoptosis. Implications of these results in unraveling the molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases (Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease) are discussed.

Tetrahydrobiopterin, a critical factor in the production and role of nitric oxide in mast cells

Mast cells (MC) are biologically potent, ubiquitously distributed immune cells with fundamental roles in host integrity and disease. MC diversity and function is regulated by exogenous nitric oxide; however, the production and function of endogenously produced NO in MC is enigmatic. We used rat peritoneal MC (PMC) as an in vivo model to examine intracellular NO production. Live cell confocal analysis of PMC using the NO-sensitive probe diaminofluorescein showed distinct patterns of intracellular NO formation with either antigen (Ag)/IgE (short term) or interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) (long term). Ag/IgE-induced NO production is preceded by increased intracellular Ca2+, implying constitutive nitric-oxide synthase (NOS) activity. NO formation inhibits MC degranulation. NOS has obligate requirements for tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), a product of GTP-cyclohydrolase I (CHI), IFN-gamma-stimulated PMC increased CHI mRNA, protein, and enzymatic activity, while decreasing CHI feedback regulatory protein mRNA, causing sustained NO production. Treatment with the CHI inhibitor, 2,4-diamino-6-hydroxypyrimidine, inhibited NO in both IFN-gamma and Ag/IgE systems, increasing MC degranulation. Reconstitution with the exogenous BH4 substrate, sepiapterin, restored NO formation and inhibited exocytosis. Thus, Ag/IgE and IFN-gamma induced intracellular NO plays a key role in MC mediator release, and alterations in NOS activity via BH4 availability may be critical to the heterogeneous responsiveness of MC.

Tetrahydrobiopterin and nitric oxide: mechanistic and pharmacological aspects

In previous minireviews in this journal, we discussed work on induction of tetrahydrobiopterin biosynthesis by cytokines and its significance for nitric oxide (NO) production of intact cells as well as functions of H4-biopterin identified at this time for NO synthases (Proc Soc Exp Biol Med 203: 1-12, 1993; Proc Soc Exp Biol Med 219: 171-182, 1998). Meanwhile, the recognition of the importance of tetrahydrobiopterin for NO formation has led to new insights into complex biological processes and revealed possible novel pharmacological strategies to intervene in certain pathological conditions. Recent work could also establish that tetrahydrobiopterin, in addition to its allosteric effects, is redox-active in the NO synthase reaction. In this review, we summarize the current view of how tetrahydrobiopterin functions in the generation of NO and focus on pharmacological aspects of tetrahydrobiopterin availability with emphasis on endothelial function.

Dopamine-dependent cytotoxicity of tetrahydrobiopterin: a possible mechanism for selective neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder associated with selective loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. While the underlying cause of this cell death is poorly understood, oxidative stress is thought to play a role. We have previously shown that tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), an obligatory co-factor for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), exerts selective toxicity on dopamine-producing cells and that this is prevented by antioxidants. This study shows that BH4-induced dopaminergic cell death is primarily mediated by dopamine, evidenced by findings that (i) BH4 toxicity is increased in proportion to cellular dopamine content; (ii) non-dopaminergic cells become susceptible to BH4 upon exposure to dopamine; and (iii) depletion of dopamine attenuates BH4 toxicity in dopamine-producing cells. BH4 causes lipid peroxidation, suggesting involvement of oxidative stress but the toxicity does not require enzymatic oxidation of dopamine. Instead, it seems to involve formation of quinone product(s) because (i) the cell death is attenuated by exposure to or induction of quinone reductase and (ii) BH4-treated cells show increased formation of protein-bound quinones, which is inhibited by thiol antioxidants. These data taken together suggest that the presence of both BH4 and dopamine is important in rendering dopaminergic cells vulnerable and that this involves formation of reactive dopamine quinone products.

Tetrahydrobiopterin precursor sepiapterin provides protection against neurotoxicity of 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium in nigral slice cultures

Complex-I inhibition and oxidative processes have been implicated in the loss of nigral dopamine neurones in Parkinson's disease and the toxicity of MPTP and its metabolite MPP+. Tetrahydrobiopterin, an essential cofactor for tyrosine hydroxylase, may act as an antioxidant in dopaminergic neurones and protects against the toxic consequences of glutathione depletion. Here we studied the effects of manipulating tetrahydrobiopterin levels on MPP+ toxicity in organotypic, rat ventral mesencephalic slice cultures. In cultures exposed to 30 micro m MPP+ for 2 days, followed by 8 days 'recovery' in control medium, we measured dopamine and its metabolites in the tissue and culture medium by HPLC, lactate dehydrogenase release to the culture medium, cellular uptake of propidium iodide and counted the tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive neurones. Inhibition of tetrahydrobiopterin synthesis by 2,4-diamino-6-hydroxypyrimidine had no significant synergistic effect on MPP+ toxicity. In contrast, the tetrahydrobiopterin precursor l-sepiapterin attenuated the MPP+-induced dopamine depletion and loss of tyrosine hydroxylase-positive cells in a dose-dependent manner with 40 micro m l-sepiapterin providing maximal protection. Accordingly, increasing intracellular tetrahydrobiopterin levels may protect against oxidative stress by complex-I inhibition.